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Children's Bookwatch
Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
A Different Home: A New Foster Child's Story
John DeGarmo and Kelly DeGarmo, authors
Norma Jeanne Trammel, illustrator
Jessica Kingsley Publishers
400 Market Street, Suite 400, Philadelphia, PA 19106
9781849059879, $14.95, www.jkp.com
"A Different Home" is a children's book about one child's experience of living in a foster care
home. Written for foster parents to read to a foster child upon placement in their home, "A
Different Home" tells the story of Jessie, a seven year old girl of African American descent, who
went to a foster care home from school because her mother was sick and needed special care and
treatment to try to get better. Because the story is told from Jessie's viewpoint, it becomes a
convincing, reassuring experience for new foster children who may be quite frightened and
threatened because of their different home placement. Sensitive, expressive paintings and
illustrations convey a myriad of new emotions and reactions often experienced by new foster
children, such as fear, unfamiliarity, deep sadness, confusion, guilt, suspicion and mistrust of
others, and finally, pleasure, joy, and gradual adjustment to strange new circumstances. Jessie
gradually works through some of her complicated reactions to her foster placement and makes a
successful adjustment to her different home, while waiting to return to her mother and family
when she gets "her stuff worked out." A helpful Afterword called Advice for Foster Parents has a
number of practical suggestions for ways to ease a new foster child's adjustment and transition to
her different home. Perhaps most important of all is the idea of reassuring the child and telling
her it is all right to be scared. Other resources for foster parents are suggested at
http://drjohndegarmofostercare.weebly.com. Also listed is "The Foster Care Parenting Manual: A
Practical Guide to Creating a Loving, Safe and Stable Home," by Dr. John DeGarmo, published
by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. "A Different Home" is an excellent tool to help the smooth
adjustment of children into foster care, for both children and foster parents.
Am I Pretty?
Lindsey Jensen Berke, author
Susan Shorter, illustrator
Archway Publishing
1663 Liberty Drive, Bloomington, IN 47403
9781480801066, $16.99, www.archwayspublishing.com
"Am I Pretty?" is an excellent girls' book that can help build healthy, balanced self esteem in
girls, especially when they encounter bullying and competitive behaviors in others. Julia is an
imaginative girl who faces sandbox 'princesses' who tell her she must paint her nails in order to
be allowed to play with them in their sandbox, because they look the prettiest, and she must
conform to join their club. Julia discusses the idea of using nail polish and looking pretty with
her mother, who gives her wise counsel. No matter how carefully Julia dresses herself, she
wonders, "Am I pretty?" She asks her mom again. The answer is inspiring: "Julia, you are pretty
smart... And you are pretty strong... pretty kind... and pretty brave... and pretty amazing. I love
everything about you. But 'pretty' is too small a word to describe you. You will always be so
much more than pretty." This empowering message is reinforced with descriptions and examples
of each trait in Julia's behavior, as well as with resoundingly cheerful, creative, optimistic
rainbow colored images and illustrations. "Am I Pretty?" does a spectacular job of dealing with
the subject of objectifying beauty in children, while providing basic empowerment to girls with
self esteem and body image issues or challenges.
Always By My Side
Susan Kerner, author
Ian P. Benfold Haywood, illustrator
Star Bright Books
13 Landsdowne Street, Cambridge, MA 02139
9781595723369, $16.99, www.starbrightbooks.com
"Always By My Side" is a sensitive children's story in verse about a beloved child who grows up
after the death of her father. Based on the author's experience of loss of her husband to cancer
before the birth of their first child, "Always By My Side" celebrates the idea that the child
growing up without the living presence of her father can still accept that" My daddy is in me and
everywhere... he's just here in a different way." Beautifully told in quiet verse and filled with
joyous rainbow illustrations of children of different races growing up surrounded with beauty and
love, "Always By My Side" is a gentle explanation of the unexplainable for children. Always
present is the idea that the gift of life in all its splendor is meant to be treasured, not wasted with
sadness. Children can understand that a missing father is still a part of them. This comforting
book celebrates that union and presents a healing experience for both parent and child.
The Social Issues Shelf
Howard B. Wigglebottom and Manners Matters
Howard Binkow and Reverend Ana, authors
Taillefer Long, illustrator
We Do Listen Foundation
1750 Ben Franklin Drive #11G
Sarasota, FL 34236
9780982616598 $15.00 www.wedolisten.org
Part of an excellent, educational series featuring a plucky anthropomorphic rabbit, Howard B.
Wigglebottom and Manners Matters is an children's picturebook about the basics of good
manners. Howard and his friends in the Pup Scouts are preparing for a Good Manners
Competition, and they have to learn more about polite behavior! "Joey does not say 'excuse me'
when he bumps into people. That is not nice! / The Snorton twins have trouble waiting their turn
and cut in line. That is not nice, either." Fortunately, Howard's team has help from the wise
teacher Ms. Owlee. "'To have good manners is to do what makes people feel good and
comfortable... To have the best manners ever, we must repeat the magical little words, 'I care.'"
Howard B. Wigglebottom and Manners Matters is especially recommended for parents and
educators to share with young children, as it teaches not only the forms of proper behavior, but
the reason why they exist - to show consideration and respect for other people. Highly
recommended!
Pay It Forward Kids
Nancy Runstedler
Fitzhenry & Whiteside Limited
195 Allstate Parkway
Markham, Ontario Canada L3R 4T8
9781554553013 $19.95 www.fitzhenry.ca
Pay It Forward Kids: Small Acts, Big Change is a hardcover, nonfiction book featuring fourteen,
true-life stories about young people and teens working to make the world a better place. From
16-year-old Hannah Taylor, founder of The Ladybug Foundation to aid the homeless, to
15-year-old Alaina Podmorrow and her charity event efforts to raise money for Little Women for
Little Women in Afghanistan (an organization dedicated to providing teachers, education, and
libraries to Afghan women and girls), to 13- and 16-year-old Jack and Madi Praver's work to
combat bullying with kindness, each story is thoroughly inspirational and motivational. Highly
recommended, especially for grade school, high school, and public library collections!
The Health Shelf
The Great Katie Kate Offers Answers About Asthma
M. Maitland DeLand, M.D.
Jennifer Zivoin
Greenleaf Book Group Press
PO Box 91869, Austin, TX 78709
c/o Smith Publicity
1930 E Marlton Pike, Suite I-46, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
9781626340534 $14.95 www.greenleafbookgroup.com
Asthma is a chronic, non-contagious inflammatory disease of the airways, believed to develop
from a mix of hereditary and environmental factors. Symptoms include wheezing and shortness
of breath; severe asthma attacks can be fatal. The Great Katie Kate Offers Answers About
Asthma is a children's picturebook created especially to help teach young people about asthma
and how it is treated. Whether a child has been diagnosed with asthma, or knows friends,
relatives, or classmates with the condition, The Great Katie Kate Offers Answers About Asthma
demystifies both asthma itself and the inhalers or other medical means used to treat it. "'If you
feel an asthma attack coming on, you MUST take action. You need to take medicine through an
immediate inhaler,' said Katie Kate... 'It's something that helps you breathe in medicine. When
you use an immediate inhaler, medicine is gently puffed into your mouth. When you press down
on the inhaler container button, take a deep breath in so that the medicine goes right into your
lungs...'" The Great Katie Kate Offers Answers About Asthma is worthy of the highest
recommendation for public, school, and children's hospital library collections. Other excellent
titles in the series include "The Great Katie Kate Explains Epilepsy", "The Great Katie Kate
Discusses Diabetes", and "The Great Katie Kate Tackles Questions About Cancer".
1 Year, 100 Pounds
Whitney Holcombe
Simon Pulse
c/o Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, NY, NY 10020
9781582704081 $9.99 www.teen.simonandschuster.com
Teens interested in the process of losing weight will find Whitney Holcombe's autobiography 1
Year, 100 Pounds: My Journey to a better, Happier Life a compelling true story. At age fourteen
she weighed 230 pounds and her weight controlled her life. Her autobiography charts her weight
loss but also provides practical tips, exercises and habits that lead to permanent change without
expensive gym memberships or crash diets. The result is a powerful key to taking control of your
life, and is a top recommendation for any teen reader.
The Writing/Publishing Shelf
Frank and Fiona Build a Fictional Story
Rachel Lynette, author
Jan Lieffering, illustrator
Norwood House Press
P.O. Box 316598, Chicago, IL 60631
9781599535876, $25.27, www.norwoodhousepress.com
From a middle grade educational series called Writing Builders, "Frank and Fiona Build a
Fictional Story" presents a components construction toolkit for young budding fiction authors
that is appealing, carefully sequenced for optimum understanding, and attractively and clearly
presented. Frank wants to enter a story writing contest but he is afraid he doesn't know how to
write fiction. Fiona encourages him and helps him find a way to begin. First comes a story map,
with brief descriptions of the setting, characters, and story line with beginning, middle, and end.
Fiona gives Frank many helpful writing tips to make his story more interesting and vivid. Finally,
it is up to Frank to begin writing and then to rewrite the story as needed to build it. Using
transitions and sensory details help to place the story's action in the imagination more firmly. At
the end a 6 step process is outlined for creating a fictional story, with added special ideas, a
glossary, and list of resources, including web sites. "Frank and Fiona Build a Fictional Story" is
clearly written with likeable young students as budding authors and illustrated in a fun, quirky,
colorful comic style, featuring adults and children of varying racial-ethnic backgrounds. Middle
grade students from ages 9-11 will enjoy using this helpful literary tool to create their own works
of fiction.
The Education Shelf
All in One Day
Mike Huber, author
Joseph Cowman, illustrator
Redleaf Lane
c/o Redleaf Press
10 Yorkton Court, Saint Paul, MN 55117
9781605542072, $15.95, www.RedleafLane.org
"All in One Day" is a colorfully illustrated book featuring children from different ethnic
backgrounds joyously participating in one day's schedule of learning experiences in an organized
child care setting. Each different day's scheduled activity or event is highlighted and children's
activities and participation is described. There is Arrival Time, Morning Meeting, Choice Time,
Outside Time, Snacktime, Small-Group Time, Lunchtime, Books & Storytelling Time, Rest
Time, Group Time, Snacktime, Choice Time, an unscheduled show time that is the most fun of
all, and Departure Time. Throughout the day, Josh, a new boy, and Ari a girl who likes monkeys,
play and have fun together planning and producing a great monkey show with spaceships and
colored flashlights for spotlights. Grownups appear, observe and applaud the show, and begin to
take tired monkeys home. "All in One Day" gives a young preschool child a good idea of what to
expect in a day care experience, making the transition to learning and playing with others
appealing and fun. Other highly recommended titles from Redleaf Lane by the same author also
describe similar preschool education experiences for young children.
The Holiday Shelf
The Puzzles of St. Patrick
Ellen Cook Nibali, author
Lon Eric Craven, illustrator
Fairland Books
PO Box 63
West Friendship, Maryland 21794
9780981815428 $16.95 www.fairlandbooks.com
The Puzzles of St. Patrick: From Slave to Saint is a children's picturebook that tells the true story
of St. Patrick, the man whose tireless work to spread the Christian faith among the Irish is
annually commemorated by the St. Patrick's Day holiday every March 17th. In the title, "Puzzles"
refer to the many difficult and thought-provoking challenges that Patrick had to confront over the
course of his life. The story stays true to what Patrick himself wrote about himself, in one of his
two letters to survive to the present day. Patrick grew up the son of a noble family, but at age
sixteen, raiders kidnapped him from Britain and sold him as a slave in Ireland. He labored as a
shepherd for six years, then one day awakened to the voice of God, telling him that a ship would
take him home. Patrick made a two-hundred-mile journey, miraculously found a ship, and
persuaded the captain to take him with difficulty. But after the arduous voyage home, Patrick had
trouble adjusting to the life he used to live. He had a vision calling him to teach the Irish about
God, and he followed it, spreading his faith despite being beset by hardship, robbery, and unjust
imprisonment. The story concludes with one of the most famous parables popularly assigned to
St. Patrick - explaining the Holy Trinity of God as analogous to the three leaves of a humble
shamrock. Accessible to readers of all backgrounds and faiths, The Puzzles of St. Patrick is
enthusiastically recommended, especially as a way to teach young people about the noble person
behind the popular holiday.
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Princess Josie
Lisa Paragary Engelken, author
Karen Tarlton, illustrator
3L Publishing, LLC
9780989136051 $18.95 www.3LPublishing.com
Princess Josie is a children's picturebook about a family and its beloved little white dog. The text
tells day-to-day life from the view of Princess Josie, the devoted white dog protecting her "royal
family". "When the royal family would take excursions through the kingdom, Princess Josie
would forge ahead to make sure that the area was secure." (The artwork shows Princess Josie and
her family taking a walk in the park). Of particular note is vivid, slightly abstract painted artwork,
which adds a unique touch to the heartwarming story of a dog's love for her family. A photograph
of Princess Josie and the author is on the final page. Canine aficionados of all ages will adore this
book.
