A Tuesday Story

Clever Jack Takes the Cake

2010-11-23T12:48:00.002-07:00

Clever Jack Takes the Cake

Written By: Candace Fleming
Illustrated By: G. Brian Karas

I have mentioned that great books jump into my library pile all the time while I am there, but I have not perhaps mentioned how often it is me that is helping them jump and not my children, have I? It's true, my kids gravitate towards Scooby Doo, Avatar, Barbie (ugh) and other books that they seem to enjoy, but I do not! I admit it, some of these books just seem pretty uninteresting. How do I handle this? I am not going to say I am an expert, in fact this is a topic I consider often: how do I teach my kids to find quality books? (What do you do?) I think that when visiting the library it's important to let them have choice and choose books they are drawn to, in fact I consider this paramount. Sometimes, with careful choosing, my kids choose books we both consider to be perfect for them (and for me as a read-aloud parent!) but this is not always the case. While it's true that the value of a book is in the heart and mind of a reader, and I dearly believe this to be true, (even if they are about cartoon characters), I dislike my kids to miss out on these higher-quality books I know they will enjoy as well. There are so many of them! What do you do? My simple conclusion is that I simply allot a number of books I get to choose from the children's section also. I love this. In this great age of children's books of great number and high quality, it is a joy. And do you know what? My kids typically like these books as much or more than the ones they choose. (I think you can guess why). At any rate, Clever Jack Takes the Cake is one of those jumping books because, sometimes, I think I can judge a book by its cover.

Clever Jack gets invited to a birthday party for the princess, who is turning 10. He is thrilled! However, his mother points out that they have no present fine enough for a princess! As it continues throughout the book, Jack is neither put out nor sorry, rather he is resourceful and looks on the bright side of things. He trades some things he does have for ingredients to make a beautiful and rich cake fit for a princess! On his way to the party the next day, some unfortunate events happen. I love Jack's ability to notice what is still good in the situation each time, and make the best of it, and this he does. By the time he reaches the castle and the beginning of the line to give his gift he has none left. Although the princess lacks some qualities, she recognizes the value in Jack's real present immediately and we can hope that in their fast friendship Jack does her some good. Although I would like to have seen this ending fleshed out a bit, my daughter and I found lots to like about this book. I noticed things to point out and talk about, but will do so especially on an additional reading. The illustrations in this book are just to my liking, especially, once again such a lovely choice of colors. So nice! Don't miss this fun and sweet story, let it and many more books of quality jump into your library pile as well. :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Two Old Potatoes

2010-11-16T07:00:00.002-07:00

Two Old Potatoes and Me

Written by John Coy
Illustrated by: Carolyn Fisher

What a sweet book! This is another of the books that flew into the library pile because it looked so interesting, and it is. I think we can all relate to the girl and her father in this book because, haven't you found a potato in your cupboard that began growing? Oh, well I have! The little girl immediately calls out GROSS and tosses the potatoes into the trash. Her father rescues them, and together they plant these two old potatoes and watch them grow together into many more than two. Finally, father and daughter enjoy mashed potatoes together--and you can too since there is a recipe at the the end. Extending the story in this way is a favorite of my children! Yum!

I love that this book shows a sweet relationship between father and daughter working together for an end product. The illustrations in this book are very different and quite colorful and fabulous, very fun to look at. I hope come spring we find two old potatoes of our own. I would love to give it a try.

Milly and The Macy's Parade

2010-11-02T07:00:00.008-06:00

Milly And The Macy's Parade
Illustrated by Brett Helquist

Happy November! Although I'm still picking up Halloween candy wrappers, my holiday-loving daughter is wondering already, "What holiday is next mom?" Thanksgiving! I just love Thanksgiving, and despite my daughter's efforts to convince me that it would be fun for her to give gifts that day, this is precisely one of the reasons I love this holiday. Simple gratitude is all that is required! I love working together to prepare a feast, and the joy of just being together with family.What a great holiday! In celebration of this upcoming day, I am sharing with you a very sweet picture book called Milly And The Macy's Parade.

Milly came to America from Poland, and since she became accustomed to her new home, she has grown quite fond of it. She especially loves to wander through Macy's department store--the glamorous and glittery place of her father's employment. Although her mother is learning to find some Polish foods, and appreciating a few new ones, and her father is learning more English words, they are still homesick for Poland, especially near holidays. Milly gets a great idea and convinces Mr. Macy himself that a parade is in order. Indeed it is and it warms the hearts of the immigrants and helps them find their new American holidays nearly as comforting as their old ones.

This sweet story is fictional but based on some truths about the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and the America of 1924. The text has nice vocabulary and an appealing storyline, and illustrations by Brett Helquist are magnificent. This is a sweet and interesting story. I can't wait to point out this famous parade to my children on Thanksgiving day. For me, once again, a little bit of history goes a long way.

Make sure you haven't missed Brett Helquist's beautiful illustrations in another of his delightful books: Roger, the Jolly Pirate!

M is for Mischief

2010-10-12T07:00:00.011-06:00

M IS FOR MISCHIEF: An A to Z of Naughty Children

Written by: Linda Ashman
Illustrated by: Nancy Carpenter

So you think your kids are naughty sometimes? Well, trust me, they are not! The poems in this book, one for each letter, are about the most mischievous kids you can imagine. Even your own kids won't believe it! This book is a fun anthology of poems arranged by letter and with vocabulary emphasized by letter as well, each with very very unbelievably horrifically ~~mischievous~~ naughty children! (So naughty mostly I think your kids wouldn't dare to copy them!) :) A fun book obviously with letter value, high interest factor for kids, and rich and different vocabulary. Mischievous!

Red Sings from The Treetops: A Year in Colors

2010-10-05T07:00:00.004-06:00

Red Sings From The Treetops: A Year in Colors

Written by Joyce Sidman
Illustrated by Pamela Zagarenski

Poetry can be such a sweet but elusive thing to me. I am not a well-read when it comes to poetry, but each time I read it, I love it! As a reader, I am accustomed to reading quickly; understanding. Poetry makes me slow down, and think a little more; sometimes a lot more. That is what makes it so refreshing and worthwhile. I know this about myself and poetry, and I see the same thing with my children, and so Red Sings from Treetops: A Year in Colorssat waiting in my book pile for a bit before I was ready to slow down enough to read it. When I did--I loved it! LOVE!

The book is what it claims to be: a year in colors. Starting with Spring and ending with Winter you travel through the seasons with colors, and you see them all the while through words as well as pictures. Oh, the art! The art is so amazing, the colors (so fittingly) are so right on, that it makes my heart sing! I adore the colors in this book. The paintings are indeed what caught my daughter on her first run through, she found much to point out and much to talk about, and loved to guess which color was about to be explained in the season through the next poem. We loved this book. As is typical for me, I also love that this book has a lot of rereading potential--more to learn each time, and more for my children to discover as they mature.

Poetry can be an interesting thing for children--my children. All readers are different, inlcuding young ones, and I see this when we are reading poetry as well. Poetry is wide-ranging and so there are types to suit each taste. My children all love funny poems. My children especially love poems with accompanying amazing pictures. But then, my children are also different. The five year-old daughter I read this with is busy, she chatters and moves a lot. Perhaps she is most still typically, when she is reading! But this book's pictures found reason for her to say things, lots of things, while we read. Because of this she missed a lot of words, but she didn't miss an experience. With more readings she will catch more words, more meanings, will ask more questions, and find still more to talk about in the illustrations. When I think of another child of mine, a son, I think at this same age he would have listened and caught more language, as language is his love, maybe missing more of the pictures. All kids are different, all people are different, and there are books and poems to suit us all. Sometimes one may suit most of us, but in different ways. Oh, the joy of reading, and sharing a book with another!

We loved this book, the 2010 Caldecott Winner (I have not mentioned this yet, have I?) I am grateful for the award, because the popularitiy if it made the cover familiar to me. What if I would have missed it? Oh thank goodness I didn't, because we so enjoyed the red singing from the treetops! I hope you do too.

The Big Orange Splot

2010-09-21T09:14:00.002-06:00

The Big Orange Splot
Written and illustrated by: Daniel Manus Pinkwater

You know that unusual house in your town? The one that has more colors than all the rest, or unusually bright colors, some yard art, maybe even a picture or two? The Big Orange Splot is about a house like that. A house that is different, that stands out in the crowd. That house in your town might be considered anything from interesting to an artist's abode, to an eyesore...and it seems every town has at least one. Does yours? I hope so!

Well, Mr Plumbean initially accidentally ends up with one of those unusual houses. You see, a bird accidentally drops a can of orange paint on his roof (no one knows why). And before he gets around to getting rid of that spot, he seems to kind of get used to the idea...and then he expands on it. The people on his street are not amused. But then he gets them one by one to listen to his dreams, and then he listens to theirs...and then suddenly his street is not quite as tidy as it used to be. And they all like it that way.

I love the way this book invites you to be bold, think out of the box, and perhaps most of all dream. It makes a great read aloud, and talk aloud. It is a children's classic. Don't forget to paint a picture of your own house of dreams!

Trout are Made of Trees

2010-09-14T07:00:00.002-06:00

Trout are Made of Trees
Written by: April Pulley Sayre
Illustrated by: Kate Endle

Did you know trout are made of trees? Really? This title intrigued me from the beginning as I stumbled upon this book at the library. As I read it to my five year old I found out it was an amazing concept for her as well! So amazing in fact, that more reads are necessary to fully comprehend this unbelievable idea of the life cycle! The simplicity the author uses really lends this book to become a read aloud so that much (simple) discussion can ensue. I am a huge fan of basic science books for young kids to build background and introduce what can be complex ideas. Beautiful basic colorful illustrations match this text perfectly. This is a great one!

Guess Again!

2010-04-13T11:07:00.003-06:00

Guess Again

Written by: Mac Barnett
Illustrated by: Adam Rex

It's true, I am not a funny person. My husband tells the jokes in the family. Still, I love a humorous book, and perhaps for the very reason that I can't crack a joke on my own. I absolutely love laughing with my children! This book, happily, does the job for my family.

This book is unlike any I have seen. On one page a black silhouette is shown and on the other a written paragraph, giving clues to just what that silhouette really is. Well at first blush they seem pretty obvious until you realize they ARE NOT! Instead these clues and silhouettes are meant to make you chuckle, or giggle, or all out belly laugh, and trust me --they do! Without giving away too much information, I want you to trust me, that if you like to laugh, you will want to enjoy this book with your children! Or, perhaps you could see Seven Impossible Things For Breakfast's take on it, which is much more thorough, eloquent, and probably...more humorous. :)

Bonjour, Butterfly

2010-04-06T07:00:00.001-06:00

Bonjour Butterfly
Written by Jane O'Conner
Illustrated by: Robin Preiss Glasser

As I have mentioned before, the girls in my house really love Fancy Nancy. Some other people do too. In this situation, it sometimes gets frustrating when additional books are released, as they seem to be of lesser quality. I am thrilled to say, I have read no books starring Fancy Nancy that I have not thought darling! (What a relief, I must say). We love them all, including this one.

