Olivia Helps with Christmas

written and illustrated by Ian Falconer
ages: pre-readers, k-3

Last minute preparations are underway for Olivia and her family; after all, it's Christmas Eve. Olivia is exhausted as she finishes trimming the tree, preparing Christmas Eve dinner, and keeping watch over the weather and the fireplace (ideal conditions are essential for successful Santa-ing). Join Olivia and her family as they celebrate Christmas as only she can.

Any Olivia devotee will tell you of this delightful piglet with spunk, brimming with creativity and boundless energy. Simply written with charming illustrations, Olivia is sure to become a favorite.

Because of Winn-Dixie

by Katie DiCamillo
Ages 10+

A classic book and Newberry Winner that is great. I had heard some many things about this book. I decided to read it myself and I fell in love with it. Opal moved to Florida with her father, the preacher. She finds a dog at the grocery store and promptly names it after the store, Winn-Dixie. Opal is a head strong girl trying to fit in with her new environment and makes friends with the Librarian, the crazy blind neighbor, and the mysterious ex-con pet store owner. Opal learns exciting stories about her new friends and learns how to forgive her mother and others.

The Lightening Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series #1)

written by Rick Riordan
ages: 11+ (young adult)

Although Percy Jackson has spent his whole life in and out of various schools being expelled for assorted infractions, he finally feels like he has it together. He has a best friend named Grover and a teacher that cares; things really seem to be looking up. But when a trip to the museum goes horribly awry, Percy ends up at Camp Half-blood, where he discovers that he is a demigod, or half human and half immortal. More interesting still, he is the son of Poseidon, the god of the Sea, which brings about its own set of unique abilities. A prophecy soon reveals that he must go on a quest to prevent a war among the gods of Olympus; a harrowing journey that will take him to the Underworld.

Creative and spellbinding, The Lightening Thief interweaves Greek mythology flawlessly into this adventure. Don't be fooled by the apparently masculine themes in this book; it will be devoured by both boys and girls. A true page turner, writer Rick Riordan will leave you clamoring for more!

Surviving the Applewhites.

by Stephanie S. Tolan
Ages: 11+

Jake Semple is trouble with a capital "T". Rumor has it that he burned down the last school, he attended. Then, the Traybride Middle School kicks him out after a few weeks into the school year. His last hope is a home school run by a quirky and creative family, the Applewhites. E.D. Applewhite is the only non-creative Applewhite and she is not happy because Jake is the same-age and she has been paired with him in the family experiment of "cooperative education." The only thing they have in common is the desire and determination to survive the eccentric family.

The school year is filled with the family coming together to support E.D.'s father, in a production of "The Sound of Music." E.D. and Jake learn about supporting each other and the special gifts and talents they have.

I know why this book received the Newberry Honor in 2003. I enjoy reading about "weird" families learning to work together in crisis including anyone around them. The energy and creative is contagious.

Oh, Brother... Oh, Sister!: A Sister's Guide to Getting Along (American Girl Library Series)

written by Brooks Whitney and illustrated by Laura Cornell
ages 8-12 years

From the makers of the American Girl series comes a book that helps girls navigate the tricky relationships between brothers and sisters. Well written and cleverly illustrated, this book provides practical ideas for dealing with the ups and downs of having siblings. "Oh, Brother...Oh, Sister" includes quizzes, tricks, and tips on dealing with everything from sharing a room to tattling.

Here Lies the Librarian

by Richard Peck
Ages 9+

Peewee lives with her older brother, Jake, in Indiana. They barely make a living by repairing what few cars happen to pass their country "garage" shack. They are looking forward to the day that the road will get paved to bring in more business. They are also competing with the Kirbys, who own the other garage in town. The Kirbys are shady businessmen and trying to run them out of business with constant theft and vandalism. In 1914, they are few cars for the two businesses to fight over.

Life starts to change when a group of young ladies, fresh from the School of Library Science at Butler U., come to town and find the little town's library closed since the last librarian passed away. She was found in the library "with a fistful of library cards in her cold hand,". These ladies, with wealthy backgrounds, decide to reopen and improve this town's library. At the same time, the ladies seek to "improve" PeeWee, who is content with working on cars with her brother at the garage.

