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7,200 | 2 | Grade 4-6-This photo-essay explores careers in the culinary arts. Using large, full-color photos and an accessible text, Maze takes readers into the kitchens of real restaurants to see the many people who contribute to the preparation of a fine meal. The author describes the work of the prep cook, pastry assistant, and dishwasher, as well as that of the head chef. All sorts of education and training programs are mentioned, from teaching nutrition in elementary schools to after-school programs for children to earning a bachelor's degree at the Culinary Institute of America. A history of the culinary arts includes etchings and paintings from around the world, and there is a section of international dishes with photographs and descriptions. Some famous chefs are profiled, and the endeavors of some food entrepreneurs are related. Nothing is treated in depth, but by the end of the book, readers will have tasted a smorgasbord of information bits. The last two pages list culinary organizations, professional cooking schools, and other resources for those who wish to learn more.Carolyn Jenks, First Parish Unitarian Church, Portland, MECopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.Stephanie Maze is an award-winning photographer whose work has appeared in many magazines, including National Geographic, Newsweek, and Time. She is principal of Maze Productions, Inc., and lives in Washington, D.C.; Title: I Want to Be a Chef | [
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7,201 | 18 | Miller (Zora Hurston and the Chinaberry Tree) offers a poetic, plaintive story about the Barbados-born slave who was accused of witchcraft during the Salem trials of 1692. After enduring the terrors of a voyage to Boston in the hold of a ship, Tituba greatly misses the island, where she told fortunes and communed with mice, macaws and the water spirits. But when she shares memories of her homeland with her master's daughter and niece, Elizabeth and Abigail, they have nightmares that lead to the accusations against Tituba. She originally denies the charges of witchcraft and is thrown into jail; told in court to "Confess or die," Tituba finally concedes the charge but remains jailed for many months. Sold to another master, Tituba comforts five young slaves newly arrived from Barbados, telling them that "A master might own your body, but he can never own your spirit.... Remember what your fathers and mothers told you about the spirit world." While Miller's sympathetic rendering of Tituba is likely to strike a chord with readers, his failure to develop the actions of Elizabeth and Abigail leaves important questions unanswered (Why, for example, do the girls fall to the floor in the courtroom, "writhing like snakes"?). Rendered in spray paint, acrylics and pastels, Jenkins's (Malcolm X: A Fire Burning Brightly) illustrations are occasionally stiff, yet offer effective contrasts between shadow and light and between vivid and somber colors. He affectingly evokes the anguish and loneliness of the title character. Ages 6-9. Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.Grade 2-5-A fictionalized picture book based on the facts of the Salem witch trials. The story suggests that the West Indian slave's exotic tales of the land, people, and beliefs of her beloved island home struck a disturbing chord in the thoughts and dreams of the sheltered Puritan girls for whom she was the caregiver. Tituba is clearly revealed as a victim of the events and of the hysteria of the two girls who not only set the terror in motion but also went on to accuse many others. She is shown as a solitary soul with great reserves of spiritual and emotional strength. The account is complemented by full-page and double-page paintings that tell as much of the story as the text. The art, rendered in spray paint, acrylics, and pastels on museum board, is striking. The strong tones and bold images are evocative of both dreams and of the vivid colors of Barbados. The difficult subject is handled without histrionics, providing a reasonable and sympathetic introduction to the events surrounding the trial and to Tituba herself. An author's note discusses what little is known about the woman. Library of Congress catalogs the book as biographical nonfiction; individual libraries will need to decide whether this re-creation of events meets their criteria for children's biography.Kathie Meizner, Montgomery County Public Libraries, Chevy Chase, MD Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Tituba | [
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7,202 | 2 | Miss Darling of room 22 is a very special teacher indeed. When asked by her students if they could have "a truly awesome classroom pet," Miss Darling replied, "Yes! Or better yet,/Let's choose a whole pet alphabet." So, from Amanda Anaconda to the zorilla, an unexpected pet (the class thought a zorilla would be a kind of gorilla--"a warmhearted ape with plenty of spunk./Surprise! A zorilla is only a skunk."), room 22 becomes a veritable menagerie of some rather unusual critters. Take the electric eel, for example. Please don't ask to feel Our electric eel, Because, if you bug him, We cannot unplug him. Or the octopus, a geometry expert that tries to fold itself into a hexaflexagon. Then there's the surfing newt, the kissing yak ("Yuck!"), and the turkey that, in Thanksgiving-shirking disguise, somehow ends up as the assistant principal.Judy Sierra, award-winning author of such superb picture books as Counting Crocodiles and Antarctic Antics: A Book of Penguin Poems strikes gold again with this playful collection of animal alphabet verses. Her text is charmingly accompanied by Barney Saltzberg's (creator of such marvels as Mrs. Morgan's Lawn) comfy, cartoonish full-spread pictures, many of which include hints of upcoming animals. Warning: students everywhere will soon be begging their teachers for pet fleas, vultures, and jaguarundi. (Ages 6 to 10) --Emilie CoulterKindergarten-Grade 3-Classroom pets? Room 22 has an abundance of them-one for every letter of the alphabet, from cat to quahog, from anaconda to katydid. Each 4-to-12 line poem portrays some of the common behaviors and personality characteristics inherent to each creature. There's a lunch-stealing lemur, a bad-smelling warthog, and a parrot that gets sent to the principal's office. Saltzberg's colored-pencil and watercolor cartoons meld well with the humorous tone of the text. Each one-to-two page spread is filled with energy, showing the featured animal and the multiethnic students that populate Miss Darling's classroom. Most of the poems are in rhymed couplets, but a few tamper with the meter. Occasional word choices, e.g., "moose"/"boots," "muscle"/"octopuzzle" are a bit of a stretch. Overall, though, this engaging collection is sure to entice listeners to create a zoo (real or imagined) of their own and perhaps to compose original poems as well. A good choice for animal units, plus useful for early readers still working on their alphabet skills.Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, LaSalle Academy, Providence, RI Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: There's a Zoo in Room 22 | [
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7,203 | 2 | PreSchool-K-In a rhythmic text that piggybacks easily onto the traditional nursery rhyme tune, Hillenbrand describes the daunting first-day-of-school experiences of two shy little pigs. Unlike their classmates, who eagerly enter into the day's activities, these two hang back, longing for the safety of home. Crashing block towers, spilled paints, and other messes exacerbate their unhappiness, until finally both seek refuge under the mulberry bush. After discovering one another and sharing their concerns, companionship enables them to enjoy the rest of the day. While the story is predictable, Hillenbrand's pastel watercolors are engaging and include details that add both humor and interest. Pair this title with Kevin Henkes's Wemberly Worried (Greenwillow, 2000) for a comforting first-day storytime.Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJCopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreS. The familiar tune traces a little pig child's first day of school--from fear to friends to fun. The piggie, with his red hat and backpack, admits he's scared. The way the other children dance into class and a series of mishaps--crashing a block tower and splashing himself during painting--don't help. But as the day progresses, he makes a friend, has high hopes for reading, and looks forward to a second day of school. The text, which can be read (or sung) to the beat of the song, doesn't always scan smoothly, but it does cover a lot of first-day events and emotions. Better is the child-friendly artwork, executed in fresh colors and featuring a diverse classroom that includes pigs of different colors as well as one in a wheel chair. Without being threatening, this is a realistic basis for first-day conversations. Ilene CooperCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved; Title: Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush | [] | Train |
7,204 | 2 | PreSchool-Grade 2–This curly haired African-American moppet really likes herself. No matter what she does, wherever she goes, or what others think of her, she likes herself because, as she says, "I'm ME!" Catrow's watercolor, ink, and pencil illustrations bring even more humor to the funny verse. The brightly colored art and rhymes are reminiscent of Dr. Seuss's work with their quirky absurdity, especially the full spread of the child and her highly unusual bicycle. Even with "…stinky toes/or horns protruding from my nose," her dog loves her unconditionally. She is so full of joy that readers will love her, too–even when she has purple polka-dotted lips. Titles such as Jamie Lee Curtis's I'm Gonna Like Me (2002) and Kathi Appelt's Incredible Me! (2003, both HarperCollins) have a similar theme, but the main characters are Caucasian. A great addition.–Elaine Lesh Morgan, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.Karen Beaumont is known for her lively and celebratory picture books, including I Like Myself! and the New York Times best-seller I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More!, both illustrated by David Catrow, as well as No Sleep for the Sheep!, illustrated by Jackie Urbanovic, and Wild About Us!, illustrated by Janet Stevens. She lives in Northern California. For more information, visit www.karenbeaumont.com.; Title: I Like Myself! | [
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7,205 | 2 | "Top cat" is just that?the pet who rules the roost. That is, until a striped kitten arrives on the scene. Angry and jealous at first, the older cat hisses and bites, letting the new arrival know who's boss. But once the cat realizes the kitten is a permanent addition to the household, it makes the best of a difficult situation and becomes mentor to the fluffy newcomer. Lessons ensue: how to leave fur on the couch, chew on the houseplants, chase birds and "drink from the sink when company's there." With the knowing tone of a true cat lover, Ehlert's (Hands; Color Zoo) rhymed couplets accurately describe the common?often naughty?habits of house cats, and cat owners will nod in recognition at her scenarios. Visually, Ehlert creates a memorable cat duo in her trademark cut-paper collage style. Using pulpy, textured paper saturated with color, she assembles crisp shapes into forms exuding purr-sonality. On nearly every page she also includes sound effects, printed in small red letters, to accompany the cats' actions ("chomp," "swish," "scritch") and background noises (birdcalls, clanking silverware, etc.). Children and other feline fans will quickly warm to this spunky story of rivalry and acceptance. Ages 3-8. Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Ehlert has a way with collage. In one double-page illustration a cat with its hackles raised bristles beautifully. Sad to say, the story line is so poorly expressed that the book might have been better without a text. "Go away, cat! You've invaded my space. And I don't like your cute little face" does nothing to convey the feelings of a cat whose favorite chair has been usurped by a kitten. The inevitable reconciliation between the two felines comes about more because the requisite number of pages have been filled than because of any development in the animals' relationship. This topic has been treated so well by so many talented authors and illustrators including Charlotte Voake in Ginger (Candlewick, 1997) that Ehlert's addition to the canon is truly superfluous.Miriam Lang Budin, Mt. Kisco Public Library, NYCopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Top Cat | [
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7,206 | 7 | This ominous book, thrillingly chillustrated in high-contrast scratchboard, describes an uncanny Halloween decoration. Fred McFee is just a toy skeleton dangling from a tree, but he makes two siblings nervous. "He isn't real, but it's hard to tell-/ He's plastic, head to toe./ But all of his bones are joined so well,/ No one would ever know!" Bunting's (Smoky Night) classic rhythms cultivate an eerie ambiguity; Fred vanishes and a grave appears. Seen from precipitous angles, Cyrus's (Sixteen Cows) realistic images of billowing curtains, glowing jack-o'-lanterns and a watchful owl will give readers goosebumps. Ages 5-8.Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.Kindergarten-Grade 3-"There's a skeleton high in our sycamore tree,/High as high can be./He was hung up there by my sister and me,/High in our sycamore tree." With this spooky refrain, Bunting opens her ambiguously creepy tale. Strange things have been happening since the children brought the skeleton home, named it, and hung it up. The dog and rooster won't go near the tree, and the bones rattle and chatter in the dark, gusty night wind. The story, told in rhyme, keeps readers on the edge of their seats: is the skeleton made of plastic, as the children believe, or is it real? Cyrus's detailed, realistic illustrations, done in scratchboard and watercolor, are appropriately dark and are a perfect complement to the subtly scary mood of the text. Though this book is set near Halloween, children who enjoy a good shiver will want to read or hear it year-round. Pair it with Judy Sierra's The House That Drac Built (Harcourt, 1995) and Eve Bunting's Scary, Scary Halloween (Clarion, 1986) for a creepy Halloween storytime.Heather E. Miller, Homewood Public Library, ALCopyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: The Bones of Fred McFee | [
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7,207 | 1 | As Wolff depicts a rainbow of children observing life in seven different idyllic habitats (ranging from a seashore to an impeccably manicured park), Ryder (Earthdance) serenades her audience on the importance of respecting nature. The rhyming text, both courtly and vivacious, plays on a double entendre of paying attention and caring for all earthly creatures: "Look out for wriggling worms and creeping snails/ for darting bees who dip among the flowers,/ for streaming ants who streak the dusty trails--/ please step around their sandy towers." The sensuality and detail here recall Wolff's work in titles such as Home Sweet Home. From the opening pages, which depict a flowering bush that doubles as home to a robin's nest and a raindrop-dappled spider's web, to the final illustration, a desert landscape awash in lush browns and blues, Wolff makes nature a celebration of ripe, radiant color. Ages 3-7. (Apr.) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-A remarkable marriage of spare, poetic text and luminous, detailed paintings. On full-bleed, double-page spreads, Ryder makes a plea for children to respect animals-both those that are easy to love and those that may be frightening. "Watch out-for toads who lurch/and leap across the road-/please stop to let them pass." The illustration shows a girl holding up her hand to stop an approaching school bus as the creatures leap to safety. The narrative is a natural for reading aloud-it flows smoothly and is full of imagery. Wolff's vibrant, action-packed paintings are familiar and comforting. She incorporates environmentalism in all of the art-children recycle, garden, and enjoy their surroundings. She depicts a variety of habitats and terrains and each phrase is illustrated with children or a family interacting with nature. This book introduces ecological concerns in a way that is natural and clear to youngsters. A wonderful choice for sharing in libraries, with families, for learning to honor each living thing.Susan Marie Pitard, Weezie Library for Children, Nantucket Atheneum, MA Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Each Living Thing | [
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7,208 | 2 | Whether she's knocking over her juice, dripping yellow paint on the carpet, or ripping apart feather pillows, Harriet Harris is, well, pesky. She certainly doesn't mean to be. And she's always very sorry for her behavior afterwards. Her mother doesn't like to yell, so instead she reprimands her with a gentle "Harriet, my darling child." But as Harriet's shenanigans escalate, so does her long-suffering mom's blood pressure. It looks like one more mishap will put her over the edge. And when that edge is reached, Harriet's mother yells. She yells and yells and yells.Readers on both sides of the family battlefield will wholeheartedly identify with the oh-so-real experiences of Harriet and her mom. Sometimes accidents just happen, and sometimes yelling just happens. But even when family members make mistakes, they still love each other, as these two prove when they start laughing and cleaning up the big feathery mess after the apologies and hugs. Mem Fox is an internationally known literary consultant and author of many picture books, including Boo to a Goose and Sleepy Bears. Marla Frazee's pictures are exactly right: Harriet's unruly hair and guileless expressions perfectly capture the soul of a 4- or 5-year-old. (Ages 4 to 8) --Emilie CoulterHarriet is what grown-ups refer to as a handful. Through the course of a day, the youngster, perhaps accidentally, knocks over her juice, drips paint from her picture onto the carpet and slides off her chair at lunchtime, taking the tablecloth with her. Her mother, who "didn't like to yell," handles each incident with good-humored restraint: "Harriet, my darling child. Harriet, you'll drive me wild. Harriet, sweetheart, what are we to do?" But at naptime, Harriet gets on her mother's last nerve when she intentionally rips open a feather pillow: "Then Harriet's mother began to yell./ She yelled and yelled and yelled." It's a situation that may well ring true for every family, and Fox (Sleepy Bears), in a rhythm well known to her fans, resolves it with good sense and warmth (mother and daughter apologize to each other, share a giggle and embark on clean-up together). Visually, the book never strikes a false note: Frazee's (The Seven Silly Eaters) handsome domestic vignettes, framed by generous white space, are realistic and reassuring. All this authenticity, however, adds up to something less than compellingAthe book ultimately feels more like a parenting article than something children will clamor to hear and see again. Ages 3-7. (Apr.) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Harriet, You'll Drive Me Wild! | [
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7,209 | 11 | In the Pinkneys' (Duke Ellington) hands, a tasty family tradition and New York City history make a flavorsome pairing. It's 1915, and Christmas just isn't the same when Pap must be away from Mim and their children while he works to build the New York City subway system. But a jar of Mim's "belly-hum jam" unexpectedly works its own small miracles. Vibrant scratchboard compositions skillfully contrast the dank underground construction site with the warmth of home. Ages 3-7. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.reS-Gr 2-During the Christmas season of 1915, Pap can't be with his family in Pennsylvania because he's digging the new subway tunnels in New York City. To cheer him up, his children send him a jar of their mother's famous belly-hum jam, one taste of which softens the hearts of two mean foremen, who give the workers Christmas off. The scratchboard illustrations are equally effective whether depicting a snowy landscape, a homey kitchen, or the gloomy dankness of the subway tunnel (where the jar of jam glows like a ruby). A satisfying slice of life with a rich and delicious message.-E. M.Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: Mim's Christmas Jam | [
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7,210 | 7 | "A keen insight into human behavior . . . , a subtle twist of humor, and an ability to hold action to a fast pace keep Mr. Eager's books well out in front for popularity and charm. This one will delight."  —Christian Science Monitor “Delectable wordplay and a light, witty touch make these adventures pure delight. Deserves an exalted place on every bookshelf of classics.”  —Booklist  EDWARD EAGER (1911–1964) worked primarily as a playwright and lyricist. It wasn't until 1951, while searching for books to read to his young son, Fritz, that he began writing children's stories. His classic Tales of Magic series started with the best-selling Half Magic, published in 1954. In each of his books he carefully acknowledges his indebtedness to E. Nesbit, whom he considered the best children's writer of all time—"so that any child who likes my books and doesn't know hers may be led back to the master of us all."  ; Title: The Well-Wishers | [