In Bonjour Butterfly, Nancy is anticipating the arrival of a splendid birthday party, featuring butterflies, thrown by a best friend. Then her plans are crashed and she has to miss the party for her grandparent's fiftieth wedding anniversary! Nancy is quite disappointed. She is not exactly a sweetheart about it all. As it turns out, the anniversary party is quite fancy, and Nancy quite enjoys herself. The following day Nancy is even lucky enough to attend a butterfly zoo with her grandparents!

Does Nancy decide to perk up because she is having a grand time at the party, or does attitude really make a difference? Ask your child as you read this book, as I think this is an important distinction (even if it's not made perfectly clear in the book). As is the case with all the books, Nancy teaches splendidly fancy vocabulary, and deals with typical, and perhaps familiar-to-your-child situations. Enjoy!

Big Green Monster

2010-03-23T14:40:00.009-06:00

Go Away, Big Green Monster!
By: Ed Emberly

That great picture book turned I mentioned last week turned out to be not so great afterall, so (sigh) I am going to write about an old favorite instead. Yea! We love Go Away, Big Green Monster!by Ed Emberly! This author has some really fun toddler and preschool books, and this is one of our favorites! My first three children completely wore this book to pieces, so now we have a new one for our baby because it would be a shame to be without!

What exactly does a big green monster include? Well, in this book he starts with two big yellow eyes, followed by scraggly purple hair...and piece by piece a big green monster comes to be. But since he doesn't scare us, we get to take him back apart piece by piece as well! Bright cutouts under black paper make this book fun for older babies and young children to look at. (adults too!) Really, this book could be considered a classic --at least at our house. Check out these books by the same author: Bye-Bye, Big Bad Bullybug! and Glad Monster, Sad Monster. I would like to own these also!

It never hurts to follow up with a few activities when you have the chance. I would like to try some of these sometime, just for fun!

Reading Aloud!

2010-03-16T22:08:00.010-06:00

It can't be Tuesday, can it? Well, I've been reading far too many books about making bread, getting babies to sleep, and how to get the dog to behave, and I haven't had a chance to write a review for that great children's picture book! Well, instead today I will direct you to an enjoyable post, by Esme Raji Codell, author of How to Get Your Child to Love Reading: For Ravenous and Reluctant Readers Alike. Haven't read this book? Well make sure you do! In the meantime, check out her fun post on encouraging your readers that think they no longer need you to read aloud to them! (This post is part of Share a Story Shape a Future.)

....Now how do I stop the kids from swiping the book and finishing it on their own? ;)

When Winter Comes (again!)

2010-03-09T12:22:00.006-07:00

When Winter Comes
Written by Nancy Van Laan
Illustrated by Susan Gaber

Yesterday was spring, today it is winter again. Such it is this time of year! On especially snowy days, like today, I like to pull out the winter books and get reading. When Winter Comes is a snowy story and also one of the books I asked for and received for Christmas because I love it so!

In Nancy Van Laan's simple and sweet story a dear family goes out for a walk in the winter and on their way they discover what happens in nature during winter time. Starting with the leaves on the trees, and moving from small to big animals, and even fish, the author uses repetitive question for each item, "Where oh where do the ______ go when winter comes and the cold winds blow?"

Next of course you here the answer, in rhyming verse to boot. To wrap up the story, the little girl is the final creature, who rests in her bed on an winter evening. This book is simple, with basic concepts, similar to those in Time to Sleep , by Denise Fleming, which would be a great companion book!

The Black Book of Colors

2010-03-02T12:10:00.009-07:00

The Black Book of Colors
Written by: Menena Cottin
Illustrated by: Rosana Faria

It is always a delight to see what books are chosen for The Beehive Book Award in Utah, naturally there are always gems to be found. My library keeps these books in a specific place, so they are always easy to find, otherwise, and unfortunately, I might miss them! The Black Book of Colors is one of these books, and it is indeed a gem.

This book has no colors, but black pictures on black pages, with descriptions of each color as well as raised pictures to touch. Make no mistake, my children needed no prodding to do this, and they enjoyed it. This is of course a beautiful opportunity for discussing blindness, and braille, and differences. So fascinating for people with sight to consider. Braille is included on each page, though my children and I did not notice it at first, because we were reading by lamplight, relying on our vision, and the braille is of course small raised and black on the black page. That it took us so long, that we are so used to our sight, is worth considering. Near the end of this book the entire braille alphabet can be found as well.

Although we have not tried it yet, I believe The Black Book of Colors encourages a worthwhile writing activity for your child to describe each color on his own. Do you think yellow is as soft as a chicks feathers, as the author does? The writing is great for teaching about adjectives, and is a good example for descriptions, which sometimes prove difficult for children, especially when they are coming up with their own. I am glad to experience this book, and I have a feeling we are not through with it yet! :) It is absolutely brilliant.

Bruna

2010-02-23T15:17:00.005-07:00

Bruna
By: Anne Cottringer
Illustrated by: Gillian McClure

Bruna is a delightful read about a little girl who is cold, cold, cold. Traveling far and wide, eating hot curry and cinnamon candy, soaking up sun, she can't seem to get warm. Then one day her help is required to save a bear who is unable to swim, whose name turns out to be Ursa. In an effort to help Ursa dry off and get warm, Bruna is finally able to warm up herself. This book is a gentle read with beautiful and soothing watercolor illustrations in sea greens, golds, and coral pinks. There is a deeper meaning to be puzzled out, and it is a delight to help children discover it. Do you feel warm when you help someone else? When you are lonely, do you feel cold? Of course. This is a book from the library that my four year old daughter enjoys returning to--one that never gets old, and the comprehension grows with her age and my prodding. To see more pictures search inside this book at amazon. I love those colors!

How Do you Sleep?

2010-02-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

Written by: Louise Bonnett-Rampersaud
Illustrated by: Kristen Kest

Typically, children enjoy reading about things that are somewhat familiar. Often, they also like to read about animals. Have you noticed? How Do you Sleep? is a combination of the two well-loved angles. I love simple non fiction books for young children --and this is one of them. Each few pages tells how a different animal gets his rest. Birds have nests, Bears have caves where they curl right up, and frogs have lilly pads. In a classic way of ending, the author tells how children get their own rest (by wriggling to sleep of course)! This is a simple sweet story that gently teaches the basics about animal sleep. I love it!

Princess Peepers

2010-02-02T14:41:00.005-07:00

Written by:Pam Culvert
Illustrated by: Tuesday Mourning

Oh the princess rage! My daughter has fallen victim to the princess storm. Has yours?

Princess Peepers is a darling book about princesses, suitable for all princess lovers, spectacle-wearing or not. Princess Peepers is a sweet princess who has some very stunning glasses, and she is quite okay with that, until other princesses aren't. Because of this she decided to get rid of them, and she falls into some trouble. Fortunately she also falls into something else, which of course turns out happily ever after (and she's back to wearing glasses of course)!

The pictures in this book are darling and very worthy for your little princess to study. I love the glasses and the gowns (I admit to being half-princess myself!) Illustrator Tuesday Mourning, besides having the coolest name, also has an etsy shop! It is fun to note that author Pam Culvert has had plenty of experience with peepers, as she wore glasses as a child herself and inspired her story.

We enjoy this as a very girlie read at our house and I hope you do too!

Time for a break!

2009-09-08T14:55:00.004-06:00

Due to activity restrictions and the upcoming arrival of a new member of our family, I am going to be taking a break from A Tuesday Story. Feel free to look through the archives, and if you would like to guest post I would be happy to post for you! Email me at ATuesdayStoryatgmaildotcom!

As Always --Happy Reading!
Lindsay
*

The Hello, Goodbye Window

2009-08-25T13:17:00.008-06:00

Written by: Norton Juster
Illustrated by Chris Raschka

Many fortunate children have fond memories of grandparents, like my children do. In our life grandparent's have a special way with our children and they are very important friends and teachers to them as well. In another favorite book, The Hello, Goodbye Window, a little girl's grandparents are just as special to her. This book is sweet and meaningful to parents, and children enjoy it too! The little girl in the story tells all about her special sweet Nanny and Poppy, who are of course perfect in every way. Author Norton Juster speaks with the humor we often enjoy in listening to real little children. My favorite little kid line is this, " When I get tired I come in and take my nap and nothing happens until I get up." Ha! In describing things the little girl does with her grandparents, Juster ties it all together with the special place for saying both hello and goodbye --at the Hello, Goodbye Window. Also worth mentioning, this book is a Caldecott winner! The pictures are very modern and unusual, and when my son was young he didn't care for them! However, they are lovely, colorful and different, which are all good things for children. This book is a perfect read for kids who have grandparents, or those who wish they did.

Things that are Most in the World

2009-08-18T15:34:00.007-06:00

Things That Are Most in the World
Written by: Jodi Barrett
Illustrated by: John Nickle

Upon reading the title Things That Are Most in the World, I was led to thoughts of a non-fiction book full of fascinating facts. This book is a far cry from that! In what appears to be true to the author Jodi Barrett's style, this book contains the silly, unbelievable, whimsical situations that could only occur in fiction! The text relies on the ending "est", with each page containing something that is the most --using the est ending. What is the hottest thing you can think of? Barrett is sure it is a fire-breathing dragon eating pepperoni (pictured on the cover), and indeed that sounds and looks hot, hot, hot! What about the silliest, or the highest? The stickiest?

When used as a read-aloud this book begs for conversation, not only about the authors crazy ideas (including a giant wad of bubble gum as the stickiest!) but about you and your child's own ideas of what is most. Endless extensions of this book are possible --from simply thinking through things that are the most, to finding real things that are the most, to writing your own book with either or both! The very last page of this book pleased me, as it is meant to be photocopied and filled with your child's very own "est" word, sentence and illustration! I recommend you get reading and thinking, because this book is one of the silliest I've found!

Long Night Moon

2009-08-11T10:00:00.003-06:00

Written by: Cynthia Rylant
Illustrated by: Mark Siegel

I have always loved the moon, although I have had more time to look at it in days past. Recently my little boy observed on his own that the moon looked like it had a face. I regret to say that I did not go outside and look at it with him during this moment, but I did help him understand how the moon looked to have a face as it shined through his bedroom window. The moon is a mysterious thing, doing such amazing things as pulling and tugging at the ocean and washing the world in silver light. There are many tales of the moon to choose from, and so many are great bedtime stories. This story, Long Night Moon, is by a favorite author of mine, Cynthia Rylant. It begins like this, "Long ago Native Americans gave names to the full moons they watched throughout the year. Each month had a moon. And each moon had its name..."