Richard Peck is an Newbery-winning author of "A Year Down Yonder." I always enjoy historical fiction. It includes a character that struggles with her role in the world. PeeWee was a tom boy and lived in a time that did not accept her interests. She is able to discover herself and keep her interests at the same time.

Doctor De Soto Goes to Africa

written and illustrated by William Steig
ages: preschool- grade 2

Doctor Bernard De Soto is a world renowned dentist; never mind that he's a mouse. When he receives a telegraph from deepest, darkest Africa from Mudambo, an ailing elephant, he and his wife Deborah, can't resist climbing aboard an ocean liner to assist him. While working to repair the elephant's rotten molar, Doctor De Soto is kidnapped by a rhesus monkey with a grudge against Mudambo for a previous insult. Will Doctor De Soto be saved in time?

This is the second book in the adventures of Doctor De Soto and his wife Deborah. Filled with big adventures and bright pictures, Mr. Steig's talent shines through. This book became a fast favorite at our house however, my preschooler was a bit scared of Honkeytonk the monkey. Funny name- worrisome monkey. As with all books, be mindful of your child's reaction to the characters and the story.

Esperanza Rising

by Pam Munoz Ryan
Ages 10+

Esperanza Ortega is a young girl who has everything she has ever wanted. She has fancy dresses, a beautiful home filled with servants living in the bountiful region of Aguascalientes, Mexico, and one day she will rise to her Mama’s position and presiding over all of Rancho de las Rosas. Her father buys her a beautiful doll every year on her birthday. The night before her birthday, her father is killed by bandits. Her corrupt wealthy uncles give Esperanza and her Mama no choice but to flee to California to live in the Mexican labor camps in the 1930's. Esperanza struggles letting go of her past and embracing her future and community. During her struggle, her mama becomes ill with Valley Fever and a labor strike threatens to change her life again.

I was truly touch by this book. I became fully invested and sympathetic to Esperanza struggles. She had to learn how to work including sweeping the floor. Then, she had to give up school to work and earn money while her mother was sick. She lost her father and her mother die. She left her home knowing that she could never return and have the same life again. How much can one young girl take in a year? Also, the author, Pam Muñoz Ryan, portrays the Mexican workers’ plight in this novel through Esperanza eyes. It earned the "Pura Belpré" Award which honors Latino authors whose work best portrays, affirms, and celebrates the Latino cultural experience in a children's book.

The Rough-Face Girl

written by Rafe Martin and illustrated by David Shannon
ages- k-5

This Algonquin Indian Cinderella, beings with a poor man with three daughters. The two oldest daughters are cruel and force the youngest daughter to constantly tend the fire. As a result, her hair is singed and her skin is marked with the scars from sparks from the fire. The father gives all that he has to his two haughty daughters so that they might marry the invisible being; a rich, powerful, and supposedly handsome man on the banks of Lake Ontario. In order to marry the invisible being, the sisters must answer the questions that his sister poses. When the girls can't answer the questions, they are shamed and sent home. The Rough-Face girl then goes to her father and asks for the same things that her sisters were given. With the exception of some bits of broken shell and his old moccasins, he is unable to help her. He watches helplessly as his daughter uses her wits to create a dress, moccasins, and a shell necklace. As she walks to meet with the sister of the invisible being, other villagers mock her. Will she be able to be successful where her sisters have failed?

In this hauntingly beautiful telling of the Cinderella story, the true beauty of the spirit is emphasized. When the invisible being meets the Rough-Face girl, he remarks on her beauty, proving that the vision of beauty is individual. Beautifully written and illustrated, The Rough-Face Girl is unique and powerful.

Ivy and Bean- the Ivy and Bean Series #1

written by Annie Barrows
illustrated by Sophie Blackall
ages: 6-9 or grades 2-4

Ivy and Bean are two very different girls: Ivy has long, curly, red hair, Bean's is stick straight; Ivy is quiet and enjoys reading whereas tomboy Bean prefers not to read. Bean decides that the girls are just too different to be friends. But when a joke Bean plays on her older sister Nancy goes badly, Ivy is there to help. One witch costume, magic wand, and a big bucket of pink slimy worms later, the girls are on their way to becoming fast friends.