Molly Green Likes Worms
Doss Margiotta, author
Patricia L. Nagy, illustrator
Monograph Publishing
1 Put Lane, Eureka, Missouri 63025
9780985309343, $15.95, www.MonographPublishing.com
"Molly Green Likes Worms" is an environmental tale that teaches children the valuable role of
worms in nature. Written by a retired elementary school teacher, "Molly Green Likes Worms"
features a heroine named Molly who likes to garden with her grandmother. Molly's grandmother
teaches her that despite a certain "yuck" factor, worms are actually crucial to maintaining healthy,
living soil and grass or plants. Because of their good work in providing tunnels for water to
refresh the soil, and also because of their digestion of decomposed vegetation and other things,
worms actually enrich the earth and make it possible for things to grow well. Worms are fragile,
deserving respect and courtesy. When handling a worm, Molly is always gentle, and she returns
worms to grassy earth when she finds them on the sidewalk after rain. Worms actually make the
earth much more healthy, productive, and beautiful. So Molly decides to say "thank you" to
worms by gently supporting their healthy survival whenever and however she can. Enhanced
with pleasant, accurate, colored pencil drawings and illustrations, "Molly Green Likes Worms" is a
gentle, educational true environmental tale for children age 6 and up.
The Sports Shelf
The Highest Number in the World
Roy MacGregor, author
Genevieve Despres, illustrator
Tundra Books
75 Sherbourne Street, 5th floor
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5A 2P9
9781770495753 $19.99 www.tundrabooks.com
The Highest Number in the World is a children's picturebook about a young girl who learns
about the importance of appreciating the opportunities she has. Nine-year-old Gabe (Gabriella)
Murray adores hockey, and eagerly joins a new team as the youngest member. But the hockey
jersey she gets has the number 9 on it - she wanted to have number 22, like her sports idol Hayley
Wickenheiser! Devastated and depressed, she considers giving up her spot on the team... until her
grandmother comes to teach her a new way of looking at things. Gabe's grandmother informs
Gabe how lucky she is to play at all - when the grandmother was a girl, she wasn't allowed to
play hockey because of her gender! Furthermore, the number 9 has a special history all its own -
it was worn by so many great hockey stars, that it was retired from use in Montreal, and
displayed only in the rafters (literally the "highest number"). "'Why, even Wayne Gretzky wanted
number 9,' said Grandma. 'When he played junior hockey an older player was already using it, so
the coach suggested he double up.' '99,' Gabe said, quietly. 'Now 99 is up in the rafters with all
the others...'" A story about recapturing one's spirit and the purehearted love of sports, The
Highest Number in the World is highly recommended, especially for young hockey fans!
The Streak
Barb Rosenstock, author
Terry Widener, illustrator
Calkins Creek
c/o Boyds Mills Press
815 Church Street
Honesdale, PA 18431
9781590789926 $16.95 www.boydsmillspress.com
The Streak: How Joe Dimaggio Became America's Hero is a children's picturebook recounting
the true story of Italian-American baseball legend Joe Dimaggio. Joe Dimaggio's legendary
hitting streak took place just before World War II. For a long time, Dimaggio relied heavily on
his favorite bat, Betsy Ann, but then an unknown thief stole Betsy Ann in the middle of a big
game - what was a Yankee to do? Sweeping tones of the color illustrations in The Streak capture
the intensity, drive, and morale-boosting fervor of baseball; this are emotions America dearly
needed, as it struggled with recovery from the Great Depression and headed into the fierce
fighting of World War II. The Streak is the tale of a true sports hero, highly recommended
especially for young baseball fans everywhere.
The American History Shelf
Alfred the Alligator Visits Mount Vernon
Marie E. Bubelenyi, author
James Balkovek, illustrator
Mascot Books
9781620861615 $14.95 www.mascotbooks.com
Author Marie E. Bubelenyi and her cheerful alligator hand puppet take young readers on a tour of
this place that George Washington once called home in Alfred the Alligator Visits Mount
Vernon, a picturebook brought to life with illustrations that have only a slight layer of abstraction
distinguishing them from photographs of the location. The text teaches readers about crucial
places and elements from the storied life of the America's first President. "Today, we know that it
is wrong for one person to own another person. During George Washington's time, many people
didn't think it was wrong. Slavery was common which is why George and Martha Washington
owned slaves. As George Washington grew older, he began to realize how wrong slavery was,
but he did not know how to end it in America without causing major problems for the young
country. This memorial at Mount Vernon honors the men and women who worked as slaves at
Mount Vernon. Around 150 slaves were buried in unmarked graves in the area around this
memorial." As educational as it is entertaining, Alfred the Alligator Visits Mount Vernon is a
welcome addition to public and school library children's collections.
Philip Reid Saves the Statue of Freedom
Steven Sellers Lapham & Eugene Walton, authors
R. Gregory Christie, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
315 E. Eisenhower Pkwy, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
97815853681982, $16.99, www.sleepingbearpress.com
"Philip Reid Saves the Statue of Freedom" is an exciting retelling of a little known event in
North American history. Philip Reid was an African slave born in a plantation near Charleston,
South Carolina, before the Civil War. Philip worked with his father and craftsmen slaves until he
was sold to become an assistant to a craftsman named Clark Mills, who created fancy plaster
molding on walls and ceilings of fine houses. Philip moved to Washington, D. C. and learned to
make plaster models and to pour bronze statues. He was a highly skilled artisan. When a 19 foot
statue called Freedom came to be finished and placed atop the dome of the Capitol in
Washington, D.C., he traveled with his master to help with the large plaster model. An Italian
craftsman had put the five large sections of the statue together, covering the seams with plaster
and making them invisible. He refused to assist in taking the model apart for the foundry until he
was given more money, holding hostage the massive plan to complete the bronze statue pour of
the plaster model for the Capitol dome. Then an amazing response from Clark Mills offered a
solution to the expensive and dangerous dilemma posed by the Italian craftsman. He said, "My
assistant, Philip Reid, can solve this puzzle." Philip came forth, examined the statue carefully,
found the invisible seams, and directed the other workers in the disassembling of the statue of
Freedom into five large pieces, so it could be cast in bronze and completed. This amazing
achievement happened while Philip was still a slave, but in time he was freed by the petition of
1862, when slavery ended in the District of Columbia. Historical documents on the end sheets of
"Philip Reid Saves the Statue of Freedom" include parts of the Petition of 1862. Realistic
paintings in tones of sepia, black, white, and grays portray the statue puzzle reconstruction in
"Philip Reid Saves the Statue of Freedom." A historical reconstruction for students ages 6-10,
"Philip Reid Saves the Statue of Freedom" casts light on a little known event in black American
history.
The Military Shelf
When I Grow Up I Want To Be... in the U. S. Army!
Mark Shyres, author/illustrator
Debbie Hefke, illustrator
Wigu Publishing
c/o Barron Ressler, Publisher
321 Third Street, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
9781939973054, $12.95, www.whenigrowupbooks.com
Part of a middle grade vocational series, "When I Grow Up I Want To Be... In the U.S. Army!" is
the story of Jake and his choice of a school project to learn more about how to be a soldier in the
U. S. Army. Jake needs to investigate his vocational choice, dress up and give a talk about it at
school. He starts with a trip with his dad to the Army Surplus store, where he learns something
about the history of American soldiers' uniforms. He also learns more about the symbols and
insignia telling of the officer or enlisted man's rank. He learns about patches that designate the
soldier's unit. He finally chooses an Infantry Brigade arm patch or badge, learning that the
infantry are the foot soldiers and make up the backbone of the Army. He learns much more about
service medals and ribbons, and marksmanship badges, as well as body armor, weaponry,
helmets, gas masks, and army boots. Finally Jake is ready to give his presentation to his class
dressed in uniform, helmet, patches and ribbons, and boots, with a gas mask handy. He tells his
class all about learning to be a soldier in the U.S. Army, since that is what he has decided he
wants to do when he grows up. Photos of actual soldiers in action and color illustrations keep this
lively text interesting and arresting for readers age 10 and up.
The Folktale/Fairytale Shelf
Princess Natoree and the Tree Climber
J. B. Dabo, author/illustrator
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
9781481272827, $9.95, www.CreateSpace.com
"Princess Natoree and the Tree Climber" is a fairytale about overcoming limitations and
restrictions for modern readers ages 5-11. Princess Natoree is the beloved royal daughter of
Queen Emma and King Oska of the kingdom of Naja. Although Princess Natoree is beloved by
both parents, they disagree regarding her choice of playmates. The king wishes to always keep
Natoree safe and protected, and he does not approve of some of her favorite playmates because of
such things as appearance, or possible differences such as handicaps. On the other hand, Queen
Emma wishes her daughter to enjoy playing with many different companions, and also to choose
the boy she will eventually marry. Princess Natoree tries her best to reassure her father, and
listens to her mother who advises her, "Always look for the happy moments in each day." A
contest is engineered by King Oska to choose the best candidate to be Natoree's prince. He will
choose the boy who can climb a very tall palm tree, planted when Natoree was born, to the very
top. Natoree wishes to get to know all the boys and make her own choice, but King Oska is
determined his way is better to protect her future. One applicant for prince position is a former
playmate named Matura, who used a crutch to walk because his left leg was not strong. Against
King Oska's preference, but with Natoree's full support, Matura enters the contest and gives his
best effort, eventually succeeding in climbing the tall palm tree all the way to the top. He is
cheered, and Natoree says," I knew he would succeed. He is strong inside, and he never gives
up." Thus everyone found a happy resolution, and Matura was selected to become trained to be
Natoree's prince. The encouraging message of "Princess Natoree and the Tree Climber" is never
despair or give in to restrictions, but always do your best. Plus there is an additional idea, that
perhaps one should not judge others by their outward appearance. These inspiring ideas are
perfectly represented in the stylized, detailed, poignant, colored illustrations of the fantasy world
of Naja.
Stories for Children
Oscar Wilde, author
Charles Robinson, illustrator
O'Brien Press
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
P.O. Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781847175892, $23.95, www.dufoureditions.com
"Stories for Children" is a beautiful hardcover edition of three of Oscar Wilde's famous stories
for children reissued with original water color illustrations by Charles Robinson. It includes The
Happy Prince, The Nightingale and the Rose, and the Selfish Giant. These familiar stories are
filled with exotic imagery, sparkling witty asides and comments, and heart -rending compassion
and love. The delicately tinted water color illustrations in high Romantic fantasy style with tinges
of pre-Raphaelite influence are the perfect accompaniment to these three beloved stories selected
from the five original stories published in the 1888 first edition of "Stories for Children." One of
the familiar and famous illustrations is The palace of Sans-Souci, from The Happy prince. This
beautiful edition is a gift to a new generation, well remembered and treasured by past generations
and hopefully preserved with joy, pain, and breadth of vision intact for the edification of future
hearts and minds.
The Multicultural Shelf
From Lands of the Night
Tololwa M. Mollel, author
Darrell McCalla, illustrator
Red Deer Press
c/o Fitzhenry & Whiteside Limited
195 Allstate Parkway
Markham, Ontario, Canada, L3R 4T8
9780889954984 $19.95 www.fitzhenry.ca
From Lands of the Night is a children's picturebook that touches upon reverence for one's
ancestors. As the author explains in a post-story note, "People believe that ancestors possess
powers to assist the living during difficult times... Christianity and Islam normally discourage
belief in the powers of the ancestors to help the living. But many Christians and Moslems, and
people who are neither, still hold this belief. This is the case in many African countries. It's also
the case in countries like Brazil and Haiti that have big populations descended from Africa..."
From Lands of the Night takes place on an African savannah, from the perspective of a young
girl. The girl's entire family is distraught that her baby brother has taken ill, and grows steadily
sicker. The family brings him to a healer, who tells them that in order to beseech the aid of their
ancestors, they must have a grand and joyful celebration. Indeed, the festivity they hold is so
great that it attracts the attention of angels! The kindness of ancestors and angels restores a
helpless infant to health in this gentle story, beautifully illustrated with vibrant colors and vivid
depictions of traditional African garments and customs.
If You Were Me and Lived In....India
Carole P. Roman, author
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
www.caroleproman.com
9781484930861, $9.99, www.amazon.com
Another highly recommended, award-winning educational title by the same author is "If You
Were Me and Lived In....India: A Child's Introduction to Culture Around the World" from the
innovative world culture- geography series by the same name, less the individual country's name.