As you might guess, this book goes through each month's full moon with a few simple sentences for each. The pictures, done in charcoal, are fantastic and well thought out. The end of the book includes a few paragraphs by artist Mark Siegel, and its obvious how serious he took his pursuit of illustrating Rylant's magical words. It's wonderful to hear from the artist, whose role is huge in any children's picture book.

This book is a quiet one, for a quiet moment, under the light of the full moon at its best! Perhaps more appreciated by the slightly older or more thoughtful child, it does present an opportunity for pursuing more information related to the Native American moons. Perhaps you can research this together. Enjoy!

Junie B. Jones

2009-08-04T05:00:00.003-06:00

Junie B. Jones Is Not a Crook
Written by: Barbara Park
Illustrated by: Denise Brunkus

Goodness. Can I really write about the controversial series of Junie B. Jones? Well, today yes I can, because yesterday we laughed our socks off at Junie B. Jones Is Not a Crook.

What is so controversial about this innocent young lady named Junie B. Jones? Shall I start with the good or the not so good? Let me start with the good, and keep it to what I think it good and then I will start with the not so good, and keep it to what I think is the not so good myself.

So good stuff first off --these books are hilarious! This Junie B. character is very funny, and author Barbara Park obviously has a knack for humor. She created her five-year-old character based on a "wild child" (in her words) from another book of hers, The Kid in The Red Jacket, which I have yet to read. Although Junie B. is a bit rambunctious, and definitely exaggerated, she is also just that sort of kid, and she also has a good heart. She reminds me of a kid or two I know, only she is just a little bit more overdone, making her a bit more funny in her bookish sort of way.

After reading a handful of Junie B. books aloud I think it is safe to say that most of the books in this series have a moral. The moral is most often one your children already know, but at the very least they will figure it out far before Junie B., and that inevitably makes them feel quite smart, and quite moral, which is a good thing! In Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook, Junie B. learns about the Lost and Found and that "finders keepers, losers weepers" is perhaps not such a good rule after all --especially when it involves your special fuzzy black mittens from Grandpa, but even when it involves a handy dandy pen that writes in four colors that you really wish you could keep!

Although Park's writing is exaggerated, the feelings are quite often on the mark with real children. I can remember thinking my school secretary was quite mean and nasty, even if I wasn't articulate enough to call her to myself "the grouchy typing lady" --that is precisely what I thought of her. Junie B. is a character who makes mistakes, like all children, but typically ends up realizing them and fixing them up. She gets in trouble at school, like some other wild children I know, and she talks a lot, kind of like the author did when she was young. If your child is not that kind of kid, you can bet she knows someone who is!

On to the not so good things about the Junie B. Jones series-- and well, that has to do with the language. Wait! Not that kind of language! I mean the grammar and word choices! Here's the dilemma, in my mind: Junie B. has some exceptional use of vocabulary, like using "attractive winter coat" rather than her cute or pretty or favorite coat, which is more likely to come out of a five-year-old's mouth. This vocabulary combined with the inability to use correct past tense and other standard fiver-year-old grammar seems a little unrealistic. Typically by five most kids use better grammar more of the time than Junie B., unless they are having some problems in the language area. If they are having some problems in the language area, they are very unlikely to use sophisticated descriptive terms (as cute as they are) like Junie B. does. What I think the author is going for, is to make this little character of hers realistic but also exaggerated, and both the unfortunate grammar and fancy terms play a part. It is an effective technique! It may not be realistic, but it seems to do the job. Children find this girl funny, and this improper language combined with many great descriptive terms adds to the humor.

What if your child has some grammar or language issues herself? Should you stay away from Junie B.? Well, that is a matter of opinion. I will tell you my opinion, which is somewhere in the midst of the trenches of motherhood with rusty speech language pathology skills floating around in my head. If my child was struggling with grammar this book wouldn't be my first pick. However, if my child was also a struggling reader and I was struggling to find something captivating, I absolutely would not be deterred from Junie B. This series has proven to be highly rated and enjoyed by children, which would override my concern about any ill effects towards my child's language usage. I think the humor and enjoyment would outweigh the possible detriment, especially if I were engaging in many quality language rich activites --like talking to my child with proper language myself and reading many other quality books aloud. Children do learn by listening, and they do tend to imitate what they read, so personal judgement and perhaps professional judgement should be used in each situation! For those children with typically developing language, I would not be concerned in the least that this would affect normal speech and language as they are likely to have acquired normal grammar by the time this book is read or read aloud to them, and the incorrectness will only add to what they find humorous. But they might even pick up some cute vocabulary, like attractive!

Finally, do I feel slightly guilty reading a beginner's chapter book aloud when these are so well-suited for reading independently? Well, not guilty enough. If I hesitate to turn the mixer on because I won't be able to hear my husband reading Junie B.'s ending remarks -- it is obvious this is a good read aloud choice! If my husband will come into the room and color with the younger child and encourage me to keep reading to the children please (because he gets a kick out of these books also) then this has become an entire family read aloud --and that is of value. But you can bet these same books, likely along with the rest of this beginning chapter book series will be read independently also at a later date. That is a good thing! Reading, but also enjoying, are worthy goals.

Next on the Junie B. agenda is Junie B. Jones Smells Something Fishy. My niece tells me this is her favorite. This niece reminds me an awful lot of Junie B. and my children and I can't wait to laugh all the way through it!

To hear more about the Junie B. debate, read this fun insightful article here.

Goodnight Goodnight

2009-07-28T08:15:00.003-06:00

Goodnight Goodnight
by Eve Rice

Here is another classic goodnight book. Written in 1980 by Eve Rice, it looks to me remarkably like the 2009 Caldecott Medal winner, A House in The Night. Both are sweet patterned nighttime books in nighttime colors, but have a bit of a different flavor even if they do look similar. Let me tell you about Goodnight Goodnight.

The first line of this book reads, "Goodnight came over the rooftops slowly." And with that, goodnight comes to many people in the town, each doing different things at this goodnight time, but each settling down for night --except for the kitten who wishes to find someone to play with! Even the kitten ends up with a goodnight, and the town is ready for sleep.

'Similar to A House in the Night, my children were not taken with this book upon first read. They preferred to choose books with brighter pictures and more exciting themes. However, even if I am still the one to choose this familiar book from the library it is more accepted, even enjoyed, and the kitten is more appreciated in his efforts to continue playing!

The illustrations in this book are done with pen and ink, lithographic crayon, and an yellow overlay of acetate. Yes, this is news to me and I need to do more research to understand! What I do know though, is the pictures are appealing and soft and very suitable to nighttime in their black, white, and yellow way, even if they don't excite children immediately. Neither does bedtime! This book is likely more difficult to find for purchase than a newer book, and certainly more difficult than the Caldecott Medal book it reminds me of. However, I would not be surprised if you could easily find and enjoy this classic at your library. There is something comforting about these well-worn library books, and rechecking them out and enjoying them over and over. I recommend this one, and of course, it is best read at bedtime!

The House in the Night

2009-07-21T10:32:00.009-06:00

The House in the Night
By Susan Marie Swanson
Pictures by Beth Krommes

The Caldecott Medal is awarded to the artist of the most distinguished picture book of the year. The House in the Night is the winner of this medal for 2009. When I heard this title was the winner I was unfamiliar with it, but eager to read it. Author Susan Marie Swanson wrote The House in The Night based on a traditional nursery rhyme. Of course this makes me want to search out this old rhyme which begins, "this is the key to the kingdom." Swanson's book begins, "Here is the key to the house." Swanson continues with a pattern of telling you about another object, relating to the previous one, all related to nighttime.

In an effort to be honest, I have to say that this book upon first reading was not impressive to me. Yes, I liked it, but it did not stand out. However, after reading it more than once I have come to appreciate the pattern of the writing more. My children were not enthralled upon first reading either, but this book strikes me as one that when owned and reread could become a familiar and well-loved comfort book through its gentle subtle ideas and pattern. It is worth reading, and thinking about. I even feel intrigued to use repeated readings to see if the story does indeed grow on my children!

In talking about this book, as with all picture books, it's important for us not to forget the pictures! Since the Caldecott Medal is awarded to the artist of the book rather than the author, in this case it feels especially important to dote on these lovely illustrations. They are lovely done in only the nighttime scheme of black, white, and yellow, using scratchboard and watercolor. To learn more about this interesting and beautiful technique you can visit illustrator Beth Krommes web page as I did. I love the unique look of her method! The illustrations are remarkable and worthy of an award. Especially lovely are the stars, which shine in such a lovely black, white and yellow way! I am very inclined to search out Krommes first book, Grandmother Winter, whose illustrations have an appealing gentle color and intricate snowflakes I want to just study! I hope I can track this book down.

Do check out The House in the Night if you haven't already, and tell me what you think! Next week I will tell you of the familiar nighttime book this winner reminded me of, Goodnight Goodnight, by Eve Rice.

Looking Closely Through the Forest

2009-07-14T21:47:00.004-06:00

Looking Closely Through the Forest
By Frank Serafini

There are times when you are grateful for other people's mistakes, because they lead you places you otherwise might not have been. I am so glad someone misplaced this book! Clearly nonfiction, this book was erroneously placed in fiction picture books A section. Haphazardly they did this, but I am grateful!

Frank Serafini is apparently a talented person whose books range from his looking closely series to professional books about using reading workshop in the classroom. For some reason, that he is so knowledgeable about something as useful as reading workshop, and also created such a great nonfiction book with his own photographs, is intriguing. I would like to read more. Obviously he is talented!

Looking closely through the forest is a gem! All objects of the forest, you first see only a small orange-sized circle of the item surrounded by an otherwise black page. Your child and you get to guess before turning the page to see the whole picture revealed. Along with the entire gorgeous photograph revealed there are also a few paragraphs with interesting basic information about the object and its place in the forest. Did you know that the black marks on an Aspen tree are called beards and they mark where former branches once grew? My children were thrilled they could recognize the small circular view prior to viewing the entire picture of the aspen tree! They also now know it is called an aspen tree, not just the tree with the white bark.

I love this book for the thinking it creates, the interactions that can occur, and of course the broadening of knowledge. We can't wait to read Looking Closely Across the Desert!

