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20,800 | 16 | PreS-Gr 4Tommy wakes up one snowy morning to find that the schools are closed. He also finds a note from Aunt Jeanne. It sends him on a scavenger hunt for further missives while introducing him to enchanting features of a world changed by weather. Garland's computer-generated illustrations are eye-catching and surreal in the way that digital collages often are, with no object seeming to touch another. They're characterized by bright colors, Claymation-style figures, and an admirable restraint when it comes to clutterespecially when you consider that the pages contain hundreds of images and words for youngsters to sort through. Grade schoolers may be up to the challenge of finding what's hidden throughout the book, though this will require repeated readings. Younger children will just have fun with the pictures and, with a little help, may join the search, especially for energetic Aunt Jeanne, who makes an appearance in every scene.Susan Weitz, formerly at Spencer-Van Etten School District, Spencer, NY. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.In this entry in the A Look Again Book series, Tommy finds a note from Aunt Jeanne guiding him outdoors to explore and experience diverse locations and activities, each with another mysterious, rhyming note-clue. In the woods, he is invited to find a den where Theres someone asleep there. / Do you know who and when?; while other clues lead to ice fishing, bobsled racing, and, ultimately, returning home to Aunt Jeanne. Slick, vibrant, page-filling illustrations feature cartoonish, collagelike, and photo-realistic portrayals of characters, while back pages reveal and identify abundant hidden elements. Those whove enjoyed Look-Alikes and I Spy books will likely find this absorbing. Grades 2-4. --Shelle Rosenfeld; Title: Super Snow Day Seek and Find | [
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20,801 | 11 | In their latest uproarious adventure, four chickens see the world beyond their farm when they climb into the back of a pickup truck, and the farmer unexpectedly drives to town. The birds soon find themselves in a strange world of rushing traffic, honking horns, shouting voices, and lively jazz music from a sidewalk caf. The silly, rhyming words (The chickens blabbered, gabbered, and gibber-jabbered) make this great for reading aloud, and Coles bright ink-and-watercolor cartoon pictures extend the chaotic fun. Kids will feel superior to the naive chickens, even as they recognize the birds anxiety about strange, new places. Preschool-Grade 2. --Hazel Rochman"This is a book that must be read aloud...Big Chickens Go to Town is more than a really funny book" --Kirkus; Title: Big Chickens Go to Town | [
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20,802 | 2 | PreS-Gr 1A dog describes a typical day in this brightly illustrated tale. Pup is clearly a member of the family and so refers to his humans as "Mom," "Dad," and "Sis." Most of the spreads depict what Sis is doing on the left and what Pup does on the right with hilarious results. For example, when the text reads, "Time for a Potty Break," the illustrations reflect Mom helping Sis inside a coffee shop while Dad helps Pup find a nice tree. The vivid acrylic illustrations and hand-lettering elevate this picture book to more than a general purchase. VERDICT Perfect for all libraries with dog-loving patrons.Brooke Newberry, La Crosse Public Library, WI* "Bold, stylized illustrations in neon-bright colors use simple shapes, varied type treatments, and creative labeling to show the differences and similarities in the actions of canine and child."Kirkus Reviews, starred review* "Full of humorous, true-to-life details, it's a joyful story of a dog-loving family (and a family-loving dog) that's assured on every level: graphic, verbal, and emotional."Publishers Weekly, starred review"As Sis and dog fall asleep nose to snout, the shared thought bubbleabove reads, We cant wait for tomorrow! Young listeners, too, wont want to wait long for another dog day with this pair."The Horn Book"With brightly colored images, playful visual clues scattered throughout, largefont sentences embellished with splashes of eye-catching hand-lettering, and a delightful friendship at its heart, this would be a great choice for a group story time."Booklist Online"The vivid acrylic illustrations and hand-lettering elevate this picture book...Perfect for all libraries with dog-loving patrons."School Library Journal; Title: The Best Days Are Dog Days | [
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20,803 | 2 | PreS-Gr 2-Unlike other bunnies, Suki speaks loudly, splashes in puddles, and longs to soar like the butterflies. While searching for carrots, she disobeys Momma and leaves the burrow to explore the great big world. After an adventure in fast-moving currents, the bunny becomes trapped in an overturned box and then lost at nightfall. In the end, her loud voice saves her. Her mother hears her cries, takes her home, and puts her to bed among her many siblings. Playful cartoon illustrations use line and color to show the soft innocence of the young rabbits in the burrow and the dangers beyond. Appealing for reading in a lap but also well suited to storytimes, this tale of a bunny whose most troublesome traits save the day will ring true with children who have ever been scolded for being noisy or curious.-Julie Roach, Cambridge Public Library, MA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.Suki is a cute little bucktoothed bunny with an excess of energy. While everyone else is still waking up, she shouts, TIME TO GET UP! TIME TO PLAY! Momma counters with, Were bunnies. And bunnies dont shout. Soon Suki is jumping around in puddles (Bunnies do not splash in the mud) and leaping after butterflies (Were bunnies and bunnies dont fly). Sukis real adventure begins when she wanders out into the wider world, gets swept away in a river, almost gets caught in a trap, and is stalked by a predator. Its not exactly Watership Down, but its a grueling little journey, one that would feel moralistic if not for the climax, during which Suki must take advantage of her shouting skills. All throughouteven when the going gets roughthe softly textured illustrations make the world look like a wonderful place to get lost in. This book strikes a nice balance between the benefits of being quiet and the joys of living loudly. Preschool-Grade 1. --Daniel Kraus; Title: Suki, The Very Loud Bunny | [
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20,804 | 7 | * Brilliantly inspired a tribute to the unpredictable power of imagination. Booklist, starred review * "Is there an award for best gatefold ever? Then tell Rubin and Salmieri to get out their tuxes, because this book has the one to beat." Publishers Weekly, starred review"An abundance of absurdity that will entertain boys and girls of all ages." Kirkus"[A]funny and inventive take on robo-metamorphosis."TheWallstreet JournalAdam Rubin and Daniel Salmieri are the creative team behind several picture books. Adam lives in New York, New York, and Daniel lives in Brooklyn, New York.; Title: Robo-Sauce | [
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20,805 | 2 | PreSAs the sun sets over the jungle, four mischievous baby animalsan orangutan, a panda, an elephant, and a leopardare playing in their tree house. When they hear their mamas say that it's time to find their babies, "sing lullabies," and "put them to bed," the little ones sneak away and hide while the mothers look for them. Once the moms retrieve their babies, they snuggle their darlings, sing them a lullaby, and give them a kiss. The verso page offers a little blurb explaining how to "give YOUR baby animal kisses: Leopard kiss=rub cheeks/Panda kiss=tummy smooch," etc. McMullan's charming singsong verse pairs perfectly with Nyeu's whimsical illustrations in soft orange and blue tones, laid out on lush spreads. VERDICT A perfect option for a bedtime cuddle or pajama storytime, this sweet and funny tale is sure to delight its audience and may well become a nightly staple.Yelena Alekseyeva-Popova, formerly at Chappaqua Library, NY* "With its short text and stand-out art, this will make agreat read at storytimes, but parents and children will enjoy its humor and warmth at home as well."Booklist, starred review* "McMullans rhymes are spot on in every way, and despite spiky moments of mischief, the overall impression is comforting and lulling."Publishers Weekly, starred review"The gentle rhyming verses are interspersed with onomatopoeic words and moments of tension.... A sweet bedtime tale." Kirkus"McMullans charming singsong verse pairs perfectly with Nyeus whimsical illustrations in soft orange and blue tones, laid out on lush spreads... A perfect option for a bedtime cuddle or pajama storytime, this sweet and funny tale is sure to delight its audience and may well become a nightly staple." School Library Journal; Title: Mama's Kisses | [
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20,806 | 2 | PreS-Gr 2Cat is back, and this time a lost tooth and the promise of a visit from the Tooth Fairy inspire his shenanigans. His misguided attempt to trick the legendary sprite into revealing herself to him backfires when Cat is recruited by the Tooth Fairy to conduct three difficult exchanges. He receives honorary wings, a tutu, and some "help" from a fellow trickster (Mouse). The reluctant pair first visit a gopher hole, then a squirrel's nest, and finally a bear cave, where only teamwork will get the job done. Once these missions are accomplished, Cat's desire to meet the Tooth Fairy is magically fulfilledmuch to his surprise. As in the first two books, the author assumes the role of narrator and commentator, addressing Cat and Mouse directly, and they respond using only placards, body language, and priceless facial expressions. The colored-pencil and ink illustrations practically tell the story on their own, thanks to the extensive use of white space and an absence of irrelevant detail that puts the focus squarely on the characters and their wily behavior. VERDICT Fans of Here Comes Santa Cat and Here Comes Easter Cat (both 2014, Dial) and newcomers alike will ask for this book again and again.Lynn Van Auken, Oak Bluffs School, Oak Bluffs, MA“Priceless . . . Fans of Here Comes Santa Cat and Here Comes the Easter Cat and newcomers alike will ask for this book again and again.” —School Library Journal    “Underwood plays the two [characters] off each other to great effect . . . and Rueda's ink-and-colored-pencil illustrations heighten the humor with spot-on expressions and sight gags. Generous white space, expert timing, and minimalist illustrations focus attention on the plentiful, playful banter. Clever fun continues in this delightful series.” —Kirkus Reviews “Cat, who wanted to steal the Easter Bunny's spotlight and bypass the naughty list by impersonating Santa, is back and craftier than ever. . . . The lost-tooth canon, smaller than the Christmas canon and maybe even the Easter-bunny canon, has plenty of space for this welcome addition.” —The Horn Book  “Cat is a delight, thoroughly and appropriately childlike in action and emotion . . . and a hoot in an aqua tutu and fairy wings, as is the droopy-eared, potbellied Mouse in similar attire. Fans of the previous books will want to join Cat on this latest jaunt, [as will] those looking for a tooth fairy-themed title.” —BCCB ; Title: Here Comes the Tooth Fairy Cat | [
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20,807 | 2 | Gr 46An immersive, supernatural middle grade adventure. Hear the whispers of long-kept family secrets in shadowed corners. Feel the humidity of a languid Georgia summer. Beasley, author of Circus Mirandus, weaves the tale of two tweens spending the summer looking for the way out of an ancestral curse. In 1817, 12-year-old Blue Montgomery's forebear Walcott (a fugitive horse thief) and Tumble Wilson's ancestor Almira (a "murderous young bride") were forcedby violenceto split the mysterious gift of changing one's fate, which they obtained from the fabled golden gator, deep in the Okefenokee Swamp at the rising of a bloodred moon. Both sought to escape the consequences of their crimes, but legend says that the golden gator's gift is meant for only one. "Those are the rules, and they can be terribly sharp when broken." Ever after, subsequent generations in both families were struck indiscriminately with either good or bad luck. A chance to fight the gator for his gift comes only once every 100 years when the moon runs red. Now, as the time draws near again two centuries later, Tumble and Blue must reverse the curse if there's to be any hope of normal lives for them both. Beasley's shimmering prose pulls readers in, line by line, like a fish dragging on a hook through swampy waters. The lush setting and lustrous portrayal of the characters will captivate even the most reluctant reader. VERDICT Middle graders will delight in the richly drawn world and history that Beasley creates. A first purchase for most collections.Chelsea Woods, New Brunswick Free Public Library, NJ* "Reminiscent of Ingrid Law'sSavvybooks, Beasley's sophomore novel is a spirited yarn that shines through rich characters, evocative writing, and enchanted premise.Booklist, starred review * "A tender message about sacrifice-for loved ones and the greater good-underlies this magical story of fate and family.Publishers Weekly, starred review * "An original, highly engaging story about the power of friendship, family curses, and blessings-and what it means to be a hero."Kirkus Reviews, starred review* "The lush setting and lustrous portrayal of the characters will captivate even the most reluctant reader. Middle graders will delight in the richly drawn world and history that Beasley creates.School Library Journal, starred review* "In a mix of tall tale, magic realism, comic midgrade mayhem, and sweetnessa mix reminiscent of Sachars HolesBeasley creates a distinctive, energetic world in which kindness is a muscular value and quirkiness is organic to the setting."The Horn Book, starred review; Title: Tumble & Blue | [
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20,808 | 0 | Gr 58The year is 1663, and motherless 12-year-old Petra escapes her once well-to-do abusive alcoholic father by stowing away on a merchant ship bound for the East Indies from her home in Amsterdam. She is discovered and befriended by Bram, an illegitimate boy of mixed-race heritage whose mother was Javanese and whose father was a Dutch sailor. Petra secretly assists Bram with his daily tasks such as weaving rope, making repairs, and organizing supplies. The boy is hoping that if he works hard, the ship's captain will sign papers that make him a "legal son" and that will allow him to set foot on European land. The story is told in alternating points of view from each of these unique perspectives. Disguised as a boy, Petra eventually boldly exposes herself to the crew, using her sewing skills to assist with an emergency surgery. After being keelhauled as punishment for being onboard, Petra continues to work alongside the ship's doctor. Yohalem's thorough research, authentic nautical jargon, and sailors' dialect brings this riveting tale to life. Likable characters and rich historical detail from daily food and drink to the elaborate hierarchy of the ship's crew to how to use a "butt-broom" make this a believable tale. Adventures abound as Petra and Bram struggle through raging storms, rollicking battles with pirates, and deadly bouts of disease. Plots of mutiny heighten tensions and divide loyalties, and Bram and Petra are both dangerously caught in the middle, fighting for survival and a place to call home. VERDICT Pair this book with Avi's The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle (1990) or Karen Hesse's Stowaway (2001, both Scholastic). A thoroughly satisfying high seas adventure.Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library"The story brims with luscious detail...This novel has all the required elements to appeal to zealous historical-adventure buffs." Kirkus Reviews"An absorbing, informative read." Publishers Weekly"Riveting...A thoroughly satisfying high seas adventure." School Library Journal"Young teen readers who like authenticity in their historical fiction will find life on ship in the seventeenth century vividly detailed." Voya; Title: Cast Off: The Strange Adventures of Petra de Winter and Bram Broen | [
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20,809 | 2 | PreS-Gr 2In this creatively presented holiday title, an unidentified narrator speaks directly to Cat, trying to convince the disgruntled feline to make a valentine for a friend. The narrator insists that the holiday "doesn't have to be all mushy." The conversation continues with Cat communicating through eloquently illustrated signs. One sign shows a particularly dastardly portrait of Cat's new canine neighbor. Cat automatically rejects the idea of sending a friendly valentine to Dog. Dog is noisy and keeps throwing things over the fence. Cat vehemently clings to the opinion that dogs are mean and undeserving of Valentine's wishes until an unexpected event changes everything. The humorous ink and color pencil illustrations of the stout, sand-colored kitty will endear Cat to young readers, and they will appreciate the lesson Cat learns: don't jump to conclusions about your friends because everything is not always as it appears. VERDICT The story's singular narrative style and simple but expressive illustrations will make it a favorite during the month of February. Pair it with Laura Malone Elliott's A String of Hearts (HarperCollins, 2010).Linda L. Walkins, Saint Joseph Preparatory High School, Boston, MA"Cat's facial expressions perfectly mimic those of a toddler and are captured within a pleasing soft palette of ink and color pencil drawings. Wry humor and a twist ending make this book a charmer." The Washington PostWickedly fun as everUnderwood and Rueda clearly know how well sweet and salty go together. Publishers Weekly, starred reviewUnderwood's endearing, voiceless cat is back, this time getting a lesson in Valentine's Day tact. . . . Rueda masterfully uses white space and Cat's facial expressions and body language . . . for beautifully pitched comic timing. Cat hasn't lost his ability to charm readers, if for no other reason than children are so able to see themselves in him. Kirkus ReviewsFresh and satisfying . . . Empowers kids by positioning them as the narrative voice of reason. . . . Cat is a hoot at the height of his naughtiness, but also hes poignantly repentant . . . Fans of Cats previous books (and even Valentines Dayphobes) are likely to fall in love with this series installment. BCCBCreatively presented . . . Humorous . . . The storys singular narrative style and simple but expressive illustrations will make it a favorite . . . Pair it with Laura Malone ElliottsA String of Hearts. School Library Journal; Title: Here Comes Valentine Cat | [
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20,810 | 7 | PreS-Gr 1The kid and his taco-loving dragon friends are back, and there's a crisis. There are no tacos left in the world. "None. Nada. Nil." Circumstances require use of the time machine to go back to a party for a handful of tacos to plant and grow into trees. However, spicy salsa messes things up again, with journeys back to wrong time periods, including when dragons loved diapers and when tacos loved dragons. Eventually heading home, the kid watches in disbelief as the dragons lose their resolve and gobble down ALL the tacosexcept one. He plants a taco tree and the world is saved from disaster. Created with watercolor, gouache, color pencil, and digital elements, the images are comical, especially the scenes of spicy salsa fire breath and its aftermath. Deadpan statements such as "Oh boy, not again" and "Oh, come on" reinforce the humor. VERDICT Kids who can't get enough dragons or tacos will be won over by this humorous tale. A silly addition for old fans and new readers alike.Gaye Hinchliff, King County Library System, WA"As Rubin puts it, 'dragons love diapers. I mean, tacos. Dragons love tacos. / Heck, everyone loves tacos.' Most young readers, even those in diapers, would agree."Kirkus Reviews"This sequels dialed-up energy and absurdity remain a tastyand very funnycombination." Publishers Weekly"This zany companion promises to be as gut-bustingly ridiculous and yes-I'll-gladly-read-it-again-and-again entertaining as the first." PopSugar; Title: Dragons Love Tacos 2: The Sequel | [