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7,211 | 2 | Yolen gathers all the ingredients for a compelling middle grade fantasy novel, but the recipe falls short in this first book of her Tartan Magic series. Reluctantly spending his summer vacation with his family in Scotland, visiting his mother's foster parents, 13-year-old Peter grows scornful when Gran and Da start talking about magic as if it were an everyday occurrence. But after Peter's four-year-old sister, Molly, colors on a strange map in the attic, thereby freeing a power-mad wizard, Peter and his twin sister, Jennifer, must admit that magic not only exists, but is far more menacing than they had ever imagined. The sorcerer kidnaps Molly in order to force the twins to cede the magical map to him, then holds the rest of the family hostage. Aided by a dragon, a unicorn and a dog brought back to life after being entrapped in an iron bench, Jennifer uses her innate but undeveloped magical powers to defeat the malevolent wizard. Eschewing character development, Yolen gives readers little reason to care for the fate of her protagonists. Her unorthodox decision to have the adults "in" on the magic raises the stakes but, because they are passive bystanders who contribute little to the resolution, her fantasy plot is that much more difficult to swallow. Though some readers may find light entertainment here, most will be left wanting a more believable, substantive story than this tale delivers. Ages 8-up. Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.Grade 4-7-Solidly rational 13-year-old American twins Jennifer and Peter are dragged to Scotland by their parents to spend the summer with elderly relatives. From the moment they arrive, they find themselves enmeshed in the workings of ancient magic. Exploring the cottage's small walled garden on her very first evening, Jennifer becomes lost in an impossibly large woods. Investigating the attic the next day, the twins discover an old Patience game, and Peter is amazed when a hand that he has begun is mysteriously completed. When their four-year-old sister, Molly, finds an antique map, Gran tells them about its owner, an evil wizard named Michael Scot. Before long, the wizard appears and abducts Molly. The adults disappear soon after. Peter is captured and Jennifer is left alone to rescue her family from the evil magic. She succeeds with the help of a dragon, a dog, and a unicorn that she frees from a magic spell. The setting and characters are described cursorily, and loose ends abound. Michael Scot takes possession of Peter from time to time, but his reasons for picking Peter and his goals are never made clear. However, the action moves swiftly and young readers may well be too busy following the story to care.Kathleen Isaacs, Edmund Burke School, Washington, DC Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: The Wizard's Map: Tartan Magic, Book One | [
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7,212 | 1 | Grade 3 UpThe birds in these five well-crafted folktales possess wisdom, are engaged in trickery, or teach lessons about sorrow or jealousy. And the lovely, secretive swans are village ancestors transformed upon dying as humans. Collected at the International Folklore Workshop at the University of Maryland, the stories might be viewed as contemporary manifestations of the oral tradition. All are remembered from childhoods spent far away in Australia, China, Matabeleland, Norway, and Sri Lanka. Smoothly polished and beautifully illustrated, the narratives portray characters, themes, and magical elements familiar in folklore. A pelican that owns the only fishnet in the world and a troublesome troll with an intriguing scarf of live crows will interest children in the early grades. The greater complexities and subtleties of the other three will pique the interest of older readers and listeners. The Dillons have broadly adapted folk motifs into selected scenes from each story. Thick outlines and muted colors suggest the wax-resist printing common to textiles in several of these countries. This collection offers versatile possibilities for use across the curriculum as well as inviting tales for personal enjoyment, reading aloud, and storytelling. A concluding essay identifies the actual contributors and offers personal information about them.Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston Copyright Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.Gr. 3-7. In Between Heaven's closing note, adult novelist and folklore translator Norman introduces his sources: five adult students in his folklore class who, together, contributed and shaped the stories about birds. The result is a collection of stories that are rich in cultural references from the lands of their origins: China, India, Australia, Norway, and Sri Lanka. Younger children may need help with some of the tales' cultural background, sophisticated language, and symbolism, and the stories' sometimes unfocused pacing may not hold the attention of children accustomed to more tightly structured tales. Still, the Dillons' luminous watercolor-and-pencil illustrations, detailed with patterns drawn from each tale's culture of origin, will draw readers and listeners back to the stories. . Teachers will want this for reading aloud or inspiring students to create their own folktale compilations. Gillian EngbergCopyright American Library Association. All rights reserved; Title: Between Heaven and Earth: Bird Tales from Around the World | [
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7,213 | 17 | The team behind The Babe & I and Lou Gehrig: The Luckiest Man here abandons the baseball field for the chilly, choppy waters of the English Channel, which Ederle swam across in 1926. The first woman to accomplish this feat, Ederle also beat, by almost two hours, the existing men's record. Widener's stylized acrylic paintings again creatively evoke a bygone era, while Adler's direct yet descriptive narrative establishes the historical context. He notes that in 1906, the year of Ederle's birth, women in most states could not vote: "Many people felt that a woman's place was in the home," writes Adler. "But Gertrude Ederle's place was in the water." Readers will warm to the heroine, a city kid who was taught how to swim only after she, at age seven, fell into a pond and nearly drowned. Text and art offer a compelling, in-depth account of the adult Ederle's crossing of the Channel, as she swam for more than 14 hours from Cape Gris-Nez, France, to Kingsdown, England, despite driving rain, strong winds, high waves, a powerful current--and her trainer's directive to quit. An exciting story, well told; kids will dive right in. Ages 6-9. (Mar.) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.Kindergarten-Grade 4-This picture-book biography covers the life of Gertrude Ederle, highlighting her world-record breaking, long-distance swims. In 1926, women were thought to be the weaker sex, but this indomitable young athlete broke the men's record by two hours when she swam the English Channel. Fascinating tidbits about her 21-mile swim will entice readers: "She floated on her back and ate chicken and drank beef broth." For her victory, she was rewarded with a ticker-tape parade and a letter from President Coolidge calling her "America's Best Girl." More information about her life is appended. In the acrylic paintings, characters with large bodies and small heads, suggesting Depression-era art, are set on impressionistic backgrounds. The pictures of the swirling, rough water add fluidity and motion, and the perspectives that show the small figure of the swimmer in the vast sea capture the immensity of Ederle's endeavor. Attractive formatting and large type make this story of achievement as effective and as inspiring to read aloud as this team's Lou Gehrig: The Luckiest Man (1997) and The Babe & I (1999, both Gulliver).Jean Gaffney, Dayton and Montgomery County Public Library, OH Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: America's Champion Swimmer: Gertrude Ederle | [
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7,214 | 2 | "There were no mirrors in my Nana's house / no mirrors in my Nana's house / So the beauty that I saw in everything / the beauty in everything / was in her eyes / like the rising of the sun." So begins the young granddaughter's joyful paean to her Nana in Dr. Ysaye M. Barnwell and illustrator Synthia Saint James's ebullient picture book, packaged with a CD of the song "No Mirrors in My Nana's House." The song itself, the heart of the book, was composed by Barnwell and sung by world-renowned a capella quintet "Sweet Honey in the Rock" for years. This soul-warming tribute in upbeat, five-part harmonies (deeply rooted in the spirituals, hymns, and gospel of the black church) enhances the book-reading experience a hundredfold. The CD's second track is a spoken-word recording of the story's text, voiced in rich, soothing tones and inflections. And just when you find yourself thinking, I want to listen to that again! the song begins anew on the CD's third track.Nana's house had no mirrors to reflect her granddaughter's clothes that didn't fit, or "the things that she missed." When the girl viewed the world through her Nana's eyes she saw love and beauty, not poverty or racism. Saint James's artwork is colorful and stylized--the characters have no faces, but their movements--arms outstretched, exalted; a loving embrace between the grandmother and granddaughter--communicate plenty of emotion. Saint James has illustrated several other picture books including The Gifts of Kwanzaa and Neeny Coming, Neeny Going, which won a Coretta Scott King Honor Award. This gorgeous book and CD package would make a wonderful gift for any youngster--and the melodies, rhythms, and bold, bright images promise to linger in the minds and hearts of children long after the book is closed. (Ages 4 and older) --Karin SnelsonAges 4^-8. "There were no mirrors in my Nana's house . . . / so the beauty that I saw in everything / the beauty in everything / was in her eyes / like the rising of the sun." A young black girl is inspired by her life in which no mirrors constrict her view of herself and where she is intrigued by the cracks on the walls and "tastes with joy the dust that would fall." The sentiment that children can rise above their environment is reassuring and uplifting; however, several lines take the concept a bit far ("the trash and the rubbish just cushioned my feet"). Saint James illustrates the text in acrylics, but the effect is of collage. Shapes of pure colors become people, furniture, apartment buildings, boom boxes. This wonderfully eye-catching mix will work for individual readers or groups. Barnwell is a member of Sweet Honey in the Rock, an a cappella rock group; a CD of their song version of the text is part of the package. Ilene Cooper; Title: No Mirrors in My Nana's House | [
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7,215 | 7 | Edward Eager has been delighting young readers for more than 40 years with stories that mix magic and reality. Half Magic, the most popular of his tales about four children who encounter magical coins, time-travel herb gardens, and other unlikely devices, is a warm, funny, original adventure. The title refers to a coin that the children find. Through a comical series of coincidences, they discover that the coin is magic. Well, it's not totally magic--it's only (you guessed it) half magic. That means there's a certain logic to the wishes one must make to generate a desired outcome. Imagine the results emerging from inaccurate efforts: half invisible, half rescued, half everything! Half Magic is never too cute, and with just enough emotion to complement the magic, this classic is sure to hold a special place in any child's library. If you love Half Magic, its sequels--Knight's Castle, The Time Garden, and Magic by the Lake--have also been reissued in lovely hardcover editions, complete with N.M. Bodecker's original illustrations and covers by Quentin Blake. (Ages 8 to 12)“Half Magic is a funny, charming, timeless book, as much a pleasure to read to a child now as it was forty years ago. Those who had it read to them then may even have an obligation to pass on the pleasure.”  —The New York Times Book Review * "Ingenious make-believe. . . . Satisfying variety, surprise, and laughter. . . . A book children will want to read at one sitting."  —Library Journal, starred review; Title: Half Magic (Edward Eager's Tales of Magic) | [
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7,216 | 2 | Mother Bear's six children are balking at bedding down for the winter, but she coaxes them under the patchwork quilt with a clever stratagem: each cub gets a personalized bedtime rhyme. Baxter Bear hears about a pirate adventure: "Raise the skull and crossbones,/ Breathe the salty air,/ Find your treasure, count your gold,/ And sleep without a care!" In Tosca Bear's rhyme, the aspiring princess wears "a crown of diamonds for your head,/ And gorgeous gowns of silken thread." By the end, everyone is fast asleep, and it's up to a stuffed elephant to blow out the bedroom candle. Argent (previously paired with Fox for Wombat Divine) depicts the various bedtime fantasies with gusto in double-page, full-bleed spreads; one tableau showing a cub/hunter holding onto a magnificently rendered tiger by the tail is particularly striking. Following each rhyme, the book returns to the same wide-angle view of Mother and cubs under the quilt, each sleeping cub magically acquiring an accessory from his or her dream (e.g., Baxter sports an eye patch and pirate's hat; Tosca has donned crown and wimple). They look cuddly and warm, curled up together in a room suffused with golden candlelightAitself an enticement, since most children love the idea of a family bed, whether or not their parents do. With its sweetly varied scenarios, this amiable bedtime book offers a little something for everyone. Ages 3-6. (Sept.) Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Grade 1-A cleverly written bedtime book with very distinct characters, each with its own hibernation-time rhyme. Mother Bear tucks in her six cubs, sending them off on dreamy adventures. Baxter dreams of pirates, Bella of the circus, Winifred of the jungle, Tosca of kingdoms, Ali of divine foods, and Baby Bear of moonbeams. "And all of them slept until spring." The rhymes are well written, and the charming pictures, done in gouache, watercolor, and colored pencil, are full of funny details. When the cubs are in bed waiting to drift off, the room is draped in a yellow hue lit by candle. Dream scenes show distant lands with the youngsters sleeping peacefully in the corners. On the penultimate page, the bears are lined up across the bed in hats or headdresses that represent their particular dreams. A fuzzy, stuffed blue elephant that plays and rests with the bears throughout the book blows out the candle on the final page. A fanciful story that's sure to be popular.Shelley Woods, Boston Public Library, MA Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Sleepy Bears | [
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7,217 | 1 | Kindergarten-Grade 2-A girl's love for her basset hound and the patience it takes to train him are explored in this funny story. Toby can do a lot of things: he can tell where a gopher is digging in the yard, he can tell if food is dropped in his dish from all the way upstairs, he even knows when it's time for his walk. Unfortunately, his owner is the only person impressed with these talents; her brother thinks the dog is "dumb" because he can't sit or roll over. She even asks neighbors and friends to give him commands in foreign languages in case he doesn't speak English, and she tries to speak "dog" by barking at him, but to no avail. Finally, she shows the pup what to do and repeats the command constantly over time. Sure enough, he gets it, convincing even the brother of his competence. The ink, acrylic, and watercolor illustrations enhance the light and humorous text, and young pet lovers are sure to relate to Toby's antics and his interaction with his family. An amusing introduction to the trials and rewards of training a pet.Holly Belli, Bergen County Cooperative Library System, West Caldwell, NJ Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.Toby is your basic dog: ready to eat, happy to take a walk, and devoted to his owner, the little girl who narrates this amusing picture book. She is convinced that her dog is smart, even though the evidence she has for his intelligence (knowing when food is dropped into his dish, and recognizing when it's time for his walk) is pretty weak. Her brother suspects that "maybe he's dumb," a comment that colors the narrator's opinion of her sibling rather than her canine companion. When Toby finally learns to sit on command, children will cheer. Even Brother yells, "He's a smart dog." Toby's girl concludes, "I guess my brother's not so dumb after all." The understated humor of the text is amplified by the buoyant spirits of Kelley's amusing illustrations. Black-ink drawings, vividly tinted with watercolors and acrylics, bring humor even to the most deadpan lines in the narration. A warm, witty picture book celebrating the mutual devotion of dogs and their owners. Carolyn PhelanCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved; Title: My Dog Toby | [
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7,218 | 0 | Something has happened to good old Mother Goose--she's not the same kindly storyteller she once was. In fact, that isn't Mother Goose tapping away at her laptop computer at all. It's Monster Goose! With a diabolical grin beneath her granny glasses and fangs peeking out from her beak, this twisted matriarch wreaks marvelously evil havoc on 25 favorite nursery rhymes. Now featuring ghouls, vampire bats, and cannibals, these verses appeal to the perverse corner in every reader's mind. Just a taste: There was an old zombie who lived in a shoe. She had so many maggots, she didn't know what to do. So she soaked them in soapsuds and painted them green. She'll be giving them out next Halloween. Not for the faint of heart, Judy Sierra's grisly rhymes are accompanied by such fabulously hideous illustrations by Jack E. Davis (the Zack Files series, Bedhead, etc.), any potential nightmares will be diverted by helpless giggles. Readers will delight in identifying the original classic nursery rhymes behind such titles as "Mary Had a Vampire Bat," "Weird Mother Hubbard," "Hush, Little Monster," and "Werewolf Bo-Creep." Sierra and Davis are an ingenious pair indeed. For more ghoulish nonsense, don't miss Sierra's The House that Drac Built. And for still more playful poems, try her Antarctic Antics: A Book of Penguin Poems. (Ages 5 and older) --Emilie CoulterSierra (There's a Zoo in Room 22) and Davis (Bedhead) replace storybook characters with their ghoulish alter egos in this silly-scary Mother Goose knockoff. Every spread presents one revised rhyme and pictures the comical doppelgnger of a familiar figure. In "Mary Had a Vampire Bat," a fiendish girl frightens her classmates with her pet: "She brought him out for show-and-tell;/ The teacher screamed and ran./ And school was canceled for a week,/ Just as Mary planned." Green-skinned "Cannibal Horner" chomps off his own thumb ("A tasty young morsel am I!"), and the usual mouse is upstaged in "Slithery, dithery, dock,/ The snake slid up the clock." Sierra invites a sing-along in "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Slug" and "The itsy-bitsy spider/ Climbed up the warthog's snout," and she turns a song of sixpence into an even less appetizing yarn: "Sing a song of sea slime, sewer gas, and sludge./ Four and twenty wharf rats dipped in mocha fudge." Davis, working in acrylics and colored pencil, crowds his illustrations with monsters, vermin and gross gags. But he indicates the verses' humor by giving the characters diabolical ear-to-ear grins, shifty eyes and skulky postures. The Goose has been spoofed before, but this volume strikes a nice balance between goofy and ghastly. Ages 5-8. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: Monster Goose: A Magic Shop Book | [
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7,219 | 2 | Four gracefully paced chapters, stylish illustrations and a design that allows plenty of breathing room add up to a knockout kickoff to a beginning reader series. Guest (Girl Stuff) lays out the central conflict in the first sentence ("When Iris and Iris's family moved from the big city to the country, Iris was sad"). Davenier's (Leon and Albertine) corresponding pen-and-ink and watercolor-wash illustration takes up most of the spread: a car on a rural road drives into the sunset, as a crestfallen Iris gazes out the rear window, back toward the city. The rest of the first chapter evocatively recounts in just how many ways the girl pines for her former home (e.g., "the long hallway where she roller-skated on rainy days"; in the illustration she appears like Alice in Wonderland bursting out of the corridor). Iris's parents try to cheer her up, but only Grandpa knows what she needs. He helps Iris discover a new friend, Walter, and soon she is savoring country life. Guest forswears a pat resolutionDthe city still occupies Iris's thoughts, conveyed with a skillful and unobtrusive use of repetition ("She dreamed of her noisy street and her wide front stoop. She dreamed of tango music and of roller skating down long hallways"). Guest's economic eloquence is in perfect sync with Davenier's elegant watercolor and ink drawings; the illustrator's urbane graphic sensibility and lush palette of blue and purple hues bring to mind vintage New Yorker covers. Ages 6-9. (Sept.) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.Kindergarten-Grade 2-In this beginning chapter book, Iris has moved from the city to the country, and she is not impressed. There are no noises, no stoops to sit on, and seemingly, no children. Her parents encourage her to play in her new yard to no avail; it is her grandfather who finally takes her for a walk and she meets Walter in his tree house. The two become fast friends and Iris learns to appreciate country life. She rides the boy's pony, plays hide-and-seek, and rolls in the grass. The only flaw in the story is that when her pal asks her about life in the big city, all she has to say is, "there are lots and lots and lots of people." Walter replies that in the country "there are lots and lots and lots of stars," and the discussion abruptly ends there. The exchange seems stilted and preachy, and Walter appears to be either very wise or very boring. The pen-and-ink illustrations are a bit sloppy and have a limited palette of primarily greens, blues, and pinks. Overall, though, the story does work, showing the positive qualities of different lifestyles and that friends can be found anywhere.Holly Belli, Bergen County Cooperative Library System, West Caldwell, NJ Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Iris and Walter | [