Owl Moon

2009-07-07T21:05:00.005-06:00

Owl Moon
Written by Jane Yolen
Illustrated by John Schoenherr

Have you ever been owling? Me neither, but this books makes me want too. The young boy in this book is out for his first owling with his Dad, and he is excited. He is quiet, he is patient and the moon is full. The situation and setting in this story call out for descriptive language and talented author Jane Yolen does not leave room for disappointment. My first grade teacher-mom uses this book to teach descriptive language to aid her student's writing. This is a quiet and fun little book with a happy boy, a dark night, and a big-eyed owl. Owl Moon is the winner of the Caldecott medal in 1988.

Bedtime for Frances

2009-06-30T18:07:00.005-06:00

Bedtime for Frances
Written by Russell Hoban
Illustrated by Garth Williams

When I was a child I owned and enjoyed the classic story A Bargain for Frances. I love this story still, and so does my daughter. However, I didn't read Bedtime for Frances until I was all grown up. Oh how I love this story also! In this book Frances seems to want to go to bed, but there are many things she has forgotten about, requiring her to get up many times. Her parents are so patient, so practical and calm and yet so parentally easy to relate too, it is delightful (even if like me you would have lost your patience sooner, and even if like me you don't believe in spanking)! What a sweet Daddy Frances has! Finally, with a little extra motivation Frances makes it to sleep. Who hasn't had a little Frances of their own up and up again from bedtime? As a parent this book is enjoyable. As a child, this book is enjoyable. A great combination! I came across this story first in The 20th-Century Children's Book Treasury: Picture Books and Stories to Read Aloud which is a very fun collection!

About Rodents

2009-06-23T05:00:00.001-06:00

About Rodents
Written by Cathryn Sill
Illustrated by John Sill

There is much to love in this book, and much to learn. Each page contains simple sentences with simple facts. The facing page has amazingly realistic and beautiful illustrations. I have never seen a cuter, fatter hibernating Hazel Dormouse! (Okay, I haven't before seen Hazel Dormouse). At the end of this simple but hugely informative book of many many different rodents are miniature numbered plates, matching the pages, containing more detailed information about each rodent. So much to learn, during so many readings! Such BEAUTIFUL illustrations! This is a book which causes me to immediately search for more from the same author-illustrator team. About Rodents is a book in the"...About"series, which includes About Birds, and About Fish. I am sorry that my library contains no others. This is one of those books you want to own, along with every other in the series and by the same creators. So perfect!

Toasting Marshmallows: Camping Poems

2009-06-16T05:00:00.001-06:00

Toasting Marshmallows: Camping Poems
Written by: Kristine O'Connell George
Illustrated by: Kate Kiesler

I am fascinated with poems because I know there is magic in them. I love the brevity of many and the feeling in so few well chosen words. I know that they are good for children, even if I can't articulate why without passing on reasons given by someone else. Poems are mysteriously good things to me in their short but true breath of meaning. (I do like the short ones best)!

Introducing poetry to children can be fun when a theme is involved, especially if it revolves around their interests, or better yet your combined interests. This book of camping poems is a fun mix of thinking and lighthearted poems, poems about marshmallows and sleeping bags, owls and caves, and many other camping situations. Although these couple dozen poems are probably best for the slightly older child, I can see the illustrations and rhythm pleasing younger ones.Enjoy a fun and different collection of poems meant of course, especially for you campers! Check it out!

2009-06-09T05:00:00.001-06:00

Jody's Beans
Written by Malachy Doyle
Illustrated by Judith Allibone

The magic of seeds is magnificent, and it's always fun to show a child the magic for the first time. Or the second. Or the third. I revel in the magic of sprouting seeds still. In Jody's Beans a sweet Grandpa take the opportunity to share this magic with his granddaughter in a project that's just between the two. Judging from the illustrations, Jody comes from a home alive with many plants and gardens, but this project, being her own, provides a different kind of wonder. With a hard-to-notice background story going on, this book is one to read and reread again. Even better, it invites a gardening project for you and your children. If you don't garden, this book is still worth the read, because the magic of a seed is magic for everyone!

The Gardener

2009-06-02T05:00:00.001-06:00

The Gardener
Written by Sarah Stewart
Illustrated by David Small

Over and over I hear of so many people affected by the current economic state. It seems one thing leads to another and the effects keep rolling until in some way or another, I think it's affected us all. This is not the first time the world has felt a pinch however. In The Gardener, by Sarah Stewart, the story unfolds in another era of troubled times. Sent away to her Uncle's bakery, Lydia will dearly miss her country garden. Not to be deterred, she receives seeds by mail and creates a city garden of warmth and wonder. Flowers of course, are not the only things to grow in this story.

I love a children's book with flowers inside, it's true. This is a standout one, with pictures to delve in, and warmth in abundance. It's also another reminder that all individuals can make a difference. Someday, I will own this one!

2009-05-26T05:00:00.001-06:00

Miss Rumphius
Written and illustrated by: Barbara Cooney

It is easy to be a taker, but it is so vital to happiness to learn to give. We can go through life engaging in all sorts of tricks to learn, improve, become fulfilled, or find our purpose. But all of us, in order to reach these goals must give! Miss Rumphius helps us out a bit as we endeavor to teach our children this lesson. As a girl Miss Rumphius sees and hears how her grandfather has made a difference. As she grows Miss Rumphius finds her own adventure and learning, and also her own beautiful way to give. What can you do to make a difference in the world? What a great discussion to be had with your children, over and over again.

2009-05-19T15:10:00.004-06:00

Pumpkin Pumpkin
Written and illustrated by Jeanne Titherington

It's gardening time! Along with gardening time come gardening books, and although we like to read them all year round, they are especially fun when the growing begins. Pumpkin Pumpkin is a simple favorite I have enjoyed with all of my children.

Pumpkin Pumpkin is short and sweet, and yet to the point too. Through these few sentences there is no doubt what happens with the pumpkin seed through the stages, all the way the carved jackolantern, and the saving of the seeds. The illustrations in this book are muted and delightful, adding a lot to the sweetness of the story. I have always used this book as a read aloud, but it would be great for a beginning reader, as it has much repetition in its short simple sentences. Happy reading, and to those who enjoy it, happy gardening!

2009-05-12T05:00:00.001-06:00

The Dog Who Belonged to No One
Written by Amy Hest
Illustrated by Amy Bates

I have a little girl who loves dogs. We have a real dog, but my daughter actually especially adores her stuffed dogs. They are her great friends. When she is feeling kind she may invite a stuffed monkey to play, but she really loves her dogs the best. Knowing this then it is easy to see us choosing stories about dogs. This is a lovely one.

Amy Hest writes her story in an interesting style, alternating from girl to dog on nearly every page until they unite as friends. They have remarkable similarities, the largest being they are both quite in need of a good companion. It turns out of course that they are perfect friends, friends through all the seasons in fact.

The illustrations in this book are absolutely gorgeous! Today, when thinking to myself whether I liked the story or the text better, I have to say I think I could almost love the pictures just as much alone they are so beautiful! However the text also stands out to me particularly, as it is written in a style unusual to me, this alternating style, and it is engaging.
It has also occurred to me while reading it again, that this book would be a fun
introduction to this alternating story-writing technique. It might be fun to see what children come up with to alternate back and forth. Perhaps this summer we will try it!

2009-05-05T05:00:00.005-06:00

A Necklace of Raindrops: and Other Stories
Written by Joan Aiken
Illustrated by Kevin Hawkes

During a visit with my grandmother recently I had the chance to view her elves once again. These are cute and quaint little creatures in limber elvish poses, bright clothing and hats, and mischievous faces. When my grandmother got married in the 1950s, these elves were all the rage and she received them for wedding gifts! She keeps her elves on shelves, and her elves on shelves remind me so much of the elves on shelves in one of my all time favorite books: A Necklace of Raindrops, by Joan Aiken.

A Necklace Of Raindrops is a collection of children's stories so original, I have yet to meet its equal in many ways. (Even if I have many books to read yet!) Aiken has such a sense of magic and whimsy she shares in this book that many children and myself enjoy. These stories are so fanciful and imaginative they bring out the sparkle that is sometimes lacking in everyday life. What child would not love to awaken to find the elves from their books on their very own shelves, to find the mat made for a cat was really a wishing mat? What child would not love to live in the clouds and eat all the apples they wanted that rolled into the sky with the wind? Well, perhaps some children would not. But as for me and mine, we appreciate the sparkle in these stories, and the hope and refreshment it provides. In this newer version Kevin Hawkes adds illustrations that just fit the nature of the stories, and there are just enough.

It is wonderful to have a book to pull out with individual stories that can be read at any time on a whim. That is the magic of a collection of stories in one. This book may not be to everyone's taste, but if you and yours prefer a little magic, a little fanciful fun, I recommend this collection highly!

2009-04-28T05:00:00.001-06:00

Bats at the Library
Written and Illustrated by Brian Lies
Do you ever wonder what bats do at night? I mean really? Well, if they're lucky they get to visit the library! The adorable (yes, adorable!) bats in this book are lucky enough to find an open window at the library one night. Once inside they use the copy machine, find games to play, look at study guides, and finally when they settle down to read they very much enjoy themselves. Immersed in classic stories you will recognize, the bats have a very unique perspective!

The illustrations in this book are gorgeous --believable but playful. This book passes the 6-year- old-little-boy-who's-getting-quite-picky-about-picture-books test. :) Afterall, there are bats! If you like this book you may want to read Bats at the Beach, written by the same author.

2009-04-21T11:49:00.008-06:00

The Rain Came Down

Written and illustrated by David ShannonA guest post by my favorite guest ShaLisa! Enjoy!

The cause and effect relationship is a developmental skill that usually occurs in the second year of a child’s life. If you are looking for a great book to reinforce this skill, read The Rain Came Down written and illustrated by David Shannon. This book is great for young children, coupled with short sentences and familiar vocabulary. Still, there are lots of new words to learn and new ideas to explore. Older children love to discover the world of what if and if this, then this with this book. And, most importantly, this book is fun and children love to read it.

One night while reading this book, my toddler exclaimed, “No, mom, you said it wrong. It says….” She then repeated the sentence I had just said with a deep and husky voice. Alas, it is a fun book filled with characters ready for the reader to make come alive. My four year old said, “I would help that man clean up the fruit so I could have an ice cream cone with three scoops too.” Ah, the world of what if – anything can happen in that world. All a child needs is a little food for thought, some ammunition - a good book to stimulate new possibilities.

Other books to reinforce cause and effect relationships include the If You Give a Mouse a Cookie series.

Spuds

2009-04-14T05:00:00.002-06:00

Spuds
Written by Karen Hess
Illustrated by Wendy Watson

I admit it. I am partial to books that create conversation because really this is half the fun of a really good read aloud session. Spuds invites much discussion. The first time I read this book with my children there were many questions and explanations about vocabulary and life situations. How can I not love a book that teaches a great word like "spud" which was previously unknown? I am also partial to books that show my children just how good they really do have it. This story has the ability to remind us of this.