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20,811 | 0 | Gr 58At 100 years old, Martha O'Doyle decides to record the story of the most eventful six-month period in her life, a period that taught her to be the hero of her own story. Expelled from catechism class in 1928 for questioning the story of Adam and Eve, 12-year-old Martha takes a job as a maid in the Sewell mansion, where her mother is housekeeper. Mr. Sewell is a prominent newspaper magnate, and his supposedly "mad" wife Rose is kept under lock and key in her room with her beloved paintings. Martha is incredibly curious about Rose Sewell, particularly after she escapes her room one night and nearly sets fire to the mansion. She suspects Rose is trying to relay messages through the paintings she chooses to send down to the gallery, and Martha is determined to discover the truth about Rose's "madness." With a narrative voice in Martha that is equal parts pragmatic and wry, Fitzgerald weaves an engaging mystery set in New York City in the Roaring Twenties. Rose's plight challenges readers to think about gender inequity during the time period, and they will be further encouraged by references to stories such as that of Proserpina and Jupiter. Current events of the day are incorporated into the plot, and an author's note describes how the story grew from newspaper headlines, biographies, and memoirs. VERDICT A solid, fast-moving mystery for historical fiction fans, with nods to art history and mythology.Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL* "This lively and inventive mystery successfully incorporates history, art, and literary classics...readers will certainly be swept up by Martha’s pluck and the mystery’s many layers."—Booklist, starred review* "The combination of history, art, and mystery is sure to delight readers...Between the well-written story and the cross curricular possibilities, this is a book every library should have.—School Library Connection, starred review"A solid, fast-moving mystery for historical fiction fans, with nods to art history and mythology."—School Library Journal"Offer this to fans of Blue Balliett who like sophisticated adventures."—Publishers Weekly"Fitzgerald’s interest in art and history inform this puzzle of a novel, with Jane Eyre, Sacco and Vanzetti, the dying art of vaudeville, chemistry, and the 1929 stock market crashes all playing roles."—The Horn Book"Young teens will enjoy [Martha's] impertinence and determination, and may not even notice that they are learning a little bit about the Sacco and Vanzetti trial and the 1928 presidential election, as well as the stock market crash of 1929."—VOYA"Martha is a scrappy, amiable narrator, and readers will be just as invested as she is in seeing that all the wrongs in this household are finally righted."—BCCBPraise for Under the Egg:Under the Egg is the winner of the New Atlantic Independent Booksellers Association Best Middle Grade Book of the Year award! "It's really a very compelling read and I don't know how she did it."—Kate DiCamillo on NPR * "A riveting narrative."—Booklist, starred review * "Fans of Koningsburg's From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler and Balliett's Chasing Vermeer will thrill at the chance to solve a new mystery centered around art."—Library Media Connection, starred review "Laura Marx Fitzgerald creates the perfect adventure...any girl will love this book."—Girls Life "Uniquely readable, entirely charming, and a pleasure from start to finish. Debuts this good are meant to be discovered."—School Library Journal Fuse 8 Blog "Riveting from start to finish."—BookPage; Title: The Gallery | [
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20,812 | 2 | "The author bounces her characters off one another in spectacular ways, crafting drama, suspense, love, and exasperation with ease. ... Readers will surely want to join Digby and Zoe for another round."Kirkus"Tromly excels at oddball character chemistry as well as crackling dialogue. ... This zany sequel has everything to make fans of the first outing swoon."Booklist Online"This over-the-top series that mixes fantastical schemes, a dash of romance, and two quirky characters will leave readers rolling their eyes at the silliness of it all while simultaneously falling in love with and cheering for the protagonists."SLJ OnlinePraise for Trouble Is a Friend of Mine:Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year"In what reads like a combination of Veronica Mars and The Breakfast Club, debut author Tromly creates a screwball mystery with powerful crossover appeal."Publishers Weekly, starred review"This is one of those rare books that promises something unique and actually delivers beyond expectation. At least one copy belongs in every young adult collectionmaybe even two or three. Once the word gets out, this book will fly off the shelves."VOYA, starred review"Fast-talking, suit-wearing Digby is an exasperating teenage Sherlocksharply observant, impatient with social niceties, and unafraid of authority figures. ... Fans of Veronica Mars and Elementary will find much to like here ... Zoe's sarcastic first-person narration is fresh and funny ... an offbeat and entertaining caper."Kirkus"An engrossing and satisfying read ... Hand this one out along with a Chandler or Hammett classic and the first season of Veronica Mars."BCCB, starred review"A fast-paced story. ... Readers will find a sharply drawn character in the irrepressible Zoe, who's as dubious about Digby's methods as she is curious about whether or not she can live up to his daredevilry."SLJ"With acerbic banter and a healthy dose of high-school high jinks, screenwriter Tromly weaves together traditional elements of teen stories to create a Breakfast Club for a new century."BooklistStephanie Tromly was born in Manila, grew up in Hong Kong, graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, and worked as a screenwriter in Los Angeles. She is currently on leave from her PhD program in English Literature at the University of Toronto and lives in Winnipeg with her husband and young son. Stephanie is the author of the Trouble Is a Friend of Mine trilogy.; Title: Trouble Makes a Comeback | [
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20,813 | 2 | This upbeat picture book is charming and attractive. The rounded simple shapes give the art a childlike feel, and the many things to look at can turn the book into an interactive experience as adults ask children what they spy. A delightful way to introduce "going green." -BooklistWellington energetically weaves an optimistic green message into an urban backdrop. - Publishers WeeklyMonica Wellington was born in London and lived in Europe until she moved tothe United States at age seven. As a child she always loved to draw andpaint, but it wasn't until she went to college that she realized she wantedto be an artist for her profession. She went to the University of Michigan'sSchool of Art to earn her BFA and studied pottery, painting and printmaking.After art school, while traveling and living in a number of differentcountries, she had various art related jobs, which were all good backgroundand preparation for doing children's books.She has both written and illustrated the majority of her books. She says,"I usually start a book visually, with an idea of what I want to paintpictures about. The pictures may come first before the words for me. Boththe pictures and words go through many revisions, and I am often stillworking on the final words after I finish the pictures."She says that doing children?s books is great. "I get to have a job where Ispend my days doing totally what I love to do. And it is very gratifyingthat my work goes out into the world and is shared with other people. Ifeel incrediably lucky for all this!"Since 1994 she has taught illustration at the School of Visual Arts. Shelives in New York City with her daughter Lydia.; Title: Gabby and Grandma Go Green | [
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20,814 | 13 | Brad Meltzer is the New York Times bestselling author of The Inner Circle, The Fifth Assassin, Heroes for My Son, and Heroes for My Daughter, and he is the host of the History Channel television showsBrad Meltzer's Decoded andLost History.He lives in Florida with his wife and their three children.Christopher Eliopoulos began his illustration career as a letterer for Marvel, and has worked on thousands of comics, including Franklin Richards: Son of a Genius, Pet Avengers, and Cow Boy, all of which he wrote and illustrated. He lives in New Jersey with his wfie and their identical twin sons.; Title: I am Lucille Ball (Ordinary People Change the World) | [
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20,815 | 2 | Praise for Captain Jack and the PiratesShortlisted for the Kate Greeenaway Medal"Bently's rhyming narrative could be sung as a sea chantey . . . Gently and agreeably thrilling."—Kirkus"A grand adventure."—School Library Journal"A riveting read-aloud adventure that mirrors children's imaginative play and has the power to inspire it."—BooklistPraise for King Jack and the DragonALA Notable Book * "Soft colors and the fanciful expressions on the various creatures offset any scare youngsters might find in the story, and the children's beguiling faces are warm and friendly. A balance of brown-toned crosshatched drawings and full-color artwork adds to the easy flow of the action. A tale of make-believe that children will delight in hearing again and again."—School Library Journal, starred review * "Bently's verse never misses a beat, and Oxenbury shifts between monochromatic, engraving-like drawings and pale watercolors; the images feel as if they were drawn from a classic fairy tale book and contemporary life simultaneously. It's an enchanting tribute to both full-throttle pretend play and the reassurance of a parent's embrace."—Publishers Weekly, starred reviewPeter Bently is the author of more than forty children’s books, including King Jack and the Dragon and Cats Ahoy!, which won the Roald Dahl Funny Prize. He lives in Devon, England.   Helen Oxenbury has charmed generations of children with her award-winning illustrations. She has won the Kate Greenaway Medal and the Nestlé Smarties Book Prize, and her numerous books include We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and the New York Times bestseller Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes. She lives in London with her husband, the author and artist John Burningham.; Title: Captain Jack and the Pirates | [
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20,816 | 6 | Alison Jay is the creator of A B C: A Childs First Alphabet Book and 1 2 3: A Childs First Counting Book. She studied illustration at the London College of Printing and lives in London.; Title: Alice's Adventures in Wonderland board book | [
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20,817 | 0 | Monica Wellington was born in London and lived in Europe until she moved tothe United States at age seven. As a child she always loved to draw andpaint, but it wasn't until she went to college that she realized she wantedto be an artist for her profession. She went to the University of Michigan'sSchool of Art to earn her BFA and studied pottery, painting and printmaking.After art school, while traveling and living in a number of differentcountries, she had various art related jobs, which were all good backgroundand preparation for doing children's books.She has both written and illustrated the majority of her books. She says,"I usually start a book visually, with an idea of what I want to paintpictures about. The pictures may come first before the words for me. Boththe pictures and words go through many revisions, and I am often stillworking on the final words after I finish the pictures."She says that doing children?s books is great. "I get to have a job where Ispend my days doing totally what I love to do. And it is very gratifyingthat my work goes out into the world and is shared with other people. Ifeel incrediably lucky for all this!"Since 1994 she has taught illustration at the School of Visual Arts. Shelives in New York City with her daughter Lydia.; Title: Firefighter Frank Board Book Edition | [
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20,818 | 2 | Gr 5-8-When Astrid, about to begin junior high, heads to summer roller derby camp while best friend Nicole opts for ballet camp, their relationship is jeopardized by opposing interests. This fast-paced, engrossing graphic novel featuring a lesser-known sport captures the first pangs of adolescent angst, friendship, and loyalty. (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.A Newbery Honor book2016-2017 Texas Bluebonnet Award winnerANew York TimesBestseller A Spring 2015 Indie Next Pick ANew York Times Book ReviewNotable Children's Book of 2015 A New York Public Library Best Book for Reading and Sharing of 2015 APublishers WeeklyBest Book of 2015 ASchool Library JournalBest Book of 2015 AKirkus ReviewsBest Book of 2015 A Top 10 Latin@ Book of 2015 AParents MagazineBest Children's Book of 2015 A Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2015 A Texas Bluebonnet Award 2016-2017 nominee A 2016 YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers selection A 2016 YALSA Popular Paperback selectionAn ALA Notable Children's Book of 2016A 2015 Nerdy Book Club Award Winner for Best Graphic NovelRoller Girl's message of self-discovery, friendship, and perseverance will roll its way right into your heart. Raina Telgemeier, New York Times bestselling author of SistersThis spiky, winning graphic novel captures the bittersweetness of finding a new passion and saying goodbye to your former, more uncertain self. New York Times Book Review* "Jamieson captures this snapshot of preteen angst with a keenly decisive eye, brilliantly juxtaposing the nuances of roller derby with the twists and turns of adolescent girls' friendships...Full of charm and moxiedon't let this one roll past." Kiruks,starred review* The story will engage readers Offer this comic to fans of TelgemeiersSmileand Laura Lee GulledgesPage by Paige.School Library Journal, starred review* "Readers will stand up and cheer."Publishers Weekly,starred review* "Jamiesons dialogue captures coming-of-ageso authentically"Horn Book, starred review*"[A] sharp and engaging graphic novelBCCB, starred review"Visually, Roller Girl is very appealing think Lynn Johnston with a modern edge but it's the storytelling that really sets this graphic novel apartA great choice for tween girls, whether they're remaking themselves, renegotiating friendships or just weathering the stormy seas of early adolescence." Chicago Tribune; Title: Roller Girl | [
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20,819 | 2 | PreS-Gr 1Paula (a beaver) and Maggie (an elephant) have been friends forever, and though they're worlds apart in terms of size and abilities, they enjoy being togetherwhether they are taking silly pictures in a photo booth or splashing in the mud. Then one day, Veronica (a dog) manages to divide the two pals, but not for long. After a brief yet hurtful period of disloyalty, Paula is surprised to find that she can still rely on Maggie to be the best friend ever. As in Nancy Carlson's books and the collaborations by Helen Lester and Lynn Munsinger, the focus is on life issues such as feelings, moral character, and self-esteem. This time she aptly addresses peer pressure and its influence on friendships. Enhancing the enlightening tale, Harrison's exemplary acrylic paintings of anthropomorphic animals serve as valuable information in helping children recognize facial expressions. VERDICT The trials of friendship and the early vestiges of mean girl culture are well portrayed in this recommended purchase; perfect for storytime or one-on-one sharing.Gaye Hinchliff, King County Library System, WA* "Harrison tells her story with touching and expert restraint, and...shows a deeply sympathetic understanding of the simultaneously fragile and powerful emotions of children."Publishers Weekly,starred review"Harrison's straightforward, first-person text...conveys a wealth of emotion." Kirkus Reviews"The trials of friendship and the early vestiges of mean girl culture are well portrayed in this recommended purchase; perfect for storytime or one-on-one sharing." School Library Journal; Title: My Friend Maggie | [
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20,820 | 11 | Brad Meltzer is theNew York Timesbestselling author ofHeroes for My Son, Heroes for My Daughter, and a number of suspense novels, including The House of Secrets. He is also the host of the History Channel television showsBrad Meltzer's DecodedandBrad Meltzer's Lost History. He lives in Florida with his wife and their three children. Christopher Eliopoulos began his illustration career at Marvel, and has worked on thousands of comics, includingFranklin Richards: Son of a Genius,Pet Avengers,Cow Boy, andCosmic Commandos, all of which he wrote and illustrated. He lives in New Jersey with his wife and their identical twin sons.; Title: I am Sacagawea (Ordinary People Change the World) | [
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20,821 | 2 | A New York Times Editors ChoiceAn Autumn Kids Indie Next List top pickA Boston Globe Best Children's BookAPublishers WeeklyBest Book of the YearAKirkus Reviews Best BookA New York Public Library Notable Children's BookA Southern LivingBest Childrens BookA Little Maverick Graphic Novel Reading List bookAnALA Notable bookA VOYA Top Shelf pickA CCBC Choices book"Alls Faire in Middle Schoolis a delightful, funny, and thoughtful adventure through the challenging worlds of friends and family. Huzzah!"Jennifer and Matthew Holm, New York Times bestselling authors ofSunny Side Up"Victoria Jamieson's graphic novels are gateway drugs to all the best nerdy hobbies."Cory Doctorow "Readers will cheer [Imogene's] victories, wince at her stumbles, and likely demand visits to the nearest faire themselves to sample the wares and fun." Kirkus, starred review"Jamieson doesnt disappoint in her first graphic novel since her Newbery HonorwinningRoller Girl."Publishers Weekly, starred review"As heartfelt as it is gorgeous, this is a worthy addition to any middle grade graphic novel collection." School Library Journal"Roller Girl was terrific...Alls Faire in Middle Schoolis even betterThe story has shades of Harriet the Spy,Monty Python and Peanuts, and the ending is tremendously satisfying without feeling false or unearnedI dub thee brilliant." The New York Times Book Review"Jamieson masterfully taps into the voice and concernsof middle-schoolers.... Kids wholoved Jamiesons Roller Girlwill adore this one, too." Booklist"Middle school is about to get a lot more Faire thanks to Victoria Jamiesons latest graphic novel."Entertainment Weekly"Imogenes story is a Renaissance tale itselfan experience complete with tension, laughter, anticipation, heartbreak, and delight."The Horn Book"The mean girls/oddball family themes feel fresh, and the explicitly stated moral of 'Youre not the center of the damn universe!' goes down easy."BCCB"This might be the best graphic novel that I have ever read." Nerdy Book ClubThis colorful graphic novel is rich with themes of belonging, friendship, family, making tough choices, and finding your own way.International Literacy Association "Aspot-on depiction of the complexities of family dynamics, the nuances of friendship, and the longing to fit in vs. the pull of being true to oneself. Gloriously illustrated in full color, every inch a pleasure. Grade A.Sunday Plain DealerVictoria Jamieson is the creator of the Newbery Honor winner Roller Girl. She received her BFA in Illustration from the Rhode Island School of Design and worked as a children's book designer before moving to Portland, Oregon and becoming a freelance illustrator. She has also worked as a portrait artist aboard a cruise ship, and has lived in Australia, Italy, and Canada. She maintains a not-so-secret identity as Winnie the Pow, skater with the Rose City Rollers roller derby league and has a not-so-secret past as a Renaissance Faire groupie.; Title: All's Faire in Middle School | [
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20,822 | 2 | "The humor is freewheeling and perfectly calibrated - it should evoke both sniggers and belly laughs....Perfect for Halloween - but too good not to read all year round." - The Horn Book, starred review"Meisel's hapless, gap-toothed ghosts and LaRochelle's knack for pitch-perfect bedtime storytelling make these stories light on horror but heavy on laughs." - Publishers Weekly"As fresh as LaRochelle's text is, Meisel's playfully rendered illustrations capture every ridiculous, giggle-inducing moment and amps it right up. Share with the most sleep-resistant and squirmy kids for a surefire read-aloud romp." - KirkusDavid LaRochelle is the author of numerous books for young readers. He lives in Minnesota. Paul Meisel has illustrated over sixty books for young readers, and he has worked in advertising. He lives in Newtown, Connecticut.; Title: The Haunted Hamburger and Other Ghostly Stories | [
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20,823 | 15 | Brad Meltzer is the New York Times bestselling author of Heroes for My Son, Heroes for My Daughter, and a number of suspense novels for adults. He is also the host of the History Channel television shows Brad Meltzer’s Decoded and Lost History. He lives in Florida with his wife and their three children. Christopher Eliopoulos began his illustration career as a letterer for Marvel, and has worked on thousands of comics, including Franklin Richards: Son of a Genius, Pet Avengers, and Cow Boy, all of which he wrote and illustrated. He lives in New Jersey with his wife and their identical twin sons.; Title: I am Jane Goodall (Ordinary People Change the World) | [