Quirky characters, an energetic story, and fun illustrations make this a book worth picking up. My daughters read this out loud together and, judging from their laughter, they loved it. We can't wait to read the rest of the series!

Lost in the Devil's Desert

By Gloria Skurzynski
Ages:10+

An exciting adventure where eleven year old Kevin stumbles upon two convicts robbing the owner of a local junkyard. He takes refuge in the back of a pick-up truck, only to find himself trapped in the convict's getaway car. Kevin is able to escape but finds himself facing a more dangerous situation. He is lost in the devil's desert. He has to face the rattlesnakes, the heat, and the dust. Can Kevin survive the desert?

Falling for Rapunzel

written by Leah Wilcox and illustrated by Lydia Monks
grades k-3

Rapunzel is having a bad hair day- her hair has lost its shine! Misinterpreting her whine for a plea for help, the Prince "sallies forth to set her free." The silliness mounts as her inability to hear the Prince's requests correctly leads to all sorts of misunderstandings. All that the Prince wants is for her to throw down her hair and instead he gets, well, everything else. He calls for her to send down her curly locks and she throws down dirty socks. He calls for her hair and ends up covered in pairs of frilly underwear; his cries for a ladder end up with a face full of pancake batter. The Prince certainly gets all of the things that he is asking for, if only Rapunzel would hear it correctly. Rapunzel is thrilled when at last she thinks that she understands what the Prince is asking her for- but does she?

This twist on the traditional Rapunzel fairytale is clever and entertaining. Falling for Rapunzel is precisely what a fairytale, albeit a silly one, should be. The vivid illustrations, rhyming text, and silly predicaments make this book at once delightful and whimsical. This book is a reminder that what we expect and what we get are often very different things, but the outcome can be delightful.

Tuesday

Tuesday
by David Wiesner
Ages 3 and up

Tuesday around eight something mysterious starts to happen; the frogs begin to fly on their lily pads. This book has has few words, but the pictures are adorable. The frogs are like aliens exploring the world of the humans, yet have human reactions and characteristics. As dawn approaches, the magic of flying ends, but what happens next Tuesday around eight?

I read this book many years ago, but recently was able to reread it and laughed hard at the pictures. Small details in the photos are what makes this book come to life. This 1992 Caldecott winner is most enjoyable.

Me First

written by Helen Lester and illustrated by Lynn Munsinger
grades- k-3

Pinkerton Pig just has to be first at everything- especially during a trip to the beach with his scout troop. While playing at the beach, Pinkerton hears someone calling, "would anyone care for a sandwich?" Immediately, he hurries to be the first to get a delicious snack. Little does he know, but he will be caring for a Sand Witch, not enjoying a sandwich. In the rush to be first, he learns that being first is not always best.

This hilarious lesson of poor manners and piggishness is sure to elicit giggles. Clever and fun, Munsinger brings Lester's characters to life with her imaginative illustrations.

For You Are a Kenyan Child

written by Kelly Cunnane and illustrated by Ana Juan
age range- 3-7 years

After the rooster crows and the sun rises over eucalyptus trees filled with doves, a young Kalenjin boy eats his morning maize porridge. After breakfast, his Mama sends him to tend to Grandfather's cows. In the fresh morning air, the boy feels the pull of adventure and leaves the cows. Although he intends to only be gone for a moment, he finds the day full of excitement and friends. Chasing monkeys, visiting the village chief, drinking milk sweetened with crushed charcoal fresh from a gourd, and having a bug for a snack are a few of the day's activities. Will trouble finally catch up to him when he realizes that he has left the cows alone for so long?

This is such an immensely satisfying picture book; the illustrations are rich and clear and the text is lyrical. There is a certain musical quality to the writing in this book. Peppered with Swahili, it is so easily imagine oneself in a small village in this beautiful country. For You Are a Kenyan Child illustrates the aspects in which we are different, but more importantly, the ways in which we are alike.