Accompanied by a toy cobra, jewel, rupee, and Indian flag, "If You Were Me and Lived in ...
India" describes cultural terms such as common Indian names for both sexes, terms such as Maaji
and Pitaji for father and mother, common currency used, famous places such as the Taj Mahal,
common foods, cuisines, and games. A list of Indian terms and names with pronunciation guide
is given at the end and colorful illustrations of Indian children and families in everyday activities abound throughout. This wonderful series is perfect for students from pre-K
to age 8 to introduce them to a study of world cultures.
Around the World
Ana Koza, author
Shaun Crum, illustrator
Outskirts Press, Inc.
10940 South Parker Road, #515, Parker, CO 80134
The Barrett Company (publicity)
1202 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 600, Los Angeles, CA 90025
9781432799885, $16.95, www.outskirtspress.com
In a whirlwind tour of the seven continents of the world, six year old Ellie takes young readers to
meet young friends in countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and North and South
America, plus some penguins and seals in Antarctica. Included are Pedro from Columbia, who
helps his dad plant coffee seeds, Eric from Australia, who likes to play soccer with friends,
Abassi from Nigeria who likes to read books at bedtime and teach his friends letters and
numbers, Mariana from Bulgaria who likes to play at the park and eat shospka salata and kufteta,
Madhu from India, who wears a saree and eats paneer tikka masala, and Jessica from Mexico
who likes Mariachi music. All the children are special friends and great people, with different
skin colors, facial features and traditions. Variety is the spice of life, and children have many
common joys and challenges in every setting and culture in the world. Teaching global awareness
and respect for others, "Around the World" is a delightful illustrated tour that ends with five
different ways to say 'See you next time!' in Spanish, English, Bulgarian, French, and Hindi.
Another highly recommended title by the same author that celebrates courtesy and respect for
others is called "The Magic Words (9781478703846, $15.95, illustrator Gisela Margarito)."
Colorful, mixed photo and cartoon illustrations help highlight the use of polite, magic words
when communicating with others. Tommy learns to remember the magic words 'Please' and
'thank you' with patient reminders from his mother. Now he helps teach the magic words to his
friends, spreading the joy.
King for a Day
Rukhsana Kahn, author
Christiane Kromer, illustrator
Lee & Low Books
95 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016
9781600606595, $17.95, www.leeandlow.com
"King for a Day" is a sensitively illustrated story about a boy named Malik who enters a spring
kite festival in the celebration of Basant. Cheered on by his loyal sister and brother, Malik deftly
engineers his special kite named Falcon from his wheelchair on a rooftop so he can capture and
release more kites than anyone else. Soaring illustrations incorporating mixed media collages
with fabric textures of lace, burlap, brocade, silk, embroidery and ribbons present a Moslem
based community, with contrasting black outlined colorful figures framed by beautiful Moorish
pointed arches and towers in silhouette. Ending with a surprise flourish and a secretive deed of
great kindness, "King for a Day" is a multi-layered story that resonates with Muslim cultural
values and experiences with universal application. Celebrating courage and restraint along with a
love of freedom, "King for a Day" has global appeal for young reader audiences everywhere
(ages 5-10). First released in 2001 with art by different illustrators, this edition of "King for a
Day" is sure to bring a famous Pakistani festival to the awareness of new audiences.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
The Crystal Lair
D. M. Darroch
Sleepy Cat Press
11107 NE 60th Street, Kirkland, WA 98033
9781890797096, $14.99, 252pp, www.amazon.com
Angus Clark is in big trouble. The World Jumper has misfired and sent him to another parallel
world. Angus finds himself in a primitive, snowy village with no running water, no electricity,
and enormous animals that haven't walked the earth for thousands of years. Together with his
body-jumping friend, Ivy Calloway, Angus must battle a prehistoric monster, rescue his little
sister, and transport himself back to his own world. That is, if he can find his invention. Will
Angus survive the most colossal dung heap he's ever seen? Will Ivy overcome a huge flea
infestation? And what will become of the tranquil Clark household when a fierce hunter moves
in? The Crystal Lair is the second novel in the Inventor-in-Training series. Angus and Ivy have
survived the pirates and now come face-to-face with prehistoric animals, harsh blizzard
conditions, and one tough granny. Especially well written and an overall terrific reading
experience, "The Crystal Lair" is a humorous science fiction adventure will intrigue middle grade
readers looking for something a bit different. Also highly recommended for young readers is D.
M. Darroach's novel "The Pirate's Booty" (9781890797065, $13.99).
Madi's Dollhouse
Alexis Powers, author
Jenny Manno, illustrator, John Fitzgibbons, editor
CreateSpace
1309 E. Stoney Canyon Circle, Oro Valley, AZ 85737
9781490500584, $10.00, www.alexis-powers.com
"Madi's Dollhouse" is a fantasy chapter story about a deaf girl named Madi, who loves a favorite
dollhouse made for her by her father. Madi is unable to speak because of her deafness, and her
only way to communicate with other is by writing words on a tablet. Home schooled by her
devoted mother because the tiny town school is unable to adapt to her special learning needs,
Madi grows up intelligent, loved, and secure, but very lonely. She is unable to be part of any
small groups of children or games because of her deafness and lack of speech. But she learns to
understand, write, and read words and she enjoys trips to the dime store to buy small special
things. One day on a memorable picnic with her parents, she discovers a small family of tiny
human beings hidden in a flower. Madi can somehow hear and understand what these tiny beings
say to her, although no one else can. Impulsively, Madi decides to take the tiny family of four
(mom and dad, brother and sister) home to live in her beloved, fully furnished doll house. The
family pleads with her not to do this, to let them go, but she is sure they will be happy in her
dollhouse. It is a curious experiment. The family decides to remain in the doll house for a while
because they see it makes Madi happy. They enjoy human food treats and the doll house library.
Finally, though they tell Madi it is time for them to return to their home in the woods, for winter
is coming. They ask her to take them back where she found them, explaining that though she
means well, her doll house is a prison for them. They have other family members missing them
and they need to be free. Madi painfully learns that sometimes the best way to keep something
you love is to set it free. The small dollhouse family bestow a parting gift on Madi in gratitude.
She begins to hear! First the song of birds, the wind in the trees, and later her Mother's voice. In a
heart wrenching final scene, Madi is finally able to tell her mother that she loves her. Thus Madi
learned her most precious life lesson from the little doll house family she found in the woods and
returned to the woods. "Madi's Dollhouse" is a book perhaps meant to be read to a child by a
loved adult. It deals with many unusual issues gracefully in a world partly fantasy and partly real.
Encouraging empathy for those who are born differently abled, "Madi's Dollhouse" is a fine
fantasy reading experienced for children age 7-8 and up.
The Treasure of Snake Island: A Captain No Beard Story
Carole P. Roman, author
Bonnie Lemaire, illustrator
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
www.caroleproman.com
9781482390971, $9.99, www.amazon.com
"The Treasure of Snake Island" is the fifth title in a fun pirate fantasy series called Captain No
Beard. Laden with integrated social cornerstone values and valuable humane outlooks training
for young readers, this series uses colorful pirate/crew members of both human and animal
origins to run the Flying Dragon under Captain No Beard. In "The Treasure of Snake Island," the
jolly mates face a morning red sky which Polly parrot warns them indicates and upcoming storm.
When asked the source of this wisdom, Polly replies, "Books!" Inspired by a secret pirate
treasure map, the crew and captain decide to investigate a mysterious treasure buried on Snake
Island, despite crew member Hallie's dislike of snakes. A sailing adventure awaits, and at its end
the mates carefully explore Snake Island to find the buried treasure at the spot on the map
marked X. A brave Captain No Beard rescues a hidden snake in the burial spot and the valiant
mates continue digging only to discover.... a treasure chest! Guess what lies inside? True buried
treasure, books, books and more books! As the island setting fades into Alexander's bedroom, the
crew spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the greatest treasure of all - books! Captain No
Beard is a jolly pirate series with many positive messages and lessons for children age 4-5 and
up.
The Environmental Shelf
Five Famous Mice Meet Winston of Churchill
Jean Davies Okimoto, author
Jeremiah Trammell, illustrator
Endicott and Hugh Books
P.O. Box 13305, Burton, Washington 98013
9780989429122, $16.95 (hardcover), www.endicottandhughbooks.com
"Five Famous Mice Meet Winston of Churchill" is a humorous, illustrated book about climate
change and effective activism for children age 5 and up. Five famous female mice, named Irene,
Henrietta, Emily, Louise, and Nellie decide they must take a public stand against climate change,
since it affects them just as much as other larger animals, such as polar bears. These feisty female
mice decide to march on Parliament in Ottawa, Canada in support of their cause. Holding signs
that say "Mice have Rights" and "We're Creatures Too" the brave lady mice do their best to make
a stand for fighting/reducing climate change. Unfortunately, they are so small their protest is
unnoticed. Nellie says, "Never, never, never give up," repeating famous words uttered by
Canadian female rights activist Nellie McClung. The mice decide to go to Churchill, Manitoba,
to visit Winston of Churchill, famous polar bear anti- climate change activist, to join his cause
and march. However, when they meet Winston, he tells them only polar bears are fit and
qualified to march against climate change, no rodents! Louise insists, "Mice have rights!" Louise
is named after Louise McKinney, famous Canadian women's rights activist. Fortunately
Winston's wife, Clementine, decides to have a word with her stubborn husband, telling him to let
the mice march, for they are indeed creatures too. "Let them march, Winston, or I'm not going,"
she declares. Thus the five fa-mouse mice marched on the heads of the protesting polar bears and
were finally caught on camera in their climate change protest action. All five mice are named for
famous Canadian women activists, and their dialogue quotes famous sayings attributed to the
five: Irene Parlby, Henrietta Muir Edwards, Emily Murphy, Louise McKinney, and Nellie
McClung. Huge, humorous portraits of Winston and friends splash across the pages of "Five
Famous Mice Meet Winston of Churchill for extremely amusing illustrations to this creative,
educational story about protesting climate change and Canadian women's history.
The Biography Shelf
J. Milton Turner: An American Hero
Mary Collins Barile, author
Peggy A. Guest, illustrator
Monography Publishing
1 Put Lane, Eureka, Missouri 63025
9780988964303 $24.95 MonographPublishing.com
Based on the book "James Milton Turner and the Promise of America", J. Milton Turner: An
American Hero is the picturebook-format biography of an African-American hero, written to be
accessible to younger readers and illustrated in full color. Turner was born an American slave;
freed as a young child, he spend his life advocating for the poor and downtrodden, especially
slaves and former slaves. He served during the American Civil War and suffered a permanent
injury, and founded schools to teach African-American children. He felt that the only hope for
the future of African-Americans was through education - teaching the skills that would earn good
jobs. J. Milton Turner: An American Hero is an excellent introduction to the true story of a man
who dedicated his life to helping others, highly recommended especially for middle school and
public library children's collections.
The Religion/Spirituality Shelf
The Oldest Bedtime Story Ever
Benjamin Morse
Orson & Co.
c/o Lisa Weinert Consulting (publicity)
www.biblebeautiful.com
9780985813505 $30.00 www.orsonandco.com
Over seventy pages long, The Oldest Bedtime Story Ever is a part of "The Bible Beautiful
Series", chronicling stories from the Bible. This volume teaches readers about the Old Testament
(Genesis through the Book of Daniel, describing God's creation of the universe up to Rome's
destruction of the Jerusalem temple and the diaspora of the Jews). Classic parables of the Bible
are condensed into brief yet meaningful sentences, accessible to young readers of all ages. The
vividly iconic illustrations, resembling paper cutouts on a black background, add a striking touch
to this extraordinary retelling. "When God ordered the prophet Jonah to tell the Assyrians to
repent and be saved, Jonah tried to run away. But he ended up being thrown off a boat and
swallowed by a giant fish... for three whole days." Highly recommended, especially as a way to
introduce young people to Bible stories that stay true to their source. In addition to the hardcover
picturebook format, The Oldest Bedtime Story Ever is also available as an eLume App for the
iPad - this is much more expansive than any ebook, allowing the viewer to tap illustrations for
more insight into Biblical stories, look at a gallery of curated images, read historical context,
share thoughts on social media, and more.
When God Was a Little Girl
David R. Weiss, author
Joan Lindeman, illustrator
Beaver's Pond Press
7108 Ohms Lane
Edina, MN 55439
9781592989553 $18.95 www.BeaversPondPress.com
Trained theologian David Weiss presents When God Was a Little Girl, a children's picturebook
about a father and daughter conversing with one another about God. The metaphor of God as a
little girl may seem perplexing at first, but if God is the greatest and most perfect all beings, the
omnipotence that made all there is, then shouldn't comparing God to a jubilant little girl be every
bit valid as comparing God to anyone or anything else in the Universe that God created? "'God
grew a great big Garden. Just like we do!' "Just like we do. It was a very pretty picture God
painted, don't you think?' 'Yes.' 'What do you suppose she did next?' 'I don't know.' 'Yes you do.