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20,824 | 1 | PreS-Gr 1In this humorous story about a karate-obsessed bunny, Davis uses the exchange between an unknown narrator and Black Belt Bunny as a platform for the topic of reluctant/picky eating. The narrator playfully convinces a hesitant young rabbit to use his karate skills to make a nutritious salad. After realizing he can karate chop cabbage, the bunny excitedly "WHAMs," slices, and dices his way through carrots, lettuce, eggplant, beets, and other vegetables. Black Belt proudly presents the salad to the narrator. In an amusing turn of events, it's the narrator who needs to learn a lesson about healthy eating. Fleck's pencil and digital illustrations, done in a warm, earthy palette, have a lively, cartoonish, handcrafted feel. The simplicity of the artwork allows readers to appreciate Black Belt Bunny's facial expressions, which contribute to the humor and action of the narrative. Pair this title with Juana Medina's 1 Big Salad, Amy Krouse Rosenthal's Little Pea, or Lauren Child's I Will Never Not Ever Eat a Tomato for a silly, healthy eatingthemed storytime. VERDICT A recommended purchase for most libraries, this entertaining picture book will encourage readers to explore and prepare the vegetables in their own kitchens.Brianne Colombo, Fairfield Free Public Library, NJ"Black Belt Bunny is a great stand-in for any super-wiggly elementary schooler as Davis (the Ladybug Girl series) combines martial arts action, sly humor, and the conviction that even the very small can learn how to channel their energy into real-world tasks."Publishers Weekly"Incredibly emotive"Kirkus"Humorous . . . Pair this title with Juana Medinas 1 Big Salad, Amy Krouse Rosenthals Little Pea, or Lauren Childs I Will Never Not Ever Eat a Tomato for a silly, healthy eatingthemed storytime."School Library Journal; Title: Black Belt Bunny | [
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20,825 | 2 | PreS-Gr 2Sarabella daydreams constantly but doesn't communicate her thoughts. Her parents, creative types themselves, don't share her teacher's concern that she needs to focus more in school. Her puppet-loving older sister suggests she "take deep breaths and squint" to facilitate concentration, but this just results in a dizzy spell and visit to the school nurse. Finally, a weekend assignment requiring students to draw their thoughts prompts the youngster to follow the advice of the beautiful whale living in her imagination: "To share it, you've/ just got to wear it." After much coloring, cutting, and pasting, she arrives at school wearing a hat containing "the most spectacular collection of doodles and daydreams." The lengthy text includes phrases like "Seeds of ideas" printed in grass and words such as "reason," "reflect," and "ponder" in a flower pot. The colorful illustrations, executed in acrylics, gouache, collage, and mixed media, depict Sarabella's daydreams in huge bubbles containing a cornucopia of objects. Her hat is so remarkable that it stretches across a spread. In humorous contrast, her cat appears repeatedly sporting the same thought: fish. This child has "a green thumb for thinking." Yet this is problematic in school where her teacher, though kind, repeatedly requests that she focus on her work instead of allowing her to learn in her own way. The scene in which she draws her thoughts reveals a distressed girl with "an upset tummy." VERDICT While Sarabella's ideas, seen through Schachner's dazzling illustrations, are presented as wonderfully imaginative, Peter Reynolds's Happy Dreamer offers a much more exuberant dreamer and encouragement for readers to follow his example.Marianne Saccardi, Children's Literature Consultant, Cambridge, MAPraise for Sarabella's Thinking Cap"This gentle book provides support for every child who daydreams in school and a wake-up call for her or his teachers. . . . A lovely celebration of creativity and a different learning style."BooklistReaders, particularly introspective types, are sure to see the magic in Sarabellas perspective. Publishers Weekly This is the sweetest read aloud for any child, but particularly for the little daydreamer in your life. Geekdad Sarabellas ideas, seen through Schachners dazzling illustrations, are presented as wonderfully imaginative. School Library Journal"More than a tribute to a childs imagination . . . Atender, sensitive tribute to those introspective students in a classroom, who dont always quite fit the standard educational molda welcome thing, indeed."Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast This is a great example of the creativity in divergent brains. Imagination Soup This is an exceptional book! It reveals the inner and outer world of a child with attention challenges, presenting this issue as a gift rather than a disability. The fanciful watercolor illustrations are charming and fun. This book is a valuable resource for any child who struggles in school. It could serve as a valuable tool to encourage understanding and respect of individual differences in the classroom as well. Culture Honey; Title: Sarabella's Thinking Cap | [
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20,826 | 2 | Elanna Allen graduated from Brown University and studied animation and illustration at the Rhode Island School of Design. She has designed characters and directed animation for Disney Junior, Nick Jr, and PBS. She lives in New York City with her husband and two boys, and is currently learning to play the ukulele.; Title: Pet Dad | [
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20,827 | 17 | Peg Kehret is the winner of more than forty state young reader awards. She lives in Washington State with her rescued dog and two rescued cats.; Title: Animals Welcome: A Life of Reading, Writing and Rescue | [
37965
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20,828 | 2 | K-Gr 2A bored shadow cuts loose and explores the wider world. Tired of being bound to a young boy and having to "[brush] the same teeth, [frown] the same frown, and [draw] the same picturesalways staying perfectly inside the line," Smoot the shadow dreams of singing "canary-yellow songs" and dancing "in wildflower red." When he's suddenly popped free of his boy, he skips rope in the playground with a pair of kids, rides a merry-go-round, and climbs a tall treeall captured in a six-page wordless sequence. The other shadows see all the fun Smoot's having and decide to join the rebellion. A frog's shadow takes the shape of a haughty prince, a dragonfly's shadow transforms into a fearsome fire-breathing dragon, and the seemingly humble shadow of a rock morphs into a towering castle. The shadows are having more fun than their owners! Just when it seems as if the entire world's population of shadows will leave their natural places, Smoot helps bring them back where they belong and, in the process, helps the shadow's ownersand his own boylive life more fully. Confident storytelling and humorous details ("He packed a few thingssome shade, some moonlight, a change of underpantsand hit the road.") make for a delightful read-aloud. Smith's loose line and fluid ink and watercolors perfectly capture the ever-so-slightly mischievous and joyful tone of Cuevas's text. Thick black crayon defines Smoot and his fellow shadowkind. VERDICT Young readers will be hooked by the beguiling premise and respond to the gently delivered message about living life with intention and imagination.Kiera Parrott, School Library JournalPraise for Smoot: A Rebellious Shadow* "Cuevas' plotline radiates freshness and celebrates the rewards of risk-taking. . . .Not since Peter Pan's has a shadow commanded such well-deserved attention." Kirkus, starred review* "Just like Smoot and the boy, the text and illustrations of this book fit together seamlessly. . . . Smith's inky shadows and bright watercolor washes are imbued with lively movement, which perfectly capture Smoot's boundless energy. Inspiring without being at all sappy, Smoot's rebellion produces rich results." Booklist, starred review"A delightful read-aloud."School Library Journal"A modern fairy tale (of sorts) that . . . visually shines."Horn Book; Title: Smoot: A Rebellious Shadow | [
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20,829 | 22 | Gr 13A brief but entertaining introduction to Muppets creator Jim Henson. The text, narrated by Henson, presents his life story as if he were still alive but as a child version of himself (complete with a beard!). The factual information provided is solid, as is the back matter, which includes a time line of Henson's life and a few photographs. Some readers may be a bit perplexed when the time line reveals that Henson passed away in 1990. However, the effect of a miniature Henson narrating his own story is charming. The graphic novelstyle illustrations are friendly, with speech bubbles and factoids peppered throughout. There are a few instances where the pages are a bit busy, but ultimately these incidents don't detract from the overall appeal of the work. VERDICT This bite-size biography of Henson is an endearing, attractive selection. Consider where the series is popular.Taylor Worley, Springfield Public Library, ORBrad Meltzer is theNew York Timesbestselling author ofHeroes for My Son,Heroes for My Daughter, and a number of suspense novels for adults. He is also the host of the History Channel television showsBrad Meltzers DecodedandLost History. He lives in Florida with his wife and their three children. Christopher Eliopoulos began his illustration career at Marvel Comics, and has worked on thousands of comics, includingFranklin Richards: Son of a Genius,Pet Avengers, andCow Boy, all of which he wrote and illustrated. He is also the illustrator of The Rabbit Who Wants to Go to Harvard. He lives in New Jersey with his wife and their identical twin sons.; Title: I am Jim Henson (Ordinary People Change the World) | [
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20,830 | 2 | Kate Duke is the author-illustrator of The Guinea Pig ABC, which The Horn Book hailed as "destined to become a classic," and One Guinea Pig Is Not Enough, as well as many other books for children. She lives in New Haven, Connecticut.; Title: Bedtime (Guinea Pig Board Books) | [
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20,831 | 2 | Gr 46Eleven-year-old Ada picks up her story shortly after The War That Saved My Life left off. She's in the hospital, nervously awaiting the surgery that will fix her club foot, when Susan receives a letter from Lady Thornton that obviously upsets her. Turns out, Ada's mother was killed in a bombing. Ada does not know how to feel about that, but, ever practical, she worries about where that leaves her and brother Jamie now that they are war orphans instead of child evacuees. Despite Susan's assurances that the three of them are family now, Ada remains prickly and irritable, particularly when Jamie falls easily into calling Susan "Mum." The three move into a cottage on the Thornton estate and are soon joined by Lady Thornton when the big house is needed for the war effort. Ada is leery of Lady Thornton, but living in close quarters brings out the best and worst in everyone, especially when Lord Thornton arrives with a German Jewish girl named Ruth whom he wishes Susan to tutor. Ada's unique voice helps evoke the novel's vivid setting and numerous complex characters. There is destitution but plenty of humor. There is also plenty of heartbreak and loss, so readers will want to keep a box of tissues handy. VERDICT Fans of the first book will love the sequel even more; truly a first purchase. While it stands alone, encourage readers to read both books to fully appreciate Ada's remarkable and wholly believable triumph.Brenda Kahn, Tenakill Middle School, Closter, NJA New York Times bestsellerA Washington PostBest Book of the YearA Boston Globe Best Book of the YearA Kirkus Best Book of the YearA Horn Book Fanfare Best Book of the YearA Southern Living Best Book of the YearA BookPage Best Book of the YearAn Indie Next List selectionA CCBC Choices book"Stunning . . . By turns tough and tender, this novel leavens complex themes with moments of wonder and joy."The Washington Post"Rarely is a childrens book so honest . . . [and] daring. But there is comfort too, in Adas desire to love and grow. . . . The power of this book is that it describes, slowly and sometimes painfully, that it is possible not just to live through pain, but to live with it.The New York Times"Thoughtful, brave, true, and wise beyond her years, Ada is for the agesas is this book. Wonderful."Kirkus, starred review"Its rare when a sequel is just as beautifully written and just as touching (maybe even more so) than the first book. . . .Bradley writes the story in such a way that the reader is by turns both touched and then, pages later, heartbroken. Over and over.HuffPost"Fans of the first book will love the sequel even more; truly a first purchase. While it stands alone, encourage readers to read both books to fully appreciate Adas remarkable and wholly believable triumph."School Library Journal, starred review"Harrowing and heartening."San Francisco Chronicle"Bradley sweeps us up in the story shes telling and at the same time raises hard questions and makes us thinkeven as she moves us to tears."The Horn Book, starred review"Aperceptive look into othering . . . Bradley sensitively portrays Adas journey to accept selfless kindness and love after years of neglect in a poignant and satisfying story of found family that will stay with readers."Publishers Weekly, starred review"Ada . . .is one of the most unforgettable characters in modern childrens literature."The Washington Post"In a hard times, complicated people do the best they can.Thats what we see in this bittersweet moving story . . . (Be prepared for both tears and smiles with this one!)" ImaginationSoup"Adas story is a winning combination of history and healing, and fans may hope that Bradley isnt quite finished with her just yet."Booklist; Title: The War I Finally Won | [
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20,832 | 0 | Praise forMr. Pants: It's Go Time: "Readers... will find plenty to recognize in this family's harried day of activities and errands, while enjoying Mr. Pants' lighthearted comeuppances." Publishers Weekly "Expect this to appeal especially to kids who still look forward to the Sunday funnies." Booklist Praise forMr. Pants: Slacks, Camera, Action: "Young readers will enjoy the cartoony, colorful silliness and relish the sibling rivalry." Booklist "A great choice for readers who are graduating from Mo Willems's early readers and just discovering Doreen Cronin's easy-reader chapter books." School Library JournalScott T. McCormick is a marketing and advertising copywriter, and he makes great smoothies. He lives in North Carolina with his family and his cat, the real Grommy LuluBelle. R. H. Lazzell is a graduate of the Art Institute of Philadelphia. He's a freelance illustrator and lives in southern New Jersey with one cat who is nothing like Mr. Pants.; Title: Mr. Pants: Camping Catastrophe! | [
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20,833 | 0 | Snuggle Piggy is one cute pigno wonder his Aunt Daisy sewed him a cozy blanket "full of all the creatures in the universe." She keeps it clean for him, knowing how much he likes it. What she doesn't know is that at night, after Snuggle Piggy is all tucked in, the creatures on the blanket come alive and play with him. They sing and dance and help him go to sleep. Then one day, after Aunt Daisy has hung up the washed blanket to dry, it begins to rain. The blanket stays outside, and Snuggle Piggy is forced to go to bed without it. He thinks he can hear the creatures on the blanket his friends calling for help. He saves them from the rain and brings them inside to warm up. A child's reason for loving a possession is beyond a parent's kenStepto and Himmelman together give this a lovable poignance that will make believers of most who encounter it. Ages 2-5. Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.Kindergarten-Grade 2 Snuggle Piggy, who lives with his Aunt Daisy, is exceptionally fond of the blanket that she has made for him. What Aunt Daisy doesn't know, how ever, is that every night the creatures she has sewn into the blanket come out to play with Snuggle Piggy, and they dance him to sleep. When the magic blanket is left out in a thunderstorm, the small pig braves the storm to save it. As his blanket dries by the fire, his friends emerge to warm themselves. Snuggle Piggy leaves a menagerie of an imals asleep in the living room only to wake up to find they've safely found their way with a rainbow. Children will enjoy this tale of a favorite blanket. Himmelman's winsome illustrations in bright primary colors add a playful za niness that makes this book hard to re sist. Lori A. Janick, Parkwood Ele mentary School, Pasadena, Tex.Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Snuggle Piggy and the Magic Blanket | [
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20,834 | 3 | Kindergarten-Grade 2-- Having lectured hilariously on human children in Earthlets, as Explained by Professor Xargle (Dutton, 1989), the alien professor now turns his five-eyed, green-tentacled self toward our canine friends, who "have buttons for eyes, a sniffer with two holes, and a built-in necktie"--the last used "to lick their underbellies." Xargle further explains how Earthlings care for their Hounds, feeding them "wigglemeat, skeleton biscuits . . . and a sock that is four days old," and spreading "many newspapers on the floor for the Houndlet to read." He then invites his eager students to climb into their schoolkid disguises for a field trip. Ross complements the professor's disquisition with his usual coterie of gleeful, popeyed children and harassed adults, struggling doggedly to cope with their pets' exuberance. Madcap fun. --John Peters, New York Public LibraryCopyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Earth Hounds, As Explained by Professor Xargle | [
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20,835 | 12 | In this era of glasnost and breathtakingly rapid political change, it's hard to imagine a more timely and welcome book for children. The range of material included under the general umbrella of "peace" is wide, and includes original fables, poems, biographies, illustrations, etc. from such distinguished contributors as Katherine Paterson, Maurice Sendak, Lois Lowry and Jerry Pinkney. The stories about the roots of war are told on a scale that children can grasp: envy between two girls in neighboring treehouses escalates into a cold war; a pair of princes squabble over their turf and eventually destroy each other's kingdoms. Equally useful for home, library or classroom--where more and more teachers are including units on peace--this thoughtfully written, attractively designed volume is a winner in every way. Royalties will be donated to a selection of organizations that champion world peace. Ages 7-12. Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.A pantheon of 34 artists and writers come together in an anthology that is both useful and inspiring. Some authors have produced works from real life, as in Jean Fritz' moving story of an Inuit people triumphing over Cold War separation and Milton Meltzer's tale about a Quaker's tragic predicament during the Civil War. Others have written stories. Lloyd Alexander contributes one about the progressively disasterous series of misunderstandings between two princes; Lois Lowry relates the story of the resolution of a rivalry between two friends. Poetry is contributed by Myra Cohen Livingston. Illustrations inspired by the text or the theme are scattered throughout the book: Steven Kellogg does his own version of "A Peaceable Kingdom"; Ben Shecter's charcoal image hauntingly mirrors Charlotte Zolotow's poem "Enemies"; Marc Simont's full-page series of paintings provide a punchline for Marilyn Sachs' "I Was There." Some of the prose is more obviously and schematically didactic than the rest, a problem that afflicts the fiction more than the nonfiction. Yoshiko Uchida contributes a powerful "Letter from a Concentration Camp," but never says whether it is a work especially done for the book or a replication of an actual letter, which does confuse somewhat. Fundamentally, however, this is an exemplary collection. Inspired by an angry children's librarian who was offended by the popularity of books on war, Sachs and Durrell have come up with a powerful, well-done answer. --Christine Behrmann, New York Public LibraryCopyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: The Big Book for Peace | [