Make Four Million Dollar$ By Next Thursday

Make Four Million Dollar$ By Next Thursday
By Stephen Manes
Ages 8-13

Jason Nozzle is an ordinary kid, whose allowance is not enough, and wants to be a multimillionaire. Dr. K. Pinkerton Silverfish wrote a book “Make Four Million Dollar$ by Next Thursday.” Jason finds this book and decided it sounds like a good scheme to get rich quick. Jason thinks about getting rich. He could buy anything he wanted. Jason follows the weird instructions by Dr. K. Pinkerton Silverfish, because he knows that he will be rich by next Thursday. What is the secret to getting rich quick? Read and find out.

This book provides laughter and interest for the most reluctant readers.

I Stink!

written by Kate and Jim McMullan
ages: 2-8

When you're a garbage truck, you can be sure that you probably stink. This big city garbage truck gobbles up everything from apples to leftover ziti with zucchini. Yum!

I Stink is a silly romp through the interesting (and sometimes gross) work of a garbage truck in a big city. Every kid (okay, and grown up too) in your family will love reading and listening to this rhyming, jiving book.

The Fiji Flood

The Fiji Flood
By Irene Schultz
Ages- 7-11

The Woodland family is taking a family vacation to Fiji. They are excited to swim in the colorful island and snorkel. When they arrive, a huge storm has caused flooding and mud slides. The vacation is full of unplanned adventures as they travel across the island to the hotel and have to return early to the airport. The family takes disappointing situations and makes it exciting and fun

This is a great chapter book for younger readers who enjoy adventures and mystery. I enjoyed this book because the author includes helpful hints of the pronunciation, in a unique way, for difficult words that allows the reader to not feel dumb. I love the messages in this book. The author allows the characters to practice having a good attitude during tough situations. The Woodland family has many adventures in other books which makes a great series to enjoy reading.

Cinder Edna

Written by Ellen Jackson and illustrated by Kevin O'Malley
ages k-5

Cinder Edna and Cinder Ella live next door to one another. While both are forced to work long hours, toiling away while their stepmothers and stepsisters enjoy a leisurely existence, they have a very different way of viewing their circumstances. Cinder Ella spends her time pondering her existence and the troubles which have been heaped on her. Cinder Edna has a completely different attitude towards the work that she is forced to do; she improves herself, learning, and whistling while she works. While both girls end up going to the Royal ball, Cinder Ella is helpless without the help of a fairy godmother; Cinder Edna already has a dress on layaway just for this sort of occasion. Instead of a pumpkin coach, Cinder Edna goes by bus. Rather than wearing glass slippers (who can dance in glass slippers!) Edna wear sensible loafers. The girls meet two very different princes at the ball and marry- but only one will truly have her happily ever after. And although one girl ends up in the palace and the other in a small cottage with solar heating, it just proves that love and happiness come from embracing who you really are.

A twist on the traditional Cinderella story, Cinder Edna is clever and quirky. The book answers the age old questions: how did Cinderella really dance in those glass slippers and whose idea was it to try shoes on everyone's feet when the prince could have asked her name instead? The perfect book to cure the bedtime fairytale blues.

Meet Rebecca (American Girl Collection, Rebecca #1)

written by Jacqueline Dembar Greene
grades 2-4 (and their Moms)

Rebecca Rubin is a nine year-old Jewish girl growing up in New York City in 1914. She wants to be an actress, although her traditional parents and grandparents think that this is not an appropriate aspiration for a young lady; they want her to become a teacher instead. Rebecca's family is working hard to make a successful life in America. When Rebecca and her family learn of the hardships of her cousins still living in Russia, her passion becomes helping them find a way to come to America- and safety. Spunky Rebecca puts on a show on the front stoop of their apartment building to make money to help with her cousin's boat fare, only to be met with reprimand from her family. Still determined to help her family in Russia escape to America, Rebecca finds another unexpected way to help.

American Girl has become synonymous with well-written historical fiction for children. Researched thoroughly, Meet Rebecca also includes a section entitled "Looking Back," about Jewish immigration and culture. Rebecca is a charming addition to the American Girl series; strong-willed and intelligent, she is a girl to be admired.