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7,220 | 2 | "Sophie wondered about her great-aunt a lot. She's so mysterioso! Sophie thought. And this was true. There were many strange goings-on up in penthouse 25C. Most people considered Auntie Claus just another eccentric New Yorker. But Sophie knew there was more to her than met the eye." As if Auntie Claus's everyday red velvet gown with furry white trim isn't unusual enough, there is the diamond key that hangs around her neck. During her year-round tea and Christmas cookie rituals, she always leaves young Sophie with the words, "And darling, always remember my first and final rule--whether it's birthdays, Christmas, or Halloween, it is far better to give than to receive!" Oddest of all, every year she departs on a "business trip" right after Halloween and doesn't return until Valentine's Day.One year, the spoiled and rather unpleasant Sophie (who, like her little brother, is all about "receiving," and as much as possible) decides to stop wondering about her great-aunt and start investigating. She stows away in a large box, is loaded into a Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator-style enclosure with all of her great-aunt's luggage, and is shot off into the sky. Landing with a thunk, she is greeted by Mr. Pudding, who assumes she is the new elf and sets her to work in the mailroom. As Mr. Pudding extols the virtues of hard work, Sophie thinks, "Rules, schmules." But her work hasn't quite yet begun. When Santa asks for one brave elf to volunteer to go to the coal mines and pick up the "B-B-and-G List," Sophie gets nervous. The B-B-and-G List is the list of bad boys and girls who will go without Christmas presents... or worse. She volunteers, thinking she just may be on that list. But when it's her little brother she sees on the list, Sophie finally learns the important lesson that Auntie Claus has been trying to teach her. When that happens, Sophie whirls up out of the coal mines into the Grand Ballroom of the North Pole, where Auntie Claus is revealed to be Santa's sister with much fanfare.Award-winning illustrator Elise Primavera's gorgeous artwork is positively luminous, recalling the splendid Christmas television specials How the Grinch Stole Christmas and the Claymation version of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in extraordinary compositions, compellingly portrayed characters, and unusual perspectives. Not at all surprisingly, Nickelodeon Films has already secured the rights to this action-packed, highly visual story to make a full-length live-action film in the year 2000. (Ages 4 and older) --Karin SnelsonA healthy dose of holiday magic abounds in a picture book poised to make a big splash. A little bit Auntie Mame, a little bit Coco Chanel, Sophie Kringle's glamorous great-aunt lives in a penthouse atop Manhattan's Bing Cherry Hotel. Auntie Claus disappears every holiday season on a mysterious business trip and, determined to discover her destination, Sophie stows away and follows her. Larded with scrumptious visual foreshadowing, Primavera's hilariously arch gouache and pastel illustrations are the highlight of this merry confection. Ages 4-8. (Oct.) FYI: The author has established a Web site for the book at www.auntieclaus.com, and Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City has chosen Primavera's tale as the theme for its holiday window display. Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Auntie Claus | [
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7,221 | 2 | Kindergarten-Grade 2-These three easy-readers combine brightly colored illustrations with short simple stories. Readability is determined using the Reading Recovery model, and each book features a meet-the-author section. In Sometimes, an alligator engages in all sorts of activities, such as cooking, ice fishing, and playing the banjo. The text is repetitive: "Sometimes I am happy. Sometimes I am sad." The reptile has lots of expression, and even nonreaders could recite/read this story after hearing it once or twice. Catch Me features a T-rex that frightens all of the other dinosaurs, except for one, who turns out to be his loving grandchild. The illustrations, done in markers, reflect Most's typical flat style. Written in rhyming couplets, Shoe Town is the best of the bunch. After her children move out, a mother mouse just wants to relax in her shoe home. Various nursery-rhyme characters ask to move in, but she insists they get their own shoes. The cow jumping over the moon keeps a count of the population of "Shoe Town" as it grows. Stevens's illustrations are irresistible, and the tale works well as a read-aloud or read-alone.Sharon R. Pearce, formerly at San Antonio Public Library, TX Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.For the newest readers, Baker's poetic book offers a repetitive, meaningful text. Each page carries a full-color illustration and one short sentence: "Sometimes I am happy" or "Sometimes I am sad." The refrain that follows ("I like who I am. I like what I do.") is accompanied by a double-page illustration. In these sprightly scenes, the alligator is lying in bed singing and playing his many musical instruments, or decorating special cakes, or painting a still life. This pattern repeats twice more for a total text of 70 words, 21 of which are different. Baker's lively illustrations capture the personality and moods of an alligator, who reflects the many sides of young children. Kathy Broderick; Title: Sometimes (Green Light Readers Level 1) | [
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7,222 | 0 | children; Title: Big Brown Bear | [
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7,223 | 2 | Gliori (Tell Me Something Happy Before I Go to Sleep) here explores anxiety about the limits of a parent's loveAespecially whether it can survive a bout of pint-size bad behavior. With a gentle, rhyming text and illustrations that exude a snuggly warmth, she offers a reassuring, though ultimately cloying answer. As bedtime nears, a cute little fox named Small who's feeling "grim and grumpy" (and whose parent, Large, is pictured chatting on the phone) acts out by upturning the living room. When Large asks what's wrong, Small begins interrogating Large (neither character's gender is specified): "If I were a grumpy grizzly bear, would you still love me? Would you still care?" "I'd always love you, no matter what," responds Large. As in books like Lisa McCourt's I Love You, Stinky Face, the child ups the ante with unpleasant scenarios: what if Small were some other ostensibly uncuddly creature, like a squishy bug or a crocodile? "No matter what" comes the answer againAand Gliori's warmly comic depictions of Large's abiding affections drive home the unconditionality of parental love. Unfortunately, Gliori pushes her point a bit too hard with a closing treacly analogy to the light of stars: "We may be close, we may be far,/ but our love still surrounds us.../ wherever we are." Still, few authors wear their hearts on their sleeves so effectively. Ages 2-6. (Oct.) Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Feeling grumpy, Small, a little fox, has a tantrum that turns the living room topsy-turvy, after which he questions Large about the resiliency and endurance of his parental love-"If I were a grumpy grizzly bear,/would you still love me?/Would you still care?" or "...if I turned into a squishy bug,/would you still love me and give me a hug?" Ever patient, Large reassures him that "I'd always love you,/no matter what...we may be close, we may be far,/but our love still surrounds us.../wherever we are." The charming watercolor illustrations show warm golds and browns with candlelight and fireside indoors and the cold, blue-and-gray night outside. The rhyming text and large, often double-page spreads make this book useful for story programs. There are many recognizable similarities in Small's world and that of a young child's-dinner in a high chair, bath time, bedtime stories, and favorite toys. Great for fans of Barbara Joosse's Mama, Do You Love Me? (Chronicle, 1991) or Sam McBratney's Guess How Much I Love You (Candlewick, 1995).Marlene Gawron, Orange County Library, Orlando, FL Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: No Matter What | [
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7,224 | 0 | Jeanette Winter has written and illustrated three companion board books: Hey Diddle Diddle, Rock-a-Bye Baby, and Twinkle Twinkle Little StarJEANETTE WINTER has written and illustrated many books for children, including MAMA, The Librarian of Basra, Calavera Abecedario: A Day of the Dead Alphabet Book, My Name Is Georgia, and Josefina. She lives in New York City.; Title: The Itsy-Bitsy Spider | [
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7,225 | 5 | Grade 3-7-Not for the faint of heart, this retelling continues the author's fascination with "Cinderella" tales. In challenging vocabulary and a complex rhyme scheme, the clever narrative tells of Cinderella Skeleton, a wraith who lives in a mausoleum with her horrific stepmother, Skreech, and stepsisters Gristlene and Bony-Jane. She wiles away her days streaking the windows, hanging cobwebs, and feeding bats until the Halloween Ball invitation arrives. A good woodland witch conjures up the usual participants into a funeral wagon, dragon steeds, a gown, and slippers, but in fleeing from Prince Charnel at sunrise, Cinderella breaks off her slippered foot mid-calf. Gross, yes, though later other ghosts break off their shinbones with the hope of fitting the leg-and-slipper remains ("Wire or glue; you're good as new!" snaps the stepmother as she pulls off each girl's foot). Catrow's wonderfully weird pencil-and-watercolor illustrations feature wiggly lines, lurid pink and bilious green accents, large-eyed skeletons, and grotesque mutantlike creatures. The envious stepfamily conveniently shrivels to dust, which is certainly less horrible than other endings (though younger readers will still be disturbed about those broken legs). This darkly humorous and spooky variation will tickle the twisted tastes of upper-elementary and middle-school readers if it is displayed where they'll find it.Susan Hepler, Burgundy Farm Country Day School, Alexandria, VA Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.Gr. 3-5, younger for reading aloud. San Souci puts a bizarre spin on the world's most familiar folktale. Cinderella Skeleton "lives" in Boneyard Acres, where she's forced to keep an entire mausoleum supplied with cobwebs and dead flowers while stepsisters Gristlene and Bony-Jane primp and pose before stepmother Skreech. Thanks to the offices of a good witch, Cinderella gets to Prince Charnel's ball and makes her escape just before dawn. As expected, she leaves behind a shoe--but this one has a foot inside. The text is cast in verse, with a complex rhyme scheme that takes getting used to but keeps the lines from sounding sing-songy. Catrow's artwork seems to have taken a tip from Tim Burton's film Nightmare before Christmas (1993). The backgrounds are eerie and elaborately detailed, and the figures are not really skeletons but rather elongated stick figures with mummified heads and moldering, garishly colored finery. In the end, Cinderella Skeleton hobbles out of hiding to be united with her Prince, and off they float, trailing clouds of--something. Share this macabre rib tickler with Stinky Cheese fans. John PetersCopyright American Library Association. All rights reserved; Title: Cinderella Skeleton | [
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7,226 | 13 | In a track on his 1979 album Slow Train Coming, Dylan speculates about Mankind's naming of beasts. Although his observations are by no means profound, his subject is appropriate for preschoolers: "[Man] saw an animal leavin' a muddy trail./ Real dirty face and a curly tail./ He wasn't too small and he wasn't too big./ 'Ah, think I'll call it a pig.' " Menchin (The Day the Whale Came) smoothly adapts this lark of a musical moment to the page by making it a guessing game. In teasing spreads, he reveals the eyes, feet or tail of the nameless creature, then unveils it whole. Menchin surrounds his block prints of barnyard animals with mixed media collages. A linocut pink pig sits in a patch of greenish straw, for instance, and a cropped photo of a crowd overlooks a bull and toreador. Even if the chosen lyrics eliminate both the catchy tune and the famous voice, this labor of love recommends Dylan to a new generation. Ages 3-10. (Nov.) Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Grade 2-Dylan's 1979 album, Slow Train Coming, included this title, and 20 years later, Menchin has taken the lyrics and added his own multimedia illustrations to create this picture book. Bold colors combine with powerful lines and visual imagery. For instance, the upper half of the head of an angry bull glares out at readers on a double-page spread colored in fire-engine red. Its horns curl up to encircle the text, which stands in straight lines that march across the two pages: "He saw an animal that liked to snort. Horns on his head and they weren't too short." What adds to the jarring effect of the bull is the sweet cow on the previous double-page spread, its head tilted into a somewhat perplexed look that seems to highlight its innocence. The baby-blue sky, sun-dappled grass, and row of bucolic-looking minihouses with curlicues of smoke rising from the chimneys add to the countryside feeling. The text is forced at times, and the lyrics don't always work as well visually as they do musically. Still, this book would be an effective way to showcase the many ways in which artists can create pictures using collage, paint, scissors, and, of course, their imaginations.Lisa Gangemi Krapp, Rockville Centre Public Library, NY Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Man Gave Names to All the Animals | [
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7,227 | 15 | Asch (the Moonbear books) is in top form with a child's simple yet lyrical paean to the sun's magic and usefulness. Following the sun from morning to night, the young narrator (of indeterminate sex) often gives way to whimsy, noting, for example, that when the sun's rays emanate from behind a cloud, "it plays hide-and-seek with me." But Asch also makes room for equally authentic observations that display a more scientific mind-set. To show that the sun's light "is bright and hot," the child focuses sunlight through a magnifying glass onto a leaf, causing it to smolder. And at night, the child points out, the sun doesn't really disappear, but rather "sends some light to keep me company" via the moon. Asch echoes this interplay between the factual and figurative in his mural-like pictures where he combines strong graphic lines with soft glowing colors. Radiating the calm coziness of a child who feels safe and secure enough in the world to explore and explain it, this volume warms the heart, in much the same way that its subject warms the earth. Ages 3-7. Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-K-The sun comes in the window, wakes up a little boy, and continues to play a central role throughout his day. It waits for him to come outside and even plays hide-and-seek. The large, bright watercolor drawings are enhanced through the use of computer technology. The spare text and the art, which dominates the pages and is bursting with color, make the book especially appealing to the youngest listeners. Children will enjoy following the main character as he travels through a typical day. They will readily relate to the pictures of the sun peeking through a hole in the fence and casting shadows on the wall. This book is well worth adding to any collection. Sheilah Kosco, Rapides Parish Library, Alexandria, LA Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: The Sun Is My Favorite Star | [
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7,228 | 1 | "The combination of real children and fantasy is convincing and funny."  —Booklist "The same mélange of realism and fantasy, witty talk and believable characterization that has come to be the hallmark of Mr. Eager’s stories.”  —The New York Times Book Review  EDWARD EAGER (1911–1964) worked primarily as a playwright and lyricist. It wasn't until 1951, while searching for books to read to his young son, Fritz, that he began writing children's stories. His classic Tales of Magic series started with the best-selling Half Magic, published in 1954. In each of his books he carefully acknowledges his indebtedness to E. Nesbit, whom he considered the best children's writer of all time—"so that any child who likes my books and doesn't know hers may be led back to the master of us all."  ; Title: Magic by the Lake | [
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7,229 | 0 | Jeanette Winter has written and illustrated three companion board books: Hey Diddle Diddle, Rock-a-Bye Baby, and The Itsy-Bitsy SpiderJEANETTE WINTER has written and illustrated many books for children, including MAMA, The Librarian of Basra, Calavera Abecedario: A Day of the Dead Alphabet Book, My Name Is Georgia, and Josefina. She lives in New York City.; Title: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star | [
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7,230 | 11 | Grade 3-5. In four short chapters, Rylant introduces the Meadows: Sullivan, Eva, and their two boys Ray and Willie. They live in Blue Hill, Virginia, where things move slowly and a family has time to "just be." As always, Rylant writes with grace. Her spare style effortlessly creates a sense of place, rich in homey, happy details. The watercolor and acrylic illustrations, done mostly in blues and lavenders, contribute to the gentle tone. Each chapter is set in a different season, creating a nice balance to the pacing and bringing the end back to the beginning. However, for all its loveliness, there is a detached quality to the narration that makes it read more like a sweet dream than a here-and-now story. Willie is the only character who ever develops a personality, which is a shame since the joy of adopting a stray pet, the excitement of a fishing trip, the worry about being stuck at a teacher's house during a blizzard, and agonizing over the perfect gift for Mom are all experiences that would appeal to children. Perhaps the biggest problem this book will face is finding an audience. It would be best appreciated by older readers, but it will be most attractive to the beginning chapter-book crowd, who may struggle with the language and pace. If this book is placed into the right hands, its readers will be treated to a lazy, gentle year with a really nice family.?Patricia A. Dollisch, DeKalb County Public Library, Decatur, GACopyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.Rylant (Cat Heaven, p. 1035, etc.) presents four seasonal stories about the Meadow family of Blue Hill, Virginia, where the pace is gentle, and where there is time to stop and savor life. Although readers get to know the entire family, the central character is the younger of two boys, Willie. In summer they adopt a stray dog and are thrilled when she has seven puppies. In the fall, Willie and his father make a private fishing trip. A blizzard brings excitement to their lives, and in spring Willie pays tribute to his mother with an original and perfect Mother's Day gift. With its focus on everyday family life, this is a quiet, old-fashioned book, relying on Rylant's lyrical prose, fine attention to detail, and understated humor that will make readers wish they could move in with the Meadows. Beier's illustrations, interspersed throughout, feature landscapes, household objects, and the animal members of the family--all the details of a beloved home. (Fiction. 8-12) -- Copyright 1997, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.; Title: The Blue Hill Meadows | [