The mother in this story is tired and overworked. The children are typical, except they are also a little more hungry. One night while mom is working the night shift they decide to pluck a few spuds from a neighboring field, their mouths fairly watering at the prospect. They tirelessly work at it and when they arrive home they are in for a sorrowful surprise not only in their pickings, but their feelings. Mother sets them straight the next day, and luckily the farmer enjoys a little humor and shows appreciation for children.

The illustrations in this book are wonderfully done, interesting but simple, and done from great angles. My favorite element of these illustrations are the pure colors chosen --the blue sky is just such a blue that I just know it is fall. That is indeed the color of a blue fall sky and a yellow field with the sun tilted in such a way that it makes things golden. Amazing!

This book is loaded with rich vocabulary and lessons, making it perfect for a read-aloud where learning occurs on many levels. Once again this is a book that is really meant to be reread and rediscussed. After all, I can't let my kids continue to believe you really can eat and fry rocks! We'll read it again and they'll learn this and more along the way. Just they way I like it.

An Egg is Quiet

2009-04-07T05:00:00.004-06:00

An Egg Is Quiet
Written by: Dianna Aston
Illustrated by: Sylvia Long

An Egg Is Quiet. In a home with three rambunctious children I often yearn for quiet. Admittedly there are occasions when I use read aloud time to gain just that, and the regrouping that inevitable follows. Although an egg is quiet and read-aloud time is relatively so, this book invites a little bit more. It invites and ignites the glorious noise of children inquiring, commenting, exploring, and learning. This is an especially good kind of noise.

As simply as her title, author Dianna Aston informs you in her book of the many aspects of an egg. Really, when I think of it, how many could I come up with? This author comes up with many, all in one simple sentence per page beginning with "An egg is..." It is many things! Amongst the simplicity of these succinct one liners are smaller lines of print that can stand on their own, with pertinent and interesting information. These lines contain not too much, not too little, and just enough information to invite curiosity, amazement, and of course a little learning as a byproduct. To point out what you already may know about books of this sort --these additional lines mean this book can grow with your child. With much younger children the one main sentence can suffice. With time, additional lines can be added little by little. Unlike other books with stand alone text, I would like to emphasize that these notes are truly not too much or too little. I am not partial to text of this sort but in this case the lines are to near perfection, and add quite nicely to the book. For older children the additional text is naturally and fittingly a part of the flow of their exploration.

The illustrations? How can I even express them to you? Illustrator Sylvia Long manages to make salmon eggs look incredible, and I am left still to believe it. These eggs, true to their nature but placed against a white background are as beautiful as Easter eggs. Whether my family can make our Easter eggs as beautiful is yet to be determined, but we plan to try. The eggs in this book are hand labeled, and beautifully so, fairly inviting a beautiful collection of any sort of any thing of you could find! I am partial to watercolor and ink, but I can't imagine these paintings not pleasing a one. An egg is textured, and you simply have to reach out and just feel, because it looks so!

At the finale of this book there are many creatures to observe, and though I have not checked I feel confident that each egg has a master at the end. What is inside of an egg is not quiet at all, and that has very much to do with the nature of an egg in the end. As for not knowing whether or not there is a creature for each egg precisely --that is one of the virtues of this book. We are still exploring and learning from it.

Owl at Home

2009-03-31T05:00:00.010-06:00

Owl at Home
Written and illustrated by Arnold Lobel

Today I would like to introduce you to a dear old friend of mine. This comfortable, lovable, adorable friend is named Owl. He is growing a little bit tattered at my house. I do love Arnold Lobel's creations, but especially Frog and Toad and Owl. Let me tell you what I like about dear Owl.

Owl is simple and sweet. He is so kind he would invite the winter inside to warm itself by the fire --and in fact he does. He is so sentimental that he can make himself cry, just to enjoy tear water tea. Owl thinks of some very sad situations to encourage his tears like beautiful mornings that nobody noticed because they were all sleeping. (Sniff, sniff.) Owl is a thinker. He really wants to figure out how to be upstairs and downstairs at once and he tries pretty hard, wearing himself out in the process. Owl is innocent. He cannot figure out what the strange bumps at the bottom of his bed are. You know --the ones that move whenever his feet do? (He doesn't notice this, but children do.) Owl is so polite that he insists the moon does not need to follow him home. The moon does however, and is even as kind as to shine on his pillow that night. Oh how Owl appreciates such things! Oh dear Owl. This friend warms my heart. I think I will go look for a child to read with, so we can all visit. Owl is a such a worthy friend.

A Bad Case of Stripes

2009-03-24T05:00:00.006-06:00

A Bad Case of Stripes
Written and illustrated by: David Shannon

A few days ago I asked my son if he would like a kiwi fruit packed in his school lunch.
"Yes," he replied. "I mean, No, no, no."
The way this spilled out from yes to no in such an abrupt fashion made me curious.
"Why not?" I asked him. I had a suspicion it wasn't just because he didn't feel like it. I was right.
"I don't want to hear everybody say 'I don't like kiwis' so many times."
"Have they even tried kiwis?" I asked, again suspicious.
"...I don't know"
"Well, I bet they haven't even tried one. You should ask them."
Of course I didn't pack the kiwi fruit, and I was left a little sad. I know we are all influenced by those around us to one degree or another, for better or for worse, but at this moment I wondered why it had to be against something so nutritious! Suddenly I had a flash of inspiration and so I tried reminding my son about A Bad Case of Stripes. Camilla Cream likes something nutritious too. She likes lima beans. Who likes lima beans? Well --Camilla Cream does! In fact Camilla loves them. However, since she is always worrying about what other people think of her, she stops eating them altogether. Then something strange happens. Camilla wakes up with a bad case of stripes! Oh, and they are bright and colorful ones! The doctors are absolutely clueless and the kids at school, as well as everyone around her seem to be able to change the stripes based on what they say to Camilla. Soon, she is not just striped, but growing branches, and viruses, and she even has an unfortunate mishap with an environmental therapist, which leaves her looking an awful lot like her bedroom. Luckily for Camilla a cute little Grandma knows the remedy, and Camilla accepts it -- just in the nick of time. I tried briefing this story to my son, hinting at the similarites between his and Camilla Cream's stories, but he didn't quite remember the point of this story. It is obviously time to read this book again. Perhaps now it is just a little bit more pertinent in his little boy world.

This book is fun even without any discussion at all but just a surface story to read about the trouble this poor girl goes through. The illustrations are full and colorful, ready to be studied. But there is also as you can guess, a little bit more to this book. So then the question is, can this book aid in a little peer pressure problem? I still haven't packed a kiwi fruit, but I also haven't had a good sit down read and discussion with my son. I'll have to keep you posted.

I Ain't Gonna Paint No More!

2009-03-17T05:00:00.000-06:00

I Ain't Gonna Paint No More!
Written by Karen Beaumont
Illustrated by David Catrow

"One Day my mama caught me paintin' pictures on the floor
and the ceiling
and the walls
and the curtains
and the door,
and I heard my mama holler
like I never did before..."

If you have ever been around a toddler in large amounts this will surely sound a little too familiar to you, as it does to me! Most toddlers do afterall have great abilities as artists, and most toddlers have indeed made their mama holler! The text for this book is done in rhyme with built in pauses for your little one to guess just which part of his body the character will paint next. Those proficient, learning to rhyme, or even just those who hope to rhyme will surely enjoy filling in the blanks. All of my kids do. This book is sure to make you laugh --especially near the end where there is nearly nothing left to paint, but plenty to giggle about!

A Frog Thing

2009-03-10T05:00:00.007-06:00

A Frog Thing (with Audio CD)
A book and audio CD by Erich Drachman
illustrated by James Muscarello

We all want our kids to be confident, brave, and to feel they can do anything, and perhaps part of the joy and magic of being a parent is often times believing this child you love really can do anything! Well, Frank the frog's parents are just the same. Except that they come to a moment where they realize that everyone has limits. Afterall, frogs don't fly. However Frank is just sure this is what he wants to do. And how do your break it to your frog-son that frogs just really don't fly? At times we all fail to understand our own dreams and perhaps even more often than not, our dreams turn out a little differently than we imagined. But perhaps just as nice. So it is for Frank.

The audio CD of this story by author Eric Drachman is very well done. In fact, when I read this book aloud I often hear the author's voice under mine. What can be more magical and telling than having the author read his own book just the way he intended? Well, it is insightful at times. I love the soft and appropriate watercolor-type illustrations in this book, which seem to fit right in with not only the setting but the theme of this story. And did you know how much expression a frog can show? Well, artist James Muscarello does.

Have you had the chance to let your child enjoy book-on-CDs yet? If you have then you know the magic. If not, I encourage you! Books read this way are a whole new experience for children, and one more point can be chalked up to the quest for the love and appreciation of literacy. We love books on CD, but especially in the car and during long hot lazy (no homework involved) summer days. My kids and I love this book. To us, A Frog Thing is a good thing.

2009-03-03T05:00:00.015-07:00

Diar y of a Worm
Written by Doreen Cronin
Illustrated by Harry Bliss

Hooray for another guest post by ShaLisa! This book looks adorable, and I can't wait to read it! Thanks ShaLisa!

What would it be like to be a worm? You may enjoy finding out in this fun book titled, Diar y of a Worm written by Doreen Cronin and illustrated by Harry Bliss. This book is full of child humor, creative pictures, and even some non-fiction information about worms. Such a book is the perfect way to stir questions and wonderment about those simple squishy things called annelids.

My boys relish this book. Worms can’t crawl upside down, worms eat garbage, worms dig tunnels which are good for the ground, birds eat worms and people use worms to fish with, worms scare girls, and they only need one macaroni noodle to make a noodle necklace. There is so much to learn and consider from the view point of a worm.

This book inspires imagination. We read this book along with Shel Silverstein’s poem titled, One Inch Tall. What would the relationship between a boy who is one inch tall and a worm be like? Ah, if you could be an insect, which insect would you be and what would your day be like? I do hope you write in your diary.

Octopus' Den

2009-02-24T05:00:00.007-07:00

Octopus' Den (Smithsonian Oceanic Collection)
Written by Deirdre Langeland
Illustrated by Steven James Petruccio

During a trip to the tide pools in California my family and I were lucky enough to see our first octopus, and we were all quite enchanted by the experience. So when I noticed this book at the library I decided to take a chance, afterall there had to be something useful in it. There is! This book is unlike other books I have read in that the author manages to weave a realistic but interesting story about an octopus with useful details and information so relevant to the story you can't miss them. I think children learn well this way, and well, so do I! I appreciate the fact that the octopus in the book is simply an octopus and not humanized any more than any octopus should be. He isn't named Fred or Joe, but suitably: Octopus. While reading this book I found myself intrigued with octopus life, and so were my children. The text in this book amazed me because although the storyline is quite simple the author uses awesome descriptive language as well as relevant oceanic vocabulary. My children found this book so interesting that they wanted to act out some octopus adventures of their own after reading it.