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20,836 | 2 | "This third outing finds Tromly at the top of her game, seamlessly weaving in high-school scandal, government espionage, a hilarious mix of high- and low-culture references, and social-media sabotage in a turbocharged plotIf this is the last tango with Digby, at least we get to go out on a high note."Booklist Online"A fast read, with continuous action and nonstop witty banter."VOYAPraise for Trouble Is a Friend of Mine:Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year"In what reads like a combination of Veronica Mars and The Breakfast Club, debut author Tromly creates a screwball mystery with powerful crossover appeal."Publishers Weekly, starred review"This is one of those rare books that promises something unique and actually delivers beyond expectation. At least one copy belongs in every young adult collectionmaybe even two or three."VOYA, starred review"Fast-talking, suit-wearing Digby is an exasperating teenage Sherlocksharply observant, impatient with social niceties, and unafraid of authority figures. ... Fans of Veronica Mars and Elementary will find much to like here ... Zoe's sarcastic first-person narration is fresh and funny ... an offbeat and entertaining caper."Kirkus"An engrossing and satisfying read ... Hand this one out along with a Chandler or Hammett classic and the first season of Veronica Mars."BCCB, starred review"A fast-paced story. ... Readers will find a sharply drawn character in the irrepressible Zoe, who's as dubious about Digby's methods as she is curious about whether or not she can live up to his daredevilry."SLJ"With acerbic banter and a healthy dose of high-school high jinks, screenwriter Tromly weaves together traditional elements of teen stories to create a Breakfast Club for a new century."BooklistPraise for Trouble Makes a Comeback:"The author bounces her characters off one another in spectacular ways, crafting drama, suspense, love, and exasperation with ease. ... Readers will surely want to join Digby and Zoe for another round."Kirkus"Tromly excels at oddball character chemistry as well as crackling dialogue. ... This zany sequel has everything to make fans of the first outing swoon."Booklist OnlineStephanie Tromly was born in Manila, grew up in Hong Kong, graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, and worked as a screenwriter in Los Angeles. She is currently on leave from her PhD program in English Literature at the University of Toronto and lives in Winnipeg with her husband and young son. Stephanie is the author of the Trouble Is a Friend of Mine trilogy.; Title: Trouble Never Sleeps | [
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20,837 | 2 | Although the titles of these companion volumes threaten to engulf the reader in sentimental accounts of how parents endear themselves to children, they instead deliver sweetly appealing looks at how animals care for their young. The opening page of the first book reads, "I love my mommy because she reads me stories," and shows a boy and his mother curled up in an armchair. The motif throughout the second book, meanwhile, is "I love my daddy because he plays with me." Though the text that follows describes situations that children can identify with ("She feeds me when I'm hungry"; "He watches over me at night"), each illustration subsequently features either a domestic or wild animal with his or her young, clearly labeled and engaged in the specified action, and realistically depicted in native habitats. Unfortunately, the tendency here to emphasize Mommy as caretaker and Daddy as protector may reinforce sex-role stereotypes. Sturdy, coated pages and paper-over-board bindings make these reasonably priced books almost toddler-proof. Ages 18 mos.-4 yrs. Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: I Love My Mommy Because... | [
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20,838 | 1 | ea. vol: illus. by author. unpaged. (Guinea Pig Board Bks.). Dutton. Mar. 1986. BD $2.95. PreS Toddler spin-offs of Duke's The Guinea Pig ABC (Dutton, 1983) , these four board books feature similar guinea pig characters and the same gentle humor as in the original. Guinea pig grandmother, father, mother, and child enact a variety of familiar toddler scenes. Simple sentences and questions connect the mini-melodramas portrayed in the pen and watercolor pictures. Facial expressions and body language of the anthropomorphic rodents extend the story considerably. As in the best toddler books (by Helen Oxenbury, Rosemary Wells, and Eric Hill), there is humor here for both child and parent. Very nicely done. Linda Wicher, Lincolnwood Pub . Lib . , Ill.Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: What Bounces? (Guinea Pig Board Books) | [
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20,839 | 16 | PreSchool-Grade 2-- What child or poet or artist could resist a story that begins "Once upon a time, in a world full of light, trees, bugs, seashells, birds. . ."? Young Ernst is a crocodile who loves to think "What if?" Busy little pictures that sparkle with dots, splotches, and specks exactly reflect his luminous inner world. "What if the honking school bus could sing?" he wishes one day. His questions seem never to stop. On Ernst's birthday his loving family makes him so happy that his real world and his imagined one come together. This fills him with such joy and delight that he can think of no better world to inhabit. The small-scaled illustrations in collage paper effectively let readers into Ernst's imagination. They produce the same kind of enchanted satisfaction one gets from peeping into a Venetian glass paperweight with all its small, brilliant flowers. Older preschoolers, particularly imaginative children, and fans of M. B. Goffstein will love this book. --Anna Biagioni Hart, Sherwood Regional Library, Alexandria, VACopyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Ernst | [
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20,840 | 1 | Stop everything! If at least one copy of each of these classics is not in a prominent place on your bookshelf, your home and your progeny's childhood is incomplete. Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends--blustery old Owl, bouncy Tigger, clever Christopher Robin, glum Eeyore, and the rest--have been a staple of children's literature for over 70 years in A.A. Milne's Winnie-the-Pooh and The House at Pooh Corner. And Milne's immortal collections of children's verse, When We Were Very Young and Now We Are Six, have soothed many a savage beast at bedtime with such incomparable delights as "If I Were King" and "Us Two." All four of these classics, complete with Ernest H. Shepard's original illustrations, are gathered here in a handsome boxed set. These hardcover editions will most certainly be a cherished legacy to be handed down for generations to come. After all, as Rabbit says solemnly one day, "Without Pooh, the adventure would be impossible." (Ages 3 to 103) --Emilie CoulterThis is a collection of books for Poohs Library. -Winnie-The-Pooh- The House At Pooh Corner - When We Were Very Young - Now We Are Six. This is the pastel edition.; Title: Pooh's Library: Winnie-The-Pooh, The House At Pooh Corner, When We Were Very Young, Now We Are Six (Pooh Original Edition) | [
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20,841 | 20 | In Ray's ( The Story of Christmas ; Noah's Ark ) latest picture book, sumptuous folk-art-inspired illustrations, embellished with glittering splashes of gold paint, help relate the story of the earth's beginnings. The majestic phraseology of the King James Bible provides a spiritually moving, though not overly sectarian text that offers an excellent introduction to creationism. Readers will delightedly pore over the various beasts, fish and fowl here, with fur, fins and feathers rendered elegantly and intricately. Handsomely designed page frames, along with frieze-like borders in tones of blue, red, green and sand add to the visual feast. Ray has once again demonstrated her mastery in treating her subject matter with the utmost reverence while creating a thoroughly accessible and artistically sophisticated work. All ages. Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Grade 5-- "Creation" may be a mind-stretching concept, but these gorgeously colored, naively proportioned, multiple vignettes make it manageable, as well as beautiful. Even the formless void is depicted, contained by arched, gold-edged framing; but orderliness is matched by profusion, for the artist as well as for God. Folk-art exuberance, sapphire and emerald hues, and decorative detail mark Ray's style and reflect Creation's rich abundance. Curio-box borders offer closeup samples of this bounty: e.g. eggs, feathers, wings, etc. accompanying the creation of "fowl." The brief King James text faithfully replicates "a not "the" story of how the world began," which ends with a honey-colored Eve and a dusky Adam tenderly companionable in a pre-serpent Eden. A celebration of the Genesis tradition that's as rich and lovely as Ray's Noah's Ark (1990) and Story of Christmas (1991, both Dutton). --Patricia Dooley, University of Washington, SeattleCopyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: The Story of the Creation | [
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20,842 | 0 | Staines offers a song-turned-picture book, with a lilting refrain that holds the folksy text together: "All God's critters got a place in the choir-- / Some sing low, some sing higher, / Some sing out loud on the telephone wire / And some just clap their hands /Or paws / Or anything they got." The five stanzas of this round gather all creation, from the bass bullfrog, the mooing cow, fiddling crickets, and on up the musical scale to the owls and jaybirds. Zemach's colorful paintings expand the hullaballoo; she shows the animals gathering for some hooting, howling and mooing around the farmyard. The simple melody appears at the end. This book has appeal for all ages; thanks to the song's sentiments of tolerance, even the most tone-deaf readers will feel free to belt out the chorus. Ages 4-7. Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: All God's Critters Got a Place in the Choir | [
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20,843 | 6 | Youngsters who prefer spice to sugar will eat up the followup to Sam's Sandwich . In that first outing, Sam slipped a few noxious treats into a sandwich for his sister Samantha; here Samantha avers that "Revenge is sweet," and backs her claim by regaling birthday-boy Sam with a box of homemade chocolates, each containing a none-too-toothsome surprise. Pelham, of course, lets the reader share in the partygoers' festivities. His book is packaged like the retaliatory candy box, with gatefolds to suggest tissue-paper overlays, and each page of text offers a rhyming clue to the next "candy" filling ("By climbing up upon the bar / Sis had reached the relish jar ./ So Leroy's candy was a funny one-- / A chocolate-coated, pickled . . . stet ellipses "). Lift-the-flap paper engineering on the facing spread supplies a visual answer (under the fancy chocolate swirls, a little onion). Naturally, each candy disappears from the spread as soon as it's been consumed, and the bottom of the box is filled with party debris--real bits of confetti, pictures of cake candles and broken balloons. Bon appetit. Ages 4-9. Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Sam's Surprise | [
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20,844 | 1 | A. A. Milne was born in 1882 in London. He was a playwright and journalist as well as a poet and storyteller. His classic children's books were inspired by his son, Christopher Robin. Milne died in 1956.Ernest H. Shepard was born in 1879 in England. His pictures of the Pooh characters are based on real toys owned by Christopher Robin Milne. Shepard died in 1976.; Title: Winny de Puh (Winnie the Pooh in Spanish) (Spanish Edition) | [
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20,845 | 3 | Fresh from his lectures on Earthlets and Earth Hounds, the zany Xargle takes an entertaining look at Earth Tigerlets, otherwise known as cats. This playful alien's view of the friendly felines' antics is full of hilarious misconceptions--Tigerlets attacking "the wooden monsters that live inside the earthdwelling" with their "sharp thorns"; planting "brown stinkseeds" ("These stinkseeds never grow"); or singing in the moonlight and waiting for "Earthlings to applaud them with flying footwear." Willis seems to have hit her stride with this third book in the Xargle series: her writing is fresh and fun, the scope of her imagination limitless. In Ross's loose, loopy illustrations these Tigerlets--"in patterned or plain, in a variety of shapes and styles"--are endearing in their eccentricity. Children may miss some of the subtleties in this witty picture book, but parents will delight in explanations. Ages 4-7. Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.Kindergarten-Grade 3-- Readers, especially cat owners, will enjoy this satirical look at kittens and their owners from an alien's point of view. As in her book about babies, Earthlets (Dutton, 1989), Willis's Professor Xargle explains that Earth Tigerlets come in different patterns, shapes, and styles. Students are told about the creatures' personal hygiene, eating and sleeping habits, and some of their recreational activities. Ross's watercolor cartoons work hand-in-hand with Willis's zany and entertaining, tongue-in-cheek text. Outlined in pen and ink, they humorously convey a woman's shock as a kitten climbs up her leg, as well as the happiness of a purring cat eagerly awaiting its dinner. However, despite the picture-book format and classification, the book's deadpan humor will be best appreciated by more sophisticated independent readers. All in all a fun-filled romp that's sure to be a hit, particularly with those already familiar with Professor Xargle's lessons.- Rachel S. Fox, Port Washington Public LibraryCopyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Earth Tigerlets, as Explained by Professor Xargle | [
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20,846 | 3 | Kindergarten-Grade 3-- Ever wonder how we might appear to extraterrestrials when occupied in various forms of locomotion? Here, translated into Human, are Professor Xargle's observations of the various phenomena, from an alien's viewpoint. Readers are privileged to watch the amusing goings-on as he describes two-wheel spinners (bikes), stinkfumers (automobiles), bucking broncos, and more to his class of tentacled, green pupils. Both text and illustrations are extremely funny: the deadpan explanations of Earthlings' peculiarities and Ross's patented brand of cartoon craziness are wonderfully matched. Make sure readers don't miss the train conductor who has just punched the passenger's tie along with his ticket. Great fun. --Joan McGrath, Education Centre Lib , Toronto, Ontario, CanadaCopyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.Moving right along, the fuzzy, green three-eyed alien who explained human babies so hilariously in Earthlets (1989), as well as our cats and dogs in later efforts, takes up the subject of terrestrial transportation before his class dons their disguises for a field trip to sample the marvels he has described. The professor's comical misconceptions cover several modes of transport, so that only a few pages are available for each; there's less opportunity to expand on the jokes, but the alien nomenclature and literal-minded observations are still amusing. Ross's gleefully satirical illustrations extend the humor in their usual style. Not as amusing as its predecessors, but still good fun. (Picture book. 4-9) -- Copyright 1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.; Title: Earth Mobiles, as Explained by Professor Xargle | [
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20,847 | 15 | Grade 3-6-- Lavies's extraordinary photography turns garbage and bugs into a thing of beauty--nutritious humus. The author begins by constructing her own compost pile and then observes it through the year as bacteria, worms, insects, and even crustaceans transform kitchen and garden scraps into fertile soil. The magnified photographs are rich in detail and color; the accompanying essay clarifies the pictures as it informs with both factual information and broadening concepts. By planting tomato vines around her compost, Lavies is able to show the result of all the activity--her tomatoes are huge. Her respect for these tiniest of creatures and her joy in the cycles of nature are apparent in both her words and her pictures. The ability of creatures to survive unchanged for billions of years; the similarity between what bacteria does in the compost and "in your gut"; the life, courtship, birth, and death cycles that occur in this environment all add up to a positive, life-affirming story that will inspire young gardeners, ecologists, and scientists. --Susan Oliver, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library SystemCopyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.With each handsome book since Lily Pad Pond (1989), this gifted former National Geographic photographer comes up with a stronger, more significant text. Here, she details the many forms of life nourished by her compost heap--and by each other--during the heap's first year, pointing out the ``critters''' distinguishing characteristics not only through the text but through her outstanding color photos, and putting them in context by mentioning classifications, early ancestors, and related species as well as by describing how their behavior helps transform scraps and weeds into humus. Adroitly, Lavies includes clues to scale--a necessity, since many of the photos are magnified; some are microscopic enlargements. The book would have been enriched by a note on the photography ( la Bruce Macmillan), including degrees of magnification, and by a list of species. Still, a fine offering that splendidly conveys the fecundity of the homely household heap, implicitly suggesting that nature's wonderful diversity is not only found in the jungle: it can also be encouraged in any backyard. (Nonfiction. 6-12) -- Copyright 1993, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.; Title: Compost Critters | [
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20,848 | 11 | "The wheels on the bus go round and round.... All over town." This traditional song, a favorite of children everywhere, is adapted and illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky, winner of the Caldecott Medal for his lush version of Rapunzel, and Caldecott honors for Rumpelstiltskin, Hansel and Gretel, and Swamp Angel. Fantastic paper engineering with movable parts, flaps, and wheels that spin makes this an interactive book that young readers will love to pieces (maybe literally!). Pull one tab to make the "wipers on the bus go swish swish swish," and another to see the "babies on the bus cry Waah! Waah! Waah!" On closer inspection, children will be tickled to discover several subtle and humorous subplots, as well as a full-circle finale: the last stop on the bus is at the Overtown public library, where the day's program includes a folk singer. Guess what he's singing!Zelinsky's warm, inviting illustrations are a perfect match for this classic play rhyme. Children who have learned the hand motions to the song will enjoy helping the characters in the book enact their own roles. The back cover includes the musical notation for "The Wheels on the Bus," so everyone can sing along. (Ages 3 to 7) --Emilie CoulterIn an ingeniously designed, deftly executed lift-the-flap (and pull-the-tab) book, Zelinsky elaborates on the well-known and much-loved children's song. Not only do its wheels go round and round, but the bus here also has doors that open and shut, windshield wipers that move back and forth, and so on. The text consists of the lyrics of the song itself, but Zelinsky has neatly inserted a number of visual subplots that flesh out the story--one involving a boy with a boxful of adventurous kittens, another a motorcyclist and her runaway puppy, a third a young man with a guitar. The music and refrain are included on the back cover, and those unfamiliar with the song may well want to bone up in order to sing the book's praises to the most appropriate tune. Ages 2-8. Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: The Wheels on the Bus | [
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20,849 | 3 | Kindergarten-Grade 3-- A beautiful spoof on the Earth's weather as explained by Professor Xargle to his extraterrestrial class. Willis's zany explanations of how Earthlets cope with the elements by growing large rubber feet that will not come off and wielding attack "head protectors" are equally matched by Ross's bright, bold, full-colored cartoon illustrations. The tentacled, multi-eyed, green furry professor seems only somewhat stranger than the Earthlets who "rub each other with butterglob," lie in "nests of brown sugar," and cook themselves on the beach. The book culminates with a delightful twist. Somehow Xargle has gathered seasonal misinformation and sends his students to Earth in July disguised as Santas singing, "Away in a rain jar . . . " and "Pork the borrowed handbells ping." Large illustrations make this ideal for group reading (a light touch for an across-the-curriculum weather unit). Subtle as well as slapstick humor will appeal to a wide variety of ages. Definitely one of the better British imports. --Claudia Cooper, Ft. Stockton Independent School District, TXCopyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Earth Weather, as Explained by Professor Xargle | [