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7,231 | 2 | Kindergarten-Grade 2–Kate is a "cowgirl from the boots up," and Cocoa is her loquacious and irascible equine companion. Together they share four amiable adventures in this easy chapter book. Beginning readers learn how the cowhorse was acquired and, in the process, discover that Kate is subtly clever and Cocoa is a bit of a slacker. The stories that follow include a disappointingly inedible surprise for the horse, a test of wills and devotion while cowherding, and a sleepover in the barn that dexterously reveals their mutual affection. Simple sentences and lots of repetition make these tales accessible, while occasional cowpoke vocabulary establishes the locale. Both horse and girl have well-developed personalities that weather the ups and downs of friendship. While the narrative is somewhat lacking in excitement, the genial humor and feisty horse have child appeal. Strong black lines lend rustic solidity to the watercolor illustrations that are generously distributed throughout the text. With additional adventures in the works, this affable duo augments Cynthia Rylant's popular people-and-their-pets pairings (Henry and Mudge, Mr. Putter and Tabby) and welcomes new readers to their home on the range.–Carol Ann Wilson, formerly at Westfield Memorial Library, NJPreS-Gr. 2. Set on a cattle ranch, this warm, beginning chapter book tells four spirited stories about young cowgirl Kate and her beloved talking horse, Cocoa. Young children will see themselves in both characters. In several episodes, for example, Cocoa puts off cow herding and even bedtime by employing a preschooler's procrastination techniques, such as asking for food and for water. Children will also recognize the friends' good-natured banter and lively dialogue as they negotiate their days together, in the barn and on the range. Lewin's bold-lined illustrations extend the comedy and the affectionate friendship with expressive animal characters reminiscent of her work in the Caldecott Honor Book Click Clack Moo: Cows That Type (2000). A fine choice for reading aloud to small groups or for confident new readers to tackle on their own. Gillian EngbergCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved; Title: Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa | [
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7,232 | 11 | A Native American man tells his nephew 10 legends of sacred places. PW praised the "gracefully compressed" unrhymed verse and the alternately "ethereal" and "atmospheric" oil paintings. All ages. Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.“An excellent choice that will provoke both introspection and discussion.”—The Horn Book “Offers readers new perspectives on the natural world and an excellent curricular connection. A solid addition for school and public libraries.”—Booklist ; Title: Between Earth & Sky: Legends of Native American Sacred Places | [
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7,233 | 0 | In addition to Girl of the Shining Mountains (reviewed above), which gives Sacagawea's perspective on Lewis and Clark's exploration, Smith's (Thunder Cave; Jaguar) historical novel imagines the duo's epic 1804-1806 journey through the eyes of Captain Lewis's Newfoundland dog, Seaman. The novel opens in 1808, when two former members of the expedition discover Seaman living with Nez Perce Indians; one of them presents the pair with Lewis's red-leather journal, rescued by Seaman. This opening framework may be mechanical, but the novel eventually hits its stride: as the traders read aloud the entries (actual text from Lewis's journals), they trigger Seaman's flashbacks. The canine's perspective, both fresh and original, is most effective in objectively relating a diverse array of customs and tribes. The narration strikes a note of humor, too, especially when Seaman offers insight into a dog's life: "Dogs know humans better than they will ever know us." Seaman's voice, however, does not adhere to a canine purview as cannily as Henrietta Branford's recent Fire, Bed and Bone, and the narrative occasionally lapses into admonishment (e.g., when Lewis berates himself for his failed iron boat scheme, Seaman mentally recounts the man's resume of accomplishments). An author's note offers little historical perspective on the expedition, but readers may well leave with a thirst for more of Lewis and Clark's adventures. Ages 10-up. (Oct.) Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.Grade 5-8-This is the story of the Lewis and Clark expedition as witnessed by Seaman, the massive Newfoundland dog that accompanied the two captains. Faithful to their original diaries, the novel brings to life the day-to-day challenges faced by the team charged with the task of exploring the American West and searching for the legendary Northwest Passage. Action and adventure abound: frequent attacks by grizzly bears and voracious mosquitoes, arduous crossings of nearly impassable landscapes, mutiny and desertion, and close encounters with both friendly and hostile Indians. However, while Seaman's narration is inventive, Smith has difficulty sustaining it, mainly because the dog is such a minor player in the momentous events that he describes. His point of view often seems too omniscient and introspective, resulting in a narrative that sounds uncomfortably human. Only when he recalls a purely canine memory such as marking trees does he snap readers back to the realization that this storyteller is indeed four-legged. Still, this occasional awkwardness does not diminish the scope and power of this entertaining introduction to an episode of American history rarely celebrated in fiction. For another novel about Seaman and his role in the expedition, look to Gail Langer Karwoski's Seaman (Peachtree, 1999), a lively account in which this brave animal is a much more central character.William McLoughlin, Brookside School, Worthington, OH Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: The Captain's Dog: My Journey with the Lewis and Clark Tribe (Great Episodes) | [
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7,234 | 0 | Kindergarten-Grade 2The cowpoke and her horse are back, once again riding the range in this beginning reader. From shoeing to roping to rounding up cattle, Kate is as resourceful as Cocoa is contrary as they once again prove that a best friend is one you can count on through hot and cold, weak and strong, and even wet and dry. Lewin's cartoon style is as fresh as a prairie breeze after a spring rain. Set against a white backdrop, bold black outlines and warm watercolors underscore the busy days of ranch life. Libraries will have a hard time keeping this title in stock, so be sure to purchase more than one copy.H. H. Henderson, Heritage Middle School, Deltona, FL Copyright Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.Partners, the amusing sequel to the engaging Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa (2005), features four short, episodic chapters, each telling a new tale of the little cowgirl and her horse. In the first, Kate has difficulty convincing Cocoa that horseshoes are a better choice for him than cowboy boots. In the next, they play hide-and-seek on the range. Kate tries to use the uncooperative Cocoa for cow-roping practice in the third adventure, and in the fourth, they explore the highs and lows of the horse-and-rider partnership. The clean lines and buoyant spirit of the watercolor artwork reflect the simplicity and humor of the entertaining text. This is a pleasing choice as either a beginning reader or a picture book to read aloud. Carolyn PhelanCopyright American Library Association. All rights reserved; Title: Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa: Partners | [
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7,235 | 13 | It's market day! Wake up and feed the red rooster and chickens. Get the vegetables ready, and let's go! This market is no run-of-the-mill everyday market. This is a farmer's market created entirely from folk-art objects and textiles. Collected and photographed by Lois Ehlert, these beautiful "primitive" pieces of art are stunning in color and form. A two-page reference guide at the end of the book describes where each object came from, and what it is made of. From Mexico to Africa to the United States to Indonesia, this stunning collection is worth many hours of perusal. The accompanying text, describing the day's journey to the market, and the activities to partake in once there, takes a distant second to the star of the show--the artwork. Cotton-and-yarn mice dolls from Indonesia ride an African motorcycle made from discarded metal containers, wire, bike chain, rubber, and plastic. A painted wood rooster from Guatemala watches over papier-mch vegetables from the U.S. and Mexico. Market Day is a truly stunning picture book, sure to impress and enchant readers of all ages.Caldecott winner Lois Ehlert is no stranger to arts-and-crafts-inspired picture books, as evidenced by her Hands and Snowballs, among many other unique and wonderful titles. (Ages 4 to 8) --Emilie CoulterEhlert (Hands) parades her personal collection of folk art, hailing from countries as diverse as Guatemala, Indonesia and Africa, across crisply designed pages in this exuberant picture book about the vendors and shoppers at a bustling open-air market. A brief, rhyming text describes a family's preparations for a day selling their wares at the local market ("Pull up some carrots./ Shake off the dirt./ Pack the tomatoes./ Tuck in your shirt"). Ehlert's arresting artwork gives this book a distinct south-of-the-border spice: she arranges photographs of dolls, animals, fruit and vegetablesDhand-crafted from such materials as carved, painted wood, pounded tin and woven, dyed fibersDin bright, busy collages on bold, often quilted backgrounds. Each of the unique objects within a scene inspires a sense of wonderment and invites closer inspection. Via art and story, kids are introduced to some of the intrinsic beauty of exotic places like Colombia, Mexico and Peru. A spectacular, tightly arranged two-page photo-catalogue at book's end entitled "Where did they come from? What are they made of?" will satisfy readers' curiosity about the composition and origins of the featured artifacts. Ehlert has indulged her passion for Latin American lore and culture before, notably in Cuckoo/Cuc# and Moon Rope, but readers will surely be glad she has revisited this terrain. Ages 3-7. (May) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Market Day: A Story Told with Folk Art | [
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7,236 | 11 | PW called the "slapstick humor and fast-paced action" of this spin on an old rhyme "a five-alarm delight." Ages 2-6. Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Fire! Fire! Said Mrs. McGuire | [
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7,237 | 2 | "Rylant and Brown together create with affection and lovingly humorous touches a glimpse of old age lived with relish."-Booklist " Rylant and Brown together create with affection and lovingly humorous touches a glimpse of old age lived with relish." -Booklist ; Title: The Old Woman Who Named Things | [
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7,238 | 1 | "Sometimes in the wild, animals you might think could hurt each other actually help each other in surprising ways." Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey provide specific examples of these unusual duos with brief text and humorous pen-and-ink, gouache and watercolor illustrations in Weird Friends: Unlikely Allies in the Animal Kingdom. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.Kindergarten-Grade 3--An introduction to symbiosis. The rhino and the cattle egret, the blind shrimp and its buddy the goby, and the red phalaropes paired with the sperm whale-in all, 14 relationships are described, and many exotic animals are introduced. Certainly, the tuatara and its helpful pal the sooty shearwater will be new to youngsters. The typeface is large and easy to read, and the text is either black or white, depending on the background; pages are awash with color. The pen-and-ink, gouache, pastel, and watercolor illustrations are cartoonlike and kid-friendly, and anthropomorphism is rampant: zebras look puzzled; a shark looks angry; scared mackerels swim toward the safety of home; a hippo looks content to have oxpeckers land on its back, etc. There is a helpful pronunciation guide, and the page on where to find weird friends suggests that one must travel far and wide to locate them. This book fills a niche.Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WICopyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: Weird Friends: Unlikely Allies in the Animal Kingdom | [
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7,239 | 2 | Grade 4-7-This collection of folktales from around the world presents a range of tales that all feature strong women. While the majority of stories (7 out of 13) are European in origin, most are relatively unfamiliar. Only four of the tales, "Atalanta the Huntress," "Fitcher's Bird" (a Bluebeard/Mr. Fox variant), "Burd Janet" (a Tam Lin variant), and "Molly Whuppie," are likely to be recognized by readers. Yolen's retellings are consistently engaging and well written, whether she is dealing with the history of the White River Sioux in "Brave Woman Counts Coup" or "Nana Miriam," a culture hero of the Songhai of Niger. Ample source notes and explanations of Yolen's additions and changes are included as is a thorough bibliography. Unfortunately, the cover painting of a buxom girl on a ship seems much more suited to a "damsel in distress" collection than to these stories that eschew the helpless female. However, the interior illustrations are better.Ellen A. Greever, University of New Orleans, LA Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.The title says it all: this is a spirited collection with a lively pace. Yolen's introduction, written as an open letter to her daughter and granddaughters, and her notes and bibliography frame the collection well. Like a bezel that holds a gem, her beginning and ending pieces remind us that girls know how to be heroes (but that boys need to know it, too) and that every time and culture has stories of female heroes that need to be heard again and again. So Yolen tells tales that may be familiar--among them, Germany's "Fitcher's Bird," related to "Mr. Fox and Bluebeard," in which the young Erna saves herself and her sisters from the clutches of an evil wizard. Other tales will be less well known: in a tale from Romania, Mizilca serves in the sultan's army in her sick father's place; and in a tale from Argentina, Maldonada's kindness to a puma and its cubs saves her. The stories sing and soar in Yolen's supple language, and each is contained enough for a read-aloud. Illustrations not available in galley. GraceAnne A. DeCandido; Title: Not One Damsel in Distress: World Folktales for Strong Girls | [
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7,240 | 2 | “Sure to be a favorite.”—The Horn Book “Just the right amount of coziness.”—American Bookseller“Thoroughly childhood-affirming. A good choice for lap-time sharing.”—Publishers Weekly Mary Ann Hoberman has published more than twenty books for children, including the American Book Award winner A House is a House for Me, illustrated by Betty Fraser. She and her husband live in Greenwich, CT.; Title: The Cozy Book | [
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7,241 | 0 | As life in 1901 Lithuania grows more dangerous for Jewish people, Hannah's family seizes an opportunity to send Hannah to America with her cousin Esther. At age 10, insatiably curious Hannah is more courageous than 14-year-old Esther and must push her through each door that brings them closer to their new life. Along the way the girls encounter a young orphan boy, and together, the three withstand the grueling journey across the ocean in the steerage compartment of the ship. But even after they've laid eyes on the Statue of Liberty, they're still not home free. They spend almost a month on Ellis Island, waiting for their American sponsor to find them, dreading the possibility of being deported before they ever set foot on the mainland. Hannah records her experiences and childlike drawings in a journal her "Papashka" (father) gave her before she departed.Like Marissa Moss's popular Amelia series, this handwritten, fictionalized journal of America's peak immigration years in the early 1900s is tremendously appealing to adventurers and anyone who can trace family ties to another country. Moss is the author of several other titles in the Young American Voices series (Emma's Journal: The Story of a Colonial Girl and Rachel's Journal: The Story of a Pioneer Girl). Her skill in weaving personal tales with real historical information makes reading the journals an education and a delight. (Ages 8 to 12) --Emilie CoulterGrade 3-5-Hannah, 10, is a Russian Jew who leaves home for America with her 14-year-old cousin Esther in 1901. From the start, the journey is fraught with complications. Since Esther was originally supposed to travel with 16-year-old Rivka, who died of influenza, the two girls must assume different identities to match the already obtained passports. After a perilous trip filled with intolerable sanitary conditions, storms, and other discomforts, Esther, Hannah, and their new friend Samuel arrive on Ellis Island only to spend an agonizing month waiting for officials to locate their sponsor. Finally, he is found and they begin their new life in New York. The journal entries have a hand-lettered appearance and are sprinkled with colorful drawings and asides. Children may be confused by the fact that Hannah makes it clear from the start that her ability to read and write both Hebrew and Russian is limited, and she doesn't yet speak or write English. The voice seems to ring true, but whose is it? Despite the fact that the lack of formal schooling that young girls like Hannah had available to them presents a quandary for this type of journal format, Moss does give her readers a real sense of the time in which the protagonist lived.Jane Marino, Scarsdale Public Library, NY Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Hannah's Journal: The Story of an Immigrant Girl | [
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7,242 | 7 | Lots of fun. The New York Times Book Review "This latest book by the inventive and highly literate Mr. Eager is by all odds his best. The characters . . . are so alive they seem to step right out of the pages." Chicago TribuneEDWARD EAGER (1911–1964) worked primarily as a playwright and lyricist. It wasn't until 1951, while searching for books to read to his young son, Fritz, that he began writing children's stories. His classic Tales of Magic series started with the best-selling Half Magic, published in 1954. In each of his books he carefully acknowledges his indebtedness to E. Nesbit, whom he considered the best children's writer of all time—"so that any child who likes my books and doesn't know hers may be led back to the master of us all."  ; Title: Magic or Not? | [
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7,243 | 2 | Looking back from the vantage point of a six-year-old, a boy recalls his favorite thingsAall of which have changed, except his best friend. Ages 4-8. (Aug.) Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: When I Was Five | [
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7,244 | 2 | Kindergarten-Grade 1Reminiscent of Mirra Ginsburgs Mushroom in the Rain (S & S, 1987) and Audrey Woods The Napping House (Harcourt, 1984), this is the cumulative story of many animals all attempting to shelter from the rain in a doghouse. Children will love the hilarious ending when all of the inhabitants hastily vacate after an odiferous intruder tries to squeeze in, too. The marvelously textured watercolor-and-acrylic illustrations convey the feeling of a driving rain, the fur and feathers of the various creatures, and the joy of Rover when his house is once again his sole domain. The repetition of key phrases, the rhythmic text, and the cumulative structure of the narrative make this book an ideal read-aloud. The pictures and text evoke the cozy, warm feeling of curling up for a nap on a rainy day and the unbridled thrill of leaping out into the sun.Tamara E. Richman, Somerset County Library System, Bridgewater, NJ Copyright Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.Fully painted to the edge of the large pages, Dyer's watercolor-and-acrylic illustrations are very casual yet cozy. They effectively accompany Beaumont's take on a familiar motif: generosity can lead to overcrowding. Gentle, obliging Rover allows, first, Cat, and then a succession of other animals to seek shelter from a rainstorm in his doghouse. The crowding increases until Skunk's arrival forces an evacuation--just as the storm is ending. Brief text with a rhymed refrain ("Move over, Rover!") encourages children to join in as the story progresses to the finale--when Rover is finally alone, savoring the fact that his house is once again his own. Adults may want to use this with Jan Brett's The Mitten (1989) and Margot Zemach's It Could Always Be Worse (1976) to help children explore the idea of variation on a theme. John Warren StewigCopyright American Library Association. All rights reserved; Title: Move Over, Rover! | [
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7,245 | 0 | Kindergarten-Grade 3-While Amy's father is fighting in World War II, her mother gets an unusual job to make ends meet: she becomes a professional baseball player. Though at first the girl wonders, "What kind of job is that?" she enthusiastically roots for Mama during games and helps her practice when she can. Amy narrates the story in direct and simple sentences, focusing on the events that affect her and her family. Adler provides basic historical background in an author's note, but appropriately sticks to the child's perspective in this heartfelt narrative. Full-page oil paintings evoke the time and place. Figures and faces stand out nicely against the comfortable olive and brown tones in the background. Broad neighborhood and crowd scenes alternate with closer views of individuals. After a successful season, Mama dresses for a game but takes her daughter to the bus station instead of the stadium where they meet Dad, his uniform as impressive as Mama's. Amy's surprise for her father turns out to be her own drawings of Mama playing baseball. The revelation is not especially dramatic, but it fits just right with the warm mood of the story. The final painting focuses on the three family members enjoying the peace of home.Steven Engelfried, Beaverton City Library, ORCopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Mama Played Baseball | [