It is tempting to think that this book is more special to us because of our personal recent experience with an octopus. But I don't think that this would be fair. I am confident I would love this book nearly as much had I never seen an octopus and only wished I had. I am anxious to find out if my library has any more books from the Smithsonian Institution's Oceanic Collection, the collection this book belongs too. I have high expectations for the other books, and plan to use them with my children this summer in some of our own learning endeavors. This is the kind of book that is so well done that I am motivated to search out other great ones and pay the (gasp!) one dollar to get them via interlibrary loan! I am also seriously considering purchasing a few more as gifts for my children's birthdays because I liked this one so much. Stories are important to children, but so are facts and learning about our world. That is important to everyone. When the two can intertwine so gracefully it is a good thing!

If your children have enjoyed reading the Magic Treehouse Series, this book would be a great companion to #39 Dark Day in the Deep Sea.We love the Magic Treehouse series at our house, but with the magic and fantasy the author often uses, it doesn't hurt to add a little interesting reality at the same time. I think this book would be great for that purpose.

Fancy Nancy

2009-02-17T05:00:00.002-07:00

Fancy Nancy
Written by Jane O'Conner
Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser

Perhaps you have a little girl who likes pink and purple, or better yet fuschia. Perhaps your little girl likes dressing up, or doing all things with a little bit of flair. Sometimes I take it for granted that everyone knows and loves certain books. Fancy Nancy is one of these books.My goodness, what if you have one of these chic little girls and you haven't yet met Fancy Nancy?! Well, you simply must (darling)!

Although Nancy likes all things fancy, she otherwise comes from a very plain family. One day she decides to place an add on the fridge to see if she can spice things up a little with Fancy Lessons (by Nancy of course). Fortunately, her family signs up for lessons! Nancy can hardly wait to get started, and with a little bit here and a little bit there, her family shows some real potential. They really can be fancy! In celebration, Nancy's Dad takes them all to The Kings Crown (a not so fancy hamburger joint). After a little mishap, Fancy Nancy learns that some things are truly best just the way they are. The illustrations in this book are charming, and the fancy vocabulary is sure to be enjoyed and absorbed. Enjoy!!!

Elizabeti's Doll

2009-02-10T05:00:00.002-07:00

Written by Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen
Illustrated by Christy Hale

Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen has created a story about a little girl with a brand new brother. Elizabeti watches her mother care for her new baby, and then, since she has no doll of her own, she finds a rock instead. She names her rock Eva, and cares for it just as her mother cares for her son.

This short picture book is one that clearly relates a way of life different from my own, without ever purposefully contrasting to it. The author of Elizabeti's Doll, Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen, spent time in Tanzania in the Peace Corps, where she met the little girl who is Elizabeti's inspiration. Elizabeti and Eva, and their way of life, are worth getting to know in this sweet book.

The Magician's Nephew

2009-02-03T05:00:00.009-07:00

Written by C.S. Lewis

My five and six year old boys and I just finished reading The Magician's Nephew for the first time, but I have a feeling it won't be our last. This book, written by C.S. Lewis, is nothing short of amazing to me! My children were captivated by the adventure in this tale and I was captivated by the author's well-written words, cleverness, humor, and layers of meaning. I so appreciate that Lewis knows a little about children, which you can see in his writing. This book was enjoyable from the first page to the last. Our family agrees its a keeper. Although Lewis wrote The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe before The Magician's Nephew, the latter tells the history and background for the first. We look forward to reading all the books in The Chronicles of Narnia together and I won't be surprised if they are all read again independently as well. My husband has commented that he doesn't remember seeing my boys quite this excited about any book in the past. These books are truly remarkable!

As our kids have started into school and gotten busier, quiet family times at our house have gotten a little more difficult to find. Having a good book and motivated readers and listeners helps this happen, and all the while I hope we are building memories, bonds, and a life-long love of reading. Reading aloud allows us to read above our children's personal reading level, continuing to build background knowledge and vocabulary, with the the reader there as a reference for the listener. A few chapter books my kids and I have enjoyed include: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,Charlotte's Web, and The Chocolate Touch. I would love some chapter book recommendation from you for my young crowd. I am always seeking them out (and wishing we could read them more frequently)! Happy reading!

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

2009-01-27T05:00:00.002-07:00

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
Written by Judith Viorst
Illustrated by Ray Cruz

Thank you to my good, talented, and wise friend ShaLisa for this guest post on what I consider a classic book. Enjoy!

This is a book that my mom, a counselor by profession and by heart, read to me throughout my younger years when I truly believed I was having a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. It was a way for me to know my mom understood some of my feelings. Sometimes, she didn’t have to read the book, but would gently say something like, “Is today a day you wished you lived in Australia?” Then I knew that she knew and somehow, her knowing made things much better.

Now I am a mother. When my child seems to be having such a day, I find reading the book calms us both and puts a smile on our faces. The book reminds me of how things sometimes seem from the eyes of a child. (I also see now how a bad day for Alexander might have also meant a frustrating day for his mother.)

This book has been around for a long time. It is a book that my mom still reads often, this time to her junior high school students who, undeniably, have bad days. Oh, how a children’s literature can affect a person for good!

A note from Lindsay: I think I will have to adopt the sweet tradition of stopping and taking a minute to pull out this book when my children (or I!) have a bad day. I just love this idea!

Superhero ABC

2009-01-20T05:00:00.004-07:00

SuperHero ABC
Written and illustrated by Bob McLeod

I don't know if it's all boys, or just most of the little boys I know, but they really dig superheroes. Faster than lightening, stronger than steel, and better than the bad-guy, my boys just can't seem to get enough! Unfortunately, comic book heroes have been adulterated for adults! I keep my eyes open for hero-related items that are truly for kids, and I am happy to share this one with you.

SuperHero ABC is a book about many superheros, one for each letter of the alphabet in fact. It's unmistakenly for kids, as some of the sillier superheroes are quite appealing to a child's sense of humor, namely Goo girl (who shoots great gobs of goo at gangsters), The Volcano (who vomits on villains), and Upside-Down Man (who wears his uniform under his underwear). Artist Bob McLeod does a superb job with his invented heroes, and you would expect him to as he's worked for Marvel Comics on characters such as Wonder Woman and The Incredible Hulk. For the superhero lover who is at just about the right age for an alphabet book, this book will certainly spur imagination. You might be surprised with the superheroes that show up in your house afterwards!

Mrs Crumps Cat

2009-01-13T05:00:00.002-07:00

Mrs. Crump's Cat
Written by Linda Smith
Illustrated by David Roberts

Mrs. Crump runs upon a cat that she is sure she just does not need. At first she is dutifully kind, and pretends not to be interested in the stray yellow cat. Mrs. Crump finds reasons to put off getting rid of the cat, and then even tries to find its owner (sort of). But, this cat is a true-to-life feline personality, who makes this woman her own.

This enjoyable read is one that can be taken for just a simple relaxing read, or a story with lots of little details to talk about. If you are looking for a writing activity, Mrs Crump's find-the-owner letter may supply an example and inspiration for your child to follow. David Roberts hasn't illustrated this clever cat realistically, but the stray still manages to have an amazing amount of true cattiness!

Thank you to Corey from Thing 1 and Thing 2 for bringing my attention to the fact that David Roberts was interviewed at Three Silly Chicks this week. What great timing! This artwork is great, and you may want to learn about a few of his other books by checking out the interview.

2009-01-06T05:00:00.003-07:00

Mary Engelbreit's Nursery Tales: A Treasury of Children's Classics Written and illustrated by Mary Engelbreit

Recently I told my three year old daughter that we would be grinding wheat later that day. She asked, "Are we going to the miller's?"

"We are going to be the millers," I told her. My daughter chatted on about the Little Red Hen, and whether or not she would get some bread. The story of The Little Red Hen often comes in handy at my house when I need a little help with something tasty.
"Who will help me, asked the Little Red Hen?" I say. And usually, I have three willing little helpers.

Later that same day my children left their macaroni and cheese to take a walk, and let it cool down. Soon after I learned that I was Goldilocks, and I needed to run away down the window spout. (Clearly they have their own version of The Three Little Bears!)

There are some stories that seem timeless to me, and at my house The Little Red Hen and Goldilocks and The Three Bears are just such classics. Mary Engelbreit's Nursery Tales: A Treasury of Children's Classics is very nearly perfect! I was thrilled when my daughter received this delightful book as a Christmas gift. Engelbreit created this book for very young children, so the stories are simple and short while still complete and charming. Of course you would expect the illustrations to be wonderful, and since they are from Mary Engelbreit, they really are endearing. My one complaint is that the gingerbread man doesn't get eaten up! However, perhaps this ending suits some people even better. For a sweet treasury of timeless stories made simple --I recommend this book.

The Dragons Are Singing Tonight

2008-12-30T05:00:00.005-07:00

The Dragons Are Singing Tonight
Written by: Jack Prelutsky
Illustrated by: Peter Sis

One of my sons and I really like picture book dragons. What's not to like about breathing fire? I have some favorite dragon books, like George the Dragon, and Herbert The Timid Dragon. I have run across some slightly odd dragon stories, like Hush, Little Dragon. (I had to read that book twice in a row I was so taken aback!) The Dragons Are Singing Tonight is different from the rest as it's a book of poems about dragons. I was thrilled to find this in my tiny rural library just down the road. This lovely little library appears to have about 10 poetry books, and this happens to be one of them, whichI think speaks well of the book. The poetry in The Dragons Are Singing Tonightis written by poetry man Jack Prelutsky himself. The illustrations by Peter Sis are very worthy, as you can see by the cover. I think you'll like this one whether you are a dragon-lover, poetry-lover, or neither!

Minerva Louise on Christmas Eve

2008-12-23T05:00:00.003-07:00

Minverva Louise on Christmas Eve
By: Janet Morgan Stoeke

If you have not yet met Minerva Louise, I highly encourage you to do so soon. She is great! Minerva Louise is a pleasant, sweet, slightly dull, and very funny chicken who lives on a farm of course. She is always mistaking one thing for another, inspiring giggles along the way. In Minerva Louise on Christmas Eve this silly chicken just can't understand the farmer in the red hat. She tells him plainly to watch out or he will fall, but to no avail --he slips down the chimney! She decides to follow him and is amazed that there is a new tree inside the house, which must have gotten cold, and the white hen with wings on top must be the one who laid the beautiful colored eggs that adorn it! Minerva Louise has had about enough when she sees the farmer in the red hat putting his stuff in her people's socks, but in the end she is happy to get her own present, and enjoys it just as a sweet and silly chicken should.