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20,850 | 11 | The tranquil scene on the title page sets the tone for this tale of a country yesteryear: a girl kneels by a window, dreamily staring out at the snow-covered landscape beyond. The story (actually more of a bucolic seasonal catalogue) details her reverie of all the fun that spring will bring--from sugaring off to picking strawberries and running barefoot--and then veers back to the present with a trip on the snow roller and an evening sleigh ride. The wintry sky gleams so bright with stars that the girl wonders if even a spring night could be "as dark and wonderful as now?" Kinsey-Warnock's ( The Canada Geese Quilt ) carefree mood piece recalls the wholesome joys of an earlier, rural time, a viewpoint bolstered by the sweeping, lyrical artwork. Schuett's large-as-life perspectives imbue the story with an engrossing sense of drama--witness the sleigh-ride scene that whisks readers off into a shimmering winter night. Ages 4-8. Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Grade 4-- This picture book anticipates the coming of spring to a Vermont girl's farm in the not-so-distant past. The requisite props are here: Morgan horses, sugaring off of the maple syrup, and making the local delicacy called sugar on snow. The warmth of the season, with the coming of wild flowers and strawberries, contrasts with the crisp coolness of the winter in which the story is set. This is a clean, inviting recollection, with none of the muddy ruts or dreariness that New England springs feature. It is simply told from a young girl's point of view, right down to the putting away of long underwear and shoes. A charming story with all the glow of nostalgia for a season brief though evocative, this narrative is illustrated with acrylic and pastel paintings, in some ways primitive in the poses of the human beings, but appropriately impressionistic for a book that emphasizes the atmosphere, especially the sky. The pacing of pages and text is slow and orderly, not punctuated by any action except the inexorable change of seasons and the flash forward and back to the wintery frame of the story. A small gem with expansive illustration. --Ruth K. MacDonald, Purdue University Calumet, Hammond, INCopyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: When Spring Comes | [
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20,851 | 14 | In this rhythmic Christmas ballad, a good king looks out of his castle and sees a poor man gathering fuel. "Yonder peasant, who is he?" he asks his page. The king makes his way through the snow, loaded with gifts, to share his wealth with the poor man. Henterly's majestic illustrations, in opulent colors, convey the difficulties of the peasant's search for fuel as well as the generous measures of the king. The carol's delicate text is left intact, and the melody appears on the end page; some readers may wish that further piano or guitar accompaniment also had been included. All ages. Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Good King Wenceslas | [
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20,852 | 13 | Borders that resemble homespun cloth, stone-carved edging or plant patterns frame each page of this brief anthology of Americana. Songs (including "On Top of Old Smokey," "Clementine" and "Yankee Doodle") are placed between a few stories that represent various regions of the country (North Carolina, New England, Appalachia), and some of varied ethnic origins (Black American, Pueblo Indian, Puerto Rican). The songs are familiar, but the stories only vaguely so; readers may find Durell's choices refreshingly original. Goode's invigorating illustrations have many moods: serene for "Buffalo Gal," joyful for "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot," outright wacky for "Wait Till Martin Comes." If there is one quibble, it is that the book is far too short; readers are left wishing, happily, for more. Ages 4-10. Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Diane Goode's Book of American Folk Tales and Songs | [
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20,853 | 9 | Horrors! "The largest ruby in the world" has been purloined from the safe at Wilby Court, home to the Countess Wilby-and site of this book's mise en scene, a snowbound weekend party. In the best Agatha Christie tradition, Smyth introduces the requisite motley crew: an assortment of staff and guests each possessed of motive and opportunity to commit the foul deed. The paper engineering, not the cast, takes center stage here: "Top Secret" dossiers on each character can be slid out of the pages, while various flaps and pull-tabs reveal hidden architectural passages, concealed weaponry, and contraband lurking in various valises-each of the six spreads yields enough clues, in fact, to delight Holmes himself. And that master of 221B Baker St. would appreciate the conclusion as well, which features three possible solutions accessed on a revolving wheel. The text and illustrations are somewhat bland, lacking the pop-ups' panache and mysterious mood. Nonetheless, aspiring sleuths will echo the cry, "Egad, the game's afoot." All ages. Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Mystery of the Russian Ruby (A Pop-Up Whodunit) | [
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20,854 | 6 | Once they feast their eyes on the exterior of this mouth-watering volume, youngsters will be impatient to dig in. The front and back covers are designed--quite convincingly--to resemble pieces of bread, and the spine reveals the neatly layered ingredients of the special snack Sam prepares for his sister. The most delectable morsels, however, are found within--each spread depicts one of the foods the obliging brother adds to his culinary creation. But the realistic renditions of sliced tomato, cucumber, cheese, pastrami, onion and hard-boiled egg fold out to disclose some of Sam's secret--and less appetizing--additions, including a fly, worm, slug, caterpillar and some ants. Youngsters will be too engrossed in Sam's creative sandwich-making to notice that Pelham's singsong rhyme occasionally falters. This cleverly designed book accomplishes what it sets out to do: it serves up a tasty little snack rather than a full-course meal. Ages 4-9. Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.Encased in thick boards to simulate slices of bread, a comic novelty: deftly phrased verse describes a sandwich Sam stacks for his innocent sister, each layer (lettuce, cheese, etc.) hiding a creature within a clever foldout (``...to really make her squirm/Sam dropped in a wriggly...[worm]''), the whole truly resembling a fat booby trap of a sandwich. Guaranteed to compel attention. (Picture book. 4-9) -- Copyright 1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.; Title: Sam's Sandwich | [
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20,855 | 13 | Young Pierre finds that weekends in the country outside Paris are a little too dull for his liking. There are no children to play with, and his parents sit "still as stone." But a visit next door soon changes all that, because Pierre is lucky enough to have as neighbors surrealist artist Rene Magritte and his wife, Georgette. On this particular day the Magrittes' friend Salvador Dali is invited to dinner, and an exciting affair it is-flying fish soup and partridge pie (the fish really leap and the birds still fly!). And before dinner, Pierre finds himself occupied with a croquet game (with a limp mallet) and a dash through the rain (cats and dogs tumble from the sky). Garland's droll text ("Did you dilly, Dali?") is complemented by Magritte-style oil paintings filled, appropriately, with surrealist images: Magritte's bowler hats, Dali's melted clocks, etc. A useful note sets Magritte and Dali (and Garland) in context. Paying tribute to the magic of surrealist art and to the ever-active imagination, this work is eerie, fun and inspiring. Ages 6-9. Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.Grade 3-6?Pierre, a curious French youngster, relieves the boredom of a weekend in the country with his stodgy parents by visiting the couple next door, Rene and Georgette Magritte. And guess who happens to drop in for dinner? Salvador Dali. The text is brief and without character. In keeping with the spirit of surrealism, the events of the day are mundane?a walk in the woods, a croquet game, charades, etc.?while the way the happenings are depicted is anything but ordinary. The full-page oil paintings that tell the visual tale are based on the work of the 20th-century Belgian artist who sets the tone when he tells his young friend, "Anyone can try to paint what they see. I like to paint what I think. I paint what I dream." Thus, the fun is in searching out and puzzling over the odd bits or laughing at the literal representation of "it started to rain cats and dogs." The illustrations are true to the spirit of the originals and are a soft-sell approach to art appreciation.?Kenneth Marantz, Art Education Department, Ohio State University, ColumbusCopyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Dinner at Magritte's | [
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20,856 | 12 | The lyrics to a children's song from the '60s serve here as text to introduce a variety of cultures to young readers. An adventurous boy boards a plane bound for various points around the globe. At each destination he asks the question "What is your language?" and receives a response from some friendly native kids, e.g., "My language is Chinese / This is the way it sounds: / shi shi shi shi shi shi." Although a page with a simplified musical score and an endnote about languages--containing a pronunciation key--are somewhat informative, their isolation from the text makes for a disjointed reading experience. Readers must infer from stereotypical objects in Wellington's flat gouache and watercolor paintings which country is being visited. The moon-faced children all wear the same vapid but cheerful expression throughout the book. Though the emphasis on cultural tolerance is promising, this volume delivers little more than the translation of "yes" and "no" into a few foreign languages. Ages 2-6. Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Grade 1-In this song in picture-book format, a young boy traveling around the world asks the youngsters he encounters, "What is your language? Please tell me now." Each group responds with the name of their native tongue and then replies, "This is the way it sounds...." The boys and girls say the word "yes" in German, French, Russian, Inuktitut, Japanese, Chinese, Arabic, Swahili, and Spanish. Then, when the traveler says he must go home, on one page they all say "no" in their respective languages. On each double-page spread, smiling children are dressed in crayon-bright native costumes. In the backgrounds are samples of national architecture or scenery- half-timbered houses in Germany, snow and igloos in the far North, a richly patterned bazaar in the Middle East. The music, information about where the languages are spoken, and a pronunciation guide are appended. Decorative flags (unidentified) and a world-map endpapers (only continents are named) are included. A simple multicultural offering.Nancy Seiner, The Carnegie Library of PittsburghCopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: What Is Your Language? | [
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20,857 | 0 | This blend of book and entertainment kit is packaged in the form of a layered sandwich, inviting kids visually and prompting an attention to the multi-decker plot. Kids need to have the dexterity and maturity to handle this appropriately, but the whimsical format will still prove appealing and fun. -- Midwest Book Review; Title: The Sensational Samburger | [
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20,858 | 5 | This thorough and entertaining volume offers an armchair trip around the globe. Fourteen folktales from as many cultures provide an impressively comprehensive catalogue of magic-makers, from Russia's Baba Yaga to the Native American personification of the Morning Star. Mayo's retellings are often amalgams of established versions of stories. Her lively vocabulary, fine sense of theater and carefully chosen background details make the collection a winner, either tackled in individual slices or as a whole. Ray's ( The Story of Christmas ) folk-inspired borders and flecks of shimmering gold paint highlight the full-size paintings, framed panels and smaller spot art found on nearly every page. Her wondrous, sumptuous pictures set the mystical, enchanting mood these stories require. An afterword furnishes succinct notes about the tales' origins. All ages. Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.Gr. 3-6. In this handsome anthology, Mayo presents 14 traditional tales from around the world. Each represents a different culture, from the Arabic fairy tale of "The Lemon Princess," the Caribbean story of "The King Who Wanted to Touch the Moon," the Australian pourquoi tale called "Koalo," and the Zulu story of "Unanana and the Enormous One-Tusked Elephant" to more familiar folklore such as the Scottish "Kate Crackernuts" and the Russian "Baba Yaga Bony-Legs." As retold by Mayo, the stories read aloud well, and that makes them a pleasure to read silently as well. Ray's striking, full-color artwork appears on every page, illustrating the tales with richly patterned, well-composed illustrations that will draw readers to the book. Often using motifs from the art of the culture represented, she creates images that are variously decorative, imaginative, and dramatic, unifying the book while reflecting the individual stories. Brief source notes appear at the end of the volume. A sourcebook for storytellers and a storybook for children who love fairy tales. Carolyn Phelan; Title: Magical Tales from Many Lands | [
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20,859 | 20 | Luminously colored drawings accompany the words of Genesis to tell the story of Noah. In a style that synthesizes many traditions, Ray nods knowingly at the vivacity and naive perspective of folk art; she liberally echoes the ancient Egyptian use of friezes; and she borrows from medieval ornamentation and composition as well. Imaginative, mural-like panels adorn the spaces between text and the lower margins of the pages. Ray's use of color conveys her exuberance and delight: her work looks at once fresh and traditional. The panoply of animal pairs boarding the ark is crafted with great charm; the sturdy vessel rocks upon green waters that are alive with creatures of the sea. When the storm abates, a verdant tapestry of life pours out of the ark to renew the earth. The story of the Flood is interpreted here as an ecological parable, with illustrations stressing the abundance of nature, the sin of fouling it and the joy of its cultivation. A minor but discordant note: one of humanity's misdeeds in those ancient times is depicted as factories spewing smoke into the atmosphere. Overall, though, this is a verbal and visual treat. All ages . Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Grade 3-- Ray abridges and slightly rearranges the Biblical text to form a smooth narrative, retaining most of the familiar cadences. What makes this picture-book version of the familiar tale exceptional is the design. Paintings at the top of each two-page spread illustrate the words in the white area that divides the large upper painting from a narrow illustrated border near the bottom. These panels serve both as extensions of the story and as decorative borders. Still narrower borders edge both large and small paintings in a style reminiscent of Tomie dePaola's use of quilt designs as frames for illustrations. Ray employs a folk art/primitive style with flattened perspective in harmony with the boxed page layout. Her animals are varied and engaging. Children will delight in exploring the pictures on their own long after an adult has shared the story with them. --Kathy Piehl, Mankato State University, MNCopyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Noah's Ark | [
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20,860 | 14 | Lift the flaps and press out and play with colorful Santa figures in this three-dimensional adventure for kids of all ages and their parents. An entire workshop pops up and invites attention here, creating a lavish setting. -- Midwest Book Review; Title: Santa's Workshop: A Magical Three-Dimensional Tour | [
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20,861 | 2 | Kindergarten-Grade 2-After a full afternoon of barbecues and badminton, children ignore the bright skies fading to twilight, playing baseball and clowning with friends until well after dark. The full-color art playfully supports a sense-ridden text-smells of torn grass as children tickle their skin with it, sights of twinkling firefly light as the insects buzz inside clear quart jars, and the sounds of crickets. Widener's full-color illustrations and London's text blend smoothly and lazily like a summer day turning into night, and the language easily switches gears from heart pumping with a beat ("We crouch and stalk and pounce") to reflective and dreamy ("Our jars are lanterns that blink. Off and on. On and off. We're sending signals to the stars and the moon"). This magical summer of fun is a slice of comforting middle-class Americana sure to evoke appreciative smiles.Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CACopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: When the Fireflies Come | [
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20,862 | 2 | Tapping into the experiences of his wife's French-Canadian family, London (Let's Go, Froggy; The Owl Who Became the Moon) infuses this tale with warmth and authenticity. Paul snuggles on the sofa with Grand-mere and hears the story of her first sugaring-off party-a fete celebrating the spring flow of sap from the maple trees. London, with a poet's sensitivity for nuance and atmosphere, captures in prose the very essence of happy family rituals. Grand-mere tells of snow fights, vats of sap boiling on the wood stove, rich food, dancing, ornery cousins and sleigh rides. "You must come back next year," Grand-mere recalls being told by a favorite aunt. "It's a tradition, n'est-ce pas? And we must keep our traditions alive." This sweet appeal is echoed in Pelletier's distinctive folk art. Using thick, glowing oils to build detailed compositions, the artist evokes the merriment and innocent mischief of a finger-licking good time. Ages 3-7. Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.Kindergarten-Grade 4?The day before Paul's first maple-sugaring party, he asks his grandmother to tell him about her first sugaring-off, long ago. Grand-mere describes the family's sleigh journey to Tante Loulou's sugar bush, the songs and games, the feasting and dancing, and the delicious maple syrup candy. London's evocative text perfectly re-creates the thrill and excitement of this coming-of-spring ritual. Pelletier's folk-art paintings, reminiscent of Grandma Moses's work, match the nostalgic tone of this story set in Canada. Children will enjoy the bright colors and pore over the details, but they may question why young Grand-mere, who describes herself as "tiny," is the same size as her older sisters. A glossary at the end of the book defines the French-Canadian terms and gives pronunciations (though place names and words used in the illustrations are not included). Kathryn Lasky's Sugaring Time (Macmillan, 1983) and Diane Burns's Sugaring Season (Carolrhoda, 1990) are for older readers and concentrate on the mechanics of the maple-syrup process. The Sugaring-Off Party is a joyful celebration.?Ann W. Moore, Guilderland Public Library, NYCopyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: The Sugaring-Off Party | [
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20,863 | 14 | Two sisters take their affable dachshund Zaza on a Paris shopping spree in search of the perfect birthday gift for their mama. Zaza cavorts behind the girls, creating disorder at every turn as they wander through a bakery, a flower shop, and a shoe store. Finally they decide on a gift mama is sure to like--something homemade. (Ages 5 to 9)Mayhem? Mais oui! The rosy-cheeked children who searched Paris high and low in Where's Our Mama? are back?and this time they are on a quest to find the ideal birthday gift for their dear mother. Accompanied by a beguiling but boisterous dachshund named Zaza, the kids take to the streets, cheerfully oblivious to the chaos Zaza creates in their wake. After a visit from these young shoppers, cakes topple at the bakery, flowers fly at the florist and the shoes are in a shambles at the shoe store. At last the kids follow Zaza's lead to the perfect selection?something not store-bought, but homemade. Goode's uncluttered text is the framework for a Parisian adventure awash in authentic City of Light atmosphere. From signage to doorways to shop windows, her architectural detail hits the mark. The knobby-kneed protagonists radiate sweetness and their personable pet could melt any reader's heart. Goode's latest will leave young readers chuckling at Zaza's exploits and everyone else clucking an appreciative ooh-la-la. Ages 3-7. Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Mama's Perfect Present | [
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20,864 | 1 | Kindergarten-Grade 2?Minerva Louise makes a third appearance here in a story that will delight her numerous fans. This time the chatty chicken wanders into a red school building, thinking it is a fancy barn. She mistakenly identifies stalls (classrooms), milking stools (story-time seats), nesting boxes (children's cubbies), and even a nest with an egg (baseball glove with a ball). She hurries home with new decorating ideas, comfortably settling down amidst a hose, seed packets, pencil, and even winter mittens. This is a picture book with a minimum of words for maximum appeal. Stoekes's vibrant, happy illustrations fill the pages with humor and excitement. The bright primary colors are a perfect foil for this goofy, lumpy white hen. Another winner for preschoolers and beginning readers alike.?Beth Tegart, Oneida City Schools, NYCopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.Ages 4^-6. Minerva Louise the hen wanders away from the farm and explores a nearby school. Interpreting everything according to her own experience, she looks around the school, which she sees as a big red barn, and observes a farmer hanging out his laundry to dry (a custodian raising the flag), a feed bucket (wastepaper basket), and nesting boxes (cubbyholes labeled with children's names). After putting an egg (baseball) in a nest (glove) to keep it warm, she returns to the henhouse. Broad pencil drawings brightened with washes give the simple artwork clarity as well as wit. The beauty of the humor is that children will be in on the joke every step of the way. Teachers may enjoy challenging their students to think of other creative uses for familiar objects. An enjoyable lark. Carolyn Phelan; Title: Minerva Louise at School | [