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7,246 | 1 | PreSchool-Grade 3AA riotous day ensues as Mrs. Armitage and her little dog go surfing. Waiting for the big wave is boring, hot, and maybe even dangerous so the woman makes frequent trips to shore for a float, sun hats, burgers and dog biscuits, a windsock, flags, a horn, and a spear (in case of sharks). Finally the big wave comesAbut Mrs. Armitage spots a little girl in trouble. Of course, the resourceful surfer manages to snag the girl's swimsuit, rescue her, and get a great ride. After a celebration, its time for another go. Blake's exuberant, detailed, and comical watercolors fill this surfing adventure with fun. A lively choice for a summer storytime, this is a laugh-aloud tale for intergenerational sharingAeven for those who won't be catching waves themselves.AAnne Connor, Los Angeles Public LibraryCopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.Ages 4^-7. After arriving at the beach with a surfboard, Mrs. Armitage and her dog, Breakspear, swim out and wait for the Big Wave. But Breakspear's legs get tired paddling, so Mrs. Armitage swims back to shore to buy him an inflatable island. After more waiting, she decides that they need a hat and an umbrella for protection against the sun, so she swims back to get them. More trips are needed to procure a good stock of provisions, a wind sock, a string of flags, a horn, and a megaphone. When the Big Wave finally comes, they ride it in style and rescue a little girl named Miranda on their way to shore. The sunlit colors of Blake's palette, the carefree informality of his ink drawings, and the mannered formality of Mrs. Armitage's speech make this a treat to read aloud. Children will want to stop and savor the double-page spread showing the wonderful, impossible, inevitable triumph of Mrs. Armitage, Breakspear, and Miranda as they do the Waikiki flip under the curl of the Big Wave. Pair this with M. K. Brown's Let's Go Swimming with Mr. Sillypants (1992) for a wacky story hour. Carolyn Phelan; Title: Mrs. Armitage and the Big Wave | [
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7,247 | 0 | JEANETTE WINTER has written and illustrated many books for children, including MAMA, The Librarian of Basra, Calavera Abecedario: A Day of the Dead Alphabet Book, My Name Is Georgia, and Josefina. She lives in New York City.; Title: Rock-a-Bye Baby | [
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7,248 | 17 | In a starred review, PW called this biography of the first African-American inducted into the National Cowboy Hall of Fame a "rip-roarin' salute to a legendary cowboy." Ages 4-8. (Nov.) Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.“[A] rip-snorting picture-book biography.”—Kirkus Reviews ; Title: Bill Pickett: Rodeo-Ridin' Cowboy | [
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7,249 | 15 | PreSchool-Grade 2-This beautifully designed book celebrates clouds as they appear during the different hours of the day and seasons of the year. Each two-page spread features a few lines of prose on the verso and an illustration encompassing most of the recto. The oil paintings are done in subdued and relaxing colors. Many of them show a small child walking with an adult on a path. The book does not have a lot of action, but would be perfect for quiet and relaxed sharing between adult and child. Factual information about clouds is provided on the last two pages.Sheilah Kosco, Rapides Parish Library, Alexandria, LA Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.Gr. 3-5. This picture book for older children follows Water Dance (1997) in what one hopes will be a long series. It blends Locker's spare, poetic, informative text with his well-known Hudson River school-style landscapes. The strength here, as with many of his works, is the way Locker lets his paintings do most of the talking. Austere lines of text ("High, wispy clouds race in the autumn wind" or "Fluffy summer clouds march in the blue sky") are complemented by art that goes beyond the call of illustrative duty to reveal the wonder and beauty of the sky in different seasons and under various meteorological conditions. The paintings speak eloquently of the complete, seamless quality of the elemental natural world. An informative section at the book's end, entitled "About Clouds," links the beauty to the science. With Locker's immediate stylistic connection to the Hudson River painters, Cloud Dance becomes a successful blend of fiction, science, and art. Tim ArnoldCopyright American Library Association. All rights reserved; Title: Cloud Dance | [
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7,250 | 2 | PreSchool-KA little elephant wonders what he can do with a plain cardboard box. He comes up with all sorts of ideas, transforming the object into a hat, a container for toys, and a hide-and-seek haven. Finally, he decides to make a book box, and the rest of the story provides insight into the limitless possibilities of such a creation. Single- and double-page paintings show the elephant and his small frog friend enjoying the contents of the book box from breakfast to the bathroom to bedtime. The soft illustrations, done in egg tempera, oil pastels, and ink, lend occasional humor to the simple, quiet text. The last page provides instructions for making a book box. An additional purchase.Julie Roach, Cambridge Public Library, MA Copyright Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.; Title: My Book Box | [
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7,251 | 0 | Bold, inventive artwork lends high spirits to Cyrus's (Slow Train to Oxmox) down-and-dirty view of a garden. Full-bleed pictures share the eye-popping scale and dimensionality of David Kirk's Miss Spider books, but the palette is realistic and the action reflects bug behavior. At first the impression is one of enthusiastic chaos. Poems appear without titles but have different narrators; occasionally, words loop around the pages like vines. But ample visual and verbal clues spell out distinct story lines and a temporal setting, progressing from summer to autumn. Early on, snails begin a race ("Give them a holler, a nod, and a nudge..../ Give them a minute, and see if they budge"); they reappear on subsequent spreads until, on the final page, Mrs. Molasses wins--a Pyrrhic victory, as an overripe tomato then falls on top of her ("SPLAT!/ That's that," the book concludes). One standout spread shows what appears to be a branch surrounded by a snake, but a closer look reveals a Katydid atop a walkingstick. Running gags include an overturned beetle who struggles to right himself; and ants who march along, shouting "BOINK" as they bump heads (a joke for budding entomologists who are aware that ants touch antennae to communicate). Many kids will like the gross-out factor in the attention paid to dung beetles as they feast; vegetables as they rot; bugs being consumed; etc. Throughout the seasons, this volume sustains its gleeful bounce. Ages 5-10. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.Gr 2-4-"Once upon a garden rotten,/Twice forlorn and half forgotten-," a variety of beetles, earwigs, and other earth dwellers hid beneath the fetid vegetables, waiting for warmer weather. With a rhyming text and bug's-eye views of the towering vegetation, Cyrus follows insects, snails, frogs, and a snake through their spring awakening and summer foraging. Some of the animals eat the garden plants, some eat other creatures, and then there are the dung beetles: "`Papa, O Papa Bug, what will we eat?'/`It's gummy, it's yummy, it's dung! What a treat.'" The exaggerated size of many of the insects and ocher tones in the crowded pages lend a surreal quality to the scenes. The rolling rhyme features running accounts of several characters. Bummer Beetle is trapped on his back until the odor of Stinkbug finally motivates him to struggle upright. The snails have a race. "Give them a holler, a nod, and a nudge-/Give them a minute, and see if they budge." The garden is a messy melange, and the tone is one of mocking humor. In the end, as fall winds down the eating season, the snake makes a crunchy "munchie" of one of the snails, and a ripe tomato hits the ground, "SPLAT!/That's that." The slapstick account of the seasons runs a bit thin, but some children will enjoy the gross elements of slime and mold and the bug-eat-bug world.-Margaret Bush, Simmons College, BostonCopyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: Oddhopper Opera: A Bug's Garden of Verses | [
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7,252 | 2 | PreSchool-"How does a bunny hug? Snuggle wuggle, snuggle wuggle." Each double-page spread features a different animal and an accompanying nonsensical description of how the babies hug their mothers. Tiger cubs hug "cozy dozy," puppies hug "fuzzy nuzzle," and kangaroo babies, here called kangaroos instead of joeys, hug "Pouchety boing!" Some of the hugs rhyme while others do not. Cartoons colored with Adobe Graphic Software stand out on white backgrounds. While earlier efforts by this author/illustrator team were more successful, this one will still appeal to preschool children, who will enjoy snuggling up for one-on-one sharing.Susan M. Moore, Louisville Free Public Library, KY Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.This bedtime book is fine-tuned to the feelings of young children as well as to the sounds and images that capture their attention. Noting that children and their parents like to hug, the text asks how other animals hug their parents. Each double-page spread features a little animal and its parent, with a short, question-and-answer text such as "How does a chick hug? " Fluffy duffy, fluffy duffy." or "How does a kangaroo hug? " Pouchety boing! boing! boing!" The large-scale, shaded pencil drawings are tinted with solid colors to create strong, clear images of animals and their young. In the last cozy spread, a child and her mother hug each other at bedtime. Observant children will notice that scattered on and around the bed are little stuffed toys representing the 12 animals shown on the previous pages. A comforting book for bedtime reading, just the right choice for the child who needs a hug. Carolyn Phelan; Title: Snuggle Wuggle | [
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7,253 | 7 | "A delicious spoof."  —Saturday Review "A priceless mixture of old and new. . . . May even lure readers who thought they were beyond the fairy-tale age."  —New York Herald Tribune BooksEDWARD EAGER (1911–1964) worked primarily as a playwright and lyricist. It wasn't until 1951, while searching for books to read to his young son, Fritz, that he began writing children's stories. His classic Tales of Magic series started with the best-selling Half Magic, published in 1954. In each of his books he carefully acknowledges his indebtedness to E. Nesbit, whom he considered the best children's writer of all time—"so that any child who likes my books and doesn't know hers may be led back to the master of us all."  ; Title: Knight's Castle | [
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7,254 | 1 | "Ehlert achieves dazzling effects with simple geometric shapes and strong, pure hues," said PW in a starred review. Ages 4-8. Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Mole's Hill: A Woodland Tale | [
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7,255 | 2 | Grade 2-4-Henry is a ghost with problems. After recovering from measles and jaundice, he has several accidents resulting in broken bones. Finally, he falls asleep at night-definitely unghostly behavior. His friends rush him to the hospital where Doctor Ouch sets him right by adjusting his inner clock, which looks like an old wind-up alarm clock. Henry is good as new, except for "one small problem Every once in a while, he rings!" This sophisticated picture book has a European flavor and is more like an illustrated joke than a story. The clever cartoon illustrations are appealing, with bright contrasts against a black background and varying perspectives. The doctor's tools include huge needles and a toolbox full of wrenches, screwdrivers, etc. This will be fun for kids (and adults) who love a joke, and great for reluctant readers.Marlene Gawron, Orange County Library, Orlando, FL Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Operation Ghost | [
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7,256 | 1 | MICK INKPEN's books starring Kipper have sold millions of copies worldwide and have been translated into more than twenty languages. His more recent titles include Kipper's A to Z, a Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year and an ABA's Pick of the Lists, and Kipper and Roly. Mr. Inkpen lives in Suffolk, England.; Title: Arnold;Little Kippers | [
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7,257 | 14 | Anglund's (Christmas Is Love) trademark chubby-cheeked children dot the pages of this small-format holiday anthology. Gathering traditional carols and customs from around the world, along with original poems (plus a recipe for gingerbread cookies), she creates idealized scenes of innocent, old-fashioned festivity, brightly bordered in red and green. Anglund's many fans will be pleased. All ages. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.reS-Gr 2-There may be grandmothers and aunts, remembering these round-faced children with no mouths from the heyday of Anglund's popularity in the 1960s, who will welcome this collection of miscellaneous Christmas lore and customs, some poetry by the author, a recipe for gingerbread, and the lyrics to "Hark! the Herald Angels Sing" and "Jingle Bells." With its small trim size, its place on the first page for the name of the person to whom it is given, and its sentimental illustrations, this looks more like a gift book than a likely addition to library collections. Bookstores will probably carry this title; libraries needn't bother.-V. W.Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: A Christmas Sampler | [
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7,258 | 16 | PreSchool-These four concept books featuring the lovable pup on each page will be sure hits with both toddlers and older children who will recognize Kipper from earlier picture books and the current TV series. In each title, Inkpen presents familiar objects and introduces new vocabulary as well. For example, in Numbers youngsters count frogs, snails, and hedgehogs; in Weather, they are exposed to wind, sunshine, fog, and hail. All of the watercolor-and-ink illustrations are neatly arranged against an ample white background. The minimal text on each page make these offerings perfect choices for lap-sit programs and as "fill ins" between longer stories at preschool storytimes.Olga R. Barnes, Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County, NC Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.Kipper is the creation of award-winning author-illustrator MICK INKPEN, whose books have sold more than five million copies worldwide and have been translated into more than twenty languages. Mick Inkpen lives in Suffolk, England. ; Title: Kipper's Book of Colors | [
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7,259 | 1 | PreSchool-K-Preston's fans and newcomers alike will delight in this, the sixth title about the playful porker and his archenemy. Indefatigable Mr. Wolf yet again stalks the young pig. Instead of finding him, he discovers other members of Preston's family and community. After each encounter, Mr. Wolf appears a little worse for wear until, by the end, he is dazed and covered in bandages. Meanwhile, Preston has been hiding under the flaps and he asks readers not to give him away. Children will enjoy being Preston's accomplice in outfoxing the villain. The flaps are easy to manipulate, but some of the smaller ones might hinder effective group reading. Still, the brief text printed in large, bold type and the simple, bright illustrations combine to make this new episode an enjoyable selection for one-on-one sharing.Marilyn Ackerman, Brooklyn Public Library, NY Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.The nefarious Mr. Wolf is up to his nasty tricks again. This time hes looking for Preston Pig, but hes looking in all the wrong places. Each page has at least two flaps, the less obvious one hiding Preston. As Mr. Wolf looks inside the house, outdoors, down the street, and in the grocery store, lifting the other flap means the villain will find the wrong pig and it seems that these angry pigs are roughing him up out of the view of the reader. In wonderful cartoon exaggeration, his beaten, black and blue, and increasingly bandaged body shows the results as the story progresses. When hes completely battered and befuddled, and about to be trapped in a box, the jaunty Preston Pig gives the reader permission to tell Mr. Wolf where he is. Silly and funny, even the youngest readers will enjoy this peek-a-boo chase as well as being in on the secret. (Picture book. 1-3) -- Copyright © 2000 Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.; Title: Shh! (Don't Tell Mr. Wolf!): A Preston Pig Lift-the-Flap Book | [
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7,260 | 17 | "Inspiring.—The New York Times Book Review "A triumphant story, triumphantly relayed."—Publishers Weekly Text: Spanish (translation) Original Language: English; Title: Wilma sin l¡mites: Como Wilma Rudolph se convirti¢ en la mujer m s r pida del mundo | [
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7,261 | 2 | PreSchool-K-Two youngsters stand outside a fence watching a construction crew perform its many tasks, sometimes stopping for lunch or coffee. They are joined by neighbors and passersby, fathers and children, mothers with strollers, and kids with dogs. Each page has about 10 words of text with one brightly colored letter of the alphabet in uppercase font. Many aspects of the construction work are covered, from "Asphalt" to "Tools," and then readers can enjoy the completed amusement park from "Scaffolds" coming down to the "Z-O-O-M" of the roller coaster. As the work progresses, the change of seasons is reflected in the countryside and in the clothing worn. The full-bleed, naive artwork in bright acrylics depicts the vast scene from many angles, showing a close-up view of a squirrel in a tree or a distant patchwork quilt of a farm, but the construction activities always hold center stage. This is a well-thought-out story that allows children to follow the progression of events. There is a wonderful sense of community as the workers cooperate to get the job done and the neighborhood folks avidly watch at first and then enjoy the finished product. A great choice for individual and group sharing.Marlene Gawron, formerly at Orange County Library, Orlando, FLCopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.JUNE SOBEL is a talented new writer who makes her picture book debut with B Is for Bulldozer. She has a master of fine arts degree in painting from Stanford University and lives in California.MELISSA IWAI has illustrated several picture books, including Chanukah Lights Everywhere, Night Shift Daddy, and Gramps and the Fire Dragon. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.; Title: B Is for Bulldozer: A Construction ABC | [
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7,262 | 0 | As she did in Rabbit Pirates, Cox chooses an amiable eating establishment setting as the setting for this cheerful spoof. Sam's Uncle Clem, an aspiring author, wishes something would happen at his remote Nevada caf? so that he would have something to write about. Yet narrator Sam spots some mighty strange occurrences right under their noses. Just after an enormous, furry stranger whom the duo names Harry arrives for some chow, a TV news crew appears in search of Bigfoot, who has been spotted in the area. Next, a fellow with dark hair "slicked-back and waved up high" pulls up in a 1950s pink Caddy and introduces himself as "El." Mr. C, a jolly, round gent with a big white beard on vacation from his workshop up North shows up next, followed by a pigtailed girl who blows in on a small tornado and announces to her dog, "I don't think we're in Kansas anymore." Sam's oblivious uncle hires them all, still insisting that "nothing ever happens here" each time the reporters return in search of a story. Cox sprinkles her quick-moving if predictable narrative with double entendres and references that range from obvious to waggish ("Must be all shook up," says El after an alien emerges from his crashed spaceship). The Lonesome Caf? doesn't set out to serve up substantial fare, but the light snack it offers will satiate kids with an appetite for shenanigans, and Kidd's black-and-white cartoon art dishes out an extra dollop of fun. Ages 7-10. (Apr.) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.Grade 2-4-Sam moves with his uncle to the middle of the desert for peace and quiet. Uncle Clem is supposed to be a writer, but his severe lack of imagination keeps him from seeing that the Lonesome Caf? he opens employs Bigfoot, Elvis, Santa Claus, Dorothy and Toto, and E. T. It's Sam who recognizes their incredible paranormal good fortune, and Sam who tells the story. It's Clem who inadvertently saves each of the newcomers from being discovered by the persistent Channel 54 News team. While Cox stretches the story idea fairly thin, she succeeds in writing an early chapter book with appeal to more sophisticated older reluctant readers. They'll appreciate the repetition as well as the joke on Uncle Clem. Kidd's plentiful, black-and-white illustrations provide comic relief without looking too childish for the older audience.Pat Leach, Lincoln City Libraries, NE Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Weird Stories from the Lonesome Caf | [