What do you do when you make pictures?' 'I give them to you!' 'And that's just what God did.
God made someone to share the pictures with, someone who could giggle next to God at how
pretty everything was.'" The astonishingly beautiful color illustrations add just the right touch to
this gentle picturebook musing on the biggest questions of all.
The Christian Shelf
Sweet Song
Jane G. Meyer, author
Dorrie Papademetriou, illustrator
Ancient Faith Publishing
PO Box 748
Chesterton, In 46304-0748
9781936270439 $18.95 http://store.ancientfaith.com
Sweet Song: A Story of Saint Romanos the Melodist is a children's picturebook about the gift of
divine inspiration. Saint Romanos was a real person who lived in Constantinople during the
second half of the fifth century, during the reign of Emperor Anastasios. In Sweet Song,
Romanos devotes himself to prayer and service, but he cannot sing praises to God like his
colleagues do. He prays to an icon of Mary, Mother of God. In a dream, or perhaps a vision, she
gifts him with a small scroll and asks him to swallow it. When he awakens, he finds himself
capable of creating the most beautiful musical prayers and songs! A one-page biography of
Romanos, which mentions that over eighty of his hymns have survived to the present day, rounds
out this gentle, warmly illustrated story of abiding faith and limitless love.
Bink and Slinky's Ark Adventure
Donna Arlynn Frisinger, author
Monica Gutierrez, illustrator
DonnaFrisinger.com
Standard Publishing
8805 Governor's Hill Drive, Suite 400, Cincinnati, OH 45249
9780784736883 $12.99 www.standardpub.com
Bink and Slinky's Ark Adventure is a Christian children's book that draws upon the Biblical story
of Noah's ark to offer young readers a parable about trusting in God. Bink and Slinky are two
brightly colored snails who awaken to a message from God on the ground. God tells them to find
Noah's Ark, so they say goodbye to their friends and the only home they've ever known, and
begin their long journey. "We slide, we glide, / we're grooving side by side. / We don't know
where we're going, / but we know God will provide." Bright, color illustrations and singsong
rhyming enliven this gentle story with a strong moral about faith.
The Wonder of Believing
Gregory Hugh Scherrer, author
Diane Kimble, illustrator
Crossbooks Publishing
1663 Liberty Drive, Bloomington, IN 47403
9781462730926, $15.95, www.crossbooks.com
"The Wonder of Believing" is a child's book explaining a shift in belief from Santa Claus to
Jesus Christ that occurs with loved Christian children as they grow and mature. Written in clear
verse style and illustrated with expressive crayon drawings, "The Wonder of Believing" contrasts
the celebration of Christmas on both secular and religious levels, in a way that a discerning child
can understand. Images of Santa Claus and shopping malls are compared to images of a dove, a
light, and a baby in a stable. Eventually the image of Christ dying on the cross is contrasted with
a fading, flattened Santa image. The contest is clear and the outcome is definite: "Jesus takes first
place!" Thus a belief in Jesus and the gift of redemption that he offers is substituted for the
former belief in the joy of tangible gifts from Santa Claus. The child reader is encouraged to put
his/her picture in the square at the end to show his trust in Jesus. The real work of "The Wonder
of Believing" comes at the story portion that deals with a child's doubt about the reality of Santa
Claus: "But then I find my heart in doubt. Is This what life is all about? This stuff, these things,
that man whose sleigh makes sleigh bells ring. Is he real? I knew that all that I had heard just
could not be the final word! The pain that came out of my heart, began to take my world apart.
My sin that made life seem so dark, began to change with this new spark! My love of all these
Christmas things, began to sound a brand new ring. The ringing sound of God's great truth that
brought to me a renewed youth. Now deep inside my soul I felt a message burning bright, that
raised my thoughts to God's good Son whose life was given that holy night! My spirit came to
life that day when God himself showed me the way. The path of truth and righteousness, the road
to my heavenly home." "The Wonder of Believing" firmly directs a child's journey through
confusing messages of materialism vs. love for all in Christ. Parents will want to dialogue with
their children about the Christian messages of faith in "The Wonder of Believing."
And I Love You, God
Ruthann Barrie, author/illustrator
WestBow Press
c/o Thomas Nelson
1663 Liberty Drive, Bloomington, IN 47403
9781449778514, $16.99, www.westbowpress.com
"And I Love You, God" is a love-filled letter from God to a child telling about the love and
healing power of God and Jesus. Written in simple narrative verse, with simple color illustrations
that are child-directed and sweet, "And I Love You, God" is a powerful education and prayer
experience for a young Christian child. The life affirming awareness of God's love for each
special child radiates through the pages of "And I Love You, God," as does the central core of
faith in Christ's ability to love and make whole each unique child. The images of Jesus and
children are mostly light-skinned and brown-haired, but this does not significantly detract from
the story's central message of acceptance and redemption through faith in Christianity. "And I
Love You, God" will appeal to children age 4-5 and older.
The Prayer of St. Francis
Giuliano Ferri, illustrator
Paulist Press
997 MacArthur Boulevard
Mahwah, NJ 07430
9780809167678 $12.95 www.paulistpress.com
The Prayer of St. Francis is a children's picturebook that illustrates a classic prayer from the
beloved Cathoic friar and preacher St. Francis of Assisi (1181/1182 - 1226). The warm, gentle
color artwork shows an anthropomorphic dog that St. Francis has befriended, who takes St.
Francis' words to heart and practices them in his everyday life. For example, the prayer "Where
there is sadness, let me bring joy," is paired with an illustration of the dog juggling to entertain a
gathering of depressed animals. Beautifully capturing the spirit of St. Francis' heartfelt desire to
serve others and become a better person in the eyes of the Lord, The Prayer of St. Francis is
highly recommended, especially for Christian families and church picturebook libraries.
The Judaic Shelf
The Hidden Artist
Leah Chana Rubabshi, author
Phyllis Saroff, illustrator
Hachai Publishing
527 Empire Boulevard
Brooklyn, NY 11225
9781929628742 $10.95 www.hachai.com
Featuring laminated pages that are easier for little children to handle, The Hidden Artist is a
beautiful, full-color picturebook written especially to help teach Jewish children about the beauty
and glory of the natural world created by Hashem [God]. The story consists of simple rhyming
verses paired with illustrations of striking skyscapes, graceful animals, and a young boy amazed
by it all. "With all this beauty great and small, / I wonder, 'Who's behind it all?' / Because I see
the truth must be, / An Artist drew this world for me." Highly recommended, especially as a gift
for very young children or a read-aloud bedtime story.
The Islamic Shelf
Deep in the Sahara
Kelly Cunnane & Hoda Hadadi
Schwartz & Wade Books
c/o Random House Children's Books
1745 Broadway, 10-1
New York, NY 10019
9780375870347 $17.99 www.randomhouse.com/kids
Set in Muslim West Africa, Deep in the Sahara is a picturebook for young people ages 4-8, about
local practices and the Islamic faith. Lalla is a little girl in the Muslim country of Mauritania; she
yearns to wear a malafa (a colorful veil that Mauritanian women wear to cover heads and clothes
in public). Lalla thinks that the malafa is beautiful, and that wearing one will make her as pretty
as her mother, her sister, her cousin, and her grandmother. But her family sees the superficial
desire behind Lalla's request, and teaches Lalla that wearing the malafa is not about beauty or
tradition, but rather faith. The story concludes with prayer. An honest and respectful glimpse into
the Islamic faith, dress, and culture of Mauritania, Deep in the Sahara is an excellent addition to
multicultural picturebook shelves.
The Fiction Shelf
Girl At Arms
Jaye Bennett
Royal Fireworks Press
First Avenue, PO Box 399, Unionville, NY 10988
www.rfwp.com
9780898243932, $9.99, 247 pp, www.amazon.com
The story of Joan of Arc is well-known: peasant girl, soldier, miracle worker, heretic burned at
the stake and then beatified as a saint. "Girl at Arms" is a deftly written historical novel that
presents what she was like and how she grew up in the rural French countryside, defied her
family and tradition, and risking her soul by dressing as a boy because she believes she has a
calling to save France from the cruelties of English rule. "Girl At Arms" is also the story of Erich
von Zimmerman, an orphan living on the streets of Frankfurt who dreams of becoming a knight.
Erich steals a horse, rides to France and eventually joins Joan in the battle to relieve the siege of
Orleans and in a number of subsequent French victories over the English leading to the crowning
of French king Charles VII, with Joan by his side, in Rheims. Ultimately Normandy proves the
downfall of both Joan and Erich. Erich is banished and Joan is captured, abandoned by her
followers and brought before the Inquisition for heresy. The forces of vengeful English generals
and scheming clergy work together to put her to death. "Girl At Arms" is a deftly written work of
fiction by Jaye Bennett (whose day job is that of a 5th grade elementary school teacher) that is
solidly based on historical facts, making it an outstanding and highly recommended selection for
middle school and community library Children's Books collections.
The Eyes Of India
M. W. Greer
Wooden Nickel Press
6650 West State Street, Unit D #195
Milwaukee, WI, 53213
9780988289109, $15.99, www.amazon.com
The concept of death is often introduced to young children through the demise of a beloved
grandparent or pet. Deftly written for young readers by M. W. Greer, "The Eyes Of India" is a
truly exceptional 144 page chapter book that ably and engagingly addresses the universal
question of 'What happens when we die?'. That question has been running laps in Annie's head
for two days since her dog was hit by a car. When her Grandma Evelyn stops by to visit, she
begins to tell a story from her past that might help Annie to see the death of her dog in a whole
new way. "The Eyes Of India" begins in the fabled country of India, where and when young
Evelyn and her sister, Priscilla, receive the news that their uncle has died. The two sisters then set
out with a tour guide for the city of Varanasi to meet up with their traveling parents. Early in
their trip the girls are separated from their guide, setting them on a journey through the jungle
and into hidden villages of India. While the girls try to find their parents, they learn to follow
their intuition and navigate with their third eye. From the colorful Holi festival to the funeral
ceremonies along the Ghats of Varanasi, the girls make many unexpected friends along their
adventure who help them to see the universal connection we all have to life and death. "The Eyes
Of India" is as thoughtful and thought-provoking as it is thoroughly 'kid friendly' and
entertaining. Enhanced with eighteen illustrations by the author, "The Eyes Of India" is
wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommended for both school and community library fiction
collections for children of middle school age.
Missy's Super Duper Royal Deluxe Field Trip
Susan Nees
Scholastic Inc.
557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012-3999
9780545496124 $15.99 www.scholastic.com
Missy's Super Duper Royal Deluxe Field Trip tells of Missy, who is going on a field trip to the
state capitol and wants to visit the gift shop. The only problem is: the capitol doesn't have a gift
shop - what can Missy do? Color cartoon-like drawings throughout show what happens when
Missy decides to make the best of a bad situation - and get a handle on her fascination for glitter
pens and stickers in the process. This fun chapter book will appeal to any who are challenged
readers, offering a simple story line and plenty of appealing color illustration throughout!
Revenge of the Akuma Clan
Benjamin Martin
Tuttle Publishing
364 Innovation Drive, North Clarendon, VT 05759-9436
9784805312742 $17.99 www.tuttlepublishing.com
Revenge of the Akuma Clan provides a fine thriller revolving around mythical Japanese monsters
and warriors, and tells of American teen David, an exchange student living in Japan. In the prior
SAMURAI AWAKENING he discovered he'd been possessed by a tiger god: now a Jitsugen
Samurai in REVENGE OF THE AKUMA CLAN, David is charged with protecting Japan from a
horrible evil. A powerful protagonist who is also a tiger god, a female warrior, and more creates
strong connections between Japanese culture, martial arts and fantasy and is a fine pick for any
young adult reader; especially those who enjoyed SAMURAI AWAKENING.
Knopf/Random House
c/o Random House Children's Books
1745 Broadway, 10-1, New York, NY 10019
www.randomhouse.com/kids
Patricia Reilly Giff's WINTER SKY (9780375838927, $15.99) opens with sirens, especially
scary to protagonist Siria because her father's a firefighter. When she hears sirens she likes to
chase the trucks to be certain they won't fall in any danger - but when she comes to suspect that
somebody is setting fires in the neighborhood, she's charged with putting clues together to solve a
deadly mystery. An engrossing saga, WINTER SKY is a compelling account of danger and
survival. Karen Foxlee's OPHELIA AND THE MARVELOUS BOY (9780385753548, $16.99)
tells of siblings grieving for their mother and missing a father who has moved them to a city
where it never stops snowing. Her father's job in a strange old museum becomes even stranger
when Ophelia discovers a boy locked away in a forgotten room, a prisoner of the Snow Queen -
and it's up to Ophelia to help him and possibly end the ongoing winter. A journey and a
complicated rescue makes for an engrossing saga, perfect for young adult fantasy readers. Laurel
Snyder's SEVEN STORIES UP (9780375869174, $16.99) tells of Annie Jaffin, who meets her
grandmother for the first time - only to discover she doesn't even like her. But her first night in
the once-beautiful Hotel Calvert leads to a time travel encounter when she wakes up in 1937,
there to encounter her grandmother in a very different way. Magic permeates a satisfying, fun
timeslip encounter that young adults will find amusing and different.