School is Starting!

Great questions to ask your child’s teacher!

What program are you using to help teach reading?
Often districts and school mandate certain programs, but good teacher realize supplementing the instruction is important. Every program is going to be lacking something and is not perfect. A good reading program needs to include phonics, word study, comprehension, fluency, and writing.

How are you incorporating writing in your classroom?
Studies are showing that students are writing less and less in the classrooms. Younger grades need to be writing as well. A child doesn’t have to have perfect grammar, spelling, or format; Students need to be communicating even if it means through pictures.

What is the curriculum for the ____ grade?
It doesn’t hurt to know what students are studying in the different disciplines (language arts, math, social studies, and science). There are many ways to reinforce subjects in the home by having discussions and finding out more what your child is learning. Take it to the next level of your child wanting to learn more. Feed them!

What are your classroom manners (procedures, rules, expectations)?
I prefer to call them manners because it focuses on students learning the appropriate manners needed for classrooms and schools. Each teacher has different pet peeves that drive them crazy.

This doesn’t include the basic questions such as: How is the discipline handled in your room? How can I reach you (email, phone) or how are you communicating with parents? What are your rewards? What behaviors are not acceptable in the classroom? What supplies do you need? How much homework do you give? When is it assignments due? Etc….

Judy Moody Saves the World

By Megan McDonald
Ilus. Peter H. Reynolds
Ages: 7-11

Judy Moody is my new favorite series. Judy Moody is a spunky third grader with an idea and dream for every occasion. When Judy’s class studies the environment, she is startled to learn about the destruction of the rain forest, the endangered species in her own backyard, and her family’s crummy recycling habits. Can she come up with a plan to save the world?

It starts with the Crazy Strips contest and a dream that she might see her very own band-aid design covering the knees of thousands children all over the world. When her “Heal the World” band-aid is awarded only honorable mention, Judy realizes that it is time to focus on something bigger. She drives her family insane by throwing out everything that comes from the rain forest, including her mother’s lipstick. When she decides to release her brother’s pet Toady, she may have gone too far. Can Judy whip the plant into shape?

Other books-Judy Moody Gets Famous, Judy Moody Predicts the Future, Judy Moody Declares Independence, www.judymoody.com for more books

Summer Reading for Gals

It's the three words that kids dread the most- back to school. Happily, there are still a few more weeks of glorious summer. Make the most of it with a few of these "girly" Young Adult books.

1. Fifteen by Beverly Cleary
2. My Fair Godmother by Janette Rallison
3. I'd Tell You I Love, but Then I'd Have to Kill You by Ally Carter*
4. Princess Academy by Shannon Hale
5. Bras and Broomsticks: Magic in Manhattan Series by Sarah Mylnowski*
6. Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson*

* indicates a previously reviewed book

Squids Will be Squids: Fresh Morals and Beastly Fables

written by Jon Scieszka and illustrated by Lane Smith
ages: 7-12 or the author's recommendation of 49-630 (in dog years)

In this quirky twist on Aesop's fables, Squids Will be Squids authors Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith reinvent morals for today's reader. This is a collection of fables that Aesop "might have written if he were alive today." Gone are the tortoise and the hare, the crow and the fox; here are the frog's new shoes, elephant and mosquito, he who..., little walrus, and duck billed platypus versus beefsnakstik. With reinvented animals and modern morals, Squids Will be Squids is sure to become a belly laughing favorite in your home.

Written by the authors of The True Story of the Three Little Pigs and The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales, Squids Will be Squids lives up to its quirky title. This book is cleverly written and wonderfully irreverent. However, there are two incidents in the book that might be considered questionable; there is a bit of name calling and one of the morals is "he who smelt it, delt it." This is a book that you might choose to preview; be mindful though, it promises a good laugh.

The Art of Keeping Cool

by Janet Taylor Lisle


Ages- 10+

In The Art of Keeping Cool, by Janet Taylor Lisle, Elliot and Robert learn to deal with prejudice on a personal level. Robert and Elliot, who are cousins, live in Rhode Island during World War II time period. The setting plays an important role in this story as it does in all historical fiction books.