Also try: Minerva Louise and the Red Truck or A Friend for Minerva Louise!

Bah! Humbug!

2008-12-16T05:05:00.001-07:00

Bah! Humbug?
by Lorna and Lecia Balian

Has your older sibling ever tried to ruin your fun? If you have an older sibling --I would imagine so! The rotten older brother in Bah! Humbug? is set on proving to his faithful little sister that there is indeed NO Santa Claus. Of course that's not true, and Santa has a magical way of steering clear of all the very creative traps this brother has set. In this book there are moments where a picture is worth a thousand words!

I love this book as much as I love Humbug Witch! Author Lorna Balian knows how to make my kids and me smile. Before this book was back in print (with what look to be improved illustrations by Lecia) my mom went to great lengths to find a used copy for me, which I treasure. I hope you get a chance to read this story sometime, especially if you can do so with a child.

More Christmas books I'd like to read, or the woes of not having a large book store nearby:

2008-12-16T05:00:00.002-07:00

A Pirate's Night Before Christmas

A New Improved Santa

The Night Before Christmas: Tenth Anniversary Edition

Claude the Dog: A Christmas Story

Drummer Boy
Mary Engelbreit's The Night Before Christmas
Has anybody read these? Loved them?

Peter Spier's Christmas

2008-12-09T05:00:00.007-07:00

When I was a child my mother started a holiday tradition of giving each of her children a Christmas book. When I moved from home I had quite a collection, and thanks to my mom, it's still growing. One of the first books I received as a part of this tradition was Peter Spier's Christmas. It's still one of my favorites. I always love Peter Spier's books, and this one is no exception. This book is wordless, but don't worry --there is plenty to talk about! The pictures tell their own story and there are also plenty of details in the illustrations. This is a book you can look at for a long time with your child, but your children might end up doing that on their own!

Unfortunately this book appears to be out of print. It shouldn't be! Perhaps your library will still hold a copy.

A couple Christmas favorites my children enjoy that are still available are: Dream Snowby Eric Carle, and Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson. I would love to hear about your favorite Christmas books! Enjoy the season!

Books for Babies!

2008-12-02T05:00:00.003-07:00

Dear Zoo: A Lift the Flap Book by Rod Campbell

When my oldest son was a baby we had a bedtime routine of reading the same books before he went to sleep. After reading the books I would kiss him good night and he would go right to sleep. Oh, if only every child was this easy! Routines are helpful for all babies and children, and so is reading, so perhaps that's where the bedtime story ritual comes in so handy. All three of my children enjoyed Dear Zoo when they were babies, and it's my all time favorite baby book. It has animals, flaps, simple brightly colored pictures, and repetition. What more can you ask for?

Other tried and true baby books from my house include (all in board book form of course): Good Night, Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. and Baby Booky: Booky (Baby Booky) by Mary Engelbreit. If there's another baby in time I will have to add Tomie's Baa Baa Black Sheep since I am in love with it. What are your favorite baby books?

I Love You the Purplest

2008-11-25T05:00:00.005-07:00

Written by: by Barbara M. Joosse
Illustrated by: Mary Whyte

Those of you who have more than two children to love can certainly understand how meaningful the words "sibling rivalry" become. Recently my husband came up with a great idea for two of my children: a back-scratching contest. Of course he was first to offer his back as available, with himself as the judge. While scratching, my son asked who was best --it was a contest after all. I rolled my eyes, weary of this question, because even when it's not a contest this comes up a lot between my three children. My husband simply noted how one hand was a little bigger and was a strong scratcher while the other hand was more petite and was a gentle scratcher.
"But who's the best?" my son demanded.
"You are the strongest scratcher," my husband told him, "and your sister is the softest." Those of you who have read, I Love You the Purplest surely would have been reminded of this book also. I felt relief as I relived the feelings of this book, and noted to myself that I could use this as a way of dissipating rivalry more often.

The mother in I Love You the Purplest has two sons close in age who engage in some friendly brotherly competition on more than one occasion. But the sweet mother reminds them each of their differences, and helps them understand how they are both wonderful and perfect to her. As they drift off to sleep she loves each a different color, and together she loves them purplest.

This book is probably best enjoyed by children with siblings, and at a time when they are willing to snuggle in for a quiet read. I think of this as a book that speaks to adults also --as it spoke to me --who have more than one child to absolutely love the purplest.

Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon

2008-11-18T05:00:00.010-07:00

Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon
Written by Patty Lovell
Illustrated by: David Catrow

This week I have a guest post from a brilliant mother, writer, and reader-friend of mine, ShaLisa. She gave this book as a gift to me once, and now it's a favorite of mine. Enjoy!

The first time I read this story to my children, the book seemed only to have inspired them to see exactly how many pennies they could balance on their teeth. However, the message of the book is much greater than this balancing skill which it invited, and with repeated readings, my children understand a little more each time, how anybody, including themselves can be proud of who they are --just the way they are.

Molly Lou Melon stood just taller than her dog and was the recipient of loving advice from a loving grandmother who, you will discover when you look at the last page, learned a valuable lesson in life to share with her Molly. Even when faced with the challenge of moving to a new school, Molly stood tall.

The illustrations are delightful, my favorite being the friend pictured on a couple of the pages, with awed eyes and sweet admiration. A child will be blessed to learn the same lesson as Molly Lou Melon. Molly, with buck teeth and big beautiful eyes, set out to make the world better for having lived in it. And so she did.

If you like this book, try I Like Myself! by Karen Beaumont, illustrated by David Catrow.

Here's a Little Poem: A Very First Book of Poetry

2008-11-11T05:00:00.004-07:00

Similar to my venture for the perfect nursery rhyme book , I went on a venture for the perfect first poetry book. This wasn't the book I ended up with, but if it would have been around then, it would have been perfect! I'm not going to say I'm a poetry expert, or even that I've seen a huge number of early poetry books, but this book is different from what I have seen, and perfect for little ones.

Here's A Little Poem: A Very First Book of Poetry contains little poems for little people with little attention spans. Perfect. There is almost always only one or two poems per page. The words are large, making it easy to read, as well as making the words a visual feature for little eyes. The illustrations are large and simple, colorful, and of course adorable. You can tell that by looking at the cover, can't you?

Our local library has this book, and we have checked it out and enjoyed it more than once. All of my children enjoy it, and we all seem to have chosen our favorite poems. As much as I would love too, I don't buy all the books I love. But if I did, I would most certainly own this one. If I ever venture to find a first poetry collection again --and I might--this will be my first choice.

When do you go on your first poetry book expedition? Well, that depends on who you ask. My opinion is that you can't start poetry too early. I think the rhymes and illustrations in this book would easily please a baby if read in short intervals. Depending of course on temperament, and how accustomed to being read to a child is, I think this would also make a great one or two year-old birthday gift. I know my children would have loved it. Beyond that certainly the three to five year old set would enjoy it. It's wonderful to find books that grow with a child! Rhyming is an important literacy skill, and hearing rhymes over and over has got to be one of the most enjoyable ways to acquire it. Babies love rhyming, and so do young children. And when it's this well done --so do I.

I'm not the only one who appreciates this book. It is currently up for the Beehive Award for 2009!

To hear another book-lover succinctly discuss the importance of rhyme, and her perfect nursery rhyme book, click here.

Roger The Jolly Pirate

2008-11-04T07:00:00.002-07:00

It's always exciting when you find that the author of a book you highly approve of has something in common with you. Like Brett Helquist! We share the same home state! He graduated from a favorite college of mine! And well, what do you know, he is also the illustrator of the best-selling Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket. (The things you can learn from the back jacket: amazing).

Roger doesn't scowl, he smiles; he doesn't growl, he grins. He is a jolly pirate. Unfortunately, that's pretty unpopular with the other pirates. To make matters worse, he doesn't know the larward from the starboard, or the mizzard from the main! To make amends, Roger tries to make a cake and make it up to them...and well, his baking skills are right in line with his pirating skills--and a baking catastrophe ensues. Luckily for Roger, this mistake benefits his ship, and the other pirates no longer complain but celebrate him--permanently!

If you have a pirate lover I don't think you can go wrong with this book, and who doesn't care even just a little for pirates? I've noticed amongst the many pirate picture books out there, some are just a little too...well.. jolly to be about pirates. Afterall, pirates are criminals! But Roger, the Jolly Pirate strikes a great balance for children with the lovable Roger and the villanous crew. Plus there's a pirate ditty to belt at the end, and a plot to boot (phew)! Perhaps it's not necessary to mention, since Helquist illustrated a best-selling series, but really-- the illustrations are noteworthy!

Emma Kate

2008-10-28T07:30:00.030-06:00

In Emma Kate, a little girl and an elephant are the best of friends. They go to school together, eat lunch together, and most importantly reads books together. Then, at the end of the day, the two say a sweet goodnight to Mom and Dad.

Does anyone else like Patricia Polacco? I do. Patricia has a very original style of illustrating, and once you are familiar with one or two of her books, they are easy to pick out as well as fun. I have not read all of Polacco's many books, but so far, this is my favorite. Elephants are heavy, and wrinkly, and they have long eyelashes --all fun things to notice with your child when viewing these excellent illustrations.

My three year old daughter and I really enjoy reading Emma Kate together. I began wondering if this story might have her thinking a little, when after a few reads she began asking what the little girl's name was. We know that the mom calls her daughter sweet pea at bedtime, just the same as my daughter. But the elephant is of course Emma Kate. Or is it? It might take a while for a child to catch this! This book is worth rereading to find new details in the pictures, but Emma Kate is still short, sweet, and one to smile through together.

To enjoy some Emma Kate printables, see Patricia Polacco's website here.

Humbug Witch

2008-10-21T07:30:00.004-06:00

This has to be the most charming witch you have ever met! However, she can't seem to get her spells to work right. She tries all kinds of peanut butter- ketchup potions, and casting-the-cat-away spells to no avail. This adorable witchy-witch then gives up for bedtime, and it becomes a little more clear what's in the way of her magic. The first time you read Humbug Witch, you and your child will enjoy the surprise, but you will not tire of reading it over and over. Don't miss this one! In my mind, this is a book that just happens to be extra fun to read around Halloween, but it's also a classic I wouldn't want to be without.

Hoodwinked

2008-10-14T07:30:00.001-06:00

Hoodwinked, written and illustrated by Arthur Howard, is full of kid appeal. The story features Mitzi, a small red-haired witch, who likes everything to be creepy. She prefers creepy breakfast cereal, creepy slippers, creepy relatives, and now she is searching for a really creepy pet. The lady at the creepy pet store, (who has long blue teeth!) tries several times to please Mitzi, but some pets are too buggy, some are too batty, and some Mitzi decides just need some thinking over. What to do? Mitzi's new pet practically comes knocking on her front door, but is it creepy enough?