Simon & Schuster
c/o Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, NY, NY 10020
www.kids.simonandschuster.com
Tim Feder's Five, Six, Seven, Next! (9781442446939, $16.99) provides a fine tale of Nate
Foster's Broadway dreams, and follows Nate to New York City where he's rehearsing for a
musical. It's everything he's wanted, but there are many unexpected challenges as Nate faces
child stars, understudies who want him to fail, and a director who doesn't think Nate is special at
all. A fine story of a young would-be actor's success is provided in a fun read young adults will
relish! Chris Lynch's LITTLE BLUE LIES (9781442440081, $17.99) tells of a boy and girl in
love, bound by the lies they've built in their lives. Only their relationship feels true - but when
Junie dumps Oliver, he's miserable. And when Junie vanishes, it's up to Oliver to probe behind
facades and lies for the truth in this complex story of change. Jason Reynolds' WHEN I WAS
THE GREATEST (9781442459472, $17.99) tells of Ali, who avoids the trouble permeating his
bad neighborhood. Ali's got school and boxing and home, but his best friend is always looking
for trouble - and involving Ali. And his special needs brother Needles is also a challenge. When
the three find their world changed, their old tactics don't work in this fine story of adaptation and
survival.
Random House Kids
c/o Random House Children's Books
1745 Broadway, 10-1, New York, NY 10019
www.randomhouse.com/kids
Two new Judy and Phoebe Dunn Collections provide board books young readers will relish, and
are recommended picks for any new reader. The Little Rabbit (9780385386043, $6.99) pairs
Phoebe's photos with Judy's story line in telling of Buttercup the rabbit as she explores her world.
Fun color photos of bunny and her girl are both whimsical and fun, juxtaposed by simple text.
The Little Duck (9780385385213, $6.99) provides toddlers with the simple story of a pet duck
who likes to sit on the family dog and who is growing up. Parents will find these board books
perfect read-alouds for toddlers. They're durable, bright, and simple: what more could one ask
for? Marilyn Sadler's TEN EGGS IN A NEST (9780449810828, $9.99) receives fine illustration
by Michael Fleming and provides a brief, funny story that uses easy words and rhythm to provide
colorful text and a Bright and early Book designed for an even lower age group than the famous
Beginner Books. The whimsical tale involves youngsters and encourages them to read.
The Bilingual Shelf
Querido dragon quiere ayudar / Dear Dragon Helps Out
Margaret Hillert, author
David Schimmell, illustrator
Norwood House Press
P.O. Box 316598, Chicago, IL 60631
9781599536132, $15.95, www.norwoodhousepress.com
"Querido dragon quiere ayudar/ Dear Dragon Helps Out" is a bilingual, Spanish English series
title for children in grades K-2. Brightly illustrated and translated from English editions, this
breezy series boosts young readers' reading comprehension, reading frequently used words aloud,
and spoken language skills in two languages. Each page presents a clear illustration of the written
narration, and Spanish and English translations are presented side by side, or one beneath another
on each picture page. At the end of the story are suggested Reading Reinforcement activities
suggestions to enhance readers' phonemic awareness, vocabulary, fluency, and text
comprehension. The pleasant story presented in "Querido dragon quiere ayudar/Dear Dragon
Helps Out" involves a young boy who offers to help his mother and father and friends by walking
a dog, returning a baby kitten to its mother, raking leaves with a friend in a wheelchair's help,
shooting basketball hoops with the same friend, and washing dishes at home. Dear Dragon
(Querido dragon) is a constant, helpful companion who mirrors the helping activity. The
underlying message of the value of teamwork and helping others is a nice addition. This juvenile
series is first rate literary bilingual education for kids ages 5-7. Also highly recommended are the
following titles from this series by the same author/illustrator team: "Donde esta querido
dragon?/ Where is Dear Dragon?" (9781599536156, $15.95), "Que hay en el bosque, querido
dragon?/ What's in the Woods, Dear Dragon?" (9781599536095, $15.95), "Que hay en el cielo,
querido dragon?/ What's in the Sky, Dear Dragon?" (9781599536101, $15.95)," "Que hay en el
estanque, querido dragon?/ What's in the Pond, Dear Dragon?" (9781599536088, $15.95), "Que
tengo en el bolsillo, querido dragon?/ What's in My Pocket, Dear Dragon?" (9781599536118,
$15.95), and "Querido dragon va a banco/ Dear Dragon Goes to the Bank" (9781599536149,
$15.95). The entire series or complete set of 8 books (BTR-BDD-1003) can be purchased for,
$127.60, a reduced rate.
Fishscale Girl and the Upside-Down Rain/ La Chiquita Escamosa y la Lluvia al Reves
Ann Hailey, author/photographer
Robyn L. Smith, illustrator
Rosita, artist/dollmaker
Cochiy Press
1035 Lincoln Road, Suite 304, Bettendorf, IA 52722
9780983281863, $17.95, www.CochiyPress.com
Third in the Fishscale Girl series, "Fishscale Girl and the Upside-Down Rain" follows the path of
Fishscale Girl, a special doll made of a fishscale and other materials from the rain forest, and her
parrot friend, Cochiy, as they track the falling rainwater from the top of the canopy to the forest
floor and underground. Charming photographs of Fishscale Girl and three new doll friends,
Juanita, caretaker of the rainforest soil, Sintia, guardian of the creeks and rivers, and Rosita, plant
lover illustrate the fascinating story of the rain cycle. Lush plants and flowers and tiny toy
parrots, a monkey, and tools and accessories decorate the carefully posed rainforest photo
portraits of the dolls. Each page presents the narration of the story first in English and second in
Spanish, educating a youth readership in two languages about the need for promotion of
conservation of the rainforest. Proceeds from the sale of "Fishscale Girl and the Upside-Down
Rain" also benefit CONAPAC's Adopt-A-School program, "Saving the Rainforest one child at a
time." This fantastic, creative children's environmental education series was inspired by the
craftsmanship of Rosita, a native of Yagua community, who created Fishscale Girl and her doll
friends, Sintia, Juanita, and Rosita. A beautiful creation in this book is the wind symbol, a mask
carved of a disk of natural material appearing to be such as a large nut shell. Children, artists, and
environmentalists will adore this addition to a most creative series.
Mi Familia Calaca / My Skeleton Family
Cynthia Weill, author
Jesus Canseco Zarate, paper mache artist
Cinco Puntos Press
701 Texas Avenue, El Paso, TX 79901
9781935955504, $14.95, www.cincopuntos.com
"Mi Familia Calaca/ My Skeleton Family" is a bilingual picture story with big sister Anita
introducing a cheery, well dressed complete family, including brother, sister, baby, mother,
father, grandmother, grandfather, great grandmother and more, even a dog and a cat. There is
something a bit different about these spunky family portraits, everyone is a smiling skeleton!
Celebrating an ancient Mexican folk tradition of regarding the skeleton figure as a beloved,
familiar friend or clown, "Mi Familia Calaca/ My Skeleton Family" represents the complete
skeleton family in colorful pictures of creative paper mache statues or figures, each with a
cheerful smiling skull. The artistic creations of Oaxacan folk artist Jesus Canseco Zarate are
amazing, new interpretations of the familiar, beloved traditions of the Day of the Dead in
Mexican culture. Each portrait page is accompanied by brief text descriptions in both English and
Spanish. For a bilingual, bicultural experience with a little macabre slant, read "Mi Familia
Calaca/ My Skeleton Family" with your elementary school student or child.
The Picturebook Shelf
There's a Hippopotamus in My Bed
Lynda Medlyn and Kelley Staudenmier, authors
Karen Windness, illustrator
Window Box Press
13516 Fillmore Court
Thornton, CO 80241
9780979373817 $15.95 www.windowboxpress.com
Winner of a Mom's Choice Award, There's a Hippopotamus in My Bed and An Elephant Wants
to Wear My Favorite Red Shoes is a gentle children's picturebook about a little girl who dreams
of growing up to be a zookeeper. She loves animals of all shapes and sizes, but realizes that she
can't keep them at her house - "What if the elephant wants to wear my favorite red shoes, or the
sloth finger-paints all over the walls?" As much as she wishes the animals could come with her,
she knows they will be happy at the zoo - and one day she'll make her dream of being a
zookeeper come true. (But the elephant still wants to wear her favorite red shoes!) Whimsical
color illustrations bring this wonderful, animal-filled story to life.
Ink-blot
Maria Eugenia
Second Story Press
20 Maud Street, Suite 401
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5V 2M5
Orca Books (dist.)
www.us.orcabook.com
9781927583227 $15.95 www.secondstorypress.on.ca
Ink-blot is a children's picturebook about the positive value of loving and accepting oneself no
matter what. Ink-blot is a girl drawn with blotchy, black-and-white ink strokes. Other
badly-drawn girls stress out about their appearance, their size, or their hair but not Ink-blot - she's
too busy having fun! The moral about enjoying life no matter what type of body or appearance
one has is a lesson that young girls everywhere need to learn from an early age - the better to
counteract unrealistic or harmful body-imagery from television and other media. Highly
recommended!
Otter Out of Water
Kathy-jo Wargin, author
John Bendall-Brunello, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
Suite 200, 315 East Eisenhower Parkway
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
9781585364312 $15.95 www.sleepingbearpress.com
Otter Out of Water is a jubilantly silly, rhyming children's picturebook filled with rollicking
animal antics. What would you do, if an otter jumped out of the water and followed you home?
"And what would you do when it's time to wash up? / Would you give him a scrub / in your
mom's kitchen sink? / Will he wear a cap that is puffy and pink?" Exuberantly playful
illustrations perfectly complement the whimsical story, as delightful as the previous animal-antic
picturebooks, "Moose on the Loose" and "Scare a Bear".
Duck, Duck, Moose!
Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen, author
Noah Z. Jones, illustrator
Disney Book Group
114 Fifth Avenue, 14th floor
New York, NY 10011
9781423171102 $16.99 www.hyperionchildrensbooks.com
Duck, Duck, Moose! is a unique children's picturebook. The text repeats the title's humorous
refrain (a parody of the popular children's game "Duck, Duck, Goose") but the playful, silly
illustrations show one hapless incident after another, between a clumsy moose and two
hardworking white ducks. For example, "Duck, duck, duck, duck, duck, duck." is paired with
pictures of the ducks preparing an elaborate cake step by step, and "MOOSE!!" is paired with
picture of the bemused moose, nose in a book, as he blunders into the table the cake was on,
making a colossal mess. Is the poor moose just too klutzy to be friends with the industrious
ducks? No, because the ducks adore their good friend the moose; they wanted to throw him a
surprise party all along! A delightfully silly picturebook, that happens to be very easy for the
littlest of children to read aloud.
The Tweedles Go Electric
Monica Kulling & Marie Lafrance
Groundwood Books
c/o House of Anansi Press
110 Spadina Ave., Suite 801
Toronto, ON, Canada, M5V 2K4
9781554981670 $16.95 www.groundwoodbooks.com
The Tweedles Go Electric is a charming picturebook set at the dawn of the twentieth century
(roughly one hundred years ago)! The Tweedles are pleasant, friendly family, but the neighbors
all think they are behind the times - they still ride bicycles to get everywhere. So the Tweedles
decide to obtain a car, but not one that runs on steam or gas; they plan to get an electric car!
Charming, old-time style color illustrations add just the right touch to this whimsical tale of
family adventure.
Dr. Dee Dee Dynamo's Meteorite Mission
Oneeka Williams, M.D., author
Valerie Bouthyette, illustrator
Mascot Books
560 Herndon Parkway, #120, Herndon, VA 20170
www.mascotbooks.com
9781620865545 $14.95 www.drdeedeedynamo.com
Practicing surgeon Oneeka Williams, M.D. presents Dr. Dee Dee Dynamo's Meteorite Mission, a
Common Core-aligned children's picturebook that pairs fun science facts with a fanciful story
about an African-American girl who knows "Not Even the Sky is the Limit!" Dr. Dee Dee
Dynamo has had an extra-special power since she was born; she loves to heal people, animals, or
things that need help, with the aid of medical tools such as "Marky Medicine Bag", "Sydnee
Syringe", and "Ana Anesthetic". When Matty Meteorite falls from the sky, injuring people and
animals, Dr. Dee Dee is there to disinfect and sew up all their cuts - then, she even helps put poor
Matty back together again! Written to help share a love of science and medicine in young people
everywhere, Dr. Dee Dee Dynamo's Meteorite Mission is heartwarming, positive, and highly
recommended.