The story begins with Elliot and Robert, who are cousins and friends, living in the same house on the East Coast of the United States during World War II. Abe Hoffman, an artist, from Germany escaped and immigrated to Rhode Island. At the county fair, Elliot meets Abe and notices that Elliot is good at art. Abe is generous enough to let him take art lessons from him and let him use his supplies. Supplies are rare because war rations. After several U-Boat attacks, townsfolk begin to think Abe is a German spy. Although everyone in the town believes Abe was guilty, Robert and Elliot knew the truth that he was not a spy.

I love World War II therefore; this book really caught my interest. I recommend this book to readers that enjoy the subject of World War II. Readers should have a wide vocabulary, understand basic events of World War II, and should be at least ten years and older. This book contains material (killing) that might be inappropriate for children under the age of ten. Overall, my rating was 10 out of 10.

By: Grant (12 years old)

I Am Too Absolutely Small for School (Charlie and Lola Series)

written and illustrated by Lauren Child
ages: k-3

It is almost the- gulp- first day of school and Lola is feeling worried. Lola spends most of the book creating reasons for why she doesn't need to go to school; she already knows the important things, like how to use the telephone (so who needs to learn to write) or how to count to 100 (nobody eats more than 10 cookies at a time....). In the end, Lola goes to school to help Soren Lorensen, her imaginary friend, feel less afraid. In the end though, with reassurances from big brother Charlie, Lola realizes that school might now be all that bad. It is Charlie's resourcefulness and patience that helps her come to the conclusion that school might actually be worthwhile- and maybe even a little bit fun.

This is a great book choice for back to school. Humorous and fun, it is a gentle reminder to children than even something as scary as school can end up being quite wonderful. Child's whimsical collages really add to this charming book.

Beck and the Great Berry Battle

Beck and the Great Berry Battle
By Laura Driscoll
Illus. Judith Holmes Clarke & Disney storybook artists

Ages-7 to 10 years old

This series is for the children who love Disney and fairies. Disney has produced a movie about Tinker Bell and her friends and has written books to keep the fairy world alive. The books don’t follow the movie, but introduce readers to more fairies that live in Never Land.

Beck is fairy in Never Land. She is the best animal-talent fairy. Every fairy has a special talent that helps keep balance in the forest. Beck is able to communicate with animals. The hummingbirds and the chipmunks start a Berry war which escalates when other animals join sides. Can Beck get the bottom of the misunderstanding and convince the animals to stop fighting?

It is another decent, very strong moralistic story in the series. It shows how easily fights can start and stupidity of wars and the reasons for them. It demonstrates that people can decide to cooperate rather than fight, and things are much better that way. I was introduced to this series by my 8 year old niece. It is very popular with the 3rd and 4th grade girls. This series can help reluctant readers make the difficult transition from picture books to chapter books.
If you are interested in learning more about these books, of course, Disney has a website- http://disney.go.com/fairies/

The Story of the World: History for the Classical Child: Volume 1: Ancient Times: From the Earliest Nomads to the Last Roman Emperor

written by Susan Wise Bauer, Joyce Crandell, Jeff West (illustrator)
appropriate for elementary grades k-5 (and their parents)

Formatted to be read aloud, The Story of the World is as engaging as it is fascinating. This is the first in a series of four books exploring the world's great civilizations. A workbook is also available with this series as well as cd's. Topics include: First Nomads, Egypt, the Jewish People, Abraham and Joseph, Hammurabi and the Babylonians, the Assyrians, Ancient China, Ancient Africa, Exodus, the Phoenicians, the Greeks and Rome. Here are some of the questions that are answered in The Story of the World:

What terrible secret was buried in Shi Huangdi's tomb? Did nomads like lizard stew and did they bathe? Who was Homer? And how did a six-year-old become the last emperor of Rome?

School days are fast approaching and there's nothing like spending some quality time with your kids reviewing and learning during the summer. Intelligently written and interesting, this is simply a great book.