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7,263 | 7 | It's hard for any book with magic in it not to pale next to the Harry Potter phenomenon. However, Seven- Day Magic can just about stoop to the challenge. Five children discover a mysterious red book at the library and eventually they discover that it's writing the story of their own wishful adventures--a story they make up as they go, and then witness coming to life in the red book's pages. Along their way, the children meet a dragon, a wizard, and the baby and little girl from Half Magic, another Eager book. Another adventure starts when the children are transported back in time with grandmother and nearly perish in a blizzard. Disaster almost strikes again when the friends wish themselves at a television rehearsal and it nearly costs one of their fathers his job on a show. The children return the book to the library and wonder who will find it next. Although written nearly forty years ago, Seven-Day Magic has a timeless feel, even if the adventures seem a bit tame by modern standards. 1999 (orig. ) (Children's Literature); Title: Seven-Day Magic Pa (Tales of Magic) | [
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7,264 | 1 | Miles the dog attempts to be on his best behavior during his family's vacation in this uninspiring offering. He helpfully puts up beach umbrellas (three vignettes show him breaking one), "inspects picnic lunches for all four food groups" (he samples the food) and protects children against "harmful UV rays" (he uses up all the sunblock and turns two children green). Castigated, "Miles felt bad. He hated getting in trouble." After more ups and downs, Miles plunges into the water to save a woman from drowning and becomes the hero at a celebratory party. Unfortunately, the internal logic is flawed. Miles slips in and out of his canine nature at the author's convenience: he can play miniature golf, but when he has mishaps on the course he is threatened with a kennel. Minor details are puzzling (e.g., Why does the sunblock turn the children green?). Family members seem to share a single expression whether they look on in glee as Miles digs a sand castle moat or view Miles's various disgraces. Miles comes across as industrious (he makes a good marinade and even flosses his teeth), but many of the illustrations seem uniformly drawn, allowing little room for Miles's joie de vivre or personality to emerge. Ages 3-7. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.PreS-Gr 2-Miles is a truly amazing dog. When he and his family head for a vacation house at the beach, he reviews water safety rules and digs a moat for a sand castle. Before long, however, his helpfulness gets him into trouble with the other vacationers. He accidentally breaks an umbrella trying to set it up in a strong wind, eats another family's picnic lunch (testing it for the four food groups), and turns two children green by applying an entire tube of sunblock. Although he tries to be on his best behavior, helping Mom with the cooking and doing the laundry ("Darks in cold, whites in hot"), he still makes mistakes and feels awful when told that he should be in a kennel. While moping on a beach towel, Miles spies someone in trouble in the water and his quick-thinking and life-saving skills redeem him in the eyes of the vacationers. Cottle's humorous story is whimsically illustrated with watercolors, colored pencil, and ink. While this story is rendered in a similarly playful manner, it is not as humorous as Susan Meddaugh's "Martha" books (Houghton), Michael Rosen's Rover (Doubleday, 1999), and Peggy Rathmann's Officer Buckle and Gloria (Putnam, 1995). Still, Miles will make an appealing addition to most collections.Patti Gonzales, Los Angeles Public LibraryCopyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: Miles Away from Home | [
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7,265 | 15 | With glorious acrylic paintings, Stringer (Scarecrow) shows how, in debut author Ashman's words, "A home's a house, a den, a nest./ A place to play,/ A place to rest./ A place to share,/ A place to hug,/ A home is someplace safe and snug" for a wide range of animals (including humans). Using a palette of deep, smudged hues, Stringer works her heady visual magic in two formats. Most of the illustrations are single-paged, womb-shaped vignettes on white backgrounds; in one picture, a beaver family waits in a cozy stick den for the arrival of father beaver, who swims in a swirled arc of blue-green, tree-fringed water that seems to cradle the home. In double-page spreads, the artist renders a monarch butterfly cocoon close-up, its luxuriant ripeness foreshadowing the being about to burst forth; in another, a sinuous, olive-green snail coyly slides away from view, all the better to display the hypnotic allure of its coppery, spiral shell. "There's no place like home" has been said many times and in many ways, but rarely so convincingly. Ages 2-5. (Mar.) Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreS-Gr 3-Written in verse, this book looks at the many varied and unique dwellings that different creatures live in: "Many places make a home-/A heap of twigs./A honeycomb./A castle with/a tower or two./An aerie with/a bird's-eye view." The various habitats are described in a well-balanced rhythm, as single-page illustrations move to double-page spreads. The short phrases and rhymes make the text accessible to beginning readers. Because the names of the animals are not mentioned, children can try to identify the creatures that live in each place, adding an element of participation to the story. Done in swirling acrylics, the bright and cheerful art provides visual clues to the text and reinforces the message about homes being "safe and snug." This title can be enjoyed as poetry or paired with Mary Ann Hoberman's A House Is a House for Me (Puffin, 1982) as part of a unit on dwellings.-Maura Bresnahan, Shawsheen School, Andover, MACopyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: Castles, Caves, and Honeycombs | [
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7,266 | 2 | Sniffling and coughing through a week at home with a cold, Sage (one who shows wisdom, experience, judgment") misunderstands one of Mrs. Page's vocabulary words in the homework assignment, and the resulting embarrassment in front of her fifth-grade class leaves her "devastated: wasted, ravaged. Ruined: destroyed. Finished: brought to an end." Miss Alaineus is not, as Sage determined in her "defective and delirious" mind, "the woman on green spaghetti boxes whose hair is the color of uncooked pasta and turns into spaghetti at the ends." Sage slumps home after the vocabulary bee fiasco, to her mom's comforting, if seemingly impossible words: "There's gold in every mistake." Fortunately, and as always, mothers know best.Debra Frasier (author-illustrator of On the Day You Were Born) has created a masterpiece of clever wordplay in her hilarious and poignant story of the exquisite pain of schoolgirl mortification. One sentence using vocabulary words from A to Z runs along the bottom or side of each page ("Obliterate me, send me to oblivion--no one could outdo my stupidity"). Not just for word-worms, virtually any kid will identify with the occasionally confusing world of learning, and be reassured by the happy conclusion. Frasier's youthful artwork was inspired by her daughter's fifth-grade desk. "No fancy art supplies; just markers, notebook paper, pencils, glue, and scissors." The result is eminently inviting for grade-school children. (Ages 8 to 12) --Emilie CoulterGrade 3-5-This inventive picture book is a spelling book, a vocabulary book, a game book, and a costume book all rolled into one. Sage, a fifth grader who is home sick, phones a classmate to get her homework assignment. In a big hurry, Starr spells each word out except for the last one. Mistakenly, Sage writes what she hears, Miss Alaineus. When she returns to school, Mrs. Page holds a Vocabulary Bee and gives her the word miscellaneous. Her creative spelling and definition sends the class into gales of laughter, much to Sage's dismay. Resolution occurs 10 days later when she arrives at the Annual Vocabulary Parade dressed as "Miss Alaineus, Queen of all Miscellaneous Things." The student's ability to take her mistake and remake it into a positive experience is a valuable lesson. The text and marker illustrations are detailed and appealing, crammed full of fun ways to promote the study of the English language. There is a hidden-word game on the endpapers, an extra credit assignment using alphabetical sentences on every page, and pictures of Sage's Vocabulary Parade Scrapbook on the last three pages.Karen Land, Greenport Public Schools, NY Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Miss Alaineus: A Vocabulary Disaster | [
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7,267 | 0 | Douglas Florian--creator of Insectlopedia, In the Swim, and other poetic tributes to creatures great and small--turns his unbounded talent for wordplay and shameless punnery to the order of mammals in Mammalabilia. We'll let "The Aardvarks" speak for itself:Twenty-one short, original poems and splendid paintings celebrate (or jovially mock) animals from giraffes ("Rubber necker/ Double-decker/ Cloud-checker/ Star-trekker") to porcupines. The illustrations--painted in gouache on primed brown paper bags--are as tongue-in-cheek as his words; the coyote howls with visible "o's," the otter bathes in a claw-foot tub reading a book called "H20," and the rhebok is sporting sneakers. A pure pleasure for poetry fans and animal lovers alike, Mammalabilia is a welcome addition to the Florian fold. (All ages) --Karin SnelsonLike Florian's Insectlopedia, this collection of 21 short light verse brims with whimsy and fun. He plays with the double A in aardvark ("Aardvarks look better/ By faar in the daark") and the growling R in an ode to the tiger. In "The Bactrian Camel" the entire text of the poem forms the shape of a camel's back: "Mr. Bactrian, a question for you--about your back: one lump or two?" Many of the entries are one-liners--"Some people wear fur coats of lynx./ I/ think/ that/ stynx." More developed verse recalls Ogden Nash ("I state more emphatic:/ An otter's aquatic"). Florian's humor is eccentric, but just right for his target audience. The gouache illustrations painted on primed brown paper bags, full of unusual textures and inventive designs, match the creativity of the word play. The otter lounges in a claw-foot bathtub reading a book titled H2O. Florian specializes in the unexpected. For instance, the rhebok stands in its tennis shoes because its "main/ Claim to fame/ Is its name." The artwork taps into childlike qualities without being simplistic; the animal portraits are clever yet appropriate. An irresistible homage to mammal memorabilia. Ages 5-10. (Mar.) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Mammalabilia | [
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7,268 | 13 | Grossman, a Polish Jew, was forced into the Lodz ghetto at its inception in May 1940. For the next four years, until the ghetto was destroyed, Grossman used his privileges as a photographer for the ghetto administration to covertly take thousands of pictures documenting life in the ghetto. The 17 photographs on these pages show the suffering so copiously described by historians and survivorsAsoldiers march through emptied streets; freighted with bundles and rucksacks, heavily dressed people head toward what is surely deportation; a solitary child clutches a wire fence. They are heartbreaking. But even more wrenching are the photos of less iconic scenes. Readers see a team of workers smiling as they bake Passover matzoh and teenagers laughing at some delicious joke. Unfortunately, Smith, a rabbi and a photographer, is not content to let the photos speak for themselves, and he scripts a brief narrative, delivered as if by Grossman. It is numbingly formulaic ("My own pain does not matter. I must show what the Nazis are doing to my people. My pictures will tell the real story, even if I die"), and although he explains how the photographs survived despite Grossman's death, nowhere does he comment on how he arrived at his text, for instance, if the names he assigns some figures are real. For all his piety, his commentary underserves Grossman's work. Ages 8-up. (Apr.) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.Grade 3-6-This remarkable photo-essay about the Lodz Ghetto in Poland poignantly introduces Holocaust horrors. Grossman was a prisoner there for more than four years, and while his "job" was to take photographs for work permits, he secretly used his camera to record the daily lives of his fellow Jewish residents. The text, written as though Grossman himself were explaining how he took the pictures and commenting on the emotions of his subjects, is simple and lets each picture speak for itself. This technique works well and makes the subject accessible to children. The 17 haunting images are not graphic or physically gruesome, but they do show young boys harnessed to carts, men lining up for bread, and families saying horrible good-byes through chain-link fences. They also show people relaxing on the grass, smiling, and singing-a testament to the undying spirit of some prisoners. As these are personal, secret photographs and not the propaganda pictures so often repeated in history books, their significance is great and they are historically fascinating. The incredible story of how the photos have survived is recounted in an appended note. A truly powerful book.Andrew Medlar, Chicago Public Library, IL Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: My Secret Camera | [
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7,269 | 2 | "Once there was a mud puddle," writes Sierra (Antarctic Antics), "and it was sleepy, it was creepy, it was deeper-than-you'd-think. When something went into that mud puddle, the mud puddle didn't want to let go." Hillenbrand (previously paired with Sierra for Counting Crocodiles) portrays the maniacal mud puddle as a grubby Jabba the Hut. Five different vehicles become stuck in the muck, but fear not: the artwork's comical pacing and perspective reveal the vehicles to be toys, and a nearby brave band of animal preschoolers comes to the rescue, outfitted in rain slickers and carrying "shovels and sand, and rocks and bricks, and rubber bands and Popsicle sticks." Gradually, the rain lets up and the sun pokes out. The soft prettiness of Hillenbrand's full-bleed watercolor-and-ink illustrations provides a soothing counterpoint to the menacing mud puddle and to the action's comic frenzy. Youngsters will instantly recognize their own voices, experiences and indefatigable energy in Sierra's narrative. What's more, they should also find the conclusion deeply satisfying: in a feast of unbridled mud-food making, the heroic preschoolers completely consume the rogue puddle. Ages 3-7.Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.PreS-K-What a wonderful noisy book this is. Outside of the school is a huge, deep, and hungry mud puddle. Along comes the pizza van, "Beep, beep," and "Slurp"-the truck is stuck. The police car, the tow truck, the backhoe, and finally the fire engine come as rescuers but each one is swallowed up by the growing menace. Out of the school come the preschoolers carrying their shovels and pails and dressed in boots and rain gear. They attack the puddle as only preschoolers can, using up all of the mud and freeing the vehicles. They don't stop until the villain disappears. The cars beep and grind and roar and whistle and howl. The mud puddle slurps and glurps. Readers can virtually hear the trumpets shout as the preschoolers tear out of the school and joyfully set to work. The repetition and rhyme carry the story along and the fun doesn't stop until the book is closed. The artwork is perfect. The pizza truck dances along, bouncing confidently through the rain. The mud puddle lies in wait with a big, ugly, menacing face. Even the font shouts when it should. The animal characters are gleeful. And that just might be a sleeping mud puddle face under the wheelbarrow, waiting for the next rain. Make lots of sounds and have everyone join in the fun-children will love this one.-Marlene Gawron, Orange County Library, Orlando, FLCopyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: Preschool to the Rescue | [
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7,270 | 15 | With appealing simplicity, Rockwell (Our Earth) spotlights changes in nature, as a barefoot boy observes the world around him, noting, "Everything is growing, just like me." The lyrical narrative presents examples of natural evolution: "Blue eggs, safe and warm in their nest... will hatch into robins that sing in the grass" and "A speckled cloud with a fish standing guard... will soon be lots of shining silver fish, swimming round and round the pond." Keller's (A Bed Full of Cats) unadorned, boldly colored watercolor and pen-and-ink pictures bring these changes into crisp focus, alternating full-bleed scenarios with close-up shots that zoom in on a caterpillar, pollywogs and an acorn lying on fallen leaves. After viewing the acorn, readers flip the page--and turn the book from a horizontal to a vertical position--to see the boy swinging from the branches of a sprawling oak tree, as he entreats the acorn to "Sprout and spread roots! Stretch your green leaves up to the sky! Grow into a tall oak tree." The volume ends by bringing home an example close to readers: as the narrator addresses his cherubic baby brother, asking him what "will you grow up to be?" and responding, "One day you'll be a big boy--just like me." An amiable introduction to natural growth. Ages 2-5. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.PreS-There are plenty of books on the growth process of living things, but this one will be particularly attractive to the very young. A small boy explores: "Here in the meadow, by the woods and the pond, everything is growing, just like me." Keller's brightly colored, cheerful illustrations show varied plants and animals changing-white blossoms transform into blackberries, a caterpillar turns into a tiger-colored butterfly, black polliwogs become green frogs, and a little acorn develops into a large oak tree. The rhythmical, spare text uses only a few well-chosen descriptive words for each example and the book ends on a satisfying note when the child addresses his infant sibling: "Little baby brother, what in the world will you grow up to be? You'll see! One day you'll be a big boy-just like me." This lovely concept book underlines the continuity of all living things, and is an excellent choice to share with preschoolers in the spring.-Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LACopyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: Growing Like Me (Rise and Shine) | [
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7,271 | 2 | PreSchool-K-Mouse and Mole share a "wee little" life in a "wee little" house, and decide to venture out one dark night through a swamp and wood. Fearful and nervous, the mole relies on the braver mouse to lead them along. Meanwhile, a hungry, impatient bear appears to be waiting for something before he can eat from the full table he has set in his lair. Mole and Mouse become lost and scared, while Bear decides to go out and find what he is waiting for, grumpily approaching the two friends and growling "YOU'RE LATE!" The little creatures are then happily relieved, and readers see that they are the anticipated guests of Bear, who has waited for their visit to share the feast he has prepared. Wheeler has written a menacingly suspenseful romp in scenes alternating between Mouse and Mole's venture and Bear's imposing anger. The wax pencil crayon and watercolor illustrations depict the lair scenes in browns and yellows and the outdoor nighttime vistas in blue greens, and the characters' expressions nicely reflect all the nervous tension. Children will probably not realize that Bates has provided a bit of foreshadowing in the original lair scene showing an abundantly set table. Deliciously scary.Rita Soltan, formerly at Baldwin Public Library, Birmingham, MICopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: One Dark Night | [
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7,272 | 0 | A Few Differences: 1 A Few Differences: 2 A Few Differences: 3 A Few Differences: 4 A Few Differences: 5 A Few Differences: 6 A Few Differences: 7 More Opposites: 1 More Opposites: 10 More Opposites: 11 More Opposites: 12 More Opposites: 13 More Opposites: 14 More Opposites: 15 More Opposites: 16 More Opposites: 17 More Opposites: 18 More Opposites: 19 More Opposites: 2 More Opposites: 20 More Opposites: 21 More Opposites: 22 More Opposites: 23 More Opposites: 24 More Opposites: 25 More Opposites: 26 More Opposites: 27 More Opposites: 28 More Opposites: 29 More Opposites: 3 More Opposites: 30 More Opposites: 31 More Opposites: 32 More Opposites: 33 More Opposites: 34 More Opposites: 4 More Opposites: 5 More Opposites: 6 More Opposites: 7 More Opposites: 8 More Opposites: 9 Opposites: 1 Opposites: 10 Opposites: 11 Opposites: 12 Opposites: 13 Opposites: 14 Opposites: 15 Opposites: 16 Opposites: 17 Opposites: 18 Opposites: 19 Opposites: 2 Opposites: 20 Opposites: 21 Opposites: 22 Opposites: 23 Opposites: 24 Opposites: 25 Opposites: 26 Opposites: 27 Opposites: 28 Opposites: 29 Opposites: 3 Opposites: 30 Opposites: 31 Opposites: 32 Opposites: 33 Opposites: 34 Opposites: 35 Opposites: 36 Opposites: 37 Opposites: 38 Opposites: 39 Opposites: 4 Opposites: 5 Opposites: 6 Opposites: 7 Opposites: 8 Opposites: 9 --Table of PoemsRICHARD WILBUR, one of Americas most beloved poets, has served as poet laureate of the United States. He has received the National Book Award, two Pulitzer Prizes, the National Arts Club medal of honor for literature, and a number of translation prizes, including two Bollingen Prizes and two awards from PEN.; Title: Opposites, More Opposites, and a Few Differences | [