The Cow in Patrick O'Shanahan's Kitchen
Diana Prichard, author
Heather Knopf, illustrator
Little Pickle Press, Inc.
3701 Sacramento Street, #494, San Francisco, CA 94118
9781939775016, $17.95, www.littlepicklepress.com
"The Cow in Patrick O'Shanahan's Kitchen" is a vibrantly illustrated, funny book about where
food comes from, specifically Patrick O'Shanahan's father's World Famous French Toast. To his
amazement, instead of milk, Patrick finds a cow in his kitchen! Then a chicken, who clucks
(loudly) and lays eggs! Patrick's father is unfazed by the animals in his kitchen, calmly
proceeding to mix up the French toast batter with milk which Patrick manages to milk from the
cow, bravely! Instead of a jar of maple syrup in the cupboard, Patrick discovers an amazing tree
with sticky sap coming from its bark. "It's Syrup!" he shouts at the cow. Finally Patrick sits down
to eat his feast of French toast and maple syrup. As he steadily munches through the huge stack,
chickens, cow, and maple tree gradually disappear. Next morning Patrick is so excited to
discover what amazing breakfast food experiences are waiting for him he jumps out bed. Wait,
does he smell.... bacon? Is that the shadow of a pig? Hilarious illustrations of wildly
commonplace farmyard animals in a zany kitchen cover pages with huge, comic, written
exclamations in large letters. A feast for the five senses, "The Cow in Patrick O'Shanahan's
Kitchen" describes in fantastically imaginative style where food for a special breakfast really
comes from.
River Royals: Master the Mississippi
Katie Clark & Sarah Wynne, authors
Penny Weber, illustrator
Bright Sky Press
2356 Rice Blvd., Suite 202, Houston, TX 77005
9781939055712, $19.95, www.riverroyals.com
"River Royals: Master the Mississippi" is an exciting narration following an imaginary
journey
of Eliza Jane and Henry down the Mississippi River from Lake Itasca in Minnesota to New
Orleans and the Mardi Gras in Louisiana. Part of an educational series on American geography,
"Master the Mississippi" flows from the premise that imagination can take you anywhere. Seven
year old Eliza Jane, an imaginative girl bored with geography, wants to become Queen of the
Classroom. Her excitement grows when she learns the Mississippi River ends in new Orleans,
where they celebrate Mardi Gras by tossing beads and crowning a King and Queen every year.
Thus begins her wonderful daydream journey with her brother Henry down the muddy
Mississippi from the Lake Itasca source in Minnesota all the way to its destination flowing into
the Gulf of Mexico in New Orleans, celebrated with effervescent, vivid illustrations splashed
with sunshine and joy. From the Twin Cities' skyline to the Gateway Arch in Saint Louis, the
explorers experience a myriad of sensory experiences down the river, state by state. This river
journey flowing by 10 states is also shown on Henry's Map, illustrated inside the cover and also
on the flyleaf of "Master the Mississippi," also featuring a sidebar list of Mississippi River Facts.
In the end, Eliza Jane makes a crowd-pleasing presentation about her imaginary trip down the
Mississippi to her classmates and concludes: "I think I'm ready for another river adventure." In
conclusion, the River Royals series title "Master the Mississippi" overachieves its stated goal of
introducing children ages five to eleven to American geography in a fun way. Watch for new
series titles "River Royals Paddle the Potomac" and "River Royals Crash the Colorado" in fall,
2014 and spring, 2015.
Poppy and the Fat Puppy
Eli Jay, author/illustrator
Outskirts Press, Inc.
10940 S. Parker Rd. - 515, Parker, CO 80134
978147870036, $19.95, www.outskirtspress.com/poppyandthefatpuppy
"Poppy and the Fat Puppy" is a sensitively illustrated story of how a fat, sick, lonely puppy is
helped by a kind green balloon friend and a vet to become a healthy, happy, loveable puppy with
a new name and a new home. Poppy, the helpful green balloon, helps Fat Puppy become Jasper
just by following the vet's prescribed regime of healthy balanced nutrition and fun daily exercise.
In the end, Jasper returns to his friend the vet who provides him with a home. "Poppy and the Fat
Puppy" is an excellent educational tool teaching the importance of good nutrition and daily
exercise for a puppy's optimum health. Large, colorful, clear illustrations and simple narrative
style make "Poppy and the Fat Puppy" accessible to young children's understanding, age 4 and
up.
Don't Turn the Page!
Rachelle Burke, author
Julie Downing, illustrator
Creston Books
c/o Publishers Group West
P.O. Box 9369, Berkeley, CA 94709
9781939547064, $16.95, www.crestonbooks.co
"Don't Turn the Page" is picture book bedtime story within a story that cleverly follows a sleepy
little hedgehog through the steps of preparation for bedtime with a knowing mother who
cooperates perfectly with her tired child's repeated requests, "Don't Turn the page!" while
continuing the appealing process of bedtime rituals. The story within the story is presented in
more formal, enhanced print, in hypnotic verse, and features a sleepy little bear whose mama is
also preparing for bed . Adorable soft colored detailed illustrations add to the quieting peace and
palpable love of this charming double bedtime story, and in the end, a tired little Sami (the
hedgehog) closes her eyes, having denied her need for bedtime to the last page. "Don't Turn the
Page!" is a bedtime story that will be quickly beloved by toddlers and preschoolers
everywhere.
A Monster for Tea
Walter Williams, author/artist
Fernwood & Hedges Books
7612 Fountain Avenue, West Hollywood, CA 90046
9780989069830, $12.99, www.fernwoodhedgesbooks.com
"A Monster for Tea" is an original, unusual fictional tale for children about a spunky little girl
and a scary monster who tramples her flower garden. Although the cartoon-like, shape-shifting
black and white monster portraits appear quite jagged and scary, the little girl is unafraid of him,
scolding him for trampling on her garden and sending him away, which surprised the monster.
However, the little girl decides to call the monster back and invite him for tea, a first for the
monster, who knew about eating people and animals, tearing apart buildings, and breathing fire.
Although the monster is awkward in his taking of tea and refreshments, the little girl is
determined to teach him some manners, so she served him colored cookies and fed him tea from
a cup. This seemed to enchant the monster, who had never experienced kindness or tea before.
As he lays down to sleep, the courageous little girl wondered if he had forgotten his former
destructive ways. Expressive, minimalist drawings in black and white with touches of pale color
express the unusual tone of "A Monster for Tea" perfectly, creating a unique humane reform
experience in compassion for young children with open minds and excellent imaginations.
Gabby: Drama Queen
Joyce Grant, author
Jan Dolby, illustrator
Fitzhenry & Whiteside
311 Washington Street, Brighton, MA 02135
9781554553105, $18.95, www.fitzhenry.ca
"Gabby: Drama Queen" is a delightful story filled with quirky colorful illustrations about Gabby
and Roy, two creative children who use an assortment of spunky alphabet letters to create their
very own stage drama about a queen with a crown and a loyal subject disguised as a swordfish.
Gabby and Roy have an amazing, imaginative playtime together using various colored vowels
and consonants to make the words "stage," "crown," "stream," and more. The play is titled The
Perils of Queen Gabriela, and it begins with the tragic loss of the Queen's crown. A helpful
neighbor lady, Mrs. Oldham provides the audience and her bathrobe for a curtain. Thanks to
great teamwork and fine swordplay in the stream by the swordfish subject, all ends well and
Gabby and Roy use more letters to create and enjoy crumpets and tea with Mrs. Oldham. "Gabby:
Drama Queen" ends with two pages of suggested related learning activities, including drawing
Roy, finding the Birdie on every page (who is holding letters that spell Gabby's royal name),
finding vowels and consonants in the alphabet to write more silly stories, and playing a fun board
style game called the Queen's Crown, which can be printed out at Gabby's website at,
www.fitzhenry.ca/Gabby. Further exciting games and activities are available at this same
website, all suitable educational material for children age 5 and up, in first grade and older.
"Gabby: Drama Queen" is a fantastic, fun learning resource for language, story writing, art,
cooperative board games, and much more.
A Dog Named Tulip
Maryn Joseph and Anna Joseph, authors
Paloma Collins, illustrator
Bully! Pulpit Books
9780982486993, $12.99, www.BullyPulpitBooks.com
"A Dog Named Tulip" is an imaginative story written by twin sisters at ages nine. The story is
about a girl named Jessica who wishes to surprise her mother with a special gift on Mother's Day.
Hoping to pick her some flowers, she wanders to a field of tulips. In the flowers she spies
something moving, it is a puppy! What a perfect surprise gift for Mother's Day! Since the puppy
has no collar, she decides she must be in need of a good home. The story unfolds with special
care and the wonderful scene in the restaurant where Jessica's mother spills her juice upon
discovering her special gift is unforgettable. Colorful crayon drawings show each unfolding
scene in accurate, childlike detail. "A Dog Named Tulip" is a special story for children written by
children, full of anticipation, joy, surprise, and happiness.
When Mama Goes to Work
Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch, author
Jessica Phillips, illustrator
Fitzhenry & Whiteside
311 Washington Street, Brighton, MA 02135
9781554553143, $18.95, www.fitzhenry.ca
"When Mama Goes to Work" is a cheerful descriptive book for preschool and up children about
daily routines of both parent and child when Mama goes to work. Filled with beautiful color
illustrations of families with skin tones of black, brown, white, and tan, "When Mama Goes to
Work" presents a positive, upbeat attitude towards the experience of separate schedules of
mother and child during the day. Both mother and child have prepared for their busy days by
wearing appropriate clothes, and packing a lunch in a special bag. Sometimes there is a pleasant
surprise in the lunch bag left by mother or child (like a spider toy or a valentine note)! Both
mother and child are busy all day long, work with different tools, and get things done. Both smile
(this is important). Both think of each other during their day and also miss each other. But the
child knows that Mama will be back. The end of the day brings reunion, coming home, changing
clothes, cooking, eating, books and reading, and bedtime. The child dreams of growing up and
working with tools, being busy all day long, and smiles. One nice touch in "When Mama Goes to
Work" is the pictured occupations for the mother, which include doctor, construction worker, and
astronaut. Cheery text and happy faces in the illustrations help teach the young child that Mama
going to work is a good thing, and an adult goal to aspire to.
Random House/Knopf
c/o Random House Children's Books
1745 Broadway, 10-1
New York, NY 10019
www.randomhouse.com/kids
J. Patrick Lewis and Douglas Florian's POEM-MOBILES: CRAZY CAR POEMS
(9780375866906, $17.99) features fun drawings by Jeremy Holmes as it provides ages 4-8 with a
fun picturebook story of fantastic whimsical cars. While a dragonwagon and a sloppy jalopy
aren't likely to be prototypes any time soon, they do come from poets who provide whimsical,
rolling rhymes and fine fun detail-filled drawings to illustrate their zany concepts of what a
far-out car would be, making this a fun pick for read-aloud as well a child pursuit. Michelle
Edwards' MAX MAKES A CAKE (9780449814314, $17.99) features fun drawings by Charles
Santoso as it tells of Max, who needs his father's help to bake a surprise Passover birthday cake
for Mommy. Unfortunately Daddy is busy and time is wasting: will Max ever get to realize his
big cake-baking aspirations? Il Sung Na's A BOOK OF BABIES (9780385752909, $15.99)
comes from the creator of A BOOK OF SLEEP and uses baby animals to illustrate a very basic
concept. A curious duck visits babies around the world on their first day of life in this gentle
story, recommended for new readers and read-aloud storytellers looking for very simple themes
and large-size, attractive drawings. Tatyana Feeney's LITTLE FROG'S TADPOLE TROUBLE
(9780385753722, $16.99) tells of the special challenges of becoming a big brother and
documents the dilemma of a small frog who enjoys his simple life with his parents. When he
becomes a big brother to nine baby tadpoles, Little Frog discovers many new challenges -
especially since the tadpoles are relatively helpless and only seem good at commanding his
parents' time and attention. Can his baby siblings become something more, for him? A gentle
story emerges.