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20,865 | 1 | Urging children to "Arch," "Balance" and "Charge" like familiar animals, Animal Action ABC by Karen Pandell is an imaginative and dynamic alphabet book. The large format pairs brilliant nature photographs (by Art Wolfe) with photo silhouettes (by Nancy Sheehan) of children mimicking the animals' movements. For example, as rhyming text exhorts readers to "Inflate like a frigatebird," a photo shows the bird puffing out its enormous red throat pouch; another photo shows a girl blowing up a red balloon. Detailed endnotes crown the work. Grandmother's Alphabet by Eve Shaw presents a gallery of talented and inspiring grandmothers: "Grandma is an Artist, she paints with colors bright/ Grandma is a Businesswoman who often works at night." Along with the rhyming verse, running text suggests other professions, too. For the letter "Q," for example, Grandma can be a quilter, quartet member or quality controller "...and so can Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.Ages 4^-6. This is not so much a vehicle for teaching the alphabet as it is an opportunity to help children learn action words and let them get the wiggles out by imitating animals. From Arch to Balance, 26 action words, each headed by a different letter of the alphabet, are introduced, each accompanied by a pleasant verse that links the word to an animal. For example, W for Wrestle ("Wrestle / like two tigers / Grappling with each other / But soon you'll stop / to stare at / And honor / one another.") is shown alongside a photo of tigers at play. A cutaway photo of a child or children mimicking the animal's action is presented with each letter-word-poem combination. The poetry is sometimes strained (and sometimes just too silly), and the layout, though spacious, looks too chopped up. But the idea is wonderful and carried through well enough to make the book a source of fun for children and inspiration for their teachers. Stephanie Zvirin; Title: Animal Action ABC | [
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20,866 | 12 | Outfitted with a lavish complement of hinged paper doors and pull-tabs, this remarkable primer puts razzle-dazzle paper engineering in the service of a typically dry subject, the parts of speech. Noisy colors, busy cartoons of talking animals and hand-lettered text advertise dozens upon dozens of pop-up features, with a wealth of educational information crammed onto every page. Nouns, verbs and adjectives get a spread apiece, while such grammatical forms as adverbs and prepositions are given single-page overviews. Diversions include rotating paper wheels ("Don't stop! Keep moving! Verbs are action words"), sliding scrolls to illustrate plurals and possessives, and a reflective-paper mirror to acquaint readers with the pronouns "you," "I" and "we." A closing "Lift the flaps and make a sentence" exercise reviews the previous material. The effect is chaotic, but verbal cues guide the eye through the kaleidoscopic cartoons. Adult encouragement may be necessary for readers more interested in the cut-out windows than the finer points of punctuation. Yet the authors have done an excellent job; their language lesson masquerades as a boisterous game. Ages 7-up. Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: The Amazing Pop-up Grammar Book | [
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20,867 | 15 | Hoffman (Amazing Grace) collects snippets of factual information, myths, stories, poems and musings in this fascinating volume about the four classic elements. At first glance the philosophy behind her selections may seem a bit heady, but Hoffman's inviting tone and lean writing style enable her to condense volumes of material from every age of world history into a relatively brief and accessible text. From ancient burial rituals to constellations in the night sky to legends of mermaids, kids will have much to mull over and enjoy. Occasional subjective comments reflect a general reverence for the natural world. Ray's (Magical Tales from Many Lands) exquisite dusty jewel-toned paintings complete this elegant package. The artist flourishes in her broadest scope of subject matter yet. Natural disasters, mythical beasts, scenes of contemporary children and symbols from various religions all have a home on these pages. Ray's by-now familiar folk art motifs and flecks of gold paint throughout give her work added vibrance. Ages 9-up. Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.Grade 2-6?A celebration of the magic of earth, fire, water, and air, as well as a plea to readers to right the wrongs progress has wrought on the environment. After a philosophical overview, Hoffman offers stories and images from both Western and non-Western traditions. Each of four sections begins with an introduction to an element and concludes with a look at ways in which modern society has abused it, emphasizing the need for positive strategies to correct these ills. In between are brief pieces that view the element through religious ideas, mythology, and natural disasters and phenomena. Each selection is simple and to the point. Occasional poems, e.g., Carl Sandburg's "Buffalo Dusk" or a Navajo rain chant, give an added dimension to the text. Ray's folk-art pastel and watercolor paintings are especially intriguing. Intricately detailed and illuminated with touches of gold, they provide a cross-cultural panorama of people and creatures throughout the ages, and their symbolism enriches the text. Unfortunately, there are no suggestions for further reading, glossary, or index. Nevertheless, this title will serve as a useful beginning sampler, particularly when in the hands of an adult who can lead an appropriate discussion to expand the basic text.?Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, LaSalle Academy, Providence, RICopyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Earth, Fire, Water, Air | [
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20,868 | 2 | In an enticing mix of history and biography, Meltzer (American Revolutionaries) reveals many events and personal characteristics that contributed to 10 women rulers' rise to power. Covering a 2000-year time span, the book's subjects unfold chronologically and include well-known queens such as Cleopatra and Elizabeth I, as well as the lesser-known Boudicca (who led a revolt against the Romans circa A.D. 60) and Zenobia (who sought to establish her own united kingdom of the East in A.D. 269). Deftly placing each queen in historical context, Meltzer conveys the complexity of power and those who seek it. And, while maintaining a brisk pace, the text nevertheless raises political and ethical questions. Andersen's (Seven Brave Women) painterly scenes of the Tower of London, Notre Dame and Russia's Hermitage Palace, among others, will delight art-loving adults, but her portraiture is the real standout. From Boudicca's fiery hair to Eleanor of Aquitane's self-possession, from Christina of Sweden's hauty profile to Maria Theresa's gentle visage, these sensitively drawn portraits indicate both the humanity of these women and their extraordinary determination. Andersen's dramatic pictures, interspersed with maps and supplemental material set off in tinted boxes, highlight the risks these women faced to solidify their power and defeat their enemies. A preface, source notes, bibliograpy and index make the volume a natural?and enjoyable?classroom component. Ages 12-up. Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.Grade 6-10AQueens, when they are ruling monarchs, are second choices. They come to power because of the death or absence of kings, and must prove themselves capable of political leadership. A few of the 10 chosen by Meltzer ruled with independence and skill, notably Cleopatra, Elizabeth I, and Catherine the Great. Boudicca of Britain and Zenobia of Palmyra were warrior queens. Others, like the biblical Esther, lived in times of crisis and made choices that changed history. Eleanor of Aquitaine was a matriarch as well as a monarch, and Christina of Sweden was neither, refusing to marry and abdicating power to live grandly. Of necessity, much of the description deals with men, the kings who came before and after, the advisers, the generals, the plotters, and supporters who peopled their realms. While occasional comments suggest the conflicts that these women must have faced because of their sex, Meltzer writes traditional political history. He has a storyteller's flair and an eye for the small details and anecdotes that bring these queens to life. An added note explains the difficulties researchers face in sifting legend from fact and in weighing historical evidence. Colorful expressionistic paintings, boldly stroked onto unframed panels, enrich the pages. Decorative touches of flowers and jewels on the vibrant portraits celebrate the women's wealth and femininity. While the sources of the quotations that are woven into the accounts are not identified, there is a bibliography of standard histories consulted. Maps and an index add to the usefulness of the book for reports, and the well-spaced lines of text make the pages inviting to read. This book will grace the history shelves and provide pleasure to its readers.AShirley Wilton, Ocean County College, Toms River, NJCopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Ten Queens: Portraits of Women of Power | [
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20,869 | 1 | PreS. Bright orange, blue, and purple smiling dinosaurs pop out in all directions in this amusing book. "Jump and prance, it's a dinosaur dance!" Stickland utilizes plenty of action verbs to tell about these appealing dinosaurs going to the "stomp." The greatest strength, though, is in the design of the giant pop-ups and the bold illustrations. The ample size and rhythmic text make this a great book to share with a group. "Come out, don't miss a party like this...." You'll have preschoolers ready to shimmy and shake after sharing this in story time.?Sharon R. Pearce, San Antonio Public Library, TXCopyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Dinosaur Stomp (Books are Fun ed.) | [
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20,870 | 2 | PreSchool-Grade 1. A story that picks up right where Daisy Thinks She's a Baby (Knopf, 1994) ends. Each colorful double-page spread features a woman taking care of her baby on the left side while her Bull Terrier, Daisy, distributes comparable care to her three puppies on the right. Children are sure to delight in the easy back-and-forth between the human's child and the canine's. The irresistible illustrations contrast the reactions of baby and puppies?Baby giggles when it's bathtime; puppy cringes under Daisy's cleaning lick; Baby smiles when Mommy carries her; puppy frowns imploringly when Daisy carries him by the scruff of the neck. The story begins on the inside front cover with an illustration of the playful, mischievous pups; the inside back cover completes the sense of closure with illustrations of them sleeping. The realistic colored-pencil and crayon drawings are presented on uncluttered pages with lots of white space. An easy and enjoyable tale for preschool story hours as well as for beginning readers, and a must for any library that owns the first book.?Christy Norris, Valley Cottage Library, NYCopyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.Ages 2^-6. Children will fall in love with this book, especially if they like Daisy Thinks She Is a Baby (1994). Bull terrier Daisy isn't having an identity crisis this time. She knows she's not a baby. She's much too busy taking care of puppies Morris, Dolores, and Little Daisy--carrying them to the kitchen, giving them baths, cleaning up their messes (oops! she doesn't do that)--just like the human baby's Mommy is doing on the opposite page. But there's still time for Daisy to do what dogs do best: she's the first to find her way to Mommy's soft bed--"Daisy is sound asleep. / And now so is everybody else." Kopper's pictures of babies and tumbling puppies, in soft nursery colors, are sweet, sweet, sweet, and although this isn't quite as funny as the first book, it is still loaded with charm. Stephanie Zvirin; Title: Daisy Is a Mommy | [
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20,871 | 0 | The nursery rhymes in this collection are standards ("Jack and Jill," "Old King Cole," "Little Miss Muffet") and the text, set on a white background, is clear and easy to read. It's the illustrations that star here: they positively go bananas all around the words. Cousins's splashes of intense color possess such refreshing clarity and intensity that they hit the reader like a bit of spring on a cold winter day. Her technique is simple yet bold, and she skillfully applies humor along with the thick paint. Inhabited by imaginatively dressed stick people with round faces and rosy cheeks, the book begins with a fine lady on a white horse and ends with Wee Willie Winkie running through the town in a periwinkle-and-white-striped nightgown. This is a glorious addendum to the Mother Goose tradition. Ages 2-5. Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Grade 1-- This vibrant, joyous collection of familiar and beloved nursery rhymes is certain to be solid competition for the many fine books of this genre on today's market. The childlike tempra artwork is irresistible in its bright boldness and immediately captures attention. Each cleanly formatted page contains at least one rhyme (two if they are brief). Longer rhymes, such as "This is the House that Jack Built," jump across a double-page spread. The text is sensibly placed in generous white spacing. The end product is creativeness at its best. Children will grab it with delight and beg, "Read to me, please!" Young patrons and their teachers will be most happy to see the book on their library shelves--if it's ever there. --Mary Lou Budd, Milford South Elementary School, OHCopyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: The Little Dog Laughed | [
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20,872 | 15 | PreS?Originally published in the Netherlands as four separate books, this heartwarming unified edition brings the seasons together, starting and ending with the idea that "The seasons form a circle." The text describes visiting baby animals, cooling off in the water, noticing apples ripening, and getting frozen toes. It perfectly captures the seasonal joys and pleasures of childhood, thereby creating a universal sense of the passage of time. The pace of the book, which includes two wordless spreads per season along with individual vignettes, is slow and soothing. Each page invites readers to observe and ponder. The illustrations, with their cream-colored backgrounds, are warm and attractive, almost idyllic, and yet energetic enough to seem real. Transitions between the times of year are marked by beautifully designed title pages. Both Christmas and Hanukkah are mentioned at the end. A good choice for quiet sharing.?Martha Topol, Traverse Area District Library, Traverse City, MICopyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.Ages 2^-6. Originally published in the Netherlands as four separate books, Muller's picture book uses tender paintings and a few sentences to explore the "special joys" of the seasons. Lush, wordless double-page spreads as well as small pictures grouped nicely on a page show children of many races playing outdoors among the birds, animals, flowers, and foliage of the season. The illustrations are sweet without being saccharine (a snowman is realistically sprinkled with bits of grass and other debris), and Muller skillfully captures the special way that light appears at different times of the year--spring skies seem golden and balmy; winter skies are steely and cold. Books on the seasons abound, but be sure to make room for this one. Susan Dove Lempke; Title: The Circle of Seasons | [
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20,873 | 0 | The first brisk breeze of winter--a possible "snowsong whistling"--invigorates this poem about the approaching season. Crackling verse celebrates autumn with a series of lively images: "Pumpkins plumping / Bluegills jumping / Apples thumping / Sweet cider pumping." Some lines strain to meet a rhyme scheme, resulting in a few phrases that may need to be explained to younger readers ("Scarecrow faking," "Groundhog holing"). The spirited rhythm is nonetheless infectious. Kleven's zippy multimedia collages are splashed with vibrant swatches of colors and patterns, and framed by several delicately designed borders. Joyous, brightly clad children dot backgrounds sprinkled with leaves and snowflakes to create a kaleidoscope of activity. Even the staunchest beach lovers may be tempted to reevaluate cool weather. Ages 3-7. Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Grade 2-"There's a crisp in the air/ From I-don't-know-where/But it might be/A snowsong whistling." So begins this nostalgic picture book that celebrates the sights, sounds, and smells of winter. The setting is a rural world, a heady mix of the past (one-room schoolhouses and sleighs pulled by horses) and the present (modern farm equipment and a multiracial, nongender-stereotyped cast of characters). The writing is good, for the most part, although occasionally either sound or sense get a bit muddy ("Soon we'll all know why/ Ringing low beneath the sky/Echoes chorus from/The snowsong whistling."). But the illustrations are glorious. Kleven uses mixed-media collage and a quilt motif to wonderful effect, a perfect match for the New England look she has created. The exuberance of the figures, the fascinating details and designs, the sense of joy in the natural world and the love of family and friends: all are here for children to pore over and delight in. While the writing is not as strong as the pictures, this is worth considering (and has definite potential as a classroom creative writing starter).Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, ILCopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Snowsong Whistling | [
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20,874 | 11 | Kindergarten-Grade 2?A look at 24 different holidays around the world. Each page contains the name of a celebration or observance, a simply written paragraph describing it, and an illustration showing people participating in it. Two pages of notes give more specific details. The basic text gives too little information for most children. For example, readers unfamiliar with Loy Krathong, Diwali, or Eid al-Fitr won't learn when or where they are celebrated unless they turn to concluding notes, which are written on a higher reading level and are in much smaller print. Colorful, simply shaped cut-paper pictures show people engaged in the celebrations. These spirited and cheerful illustrations are the book's strength, but the presentation is too confusing for the intended audience. Teachers may find it useful, however.?Anne Parker, Milton Public Library, MACopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Light the Candle! Bang the Drum!: A Book of Holidays from Around the World | [
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20,875 | 2 | PreSchool-Grade 3. As two crocodile brothers walk on the beach, practical Sol searches for shells and seaweed, while fanciful Ernst seeks clouds and puddles. Cotton-candy-colored collages complete this ode to individuality. Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.Ages 4-7. Ernst, the little blue crocodile who first appeared in Ernst (1989), returns in a slight but pleasant story that shows it's okay to have a mind of one's own. Ernst's brother, Sol, who saves all manner of stuff, encourages Ernst to start his own collection. However, Ernst doesn't want to collect string, or rubber bands, or rocks. He has his eye on bigger things--like clouds and stars. Knowing that's impossible, he settles on things somewhat more earthly--but certainly no less unusual. A book that speaks to creativity and independence, with busy, sparkling, rainbow-colored collages that enticingly capture how water mirrors its varied surroundings. Stephanie Zvirin; Title: The Puddle Pail | [