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7,273 | 2 | Grade 1-2-Calliope James scrunches down in her seat when her teacher invites the second graders to bring their grandparents to school to celebrate Grandparents Day. Angry and wishing that she had a grandparent, the child hits on an idea that allows her to introduce her class to her late grandma, Flory Sophia Turnipseed. Young readers in the same predicament can learn from her creative solution. Edwards uses a light touch in portraying Calliope as a sensitive but realistic youngster just trying to fit in. Abundant black-and-white, full-page and spot illustrations, both realistic and fanciful, and done in pen and ink, ink wash, and white paint, make this beginning chapter book an excellent choice for newly independent readers.Pat Leach, Lincoln City Libraries, NE Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.Gr. 2-4. Calliope hopes the announcement her second-grade teacher is going to make is about a field trip. Instead, it concerns the school's upcoming Grandparents Day, when children bring their grandparents to school and introduce them to the class. Calliope, whose grandparents are dead, has no one to bring. Edwards' pen-and-ink art emphasizes Calliope's dejected feelings: snowflakes with frowns float down on the girl, who, in one picture, is shown within a large candy kiss, its tab reading "zero grandmas." It's a photo of her grandma, plainly showing characteristics Calliope inherited from her, that gives rise to a plan. Wrapped in a delicate shawl her grandmother made, Calliope courageously faces her class and tells them about her grandmother, who is right there with her in spirit and memory. Turning her frustration and sadness into triumph, Calliope sets a worthy example for young readers. Color art would have brightened the pages, but the manageable chapter-book text and real-life emotions make this a winning entry in the Jackson Friends Book series. Ellen MandelCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved; Title: Zero Grandparents: A Jackson Friends Book | [
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7,274 | 16 | PreS-These four concept books featuring the lovable pup on each page will be sure hits with both toddlers and older children who will recognize Kipper from earlier picture books and the current TV series. In each title, Inkpen presents familiar objects and introduces new vocabulary as well. For example, in Numbers youngsters count frogs, snails, and hedgehogs; in Weather, they are exposed to wind, sunshine, fog, and hail. All of the watercolor-and-ink illustrations are neatly arranged against an ample white background. The minimal text on each page make these offerings perfect choices for lap-sit programs and as "fill ins" between longer stories at preschool storytimes.-Olga R. Barnes, Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County, NC Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information, Inc.Kipper is the creation of award-winning author-illustrator MICK INKPEN, whose books have sold more than five million copies worldwide and have been translated into more than twenty languages. Mick Inkpen lives in Suffolk, England.; Title: Kipper's Book of Opposites | [
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7,275 | 1 | From the familiar roadrunner and common crow to the exotic quetzal and Andean cock-of-the-rock, this unusual aviary of twenty-one colorful creatures soars with feathery frivolity.Book Details:Format: PaperbackPublication Date: 3/6/2000Pages: 48Reading Level: Age 5 and Up; Title: on the wing | [
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7,276 | 16 | How will Kipper catch the little blue butterfly?; Title: Butterfly (Little Kippers) | [
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7,277 | 2 | Sue Williams lives in Adelaide, South Australia.Julie Vivas lives in Sydney, Australia. ; Title: Let's Go Visiting | [
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7,278 | 2 | This superbly illustrated and tersely relayed retelling of the Greek myth from the team behind Hercules emphasizes Pandora's compulsion to know, rather than to disobey. "Pandora's curiosity about the jar did not lessen./ Oh no, not at all!/ Instead, it grew, like a clinging vine,/ Tighter and tighter around her waking thoughts." Coln pays homage to classical Greek forms in his serene and powerful artwork; the paintings return to Pandora's statuesque proportions and draped garments as faithfully as her thoughts return to the mysterious contents of the magnificent jar. Verdant laurel trees give shade from a hot Greek sun; fine lines etched onto the borders of the drawings resemble the crackling in the glaze of ancient urns. Even the climactic scenes possess a stop-action quality; the restraint of the compositions offers a tantalizing contrast to the force of Pandora's obsession. Some young readers may be put off by the story's eerie development and the gorgons of evil that stream forth from Pandora's jar, but most will be drawn in, willy-nilly, by the hypnotic text and Coln's remarkable work. Ages 5-8. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.Grade 3-5-In retelling the myth, Burleigh concentrates on Pandora's obsession with the forbidden jar (rather than box, here). She tries to distract herself with arts and crafts; she considers the story of Prometheus (painted on the jar) as a warning, but temptation is too strong. The author incorporates the story of Pandora's creation, and emphasizes her courage, so that even her transgression seems daring rather than foolish. And finally Pandora clings, triumphantly, to the hope remaining behind. The text, arranged in lines like free verse, is rhythmic and clear, with short, simple sentences. A list of Greek names helps with identification, though not with pronunciation. The romantic watercolor colored-pencil illustrations have narrow borders and textured grounds. Blues and greens dominate the muted palette. Gently glowing gold highlights suffuse the scenes, whether in- or outdoors, contributing to the iconic flatness of the pictures. A certain stiffness in the figures (and awkwardly drawn feet) hardly detracts from the graceful drama that unfolds, signaled by the cover's silent-scream close-up. This Pandora is tempting.Patricia Lothrop-Green, St. George's School, Newport, RICopyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: Pandora | [
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7,279 | 16 | Kids love to hammer, saw, turn bolts, and build things. But of course real tools are a little too hazardous for those tiny fingers. So Caldecott Honor artist Stephen T. Johnson (Alphabet City) came up with a fun and educational solution: a combination toolbox and book! With its seven sturdy cardboard tools, bolts and screws that really turn, and erasable slate, this handy kit will provide hours of entertainment--and may keep those youngsters out of the grownup toolbox. Each two-page spread features a removable working tool and a different shape to work on. Turn the hand drill in the premade holes in a triangle. Pound pretend nails into a star shape. Cut a piece of "wood" into two rectangles--with a satisfying rasping sound! While they're becoming amateur carpenters, children will learn some basic skills in counting, shapes, and colors; on each colorful background, readers see one piece of paper, two pieces of wood, three holes, and so on up to six nails. This handsome red book includes a pencil, ruler, saw, drill, screwdriver, wrench, hammer, and slate for drawing up plans. Smaller children may need some help prying the tools out of their snug compartments, at least until the tools get a little worn in. (Ages 3 to 6) --Emilie CoulterStephen T. Johnson is an award-winning fine artist who has illustrated many books for children, including Hoops and Alphabet City. The recipient of a Caldecott Honor, he lives in Brooklyn, New York ; Title: My Little Red Toolbox | [
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7,280 | 18 | The folksy, adventurous Oklahoma-born newspaper columnist and celebrated wit who never met a man he didn't like takes center stage in this admiring if impressionistic picture book biography. Oklahoma governor Keating emphasizes Rogers's personality in place of much expository information, quoting him on nearly every page ("They may call me a rube and a hick, but I would rather be the man who bought the Brooklyn Bridge than the man who sold it"). An evocation of Rogers's childhood in Indian Territory, where he learned "to ride and rope as well as any boy or man" and also to love books, abruptly yields to a scene of Rogers suddenly grown up and traveling by plane "everywhere he could" and "always joking and sharing with others the humor and joy of living." Readers are almost certain to want more of an explanation of Rogers's career, but it does not come. Wimmer (Summertime) makes excellent use of both natural and interior light in his realistic oil paintings, capturing the beauty of Rogers's native state as well as his lively spirit. The book design plays up the homey western theme, with linked horseshoes branding bold W's on the endpapers and the text presented as a series of pages pulled out of an old manual typewriter. Ages Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.Grade 2-4-A beautifully illustrated, nicely designed, but flawed book. Wimmer's oil paintings are striking in terms of their realism and their authenticity with regard to time period. In fact, it is only from the pictures that children unfamiliar with (this) Mr. Rogers will know when events take place, as Keating mentions neither dates nor specific occurrences. There are charming touches of whimsicality in the art, such as Will lassoing a puppy's tail. However, there is also a certain lack of sensitivity. In one picture, Will is playing "Cowboys and Indians" with his children, and the youngsters are depicted as stereotypical savages, whooping and attacking with tomahawk and bow and arrow and wearing headbands of feathers. In another instance, the text refers to Will speaking "common sense to common people," accompanied by the only illustration featuring African Americans. Keating's text is confusing and disjointed. Will goes from "ten years or so in school," to flying everywhere he could, and then returning to a previously unmentioned Betty and their four children. The text is littered with oblique statements such as "Will Rogers loved the land.- the land taught him that all men were good-," and is fraught with sentence fragments and questionable grammar and syntax. Although the author quotes liberally from Rogers's own words, the kind of influence the man exerted in his day never emerges, and his most famous appellation of "Good Will Ambassador" is never mentioned. This book does not do justice to this American icon.Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJCopyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Will Rogers: An American Legend | [
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7,281 | 15 | MICK INKPEN's books starring Kipper have sold millions of copies worldwide and have been translated into more than twenty languages. His more recent titles include Kipper's A to Z, a Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year and an ABA's Pick of the Lists, and Kipper and Roly. Mr. Inkpen lives in Suffolk, England.; Title: Splosh! (Little Kippers) | [
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7,282 | 2 | With the breathless energy and campy tone of a comic book, Gammell follows the adventures of an unlikely hero: a young twig named Twigboy. Just as he's about to be gnawed by the Snackerpinchers and the other foul-breathed pests in creepy Weedland, Twigboy is saved by a rolling rock. Moments later, Twigboy returns the favor when he saves the stone from drowning in a slimy swamp. Now fast friends, Twigboy and Rockwell (natch) visit Twigboy's grandparents (decrepit-looking knots of tree roots) for a lunch of Mud Pebble Pie. Then it's off for more excitement, romping through a thunderstorm and heading back to the forbidden Weedland to stir up a surprise for the bugs that live there. As likeable as a slender twig with a face can be, it's hard to suspend disbelief and muster empathy for Gammell's protagonist (essentially an inanimate object with the same Gumby-like expression in spread after spread). As a result, the dramatic moments have little resonance. Regardless of the far-fetched fantasy, readers will enjoy Gammell's spirited pastel and pencil artwork as well as the gleeful ending. His spindly, prickly weeds and craggy rocks set a distinct and wild outdoor scene. The zingy potpourri of color, including electrified splashes of green, red, black and yellow, lend the art a drama and imagination that outdoes the text. Ages 3-7. (May) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreSchool-Grade 1-When a stick called Twigboy finds himself in Weedland surrounded by nasty attacking bugs, he's saved by a falling rock that scatters the pests before plummeting into a swamp below. Twigboy dives in to save the drowning rock, names him Rockwell, and invites his new friend to lunch with his grandparents. Afterward, the two companions are caught in a dangerous thunderstorm but are rescued by a giant mothlike Quailskeeter that flies them to safety and, coincidentally, to the borders of Weedland. Grinning in anticipation, the friends jump into the underbrush to exact revenge on the previously offensive insects. The drippy, gloppy mixed-media illustrations perfectly capture the mucky, slimy, vegetative setting of this offbeat story. Dirt, swamp, branches, and jagged lightning are dramatically rendered and the dreaded Weedland is an eerie tangle of branches and roots. Earthy blues, greens, and browns predominate but occasional splashes of red and yellow add a note of cheer. The grandparents are wonderfully gnarled and even the stony Rockwell has personality. The text is straightforward and the type is bold, with a few sentences per page at most; dialogue is realistic, if rather predictable. The abrupt and somewhat unsettling ending may leave readers wondering about the outcome of the imminent skirmish. A quirky and imaginative adventure story in need of a little pruning.Carol Ann Wilson, Westfield Memorial Library, NJ Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Twigboy | [
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7,283 | 2 | "Zesty and entertaining. The combination of school details, animal classmates, and homage to Raymond Chandler is glib but broadly and sustainedly humorous. . . . Young readers . . . will want to scuttle along with this schoolyard sleuth." -The BulletinTHE MYSTERY OF MR. NICE"Green-scaled gumshoe Chet Gecko hits his stride in this hard-boiled follow-up to The Chameleon Wore Chartreuse . . . Hale throws in wisecracks by the handful, terrible jokes . . . , and daffy clues. . . . Hold on to your fedoras: this gecko's going places."-Kirkus ReviewsBruce Hale is the author of five picture books as well as the Chet Gecko mysteries. A popular speaker, teacher, and storyteller for children and adults, he was awarded a Fulbright grant in 1998 to teach stroytelling and to study folklore in Thailand. He lives in Honolulu, Hawaii.; Title: The Chameleon Wore Chartreuse: A Chet Gecko Mystery | [
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7,284 | 1 | In a starred review, PW called McDermott's retelling of a Native American tale describing the birth of the sun "crisply elegant. McDermott adds to the folktale bookshelf a work in the grand tradition." Ages 4-8. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.star “Amusing and well-conceived.”—School Library Journal (starred review)star “Elegant...masterfully executed.”—Publishers Weekly (starred review)“Mr. McDermott is not only a picture-book artist of the first rank, but also one of our most gifted retellers of myth and folk tale.”—The New York Times Book Review; Title: Raven: A Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest | [
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7,285 | 1 | McGrory bases her spirited debut on the true story of the world's first free-flying balloon flight, masterminded in 1783 by Joseph and Etienne Montgolfier near the palace of Versailles. Each day, Mouton, a sheep living on the Montgolfier farm, gazes longingly on the brothers' drawings of flying machines and declares, "Someday I'm going to fly." Then one day the farmers load their wagon with the drawings and materials to construct a flying balloon. They also pack the rooster, as one brother, in one of McGrory's clever handwritten asides, queries, "C'est mon d?ner?" The sheep and duck surreptitiously follow the wagon to Versailles and, after reaching the palace grounds, the animals hide in a large basket, which turns out to be the base of the flying balloon. The brothers decide to let the three creatures test the balloon ("If the animals can fly, we'll know it's safe!") and Mouton's "impossible dream" comes true. McGrory's watercolors make less of an impact than her text, in part because her palette often seems washed out. She incorporates period details and her animals frequently sport endearing expressions, but her compositions aren't always sufficiently filled in or framed to show off these strengths. On balance, however, the book offers a diverting mix of fact and fancy. Ages 3-7. (Apr.) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.Kindergarten-Grade 2-When the Montgolfier brothers were experimenting with hot-air balloon flight in 1783, their first passengers were supposedly a sheep, a rooster, and a duck. If the animals survived, the men would know that the air in the sky was safe to breathe, and they could begin manned flights. McGrory has used this historical tidbit as the basis for her own flight of fancy. Mouton the sheep longs to fly, and spends hours examining the sketches the Montgolfiers leave in the barn. Canard, the duck, echoes her enthusiasm, but Cocorico, the rooster, is skeptical, insisting "sheep are not made to fly." The animals follow the brothers and their balloon to the palace of Versailles for its demonstration flight before Marie Antoinette. There, they are thrust into a basket and launched. The flight is successful, the animals are ecstatic, and the queen rewards them for their bravery. Unfortunately, the characterizations are flat, and as McGrory's focus is primarily on the passengers rather than on the unique brothers or the excitement surrounding this historically significant flight, the story remains grounded as well. The watercolor illustrations are pleasant but unexceptional. For a fun read about an animal and a hot-air balloon, stick with Mary Calhoun's Hot-Air Henry (Morrow, 1981).Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Mouton's Impossible Dream | [
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7,286 | 2 | Boris the pirate is as mean, greedy and scary as they come. But when his parrot dies, he mourns like anyone else. Ages 4-8. Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Tough Boris | [
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7,287 | 2 | Altoona Baboona is back in Janie Bynum's follow-up, Altoona Up North. This time around, the heroine and her friends leave their desert "dune-a" and visit Auntie in "north Saskatoon-a." Lighthearted watercolors depict the action-packed plot as Auntie leads her entourage on a surprising voyage. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.reS-Gr 3-"Altoona Baboona/gets mail on her dune-a./Her dear aunt is lonely/in north Saskatoon-a." So she and her friends, Raccoon-a and Loon-a, leave their seaside home and travel via hot-air balloon to the frigid north. When they arrive, Auntie takes them ice fishing and they enter a dogsled race, before branching out to explore farther afield. They find themselves heading south over land, and eventually fly the last leg back home to Laguna Beach. This is a delightfully rhythmic and charming story. The appealing illustrations, done in digital pen and ink and watercolor, are animated and amusing. Told in kid-friendly language, the tale makes a fun read-aloud and invites readers to chime in on the rhymes.Wanda Meyers-Hines, Ridgecrest Elementary School, Huntsville, ALCopyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: Altoona Up North | [