NorthSouth Books
c/o Myrick Marketing & Media
PMB 248, 455 Sam Ridley Parkway West
Smyrna, TN 37167
www.northsouth.com
Adelheid Dahimene and Heidi Stollinger's DONKEYS (9780735841604, $17.95) tells of two
stubborn donkeys who have loved each other for years when a silly argument leads them to storm
off in search of a better partner. But the other animal options are too questionable - and it takes a
lonely camel to help them realize that there's nobody better than the person they already have. An
unusual loving story is told, perfect for kids with rudimentary reading skills and adults looking
for something different in a read-aloud. Willy Puchner's THE ABC OF FABULOUS
PRINCESSES (9780735841130, $19.95) provides a fun A-Z of princesses, and provides unusual
illustrations to accompany the story of Prince William and a tough decision. These princesses all
have different qualities - and each offers a unique gift for the prince. How can he decide who is
to be his princess? It's up to picturebook readers to help. Carol Roth and Sean Julian's FIVE
LITTLE DUCKLINGS GO TO BED (9780735841284, $17.95) tells of bedtime for five little
ducklings. Four of the ducklings are okay with bedtime, but when the fifth rebels, it begins to
turn into a comedy of errors in this fun story perfect for bedtime read-aloud.
Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street
Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com
Philippa Leathers' THE BLACK RABBIT (9780763657147, $14.00) tells of Rabbit, who doesn't
know how to avoid a mysterious black rabbit who is following him. The rabbit is everywhere -
and he won't go away. Is the new rabbit a friend, or an enemy? A fun, simple story of a bunny's
unwelcome companion evolves. Timothy Basil Ering's THE STORY OF FROG BELLY RAT
BONE (9780763626112, $6.99) provides a fun, dark story for ages 4-7 and tells of a special boy
who just wants to find treasure. When he does, he realizes it's threatened - and he creates a
monster to guard his newfound treasure. But what, exactly is the treasure - and why must they be
patient to see? An unpredictable story evolves.
The Music CD Shelf
Lucky Day
Stacey Peasley
Privately Published
www.staceypeasley.com
$TBA www.amazon.com
Lucky Day is the new children's music album from performer Stacey Peasley. Bright and
jubilant, the chin-up-and-have-fun music is especially wonderful for helping little ones get over
blues and doldrums. A wonderful choice for family car trips or fun during shut-in weather! The
tracks are "Little Soccer Player", "Wrecking Machine", "Catching Joy", "Les Awesome",
"Broken Record (featuring Mista Cookie Jar)", "Marley", "Lucky Day", "Me TV", "Stop Your
Sobbing", and "Summer Day". Also highly recommended is Peasley's previous children's album,
"Together" ($16.22 CD / $8.99 download).
Buy One Get One Flea
Dog on Fleas
Privately Published
c/o Beth Blenz-Clucas Publicity
5505 SW Illinois Street
Portland, OR 97221
$12.99 CD / $8.99 MP3 dogonfleas.com
Buy One Get One Flea is a new children's album from the delightful music group Dog on Fleas
and Grammy Award-winning producer Dean Jones. Dog on Fleas has been creating inventive,
charming, and slyly funny music for the whole family for fourteen years; Buy One Get One Flea
includes both brand-new songs and some fan-favorites from previous albums. Featuring an
eclectic simplicity to its musical blend, and a bare minimum of electronic instruments (just an
electric bass guitar and a theremin solo), Buy One Get One Flea is a refreshingly jubilant
experience that listeners of all ages can enjoy together. The tracks are "Hinterlands",
"Palindrome", "It's a Ruse", "Grand March from Aida", "I Must Be a Genius", "Dry Beans",
"Hundredaires", "Pardon My Pajamas", "I am a Sailor", "Herring's Head", "Thinking Good
Thoughts", "Over the Waves", "High School Reunion", and "If I Were You I'd Give Me a
Kiss".
Count Me In!
The Little Rockers Band
Privately Published
c/o Waldmania! (publicity)
130 Maywood Drive
San Francisco, CA 94127
$11.99 www.LittleRockersMusic.com
Ideal for young people ages 2-6, Count Me In! is a the third commercial offering from Parent's
Choice Award-winning music group The Little Rockers Band. A kid-friendly, dance-tastic music
CD filled with lively rock tunes, Count Me In! is suitable for music-themed classroom activities
or just plain fun at home. Highly recommended! The tracks are "Count Me In", "1, 2, 3, 4 Go!",
"Fortune Cookie", "Hi, Hi, Hi", "Morning Train", "Old Mick Jagger", "Me & Julio", "Little
Deer", "Me & My Dog", "Wild Wild West", and "In the Bathtub".
Uno, Dos, Tres con Andres!
Andres Salguero
Salsana Records
c/o Waldmania! (publicity)
130 Maywood Drive
San Francisco, CA 94127
$10.00 www.123andres.com
Award-winning Colombian musician Andres Salguero presents Uno, Dos, Tres con Andres! ["1,
2, 3 with Andres!"], a children's music CD celebrating Latin culture. Spanish and English singing
complement this vibrant sampling of salsa, bachata, plena, mariachi, vallenato, bolero, champeta,
and more treasured aspects of Latin music heritage. A joyful album created fully in the spirit of
cross-cultural sharing and the treasure that is America's immigrant heritage, Uno, Dos, Tres con
Andres! emphasizes that friendship transcends all language barriers. The tracks are "Hola
Amigo", "Salta, Salta!", "Los Colores", "Nuestra Fiesta", "La Clave", "If I Had a Mariachi", "My
Friend Manuel", "Love Song", "Where does my salad come from?", "Daddy Was a Migrant
Worker", and "O Papa".
The DVD Shelf
Drawing with Mark series
Mark Marderosian
Shelter Island
c/o Damore Public Relations
$14.98 each www.shelterisland.net
Winner of a Parent's Choice Award, the "Drawing with Mark" series is a set of educational,
"how-to" DVDs perfect for budding artists ages 5 and up. Each DVD has two playful lessons in
which professional illustrator & comic book creator Mark Marderosian shows that drawing can
be fun, plus bonus features and a simple, physical "draw-along booklet". "Drawing with Mark:
Dinosaurs, Space" begins with an on-location trip to the Museum of Science and the basics of
how to draw a Tyrannosaurus Rex and a Pterodactyl; "Reach for the Stars" continues the tour,
and shows how to draw the planet Saturn and a friendly astronaut. "Drawing with Mark: Ice
Cream, Happy Tails" consists of "We All Scream for Ice Cream" which involves a trip to the
local ice cream shop, and "Happy Tails", in which viewers visit a local animal shelter and learn
how to care for cats and dogs as well as draw them. "Drawing with Mark: Life on the Farm,
Good to Grow" has two episodes on a real, local farm, and shows kids how hard everyone works
to produce food, as well as how to draw a barn, a pig, a tractor, and a sunflower. "Drawing with
Mark: Something Fishy, Day at Aquarium" involves a visit to The Woods Hole Science
Aquarium, where viewers learn about sea life as well as how to draw a school of fish, a sea star, a
seal, and a sea turtle. The drawing lessons tend to involve images of friendly cartoons and
caricatures, which young people can easily imitate with paper and pencil. All four DVDs are
excellent additions to any kindergarten, elementary school, or public library DVD collection. 60
min. each plus bonus, widescreen.
Thomas & Friends: Spills & Thrills
Hit Entertainment
c/o Lionsgate (distribution)
c/o Andrea Blain Public Relations
9750 Crawford Avenue, Skokie, IL 60076
www.thomasandfriends.com
$14.98 www.hitnewsonline.com
Thomas & Friends: Spills & Thrills is a new children's DVD in the cheerful "Thomas & Friends"
computer-animated series, about anthropomorphic trains who work hard to do their job helping
people on the Island of Sodor. Filled with brief episodes (about 10 minutes each), the stories
range from Stephen learning that learning that too much speed can be hazardous, to James
confronting his fear of the dark when he's tasked with pulling the nighttime Kipper Express full
of "aromatic" fish! A new anthropomorphic engine character named Porter joins the cast in this
fun, family-friendly video; bonus features include a simple "Bish Bash Bosh" game, a "Go Go
Thomas!" karaoke music video, and "Guess Who?" puzzles. The included episodes are "Away
From the Sea", "The Smelly Kipper", "No More Mr. Nice Engine", "Gone Fishing", "Thomas'
Shortcut", and "The Afternoon Tea Express". 67 min., English/Spanish/French languages,
widescreen.
The Multimedia Shelf
The Little Moose Who Couldn't Go To Sleep
As told to Willy Claflin
Illustrated by James Stimson
August House
3500 Piedmont Road, NE, Suite 310
Atlanta, GA 30305
9781939160676 $18.95 augusthouse.com
A 21-minute audio CD (which is a "live field" recording of Maynard Moose) accompanies The
Little Moose Who Couldn't Go To Sleep: A Maynard Moose Tale, a charming picturebook about
the adventures and explorations of a very inquisitive young moose. In addition to the distinctive
color illustrations, The Little Moose Who Couldn't Go To Sleep is unique in that it uses "moose
vocabulary" - moose-words that are pronounced just a little bit off kilter from their English
equivalents. A moose-word glossary ("Blorble: bubbling musically to oneself") eases the
transition in this fun-to-read-aloud storybook. Also highly recommended is "The Uglified Ducky:
A Maynard Moose Tale", another Maynard Moose picturebook with an accompanying audio
CD.
The Activity Shelf
Paper Craft Airplanes
Mary Beth Cryan
Peter Pauper Press, Inc.
202 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains, NY 10601
www.peterpauper.com
9781441311573, $17.95, www.amazon.com
As a child, everyone has tried their hand at making a simple paper airplane out of a single sheet
of paper and seeing how far it would soar. What's less well known is that some folk never
outgrew their delight with making paper airplanes that would fly farther and higher. Case in point
-- "Paper Craft Airplanes" created and illustrated by Mary Beth Cryan. This hardcover and spiral
bound (so as to lay out flat upon a table our counter top) book is a 100 page compendium
comprised of 24 make-it-yourself paper airplane projects. Each wonderfully colorful project is
complete with step-by-step instructions; sturdy paper that is perforated and scored making cutting
unnecessary; as well as identified and numbered areas to be taped or glued. Of special note are
the wealth of simple tips for paper craft projects and suggestions for getting each individual
airplane to go as far and as high as possible! Thoroughly 'user friendly', "Paper Craft Airplanes"
is enthusiastically recommended for kids of all ages (and their fathers too!).
Giddy-Up Fairytale Cowgirl, An Imagining Book
Kat Ford, author/artist
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
www.createspace.com, www.amazon.com
www.giddyupfairytalecowgirl.com
9781492804147, $8.99, www.corpirate.com
"Giddy-Up Fairytale Cowgirl, An Imagining Book" is a black and white creatively illustrated
song-lyric, story-coloring book combo, with appealing lavishly decorative illustrations featuring
unicorns, flying lambs, cowgirls in boots, and even tiaras and sea dragons. The fantastic images
blend into appealing matching pictures with details left blank, saying "Imagine you had your own
(sea dragon...etc.)! How would you paint it?" This inspiring approach also combines with several
feminine portraits with faces left blank, saying, "Put your face inside the oval." This coloring
book is companion to the published eBook, due to come out in February, accompanied by a
sing-along video. In the meantime, additional pages of illustrations for coloring and
accompanying craft ideas are available at, www.giddyupfairytalecowgirl.com and accompanying
blog. For a unique encouraging artistic approach for girls, "Giddy-Up Fairytale Cowgirl" is a first
class imagining experience, irresistible in its appeal and dedicated to "all girls who are not afraid
to dream... and more importantly, to the ones who are."
The Graphic Novel Shelf
Jim Curious: A Voyage to the Heart of the Sea
Matthias Picard
Abrams/Amulet
115 West 18th Street
New York, NY 10011
9781419710438 $19.95 www.abramsyoungreaders.com
Jim Curious: A Voyage to the Heart of the Sea is an extraordinary, entire wordless picturebook
featuring gigantic, sweeping, 3-D illustrations of a daring adventurer's deep-suit diving venture to
the bottom of the ocean. Two pairs of 3-D glasses are included in a convenient plastic pouch
inside the back cover. The visionary images (black-and-white artwork, with a hint of red and blue
to help foster the 3-D effect) rise off the page, revealing Jim's discoveries of a sunken pirate ship,
a diversity of sea creatures, and the ruins of a lost city, and a mysterious final door leading to...
where? Jim Curious: A Voyage to the Heart of the Sea makes a unique and unforgettable gift, for
both the young and the young at heart. Highly recommended!