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20,876 | 2 | A book for a well-defined audience--girls looking forward to their first experience as a wedding attendant. Plaisted includes sound etiquette advice (``You should write to the bride and her parents to thank them for including you in such a special day'') accompanied by sample letters; an outline of what to expect before, during, and after the ceremony; and practical suggestions, e.g., hints for dealing with slippery shoes, long dresses, and headpieces, and reminders about posture, fidgeting, and going to the bathroom before the ceremony. Christian, Jewish, and civil ceremonies are mentioned, but Plaisted, perhaps wisely, concentrates on logistics rather than the content of the rites. Softly colored illustrations show a multiethnic assortment of happy people engaged in festivities that look prone to moments of congenial chaos. The straightforward, commonsensical text lapses into silliness only in the final pages, where readers are breathlessly counseled to save a piece of wedding cake to dream on and a heart-shaped space is left blank for a picture of the future spouse. Designed as a gift book, this has a drawback for institutional use--the space inviting children to record their memories. Regardless, it's balanced enough to be read to four-year-old flower girls, or to be read alone by junior bridesmaids. (Nonfiction. 4- 10) -- Copyright 1997, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.; Title: I'm in the Wedding, Too: A Complete Guide for Flower Girls and Junior Bridesmaids | [
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20,877 | 2 | In this irresistible picture book, just a few words per page describe Daisy, a charming pooch who's a perfect role model for her three pudgy puppies and the chubby human baby who shares a home with them. The text on each spread is a study in subtlety. "Daisy teaches Delores how to set the table./ Baby learns, too" reads the caption for a depiction of the mother dog pulling down a laden tablecloth on the left, while the right side shows Baby wreaking havoc on a place setting. Baby even gleefully mimics Daisy's example of relieving herself on a sheet of newspaper. But when Daisy teaches her canine and human charges how to "fold the laundry" by strewing it around the backyard, Mommy steps in to provide her own style of pedagogy: "Now everyone learns to have a bath.../ because mommies know best of all." Kopper's (Daisy Is a Mommy) neatly framed illustrations are as winning and economical as her text. Daisy, with her long snout, tiny soulful eyes and squooshy postnatal body, is the epitome of doggy maternal love and duty. And the puppies and Baby's physical resemblance to each other is wonderfully comic. Ages 2-4. Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Grade 1-The star of Daisy Thinks She's a Baby (Knopf, 1994) and Daisy Is a Mommy (Viking, 1997) is back. In this new adventure, the bullterrier instructs her three puppies and the baby of the house in a multitude of tasks from opening the mail and setting the table to digging in the garden and cleaning up the garbage. Preschoolers will laugh at the lessons Daisy teaches the youngsters and their often messy results. The story reads aloud well, and the text is simple and repetitive enough for beginning readers. The soft, pencil illustrations reflect the lively humor and chaotic events described in the narrative. Daisy's many fans will be happy to see her back in action.Maura Bresnahan, Shawsheen School, Andover, MACopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Daisy Knows Best | [
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20,878 | 13 | Finally, Fiestas: A Year of Latin American Songs of Celebration, selected, arranged and translated by JosE-Luis Orozco, illus. by Elisa Kleven, marks the third collection of songs for the pair. This one suggests a song for every month, along with a description of the holiday it commemorates. Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.Kleven's illustrations bubble with life. Like Orozco and Kleven's other songbooks, this offers a spirited slice of Latin American culture! -- Booklist, September '02Not only an exemplary songbook, but also a stunning visual experience. An excellent resource for music and bilingual programs! -- School Library Journal, November '02Schools will be very interested in this attractive, jewel-like songbook...useful for teaching children Spanish and introducing holiday traditions. -- Kirkus Reviews, September 02; Title: Fiestas | [
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20,879 | 9 | Kids will relish an unusual pop-up whodunit which features three possible endings. Pull tabs, lift flaps, and locate clues to discover who did it - then turn a wheel and the final clue changes, developing a new mystery in the process. -- Midwest Book Review; Title: Eye of the Pharoah: 9 | [
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20,880 | 0 | An unusual artistic technique--live animals set against painted backdrops--illustrates 16 Mother Goose rhymes. In ``Old Mother Hubbard,'' a shaggy dog and a few props (broom, child's chair, shiny tin can) have been photographed on a painted background that shows a cupboard mounted on a wall and a few frying pans on pegs, so that it looks like a scene in a play. The tone varies: While most of the paintings maintain a hushed, staged quality, ``The Cat and the Fiddle'' includes a cartoonish dish and spoon that remind readers of the artifice involved. As in Anne Geddes's books, the pictures will be more appreciated by adults than children, and possibly more suited to postcards than for rhymes available in other volumes. (Picture book. 3-6) -- Copyright 1997, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.; Title: Twinkle, Twinkle: An Animal Lover's Mother Goose | [
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20,881 | 20 | copyright 2000 by Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers. All rights reserved.; Title: Let There Be Light: Bible Stories Illustrated by Jane Ray | [
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20,882 | 2 | PreSchool-Grade 1-- McPhail's plucky porker returns. This time, Pig Pig is looking for spending money and is surprised when his mother suggests that he earn it. A young fellow like Pig Pig quickly conjures up grandiose images of himself as a homebuilder, race-car mechanic, wild-animal trainer, and more. Mother patiently counters each fantastic proposal with a more manageable, less glamorous possibility. Pig Pig finally decides that Mother could hire him. Pig Pig's experience shows how a caring adult can strike a clever balance while gently guiding a young planner back to reality. His mother is a sounding board, never scolding or scorning, but quietly offering alternatives. Pig Pig discovers the best choice from among myriad possibilities and has the pleasure of finding his own success. McPhail's characteristic style is present: large watercolor images highlighted with ink lines and deeper tones for contrast. The youngest listeners may miss the subtlety of Mother Pig's guiding hand, but new readers will appreciate the quiet humor. --Virginia E. Jeschelnig, Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OHCopyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Pig Pig Gets a Job | [
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20,883 | 3 | Kindergarten-Grade 3. Combine the originality of Jon Scieszka and the wit of Jack Prelutsky with Maira Kalman's style of illustration and you might come up with something like this clever book. The "short stories" are actually four-line verses, each line of which serves as a caption for the four cartoons drawn in comic-book style across a double-page spread. For example, "The Wild West" consists of the rhyme: "A cowboy on his favorite horse/fell into the prickly gorse./Some things he said were very coarse./Later on, he felt remorse." The well-drawn illustrations are full of zany details and make the meanings of unfamiliar words abundantly clear. Read aloud or alone, this book provides enjoyment for a wide audience. But it is more than that. It is a good model for classroom writing experiences and painlessly adds to readers' vocabularies. There is sure appeal here, especially for the "I don't like to read" crowd. An original, refreshing, and useful offering.?Marlene Gawron, Orange County Library, Orlando, FLCopyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.A preschool short-story collection is an unlikely concept, but newcomer Cuetara comes up with some classic two-page, four- frame tales. There's Fred, who hates to go to bed, ``hides out in the shed/and stays awake instead,'' and Terrible Teresa (``Did you pull the kitty's tail?/You must go to baby jail!''--a playpen). Each rhyme is illustrated with four gregarious scenes, borrowing energy from comic-book layouts but maintaining the look of a picture book. The stories are independent, but all feature the antics of various kids and animals that populate most readers' worlds. Although the book is aimed at preschoolers, first-graders and other emerging readers will get a kick out of using their new skills to unravel the rhymes of these silly tales. (Picture book. 3-7) -- Copyright 1997, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.; Title: Terrible Teresa and Other Very Short Stories | [
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20,884 | 8 | The Best of Winnie-the-Pooh gift set includes an hour-long audio CD and a beautifully illustrated hardcover book, tidily packaged in a colorful storage box. Capturing that kind, cracking Pooh voice we all know and love, the late roving journalist Charles Kuralt invites Pooh fans of all ages on a variety of adventures. Join in as Pooh sings, "How sweet to be a cloud floating in the blue! Every little cloud always sings aloud!" Or listen as "Pooh Goes Visiting and Gets into a Tight Place," the timeless tale of a hungry Pooh in pursuit of honey. Featuring selected stories and poems from A.A. Milne's acclaimed Pooh books, Winnie-the-Pooh, The House at Pooh Corner, When We Were Very Young, and Now We Are Six, listeners and readers get a splendid dose of the beloved "silly old bear!" (Running time: one hour, one audio CD) --Cate Bick; Title: The Best of Winnie-the-Pooh (A Gift Book and CD) | [
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20,885 | 16 | PreSchool-Grade 1One morning, just as the town begins to wake, a rabbit in a hot-air balloon floats overhead, releasing thousands of toy balloons on the unsuspecting rabbits below: "A raspberry red one/A blueberry blue one/Shiny as a shoe one/Balloons Balloons Balloons." The mysterious gifts delight the youngsters, who hurry to choose their favorite colors. The adults are confused, and then annoyed, as the orbs carpet the streets and fill the grocery store, office building, and school. As night comes, the balloonist sails on, out into space "to other suns and moons." Jelly-bean-hued cartoons capture the fun. Humorous details fill the spreads, such as the grocer dumping boxes of cereal when balloons cascade onto his head. Spare rhyming text makes the book suitable as a read-aloud for preschoolers or as a solid choice for beginning readers. Children are likely to enjoy the wild "what if."Suzanne Myers Harold, Multnomah County Library System, Portland, OR Copyright Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.Dee Lillegard is the author of dozens of childrens books. She lives in California.Bernadette Pons is an exciting illustrator new to Penguins list. She lives in France.; Title: Balloons, Balloons, Balloons | [
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20,886 | 0 | PreSchool-Grade 2-An engaging reader that also works well as a read-aloud. Each member of a bear family wants to spend Saturday afternoon in a different way. The book is divided into short chapters so that Mama and Papa, as well as Lily, Rose, Daisy, and baby Jack can all have their moment in the spotlight. The trials and frustrations of life in a large family come through loud and clear, yet it is obvious that with a little patience and thought, there is great fun to be had. The text is easy to read but still has a nice even narrative flow. Duke's largely pastel watercolor illustrations add a lively sense of animation to the story. One Saturday Afternoon is bound to become a family favorite, any night of the week.Lori Haas Weaver, Montmorency County Public Libraries, Atlanta, MI Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.Six very short stories talk about the members of a bear family as they go about their Saturday afternoon activities in this sequel to One Saturday Morning (1995). Mama goes on a walk alone and comes back refreshed; Lily figures out a way to do what she wants (read) and still amuse her younger siblings; Jack, the youngest, busies himself with a red crayon. Both the stories and the tender, mischievous watercolor-and-line illustrations give each bear a distinct, lovable personality, and the bears' home brims with coziness and warmth. Short sentences, concise chapters, and the right amount of repetition make this a good choice for children at the Frog-and-Toad stage of reading. Susan Dove Lempke; Title: One Saturday Afternoon (Easy-to-Read, Dutton) | [
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20,887 | 16 | PreSchool-This lift-the-flap book features seven familiar barnyard animals covering their faces with two of their appendages (hoofs, wings, etc.). The text on each page is identical, "Guess who? Peek-a-...." Turning down the flaps reveals the face of the animal and the sound it makes. The final spread features a baby. Children will most likely identify all of the animals even before lowering the flaps. This aside, they'll love making the sounds that the book is bound to induce. The creatures are presented in large scale and in vibrant colors set against a single color background. A boon for infant and toddler programs.Tom S. Hurlburt, La Crosse Public Library, WICopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.Marie Torres Cimarusti lives in California.Stephanie Peterson lives in Connecticut.; Title: Peek-a-Moo! | [
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20,888 | 2 | Ages 4^-8. "The sun falls. Darkness rises." >From seven at night until seven the following morning, while you're sound asleep in your bed, the city stays wide awake--dancing, cleaning, fire fighting, baking, and more. With an urban backdrop that looks as if the architect of record were Piet Mondrian, Wellington's graphically arresting and gorgeously colored double-page spreads depict a different activity for each succeeding hour. The text, in describing the evening events, doesn't try to compete with the illustrations, but is nevertheless artful in its own understated right. Cleverly tying the entire episodic progression together are a striped cat and a bevy of mice that turn up in each spread--sometimes in unlikely places! Look closely for them and for the timepiece discreetly placed in each picture to proclaim the hour. And for art lovers, there's even more sly fun in the details: a cookie looks like a painter's palette, homages to Munch and Mondrian hang on walls, a sky and a bed are borrowed from van Gogh, etc. Like the 10 o'clock painter depicted in the book, Wellington "paints what she sees with her eyes--and with her imagination." As a result, this surprising book grows more satisfying with each rereading. Michael CartA prose portrait of the city at night shows all the things that go on while a little girl sleeps. The city's ``soaring towers glow. Its people work--no matter what the hour.'' It is obvious that Wellington is in love with big-city living, using its many facets in one fascinating night. Dancers rehearse, firefighters put out blazes, the staff cleans an office building, an artist goes to work in her studio, a night watchman makes his rounds at a museum in just a few of the congenially depicted scenes. Dark backgrounds make Wellington's characteristic dots and squares of color glow, while her familiar mice and cats frolic through every scene. The text imparts plenty of information, offering windows on new worlds for children; all the while the little girl sleeps, secure in her vital, vibrant home town. (Picture book. 4-8) -- Copyright 1998, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.; Title: Night City | [
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20,889 | 13 | PreSchool-Grade 2-This book helps adults and children to "develop the skills and vocabulary for looking at, talking about, and enjoying art together." Ten mice tour a variety of thematic galleries, e.g., "Portraits," "Landscapes," "Still Lifes," and "Fantastic Creatures." On the walls are simplified renditions of famous masterpieces (mostly by male European and American artists) and short notes on the theme or genre. Printed on white borders below are engaging questions ("What are your favorite colors in these paintings? What shapes can you find-?") and commentary from the mice. Each spread also features a cat that adds a component from each exhibit into her own painting as she tours the museum. There's a lot going on, and children may have trouble staying focused. The vivid gouache pictures are busy; the reproductions are reminiscent of, but less effective than the originals. A complete list of the works and where they are located is appended. Laurene Krasny Brown and Marc Brown's Visiting the Art Museum (Dutton, 1992) uses dialogue bubbles to present conversations about art in a less distracting manner. Nevertheless, shared one-on-one with a child, Wellington's age-appropriate questions and playful approach to art work both as model and motivation for visiting a museum.Wendy Lukehart, Dauphin County Library, Harrisburg, PA Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.Chosen as one of the Top 10 Youth Art Books of 2000. "An excellent discussion book." -- Booklist, December 15, 2000Engaging and instructive... a trip as enjoyable for the knowledgable adult as for the child...this book is warm and charming. -- Boston Globe; October 1, 2000; Peter F. Neumeyer; Title: SQUEAKING OF ART, The Mice Go to the Museum | [
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20,890 | 8 | "'Let's frighten the dragons,' I said to Pooh. / 'That's right,' said Pooh to Me. / 'I'm not afraid,' I said to Pooh, / And I held his paw and I shouted, 'Shoo! / Silly old dragons!'--and off they flew," says Christopher Robin in A.A. Milne's well-loved poem "Us Two." Milne (1882-1956) didn't start writing for children until 1920, when his son, the real Christopher Robin, was a year old. That's about when his wife Daphne envisioned her son's stuffed Harrods bear, tiger, pig, kangaroo, and donkey as characters in a children's book. And the rest is history! By 1924, Milne had published When We Were Very Young, a whimsical collection of verses illustrated in gentle watercolors by Ernest H. Shepard; Now We Are Six, a second collection, followed in 1927. This hefty, full-color volume brings together all of Milne's verses, unabridged. If you fondly remember "James James / Morrison Morrison / Weatherby George Dupree / Took great / Care of his Mother, / Though he was only three," from "Disobedience," or "Ernest was an elephant, a great big fellow, / Leonard was a lion with a six-foot tail, / George was a goat, and his beard was yellow, / And James was a very small snail," from "The Four Friends," this fabulous collection will send you into a dreamy reverie. And for those young readers to whom Pooh is new, these innocent, gently humorous, 70-year-old poems--along with The Complete Tales of Winnie-the-Pooh--will still resonate deeply. (All ages) --Karin Snelson; Title: The Complete Poems Of Winnie-The-Pooh | [
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20,891 | 7 | For this winsome fairy tale, a first-time picture book illustrator imagines the characters from a story Milne wrote in 1925. Brown's fine ink line combines with pastel and bold hues in delicately detailed, small-scale watercolors. The opening illustration sets the tone: a foppish king of long ago, decked out in an ermine-rimmed red robe, looks quite bewildered by his frisky brood of six boys. The family portrait serves as the perfect foil for Milne's accompanying understated wit: "The first three were boys, and he was glad about this, because a King likes to have three sons. But when the next three were boys also, he was not so glad, and he wished that one of them had been a daughter." After a girl, Daffodil, is at last born, a fairy godmother grants her a christening gift: "Let Daffodil/ The gardens fill./ Wherever you go,/ Flowers shall grow." When the flaxen-haired child takes her first steps and dots the pathways with blooms, the King decrees that Daffodil must walk only on the flower beds rather than play on the paths with the other children. There is, of course, a happy-ever-after resolution, which Brown's art illumines with humor and charm. All ages. (Feb.) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.Kindergarten-Grade 3-This rediscovered original fairy tale, written in 1925, is full of charm and sly humor. Neither complex nor overtly moral, it delivers its own sweet vision of childhood where play is as pleasant as a freshly picked flower. At her christening, Princess Daffodil's parents anxiously await a gift to be bestowed upon her by the Fairy Mumruffin. Will it be Beauty, Wisdom, or Goodness? No, it is that flowers will grow wherever their daughter goes. Upon the child's first birthday, the King returns from hunting to find flowers blooming on his pathways. He decrees that the Princess must be carried across all walkways and can play only in the flowerbeds. The forlorn child finds that the opposite is true for the other children, who are not allowed in the beds. Thus, when the Doctor finds her sorely in need of exercise, he advises, "although she is a Princess, she must do what other little girls do." The Queen finds a solution: a lovely little hill where the child can romp all day and the country children pick flowers come evening. The watercolor and pen-and-ink illustrations define the characters with a light and airy touch. They are full of royal dignity as well as palpable pathos. Facial expressions bring humor and joy to the fore. Minute, loosely detailed flowers are radiant, and the neatly framed pages add to the overall appeal of this fanciful tale.Martha Topol, Traverse Area District Library, Traverse City, MI Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: The Magic Hill | [