Mitzi reminds me an awful lot of my children, who only think they like all things creepy. This creepy-loving, small and freckled, red-headed witch is anything but creepy, which makes the illustrations perfect for young children. My three year old daughter really enjoys this book, but even as uncreepy as it really is, for younger kids it's best read in the daylight, because according to my daughter, nightlight shadows have a tendency to become a little creepy otherwise.

Too Many Pumpkins

2008-10-07T07:00:00.003-06:00

Isn't there just something magical about pumpkins? All kids seem to love them. Even more so, there is something magical about Too Many Pumpkins: filling the porch, the lawn, and kitchen. This story gives you and your child your fill of pumpkins, and all the magical things that go with them. The pictures in this book, by Megan Lloyd, are wonderfully detailed and perfect for entertaining old and young eyes both.

The cute old gardener Rebecca Estelle remembers a time where they had nothing to eat but pumkins for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and so she never wants to see a pumpkin again. But somehow a stubborn pumpkin plant, originating from a smashed pumpkin, grows despite neglect, and Rebecca Estelle meets her match of pumpkins. She manages to use up the pumpkins she thought she detested, to the delight of the town.

I love the fact that this story is based on a true experience by author Linda White's grandmother, who lived during the great depression, and really did eat pumpkins for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. An enjoyable book my kids and I haven't tired of yet-- and although we read it anytime, it's perfect for October!

Little Red Riding Hood

2008-09-30T07:30:00.002-06:00

This is my favorite version of Little Red Riding Hood, which is retold and illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman. Honestly my love of this book has everything to do with the pictures! I never tire of them. I find Tricia an enchanting illustrator, drawing a world with beautiful people and illustrations that have a very magical feel, rich in detail and color.

The Little Red Riding Hood in this book is as sweet and innocent as can be, and the wolf is everything a wily wolf should be. Riding Hood is lured off the path to pick a bouquet for Grandmother, while the wolf runs to Grandmother's house to take care of business. Be warned that this retelling is closer to the original story than some others, including Grandmother and Red Riding Hood getting swallowed hungrily, only to come out well and whole again when cut out by the huntsman. This is the version that I grew up with, but some may prefer the less horrific hiding-in-the-closet version, in which case they must look elsewhere.

There is a very clear moral for the little girl in this story, which is that she should have done just what her mother asked her to do--stay on the path. If you chance to meet this book, sit a spell and be drawn into Little Red Riding Hood's richly drawn world. You won't regret it.

The Dragon Snatcher

2008-09-23T07:00:00.006-06:00

The next time you are at the library, notice how many cute animal picture books there are. There are many, and my six-year old no longer approves of them! In order to persuade him that he really is not done with picture books (especially for independent reading) I have been searching for picture books that appeal to him. These would include anything with adventure, fantasy, or a hero (and no cute dogs or cats to speak of). I have found a few of these books, and hope to find a few more! The Dragon Snatcher,by M.P. Robertson, is a book all three of my children love and approve of. At times I would like to have seen this story expanded a bit, even with just another sentence or two, but I think the fact that it is simple and short is part of what makes it special.

George loves to read, and one night as he is nestled in bed with a pile of books, his dragon wakens him from outside the window with a worried look. That night they go on a journey and discover a bad wizard with a bad plan. They takes strides to stop him, but something surprising happens to save the day for dragons everywhere, as well as the wizard's icy heart.

This book is written simply, but feels like a true fantasy book. The storyline is interesting, but the illustrations are incredible. Together the combination is absolutely winning for my little people.

In a Blue Room

2008-09-16T07:45:00.013-06:00

At my library, they entice picture book readers by standing books up on top of the low bookshelves. This is one of my favorite places to search for great books, because the children's librarian here has such great taste. Because this book still had a clean and intact cover as it stood on top of the shelf, I could tell it was new, and the beautiful cover illustration drew me in immediately. I have not come back! In a Blue Roomis my current number one favorite when it comes to picture books.

In a very yellow room, a mother brings sleep-encouraging items to her little one. Consistently, the little girl demands each to be blue. None are, but her mother manages to convince her sleepy daughter to settle in for bedtime. Finally, as the little girl can withstand sleep no longer, she finally (and wonderfully) gets her wish for blue.

The text and pictures in this book are a match made in heaven. Tricia Tusa does great illustrations, and I have seen some, but after seeing this book, I would like to see more. They are perfect! Each illustration is done at a beautiful and creative angle, with details that give a lot of feeling to the home and atmosphere, and the relationship between mother and daughter. (I wish I could live in the adorable house!) Tusa also has a way of making magic known in her pictures, as she does in this book.

Jim Averbeck is an author I am not familiar with, but I hope this is not his last children's book. One thing I appreciate about a children's book author, is when it's obvious that they are truly familiar with children. This appears to be true with Averbeck. The little girl's insistence rings very true to me during the reading. The mother is as sweet and patient as all mothers wish to be, but also as inventive. This is a simple but clever story, one that can be read and appreciated at different levels by various ages, making it a book that allows much revisiting.

To see an interview with artist Tricia Tusa, click here.

George and The Dragon

2008-09-09T07:35:00.013-06:00

George and the Dragon, written and illustrated by Chris Wormell, is a book that took me by surprise. When I started into this book my thoughts were along the lines of "Wow! This is a really great, simple book for young children who like dragons." It seems like just what a dragon-loving child would like, as it hits on all the major points of dragon life, with accompanying illustrations. But then there's more. This book takes a clever turn, and the dragon is faced with his own fear, an amusing one.

Have you seen a dragon brush away an army? Have you seen a dragon steal a princess, smash a castle wall, and burn down a forest with his fiery breath? Have you ever seen a scared dragon? The illustrations in this book clearly show you. Written with short and simple but expertly crafted sentences, this book is a must-have for dragon lovers! My six year old recently told me that he didn't want to pick books with me, he doesn't like books that are about dogs and cats. (And that's apparently all I choose.) He likes heroes. This story meets both of our good-book standards, is without dogs and cats, and has a very small and unlikely hero to boot.

Mercy Watson to the Rescue

2008-09-02T08:25:00.004-06:00

Would you giggle a little if your kids routinely said, "I want my toast with a great deal of butter on it?" Well, I do. I don't say that phrase, and don't know anyone else who often does, besides Kate DeCamillo in this series of early chapter books.

Mercy is funny pig whose favorite thing to eat is--what else-- but toast, with a great deal of butter on it. She is dearly loved by her human family, the Watson's, and strongly disliked by her neighbor. She is spoiled and manages to get into lots of trouble, but still, she is a lovable pig. Every page in these books has an illustration as well as fairly large words. The stories are pretty simple, but fortunately the vocabulary isn't. These books make everyone in my family laugh together. Chris Van Dusen, who also created If I Built a Car, does the fantastic and funny illustrations for these books. They are right on the mark for the story, and are humorous themselves. The books are great early chapter book read-alouds. Although my family hasn't tested them yet for independent reading, I suspect they would be good first chapter books as well.

When my kids start talking about toast with a great deal of butter, I secretly applaud inside. I know reading aloud is doing just what I hope it will. Besides inviting my kids to find the joy in reading, and sharing knowledge about the world that we may not otherwise get around to learning about, I know they are learning a lot about vocabulary and language. That makes me happy. And Mercy Watson makes me laugh.

The Great Gracie Chase: Stop That Dog! by Cynthia Rylant and Mark Teague

2008-08-26T10:30:00.005-06:00

Mark Teague is one of my favorite children's book illustrators, and Cynthia Rylant is one of my favorite authors, so for me there is nothing not to like about this book! Together they have created, The Great Gracie Chase: Stop That Dog! This book is not new, but it is one that I find myself coming back to, with no complaints from the kids. There is something about Teague's charming little houses that always make me linger a little longer, and this dog, Gracie, well she is something pretty special too.

Gracie, a typically well-behaved dog, is taken out of her comfort zone, and takes the town for a wild goose chase that is sure to make you smile. Then, reminiscent of a disobedient child that stops getting the attention he's looking for, when Gracie is sure no one is still looking, she decides to head home after all. For dog-lovers, typically obedient children, and picture-studiers, this book is a good choice.

If I Built a Car by Chris Van Dusen

2008-08-19T11:31:00.002-06:00

If there is a book for a boy who likes gadgets and gizmos, this is it. As if his dad's cute car isn't enough, the little boy in this book studies out and creates his own fantastical car. Inside this car you can snack or swim, and not only that but it smells great too. The rhyming verse the author uses adds to the fun, and happily this is the kind of book kids will want to read over and over, as both the pictures and story are brimming with imaginative detail. Although my daughter loves this book too, I feel confident it's a book that especially any little boy could love.

Ella Sarah Gets Dressed by Margaret Chavos-Irvine

2008-08-12T21:29:00.016-06:00

Have you noticed how girls clothes can be a little tricky to put together? Unlike boys clothes, which all seem to match each other, girls clothes all seem to need to be kept with their matching pieces. Pants can be pink and polka-dotted, socks can be blue and purple striped, and dresses can have orange and green flowers. Should you really put those together?

My daughter has a strong will, and also a strong opinion about what she wears. She also believes if mom picks it out, it is not a good choice. To my dismay, other little girls walk around wearing matching clothes, and I wonder how their mothers talked them into it.

Ella Sarah is a girl after my own daughter's heart. She knows just what she wants to wear, no matter who else has an opinion. Margaret Chodos-Irvine illustrates her own story, and perfectly captures the true look of a determined toddler in tantrum mode! This book is a must-read for any opinionated daughter, and her mother.

Favorite Nursery Rhymes from Mother Goose by Scott Gustafson

2008-08-05T14:06:00.012-06:00

When I was a child I had a sweet nursery rhyme book given to me by my grandma. Although I'm sure I loved reading it, I especially remember spending time looking at the pictures. Looking back at it now, the pictures are still familiar, like old friends, and I remember which were my favorites.

I wanted a book for my daughter to love and remember also, and of course it required superior illustrations. After much searching I was pleased to find this book by Scott Gustafson, which I feel rivals the one from my childhood. Of all the available nursery rhyme books I have seen, I believe this one is far and above the best!

All of my children have been lovers of nursery rhymes, with or without good illustrations. There really is something to Mother Goose rhymes, which is probably why they are still around!

My 2 1/2 year old and I can get through this book all in one sitting, and neither one of us gets bored. My five and six year old still enjoy it, perhaps especially because of the excellent illustrations. The rhymes are classic, and the pictures are simply delicious!