Coyote Run
Gaetan Doremus
Enchanted Lion Books
351 Van Brunt Street
Brooklyn, NY 11231
9781592701476 $14.95 www.enchantedlionbooks.com
Coyote Run is an entirely wordless, surreal picturebook featuring anthropomorphic animals in a setting
that blurs the line between American West homage and the light fantastic. Coyote has been taken
prisoner by a mule(?) sheriff and his cat deputies. Coyote longs to be free and watch the ladybugs
fly; he pickpockets the key to his jail cell and makes a run for it! The sheriff catches up to him,
but when Coyote shows him just how beautiful the fluttering ladybugs are, even a stubborn mule
can have a change of heart. But will the deputies in hot pursuit understand? Perhaps only a
ladybug miracle can save Coyote and his new friend! Simple yet utterly unforgettable, Coyote
Run is highly recommended.
The Board Book Shelf
Orange, Triangle, Fox
Sarah Jones, author/illustrator
Blue Manatee Press
3054 Madison Road, Cinncinnati, OH 45204
9781936669219, $7.99, www.bluemanateebooks.com
"Orange, Triangle, Fox" is a delightful preschool pasteboard book that teaches shapes, colors,
and animals simultaneously through creatively constructed artistic impressions with brief
descriptive text. Designed to appeal to children from birth to 3 years, "Orange, Triangle, Fox"
introduces seven different animals illustrated in matching colors and shapes. Thus we have
"brown circle hedgehog," "red square owl," "yellow star frog" and more to the end, which is
"purple heart bug." "Orange, Triangle, Fox" is delightful educational learning through reading
and use of multiple basic concepts. Young children will grasp its implications instinctively, while
enjoying the rhythmic words and creative pictures. A second recommended title in this
innovative educational series for very young readers is "Bunnies Near and Far (9781936669226,
$7.99)," a counting board book.
The ABC Shelf
S is for Smiling Sunrise
Vick Wadhwa, author
WordsBright
http://wordsbright.com/contact-us
9781940229126, $16.95, www.wordsbright.com
Featuring various artists of www.bigstockphoto.com, "S is for Smiling Sunrise" is a preschool
educational book that teaches ABC's in rhymes meant to be sung, with a free mp3 sound track of
the rhymes at, www.wordsbright.com. This creative ABC's primer of song is specially designed
to meet four goals: teaching the alphabet to young students, increasing vocabulary and
comprehension through music, art, and rhyme, supporting character development by emphasizing
positive words and concepts, and having fun. Every letter has a special image paired with it and a
verse about the word, accompanied by colorful illustrations of many happy scenes. Some of these
verses are inspired and different, such as: "V is for Virtues/ Goodness in your heart/ Caring,
sharing, and honesty/ Learn well and be smart!" Another is: "G is for Gift/ That you love to get/
Did you know, it's as much fun/ To give a gift instead?" Many other verses offer new images,
concepts and ideas that emphasize the creative, positive, and humane outlook for children. "S is
for Smiling Sunrise" is a wonderful educator's tool with a creative, compassionate twist, for
children age 3 and up.
S is for Sea Glass
Richard Michelson, author
Doris Ettlinger, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
Suite 200, 315 East Eisenhower Parkway
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
9781585368624 $15.95 www.sleepingbearpress.com
S is for Sea Glass: A Beach Alphabet is a children's ABC picturebook in which each letter is
assigned a word and a brief, beach-themed poem. "W is for Wave: Away from the wind, water
always behaves. / But when they play together, they're mischievous knaves. / They crash things
and smash things - / They tumble and rumble - / They storm and they love to make waves." The
breezy, beautifully colored artwork adds the perfect touch to this wonderful picturebook. S is for
Sea Glass is an excellent children's gift to commemorate a family vacation, or rekindle memories
of summer fun!
The Poetry Shelf
The Rock and Roll Band in my Armpit and Other Poems
Robbin Tenglin and Kevin Tenglin, authors
Drew Stalker, illustrator
Privately Published
9780984895113 $14.95 www.amazon.com
The Rock and Roll Band in my Armpit and Other Poems is a picturebook of wild and wacky
poetry, paired with quixotic color illustrations. The result is pure fun for parents to read aloud
and share with little children, or encourage them to read the poems aloud themselves. Highly
recommended! "Nose Race": One day my nose was running, / For it was in a race. / But first it
stretched its nostrils before sprinting off my face.
Earf
Mark and Leaf Bailen
Splendid Benedict Publishing
Lightning Source (dist.)
9780991080908 $16.75 www.amazon.com
Earf is a colorful picturebook of tongue-twistingly whimsical poems about planet called "Earf"
and the loopy people who live there. Scraggly, colorful illustrations add just the right
out-of-this-world touch to Earf. The poems are lively to the point of eyebrow-raising, and a joy to
read aloud to little ones! "The Hole Digger": I wanted to dig a hole / But I dug and dug until / I
stopped and looked around / And found I was digging a hill.
The Native American Shelf
The Hogan That Great-Grandfather Built
Nancy Bo Flood, author
Peterson Yazzie, illustrator
Salina Bookshelf, Inc.
3120 N. Caden Court, Suite 4
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
9781893354975 $21.95 www.salinabookshelf.com
The Hogan That Great-Grandfather Built is a children's picturebook about a multigenerational
Navajo family that shares work, play, festivity, and storytelling in their family hogan (traditional
hand-built home, typically made of wood with packed mud and earth). Award-winning author
Nancy Bo Flood has written and taught on a Navajo Reservation for years; her appreciation for
the family bond and enduring traditions shines through in this beautiful, warmly illustrated,
easy-to-read picturebook about cherishing all of life's everyday miracles. "This is my
Grandfather. / He stacks wood for the winter / that will warm our hogan / when chilly winds
blow. // Then Grandfather's voice will soften the darkness / As he teaches the star names and
shows us / the string games, / telling us stories of how we began, / and of our home, our Navajo
hogan, / that long, long ago, Great-Grandfather Jack / built with his hands / out of earth, water,
and trees." Highly recommended, especially for school and public library picturebook
collections.
Books in Series
The Poodle Tales Book Ten: The Full Service Poodle
Toni Tuso Faber, author
Benton Rudd, illustrator
Mindstir Media
1931 Woodbury Ave. #182, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Kelley & Hall (publicity)
9780991032419 $15.99 hc / $9.99 pbk www.thepoodletales.com
Written by the owner of two trained and certified service poodles, The Poodle Tales Book Ten:
The Full Service Poodle is a rhyming children's picturebook about a young,
black-and-white-furred poodle studying how to be a skilled service dog. He encounters Deja, a
white show poodle who also wants to learn how to help people, and he teaches her how to fetch
things on command, and other full-service tasks. The bright, cartoon-like colorful illustrations
add the perfect touch to this heartwarming story about hardworking dogs. The Full Service
Poodle is the tenth book in "The Poodle Tales" series of playful picturebooks grounded in
real-life canine activities, all of which are ideal for young readers ages four to nine. The first nine
titles are "Poodlemania", "Poodles In Bows", "The Poodle Talent Show", "A Poodle Derby",
"The Skateboarding Poodle", "The Poo Detective", "The Ballerina Poodle", "Poo Agility Stars",
and "The Modeling Poo", with more forthcoming!
My First Book: Musical Instruments
Sophie Helenek, author/illustrator
Nursery Books
1146 East Street, New Britain, CT 06051
9780989450522, $5.99, www.nurserybooks.net
"Musical Instruments" is a title in the My First Book series by Sophie Helenek, the multi-talented
award- winning athlete and mountaineer, financier, and mom. The My First Book series is
described as "activity books conceived to stimulate a baby's senses." Constructed of sturdy
pasteboard for tiny hands to touch, "Musical Instruments" presents multiple primary colored
examples of musical instruments opposite the single word naming a single black and white
example emitting musical notes. Thus baby encounters her first piano, trumpet, flute, violin
guitar, and saxophone. The final summary illustration covers two pages of all six instruments
first in black and white, then repeated in their actual colors, such as yellow for brass, brown for
strings, silver for the flute, and black and white for the piano. "My First Book: Musical
Instruments" is a wonderful approach to parental bonding with infants while participating in their
miraculous progressive journey through developmental milestones. Other titles in the My First
Book Series that are also highly recommended include: "Sky Wonders (9780989450539, $5.99),"
"Shapes (9780989450515)," and "Fruits (9780989450508)." This whole series is an invitation to
experience growth together through the infant's senses.
Dinosaurs at School
Alex Appleby, author
Planman Technologies, illustrations
Gareth Stevens Publishing
111 East 14th Street, Suite 349, New York, NY 10003
9781433990410, $22.60, www.garethstevens.com
"Dinosaurs at School" is a charming title from a cheery, creative learning series called Dinosaur
School for pre-K and K level students. Filled with a rainbow of playful dinosaur student
illustrations, "Dinosaurs at School" presents a total of twelve object illustrations of items
associated with a school setting, narrated simply with "I see a (crayon)" and embellished with
many different colored dinosaurs. Pages are numbered 1-24 in large orange numbers, and all
concepts are simple and striking. "Dinosaurs at School" will encourage early reading, concept
formation and understanding, counting, and memory, as well as encouraging a sense of humor
and whimsicality. Early storytelling skills can be enhanced, and a final page lists an object
vocabulary with accompanying illustrations. "Dinosaurs at School" is an excellent early literary
development tool and belongs in juvenile libraries at home and at school. Other titles by the same
author from this series that are also highly recommended include "Dinosaurs Help Out"
(9781433990533, $22.60), "Dinosaurs On the Go" (9781433990618, $22.60), "Dinosaurs On the
Farm" (9781433990571, $22.60), "Dinosaur's Five Senses" (9781433990496, $22.60), and
"Dinosaurs at the Zoo" (9781433990458, $22.60).
What Makes Me Shine: Sam's Birthmark
Martha and Grant Griffin, authors
Mary Anne Smiley, illustrator
Griffin Group Publishing, LLC
www.samsbirthmark.com/contact-us
9780692019207, $23.95, www.samsbirthmark.com
"Sam's Birthmark" is a title from the What Makes Me Shine series about a boy who was born
with a unique vascular facial birthmark. It's purpose is to celebrate the individual uniqueness of
Sam and all children, to educate children about vascular birthmarks, to teach tolerance and
prevent bullying behaviors, and to promote self acceptance in children who have birthmarks or
other obvious differences that make them unique. In short, "Sam's Birthmark" was created to
increase compassion, acceptance and awareness, particularly with regard to vascular birthmarks.
Filled with charming water color illustrations of Sam and friends at play, home and school,
"Sam's Birthmark" follows the birth and growth of Sam, a boy born with a red, port wine
birthmark on his face by his nose. When other children notice this difference in his appearance
and comment on it, he asks his parents about his birthmark, and if it makes him different from
everyone else. His mother replies calmly that yes, he is different from everyone and so is
everyone else. His difference shows on his face, and it is a part of him, which he can learn to
accept and love as they do. The next time a child asks Sam about his birthmark, he replies: "It's
my birthmark, and I like it, and it's in the right place!" Look forward to more titles in this child
health series.
Crabby Crab
Chris Raschka, author/illustrator
Abrams Appleseed
c/o Abrams Books
115 West 18th Street, new York, NY 10011
9781419710568, $6.95, www.abramsbooks.com
"Crabby Crab" is the latest title in an innovative toddler picture book series called Thingy
Things. Perfectly orchestrated with bright, humorous illustrations and minimal expressive
narrative, the reader reassures the discontented crustacean that "We love you just the way you
are," when he wishes to change his 8 sideways walking legs or large crab claws. Children will
relate positively to the joyous humor of "Crabby Crab." Another recommended title in this highly
imaginative series is "Cowy Cow (9781419710551, $6.95)." The success of the series comes
partly from perfectly matched, balanced text and imagery messages and humor. Very young
children will read the subtext perfectly and laugh. This series encourages self acceptance,
communication skills, and early reading.
Quincy and Buck
Camille Matthews, author
Michelle Black, illustrator
Pathfinder Equine Publications
243 N. Garfield Road, Mehrsville, PA 19541
9780981924045, $15.95, www.quincythehorse.com
"Quincy and Buck" is the third title in a popular series titled Quincy the Horse, and takes readers
on Quincy's first trail ride experience in the desert with a new horse named Buck, who turns out
to be a bully. In the beginning, Quincy is afraid to go trail riding in the desert like his best friend
Buck, so he asks Buck for encouragement. Buck answers: "You need to go on the trail and face
the surprises. You will never feel brave if you stay home. Wild animals are as scared of you as
you are of them. Most problems on the trail are caused by other things. It helps to follow an
experienced horse." Quincy goes on to have an amazing adventure on his first desert ride with a
new horse, Buck. Realistic paintings present illustrations of horses and riders in breathtaking
desert settings. Quincy learns to protect himself from Buck's bullying while also learning good
trail riding skills. Children at levels K-4th grade who are also horse fans and Quincy series
followers will enjoy his courageous performance and dealing with both external and internal
complex limiting factors as well as fear.
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
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Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
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