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7,288 | 2 | PreSchool-Grade 2Rhyming text and large watercolor-and-pencil-crayon illustrations tell the story of Farmer Dale, his old red truck, and animals on their way to a talent show in town. An accommodating dog, the farmer stops to give everyone a lift, no matter the creature's disposition or size. First he meets a bossy cow who demands that he "Mooove over!" Next to join them is a singing sheep, and then a skating pig and an accordion-playing goat. At last the load proves too much for the old pickup. The commotion over what to do is settled when Bossy Cow jumps behind the wheel and Farmer Dale pushes the overloaded vehicle. Eventually everyone helps, and the bovine admits that Farmer Dale should steer. Once again the loaded truck rumbles on down to town. With quick brush-and-pencil strokes, the illustrations portray the not-always-flattering human characteristics of the animals, painting additional humor into the story. Particularly revealing is the spread showing the arguing animals crowding next to the thoughtful Farmer Dale. This book will entertain children both at storytimes and one-on-one. Carolyn Janssen, Children's Learning Center of the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH Copyright Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.PreS-Gr. 1. The cozy "always room for one more" theme never seems to get old, and Wheeler's jolly, rhythmic text sets a fine pace for the story of Farmer Dale's truck that takes a cow, sheep, pig, and goat on board before it breaks down: "Farmer Dale's red pickup truck / stood stranded in the road. / 'It seems you have a problem,' / a cocky rooster crowed." Indeed. Fortunately, all the animals pitch in and get the truck moving again: "The pickup bounced and shimmied. / It groaned and squeaked and wheezed. / It spit a thankful cloud of smoke / and started with a sneeze." Farmer Dale eventually makes it into town with his load of hay--and the talent contest banner on the last page explains what all the town-bound farm animals were doing with accordions, skates, and the like. Bates' expressive, action-packed watercolor illustrations of the overloaded rig recall those of the popular Sheep in a Jeep series, and youngsters may be equally captivated by this familiar, cheerful ride. Karin SnelsonCopyright American Library Association. All rights reserved; Title: Farmer Dale's Red Pickup Truck | [
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7,289 | 2 | Raves for Chet GeckoThe Chameleon Wore Chartreuse "Zesty and entertaining."--The BulletinThe Mystery of Mr. Nice"Hold on to your fedoras: this gecko's going places."--Kirkus ReviewsFarewell, My Lunchbag"Fodder for budding criminologists and stand-up comedians. . . . Sassy."--School Library JournalThe Big Nap"Fast-paced suspense and snappy dialogue. . . . A choice series for reluctant readers."--BooklistThe Hamster of the Baskervilles"The zany text reads like a mixture of stand-up comedy, Raymond Chandler mysteries, old films, and a fourth grader on an overdose of sugar."--School Library JournalBRUCE HALE is the author of five picture books as well as the Chet Gecko mysteries. A popular speaker, teacher, and storyteller for children and adults, he lives in Santa Barbara, California.; Title: The Hamster of the Baskervilles: A Chet Gecko Mystery | [
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7,290 | 2 | This spare tale of two brothers, one terminally ill, sounds familiar but is uncommonly moving. The boys revel in the freedom that summer brings until the younger falls ill on the Fourth of July and quickly grows worse. "Joey was leaving," says the older brother, who narrates. "It was clear as the rain that stung his window that summer." As the boys struggle to come to terms with their grief, their grandmother teaches Joey how to quilt. He pieces together scenes of all the things he has cherished, from his dog, Spoon, to lightning bugs, baseball and country roads. In the end, it's up to his older brother to fit in the last piece as Joey's bereaved family and friends come together to finish the quilt and say good-bye. Johnston's (Amber on the Mountain) words are freighted with poetry and emotion: the grandmother's needle "flicked in and out, a fish, slim and silver"; silence seems "sweet and wide as sleep." Moser (When Willard Met Babe Ruth) supplements masterly watercolors, which depict the present tense, with album-style black-and-white "snapshots" of the two boys at various stages in childhood (these are sketched on gray paper and highlighted with white chalk). Every element, visual and verbal, is certain to tug at the heart. However, this may be best suited for kids with some exposure to loss. Ages 6-9. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.Kindergarten-Grade 6-With "hoots and shouts," two brothers celebrate the delicious freedom that comes with the end of school and the beginning of summer. "-[O]ver the porch, over the lawn, down the hollows. Joey and I ran like there was no tomorrow." Their simple joy is short-lived when the Fourth of July finds Joey suddenly and terminally ill. His brother narrates this personal and powerful story of loss, with eloquent simplicity. "I learned a lot that summer. How to grin with your heart in shreds. How to make a bed with your brother in it, your brother still as a whisper." When Joey loses his hair, his brother shaves his own head in support. When Joey can't sleep, Gram teaches him to quilt, and together they sew the story of his young life. Text and illustrations work in seamless harmony. Moser's full-page, graphite portraits framed in white are reminiscent of still photographs meant to be treasured. Full-color illustrations are used sparingly, capturing pivotal moments of heartbreaking sorrow and joy-the day Joey's "Boisterous, roisterous friends" appear to sing their hope and the day his brother whispers "Good-bye." Moser's dedication reads: "For all the courageous people who care for terminally ill children, with my deepest respect and admiration." A noteworthy tribute, not to be missed.Alicia Eames, New York City Public SchoolsCopyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: That Summer | [
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7,291 | 1 | JOYCE DUNBAR has written more than fifty books for children, including The Very Small and This Is the Star. She lives in Norwich, England.; Title: Ten Little Mice | [
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7,292 | 0 | "We are to ascend the Missouri River with a boat as far as is navigable and then to go by land, to the western ocean, if nothing prevents."With these words from one of the members of Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark's Corps of Discovery, the men embark on their fateful journey. Encountering danger, hardship, and excitement along the way, Lewis and Clark carry out their plan of attempting to bring peace to the various Indian nations while exploring the western part of the continents. One of the most important moments on this great expedition comes when they meet Sacajawea, a Shoshone woman who becomes translator, peacemaker, caretaker, and guide--and an invaluable member of the Corps.Told in alternating points of view by Sacajawea and Clark, this historical novel will rivet every reader, history buff or not. Including excerpts from Clark's and Lewis's journals as well as traditional Shoshone tales, the often-humorous, always compelling story inspires, educates, and entertains. Joseph Bruchac has written more than 60 books for children and adults, and received many literary awards, including the PEN Syndicated Fiction Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Native Writers' Circle of the Americas. (Ages 13 and older) --Emilie CoulterBruchac's (The Arrow Over the Door) intimate novel about Lewis and Clark's epic Western exploration unfolds through the alternating voices of Sacajawea, their Shoshone interpreter, and Clark. Sacajawea's now-grown son, Pomp (Jean Baptiste Charbonneau), introduces the two narrators, explaining that Shoshone custom dictates that "one can tell only what they have seen"; since he was not yet born at the beginning of the adventure, he recounts the tale as it was told to him. Sacajawea's chapter follows, opening with a creation tale of the "great flood"--each of her chapters begins with either Shoshone tales or those of other tribes the crew encounters, and many function as cautionary fables; relevant journal entries introduce Clark's chapters. This framing device results in a few contrived references in the narrative (e.g., "The fur trade, Pomp, can make a brave man rich or cost him his life," says Clark), and the assumption that Pomp already knows the story occasionally diminishes the suspense. But Bruchac builds the alternating chapters chronologically and keeps the pace moving. Both narrators recount intriguing cultural nuances; for example, when a deserter from the expedition is recovered, the Otoes Indians plead the white man's case, arguing that it would be better to kill him than humiliate him with a public whipping. The greatest strength of the novel, however, is Sacajawea's voice, enhanced by the lyrical repetition of traditional storytelling ("It was the Moon when the Leaves Fall from the Cottonwoods," she recalls of the day she first sees Lewis and Clark). The author adheres closely to journals kept by members of the expedition, creating characters who are both lifelike and compelling, at a fascinating juncture in history. Ages 12-up. (Mar.) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Sacajawea | [
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7,293 | 11 | Drawn from a Native American legend, this story follows the migration of an overpopulated tribe via a miraculous bridge. PW's starred review called it "collaborative storytelling at its best." Ages 4-8. (May)n Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc."A shining example of economy and elegance of text, originality of interpretation and dazzling illustrative technique....Collaborative storytelling at its best."—Publishers Weekly "Enthralling."—San Francisco Chronicle "Dynamic pictures and an unusual story set this volume apart from the familiar run of Native American tales."—School Library Journal ; Title: The Rainbow Bridge | [
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7,294 | 0 | Grade 1-4-An enjoyable tale of a Cajun Tom Thumb, perfectly paired with Catrow's lush watercolor paintings. In a classic story of a triumphant underdog, Little Pierre is disparaged as a "runt" by his four older brothers but, of course, he is ultimately the one who figures out how to rescue Marie-Louise and effect the whole group's escape from the Swamp Ogre. San Souci may have done plenty of homework, referring to nearly a dozen sources he cites, but his use of dialect is inconsistent. The illustrations are superlative. Starting with the cover plate, Catrow's dense blending of color evokes the sticky humidity of the swamp scenes, with enough detail buried in the foliage to invite and reward close examination. The whimsical caricatures of Pierre and his brothers effectively portray their personalities and emotional reactions throughout the adventure, and the Swamp Ogre is perfectly disgusting and monstrous.Sean George, Memphis-Shelby County Public Library & Information Center, Memphis, TNCopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.ROBERT D. SAN SOUCI is a renowned storyteller whose folktale retellings include The Talking Eggs and The Faithful Friend, both Caldecott Honor and Coretta Scott King Honor books. He lives in San Francisco, California. DAVID CATROW is an award-winning political cartoonist and the illustrator of many acclaimed books for children. He lives in Springfield, Ohio.; Title: Little Pierre: A Cajun Story from Louisiana | [
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7,295 | 0 | Mr. Putter and his fine yellow cat, Tabby, both getting on in years, love going to the tropical fish store. Mr. Putter owned goldfish as a boy, and Tabby loves watching the fish because it makes "her whiskers tingle and her tail twitch." When the pair decides to bring home three fish one day, neither one of them is aware that, well, how shall we put it delicately... Tabby has a "fish problem." Each evening Tabby wants to go to bed, she needs to go to bed, but she can't drag herself away from the fishbowl. Day and night she finds herself batting the bowl, twitchy and dazed, in spite of Mr. Putter's gentle admonitions. After failed attempts to cover the bowl with a pillowcase and a bucket, Mr. Putter finally decides to find a new home for his goldfish and finds a willing beneficiary in his neighbor Mrs. Teaberry and her good dog, Zeke. Will Zeke turn out to have a fish problem too, or is this happily ever after for the goldfish?Cynthia Rylant and Arthur Howard's series about the lovable Mr. Putter and his skittish cat, Tabby, is a terrific boon for early readers. Howard's detail-rich illustrations of these utterly charming characters perfectly complement Rylant's humorous, entertaining, and very readable stories. Kids will love reading these beginning chapter books, which include Mr. Putter & Tabby Pour the Tea and Mr. Putter & Tabby Toot the Horn. (Ages 4 to 8) --Emilie CoulterK-Gr 2-Another charmer about Mr. Putter and his cat. In this story, the man buys three goldfish, only to find that Tabby has a "fish problem." The feline is mesmerized and can't keep away from them. He bats playfully at the bowl and even sneaks under the pillowcase used to cover it. Ultimately, Mr. Putter gives the new pets to his neighbor and all is well once again. This easy-reader combines an interesting story with expressive illustrations that provide plenty of picture clues. Through short, simple sentences, Rylant creates strong, believable characters that youngsters will want to get to know. They'll enjoy this installment and look for other books about this engaging pair.-Anne Knickerbocker, Cedar Brook Elementary School, Houston, TXCopyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.; Title: Mr. Putter & Tabby Feed the Fish | [
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7,296 | 13 | Starred Review. PreSchool-Grade 2–When Mama catches her son "paintin' pictures on the floor/and the ceiling/and the walls/and the curtains/and the door," she sticks him in the tub and declares, "Ya ain't a-gonna paint no more!" Fresh from his bath, the child rescues his hidden supplies and says, "So I take some red/and I paint my…/HEAD!" Subsequent rhymes move from neck down to feet as he adds gobs of color to different areas. Since the last word of each verse comes on the following page, readers get the satisfaction of completing the anticipated rhyme and seeing each newly painted body part with each page turn. Catrow splashes color all over, uses white space cleverly, and includes playful flourishes, such as a marching row of ants on the boy's arm and Easter egg designs on his leg. Elongated figures and exaggerated expressions match the silly tone of the story, and the concerned dog who observes the antics is particularly amusing. With rhymes that invite audience participation and scenes that draw the eye, this is a strong storytime choice. Based on the song "It Ain't Gonna Rain No More," the rhythmic text can be read or sung with equal effectiveness. In a mischievous conclusion, when readers think that the boy has painted everything, he finishes with, "But I'm such a nut,/gonna paint my–/WHAT?!" Fortunately, he's out of supplies and winds up back in the bathtub.–Steven Engelfried, Beaverton City Library, OR Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.Karen Beaumont is known for her lively and celebratory picture books, including I Like Myself! and the New York Times best-seller I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More!, both illustrated by David Catrow, as well as No Sleep for the Sheep!, illustrated by Jackie Urbanovic, and Wild About Us!, illustrated by Janet Stevens. She lives in Northern California. For more information, visit www.karenbeaumont.com.; Title: I Ain't Gonna Paint No More! (Ala Notable Children's Books. Younger Readers (Awards)) | [
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7,297 | 2 | The companion book to Elise Primavera's much-celebrated Auntie Claus, Auntie Claus and the Key to Christmas, gives Sophie Kringle's younger brother, Christopher, a turn in the starring role. Finally, Chris will learn the Kringle family secret--that his great-aunt Auntie Claus, inhabitant of penthouse 25C of New York City's Bing Cherry Hotel, is Santa Claus's older sister! When Chris overhears someone say that only babies believe in Santa Claus--and then repeats the rumor!--he is immediately summoned by Auntie Claus for tea, marmalade cake, and a talking-to. During teatime he learns of the PRUNES--Parade Rainers United National Elite Society (people who would dare to say there's no Santa) as well as the B-B-and-G List (Bad-Boys-and-Girls) that Santa makes each year. Taking it all with a grain of salt, Chris decides to use the scientific method: he'll behave so boorishly that he'll get on the List--if he still gets presents, he'll know it's all a hoax. Sophie attempts to demystify Christmas for him once and for all, sending him up in a magical elevator to the North Pole where he discovers (1) he made the List, (2) PRUNES exist, and (3) Santa exists. Sharing some of the smart-alecky humor of Jon Scieszka's Time Warp Trio series (Ozzie and Pam Spam are on tour promoting their new book We're Geniuses and Yer Not!, for instance), Auntie Claus then dashes the comparison with a sweet-as-cherry-pie maxim--"the best things are invisible"--which also happens to be the key to Christmas. Once again the whimsical, grand, richly colored paintings steal the limelight in this o'er complicated holiday tale. Still, those enchanted by the first Auntie won't want to miss it. (Ages 6 and older) --Karin SnelsonSanta's big sister is back! This time, Auntie Claus's grand-nephew Christopher Kringle is front and center, wreaking havoc at the Bing Cherry Hotel when he repeats the rumor that Santa doesn't exist. Summoned to his great-aunt's penthouse suite, Chris learns of the "B-B-and-G List" (bad boys and girls), and arranges to get himself onto it in order to get to the bottom of the family secret. While the plot is overwrought in places, it's great fun nonetheless, with Auntie Claus's larger-than-life presence presiding over Primavera's vibrant, richly saturated gouaches and pastels. Ages 5-8.Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.; Title: Auntie Claus and the Key to Christmas | [
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7,298 | 1 | PreSchool-- "Plees come to my birthday party tomoro at 12 o cloc don't be lat" read Kipper the dog's invitations to his friends. But he gets so tired preparing for the celebration that he decides to deliver his invitations the next day. When nobody comes to his party, he eats his cake himself, falls asleep, and is awakened by a knock at the door--his guests have arrived--a day late. After some confusion, his friend Tiger explains, " 'Your birthday must have been tomorrow the day before yesterday . . . So yesterday it would have been today , but today it was yesterday." (This explanation may tend to confuse adults as well as children!) All is resolved happily when Kipper unwraps his presents, and the party begins. Kipper and his friends are depicted with humor and personality. The pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations are lively, and the layout is pleasing. The question is, who's the book's audience? It is debatable whether preschool children will understand the point, and first and second graders will find it too simple in story line. Don't give up on other "Kipper" stories, but skip this one.- Judy Constantinides, East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library , LACopyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.Last seen in an imaginative counting book (Kipper's Toybox, 1992), the appealingly flop-eared little dog is back with a satisfying variation on the old birthday-party-confusion theme. Kipper's busy with preparations for his own party, with uncertainties that mostly turn out fine--the cake that's flat going into the oven, for example, slowly becomes ``a sort of heap, but it smelled good.'' But the party invitations, delivered the day after they're written because Kipper is tired from his labors, refer to ``tomoro.'' Result: a mystified pup comforts himself with cake and then gets a sort of unintentional surprise party the day after his birthday. Just right for small people intrigued by the concepts of ``yesterday'' and ``tomorrow''; illustrated in Inkpen's clean, affectionately comical style. (Picture book. 3-7) -- Copyright 1993, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.; Title: Kipper's Birthday | [
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7,299 | 2 | PreSchool-Two young squirrels gather food while three children prepare for backyard camping. Verses count objects from 1 to 10, and then back down again, with no music included for this "lullaby." Full-spread oils on canvas show a green, woodsy area from a variety of angles. Some of the objects to be counted are very small, and not all of them are immediately or easily identified. Some items are partially off the page, and in one line readers will have to use their imagination to find three kisses. Much better counting books and bedtime stories are available.Kathleen Simonetta, Indian Trails Public Library District, Wheeling, ILCopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.PreS-K. From morning to nightfall, two young squirrels and three young boys find lots to see and do in the backyard. The squirrels enjoy climbing fir trees for pinecones and foraging for crumbs from the boys' snack; the boys have a tent and sandbox to play in as Mother sits comfortingly nearby in the garden. After the busy day, it's bedtime--boys snug in their tent and the squirrels in their tree, all under a full moon. Along the way, children can practice counting 1 to 10. Gentle prose counts up and then down in descriptive rhyming couplets, employing familiar images ("Seven dump trucks filled with sand, / Eight bumblebees make a band"), generally nicely depicted in softly rendered, realistic oil paintings. The day begins and ends with "One wide sky," initially a sweeping vista. Children will like the number practice, the cartoonishly expressive squirrels' antics, and the familiar activities of a pleasant day outdoors. Shelle RosenfeldCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved; Title: One Wide Sky: A Bedtime Lullaby | [
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