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20,892 | 1 | "Once upon a time, there was a little pig who loved listening to stories," and that is no exaggeration, since the wee porker (along with his squealing-prone sister) refuses to go to sleep without being read four bedtime tales "about the olden days, when pigs were kings and walked in golden gowns." Mother Pig obliges with her pig's-eye view of the Frog Prince (here the amphibious hero starts out as a "nasty and horrible" boy), the Ugly Duckling, Cinderella and the Prince and the Pauper. What makes this volume from a British team more than just tales-within-a-tale is its novelty format: each of the four bedtime books from which Mother Pig reads is reproduced as a miniature, multi-page volume that's literally pasted onto the spread where it is introduced. The end result should be hog heaven, but the prose is polite and bland (except for the Pig Prince's characterization as an "ugly boy," which seems mean-spirited), so the comic potential of the framing tale or the porcine parodies goes unrealized. It's left to Moseng's pictures to bring home the bacon, which they do with an endearing goofiness. Ages 4-8. (Nov.) Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Grade 2-A collection of stories that a mother pig reads to her piglets. The selections themselves are retellings of familiar fairy tales with pigs as characters, e.g., "The Pig Prince," "The Ugly Pigling." These tales appear in little booklets glued onto double-page spreads that show the mother interacting with her youngsters. The illustrations are simple and appealing for young children, and they can actually turn the pages of the smaller books. Teachers and librarians may want to consider this effort as an addition to other fairy-tale variations. It will be fun for read-aloud, but be sure children know the real characters before they pig out on these little porkers.Susan Knell, Pittsburgh State University, Pittsburgh, KS Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Just One More Story | [
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20,893 | 15 | PreSchool-K-This oversized pull-the-flap book tells youngsters what pandas, monkeys, and other animals eat for lunch. A rhyme describes the food on one page; opposite it is a large, brightly colored illustration of the animal covering its mouth. It appears as if the creature is hiding a smile, but pulling the flap reveals that it is actually devouring its meal. The rhymes are simple, humorous, and appealing. "This fuzzy, furry, friendly rabbit/has a very well-known habit./Breakfast, dinner, snack, or lunch,/a carrot's what he loves to crunch." Each page is a vivid wash of a single background color that makes the featured animal stand out. The last page shows a small child making a mess of eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. The size of the book, the bold illustrations, and its humor make it an excellent addition to storytime collections as well as for home enjoyment.Sheilah Kosco, Rapides Parish Library, Alexandria, LA Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: What's for Lunch? | [
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20,894 | 2 | Kindergarten-Grade 2-From angry to zany, readers are asked to guess the feelings demonstrated by the children in the crisp, full-color photos. If that were all the book attempted-exploring and naming feelings-it would probably be successful. However, Hausman incorporates too many concepts within its pages. There is the guessing of the emotion from the child's four-or-five line clue and an "I Spy" border of objects and words beginning with the featured letter on each page. An appendix gives an alphabetical listing of the objects to be found for each letter and names the emotion, but does not define or explain it. The text is uneven-some of the children's "stories" that act as clues are in rhyme, while others are not. And in order to include an emotion for every letter, there are some feelings children will not be able to put a name to, such as "vanity" or "queasiness." While the idea behind this book is worthwhile, there is too much else going on for it to really stand out.Susan Marie Pitard, Weezie Library for Children, Nantucket Atheneum, MA Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: A to Z--Do You Ever Feel Like Me? | [
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20,895 | 5 | Rika Lesseris a poet and translator of Swedish and German literature.Paul Zelinsky was born in Evanston, Illinois. He attended Yale University, where he took a course with Maurice Sendak, which later inspired him to pursue a career in children's books. Afterwards he received a graduate degree in painting from Tyler School of Art, in Philadelphia and Rome. Paul Zelinsky lives in New York with his wife, Deborah, and the younger of their two daughters.; Title: Hansel and Gretel | [
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20,896 | 14 | Jocelyn's (The Invisible Day) slim story serves primarily as a vehicle to display her simple yet cheerful cloth collage art in a medley of palettes and patterns. Hannah, with her closet full of dresses handmade by her mother, breaks out in a sweat when she has to decide which to wear: "Her face got hot. She shivered all over. Her knees went jiggly and her toes curled under." She decides to assign a specific day of the week to each dress, then models them, one at a time; Jocelyn coordinates wall and floor coverings with each outfit. But readers never see where she goes or what she does in her dresses. At the climax, Hannah's shivers and jiggly knees return when she must choose a dress for her birthday party. When putting all the dresses on at once doesn't work, she finally decides to don pants instead. "And from that minute until now, Hannah has never worn a dress again." With these words, Jocelyn's rather flat tale ends on a puzzling note: The book won't hold much appeal for youngsters who have no interest in wearing dresses, and its conclusion will disappoint those who do. This volume might be all dressed up with nowhere to go. Ages 3-7. (June) Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-K-To overcome her difficulty in choosing which of her seven beautiful dresses to wear on a given day, Hannah decides to put on the same dress every Monday, another every Tuesday, etc. When her birthday comes, however, none of them seem quite special enough so she dons them all. Finding it impossible to enjoy her own party in so many layers of clothing, she puts on pants...and never wears a dress again. This book is a mixed effort at best. It might work, in a limited way, as a concept book identifying colors and days of the week. The fabric collages are attractive, and the little toy elephant that is dressed like Hannah is appealing. However, the slight story becomes strained when it veers from the constraints of a straightforward concept book. Hannah's behavior verges on OCD when she must make a decision about what to wear: "...her face got hot. She shivered all over. Her knees went jiggly and her toes curled under." She also has a disconcerting habit of pressing her fists against her eyes until she sees fireworks. Although clothing might be an emotional issue for some children, it seems superficial here. Even though the book has a pleasant decorative verve, it is an unflattering portrait of excess in the '90s. Maybe Hannah would benefit from a reality check and a copy of Eleanor Estes's classic The Hundred Dresses (Harcourt, 1944).Kate McClelland, Perrot Memorial Library, Greenwich, CT Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Hannah and the Seven Dresses | [
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] | Train |
20,897 | 1 | Grade 2-4-More in the saga of Koko, the communicating gorilla who has pet kittens and continues to learn new language skills, is related by her surrogate mother, Dr. Patterson, and illustrated with good color photographs of various sizes showing Koko's activities and accomplishments in a lively format. She paints pictures, uses a computer, plays with a male gorilla friend who also signs, brushes her teeth, and wants a baby of her own. The simple, clear text traces the gorilla's life to date, cites actual conversations she has had with her human friends, and includes two pages of photos of Koko signing various words, from apple to visit. Readers who want to learn more about the Gorilla Foundation or to help support worldwide ecology efforts are encouraged to visit Koko's Web site or to write to Patterson (and Koko). A lively look at a fascinating subject.Patricia Pearl Dole, formerly at First Presbyterian School, Martinsville, VA Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.Fans of Koko, the gorilla who can "speak" through sign language, get an update of her doings in this slim, colorful volume. The book begins with Koko's online chat, and after some history about Koko and her "brother" Michael, discusses what's new in Koko's life: a new cat (her kitty, All-ball, died); a visit with Mr. Rogers; a boyfriend, with whom Koko's teachers and caretakers hope she will eventually mate. Koko is also signing all sorts of fresh words and concepts, and she's even painting and helping to write stories (she suggests words as her teacher dictates a tale). Photographer Ronald Cohen has been taking pictures of Koko since 1972, but a few of the ones here are blurry. Even the best shots are not helped by a design that uses overlapping photos and picture borders in various colors. Still, Koko is endlessly fascinating, and the easily digested text is both solid and fun. Ilene Cooper; Title: KOKO-LOVE! Conversations With a Signing Gorilla | [
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20,898 | 11 | Kindergarten-Grade 2-A unique approach to learning about shapes. Full-color photographs and text tell the story of Ugo and his cousin Adaora, who set out to find a triangle in their small African village. Along the way, they also encounter squares, circles, ovals, diamonds, and more. As each shape is discussed, readers will also learn about life in this village. For example, it's noted that the drums (circles) are used to notify the people of important news and announcements and cowrie shells (ovals) were once used as money. Since not all of the examples offered are perfect geometric forms, this unusual title would best serve as supplementary material to accompany a unit on shapes or as an introduction to another culture.Tammy K. Baggett, Atlanta-Fulton County Public Library, GA Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.Ages 4-8. As in the author's previous works, such as Chidi Only Likes Blue (1997), lush color photographs show the people of an African village. This time the story involves a little girl, Adaora, who won't eat her paw-paw because she doesn't want to disturb the star shape in the middle. Her older male cousin takes her on a hunt through the village for other shapes: they find a man's garment in the shape of a rectangle, clay bowls representing semicircles, and so on. A triangle proves elusive but not impossible to find. There's plenty along the way to tempt children to examine the photographs for the shapes and learn about the way of life in Adaora's (unspecified) African village. This does a fine job both as a concept book and as an early social studies book. Susan Dove LempkeCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved; Title: A Triangle For Adaora | [
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20,899 | 0 | Gr 510What is a miracle? Is a miracle what happens when, faced with murderous bandits, a teenage monk rips a leg off his donkey, beats them to death with it, then restores the donkey's leg? Or is it a miracle when a cranky innkeeper is so moved by a little girl's friendliness that he risks his life to help her and her companions flee a posse of armed knights? Maybe the real miracle happens when readers attracted to the action and violence a particular author is known for find themselves strongly invested in the moral questions that plague bandit-killing monk and friendly peasant girl alikealong with every other character they encounter, from a young minstrel/pickpocket to Louis IX. Gidwitz's tale of medieval France successfully combines the epic with the personal, aiming for that heart-stopping moment when characters readers have come to care about find themselves on a collision course with one of the great wood chippers of historythe Inquisition, agents of which are in hot pursuit of three underdog characters (and one actual dog) from the very start. It is left to the titular Inquisitor to discover the truth behind the legends that quickly rise to surround these kids. He nudges it from each of the travelers at a roadside inn, the narrative tension rising as each facet is revealed. VERDICT This book appeals to the heart, to the mind, and to any reader's appetite for action: read it for the thrilling escapes, the fart jokes, the stinky cheese, and the palace intrigue. Read it for the Talmudic wisdom, commonsense philosophies, and moments of doubt. Read it for the palaces and monasteries and the unbelievable descriptions of food. But read it.Paula Willey, Baltimore County Public Library, TowsonWhat Gidwitz accomplishes here is staggering. The Inquisitors Tale is equal parts swashbuckling epic, medieval morality play, religious polemic and bawdy burlesque, propelling us toward a white-knuckle climax where three children must leap into a fire to savea Talmud. And yet, the rescue of this single book feels like higher stakes than any world-incinerating superhero battle. Part of this is because The Inquisitors Tale is dense with literary and earthy delights, including Hatem Alys exquisite illustrations, which wrap around the text as in an illuminated manuscript.New York Times Book ReviewAdam Gidwitzmingles earthy humor and high culture in The Inquisitors Tale, a medieval story that unfurlsChaucer-style, with revelers in an inn taking turns to explain why the king of France is trying to hunt down three child-saints and their holy dog.Hatem Alys marginal illuminations add sparkle to this novel for 11- to 16-year-olds.Wall Street Journal, Best Books of 2016 Three children persecuted for their religious beliefs band together to fight intoleranceand save their necksin this fascinating story set in 13th century France.People Its no surprise that Gidwitzs latest book has been likened toThe Canterbury Tales, considering its central story is told by multiple storytellers. As each narrator fills in what happens next in the story of the three children and their potentially holy dog, their tales get not only more fantastical but also more puzzling and addictive. However, the gradual intricacy of the story that is not Gidwitzs big accomplishment. Rather it is the complex themes (xenophobia, zealotry, censorship etc.) he is able to bring up while still maintaining a light tone, thus giving readers a chance to come to conclusions themselves. (Also, there is a farting dragon.)Entertainment Weekly, Best MG Books of 2016Gidwitz continues to toy with narrative in a well-researched and rambunctiously entertaining story that has as much to say about the present as it does the pastThe tale that comes into focus is one of religious persecution and faith, friendships that transcend difference, and a dangerously flatulent dragonGidwitz continues to have no problem mixing high and low.Publishers Weekly, starred reviewIt is a time of miracles and saints, of fiends and dragons, all of which Gidwitz has meticulously teased from legends and histories of the Middle AgesGidwitz proves himself a nimble storyteller as he weaves history, excitement, and multiple narrative threads into a taut, inspired adventure.Booklist, starred reviewGidwitz strikes literary gold with this mirthful and compulsively readable adventure story set in medieval FranceWhile the three protagonists initially come together out of necessity, the heartwarming friendship they form celebrates a common humanity that transcends the bounds of race, religion, and social class. The author creates a richly designed medieval world, filled with imperious knights, farting dragons, foreboding forests, and soulless fiends, in which nothing is as it seems, including the tellers of the talesGidwitz's lighthearted touch nonetheless provides for insightful commentary on the dangers of narrow-mindedness and zealotry that will resonate with modern readers. A masterpiece of storytelling that is addictive and engrossing.Kirkus Reviews, starred review Gidwitzstale of medieval France successfully combines the epic with the personal, aiming for that heartstopping moment when characters readers have come to care about find themselves on a collision course with one of the great woodchippers of historythe Inquisition, agents of which are in hot pursuit of three underdog characters (and one actual dog) from the very startThis book appeals to the heart, to the mind, and to any readers appetite for action: read it for the thrilling escapes, the fart jokes, the stinky cheese, or the palace intrigue. Read it for the Talmudic wisdom, commonsense philosophies, and moments of doubt. Read it for the palaces and monasteries and the unbelievable descriptions of food. But read it.School Library Journal, starred reviewAn ambitious mash-up of medieval saints lives, the Joan of Arc legend, thirteenth-century French history, and elements of The Canterbury TalesGidwitz presents moral issues that are currently relevant, and gives several theological arguments about good and evil a brisk, accessible airing. Scatological humor, serious matter, colloquial present-day language, the ideal of diversity and mutual understandingthis has it all.The Horn Book, starred reviewCleverly craftedSix years of extensive research and a natural storyteller's gift shine in [Gidwitzs] spiffily spun novelOver-the-top skirmishes, comical triumphs over thugs, unlikely allies, religious persecution, stinky French cheese, noble acts of bravery, deep-seated emotion, profound theological questions--and a fatally flatulent dragon--intermingle in this suspenseful novel set in a medieval world where atrocities are committed in the name of God. In the style of "illuminated" medieval texts, Egyptian-born illustrator Hatem Aly illuminates Gidwitz's story with whimsical black-and-white drawings that enliven this philosophical swashbuckler.Shelf Awareness, starred reviewThis Canterbury Tale-style masterpiece is serious, scatological, violent, funny, philosophical and timely.San Francisco Chronicle, gift guide The children are like none weve met before: so dignified, so self-sufficient, so, well, medieval. And yet, they are funny, intensely real and believably braveGidwitz and illustrator Hatem Aly breathe life into a tale that you wont soon forget.Chicago Tribune Gidwitz paints a vivid image of medieval France, and his mix of heart and humor makes this book an utterly magical read. Who else could weave a tale of acceptance, love and hope, complete with farting dragons?San Diego Union Tribune Brimming with action, history, humor and much more, Gidwitz has crafted a masterfully seamless novel that is thought-provokingly relevant, making this selection nothing short of brilliant.Books to Borrow, Books to Buy Whimsical and windingOne of the most interesting parts of this story is the message it teaches: A story is established that brings together three characters from very different backgrounds. At first there is conflict between them, but the characters learn to work together. With the conflict in the current political atmosphere, perhaps this is something even adults could stand to learn.Denver Post Game-changingI have never read a book like this. Its weird, and unfamiliar, and religious, and irreligious, and more fun than it has any right to beAs I write this review in 2016 and politicians bandy hate speech about without so much as a blink, I cant think of a book written for kids more timely than thisAs for the writing itself, thats what youre paying your money for at the end of the day. Gidwitz is on fire here, making medieval history feel fresh and current.Betsy Bird, A Fuse #8 Production [An] exciting adventure storyJust as medieval manuscripts had illuminated drawings, great illustrations go hand-in-hand with the story. Gidwitz finds a way to make the Dark Ages not so dark but exciting and full of mystery.The Clarion Ledger, holiday gift guide The Inquisitors Tale is a well-researched and thoroughly engaging adventure, which beautifully imagines the feel and texture of thirteenth-century France. It is also a moving exploration of friendship, curiosity, and love of learning in a world all too filled with narrow-mindedness and hate.Sarah Lipton, professor of medieval history at SUNY, Stony Brook Accolades forA Tale Dark & Grimm:; Title: The Inquisitor's Tale: Or, The Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog | [
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