I'd Tell you I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You

written by Ally Carter
Young Adult

Being a spy is never easy- especially when you're a teenager. Cammie Morgan attends the Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women; a super secret spy school for girls. While the school looks average on the outside, there isn't anything ordinary about it. Cammie may speak 14 languages, excel at advanced martial arts, and decode with the best of them; but what happens when she finds herself in the real world and faced with- gasp- a boy?

The first in a series of four, I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You, is fun and fast paced. This is the perfect book to read while lounging at the beach or by the pool.

Who are You, Baby Kangaroo?

by Stella Blackstone

Ilustrated by Clare Beaton
Ages: Pre-readers

A little puppy desires to know the name of the baby kangaroo. The baby kangaroo suggests the puppy asks other animals to find the answer. The puppy travels around the world asking wolf cubs, piglets, penguin chicks, zebra foals, tadpoles, and other various baby animals, what’s the name of a baby kangaroo? The other baby animals don’t know and send him to another baby animal. Finally, the beaver kittens suggest asking baby kangaroo’s mother. The puppy learns the name of the baby kangaroo. While you are following the little puppy in his journey, the ready learns the names of animal babies.
The illustrations are unique and not typical drawings. The illustrator’s creativity of using felt fabric as the pictures helps readers want to touch and feel the page given the book texture and depth.

Cooking Rocks! Rachael Ray 30-Minute Meals for Kids

written by Rachael Ray
ages: 4 and up

In Cooking Rocks! celebrity chef Rachael Ray provides fun and easy recipes that kids can create with the assistance of a grown-up helper (or GH) or all alone with some great Rachael guidance. This cookbook is divided into age-appropriate sections: 4-6 years old, 7-11 years old, and 12-16 years old (and up). There are also chapters on beverages and snacks, submarine sandwiches, kitchen basics, and how to be a great grown0up helper. My kids have thoroughly enjoyed using this book- it has provided the opportunity for us to be together in the kitchen just talking and having fun. Although these dishes may take more than 30 minutes, the recipes that we have tried have been mouthwatering. One to try: chicken toes. Sounds odd, tastes great!

Muncha! Muncha! Muncha!

written by Candace Fleming and illustrated by G. Brian Karas
ages: k-3

Mr. McGreely has decided that the time has finally come to plant a garden. He is looking forward to eating his crisp, fresh vegetables from the garden, but his beautiful vegetables are being eaten by rabbits--very clever rabbits! Each evening, the three hungry bunnies come and eat up the delicious vegetables. As the leaves of his plants get more and more nibbled, Mr. McGreely becomes more and more angry and resorts to taking drastic measures. Will Mr. McGreely be able to outsmart these three clever bunnies before they eat all of his yummy vegetables?

A perfect summery read, Muncha! Muncha! Muncha! is a story which embodies the old adage, share and share alike.

Chicken Cheeks (the beginning of the ends)

written by Michael Ian Brooks and illustrated by Kevin Hawkes
ages: elementary grades

Some bears will do anything to get some honey-including coercing all of his animal friends into making a teetering end-to-end tower to reach the very tip top of the tree. Along with making a tower comes bums and writer Michael Ian Brooks cleverly names the back ends of the various animals.

With a flair for the silly, Chicken Cheeks is neither crass nor rude. This giggle fest uses only nice words (read: no "butt") for bottoms and is clever and cute. The whimsical illustrations add another layer of interest and fun to the story; take the time to see if your listener can find the two helper ants in the pictures. From chicken cheeks to guinea pig buns and everything in between, this book is sure to please the even the most discerning grade schooler. There are 17 different animal (and one insect) posteriors in all- almost enough to make it educational.

Knuffle Bunny

By Mo Willems

Trixe, a young child, goes on an errand with her daddy to the Laundromat. On the way home, Trixie realizes something and starts to talk to her dad, but Trixie is too young to be understood by her dad. Trixie cries and bawls all the way home. Her father did not realize why Trixie was unhappy. When they arrived home, her mother and father discovered Trixie’s favorite stuffed animal was left at the Laundromat. Her father found it in with the clothes. Trixie screamed with delight and said her first word, “Knuffle Bunny!!” the name of her favorite stuffed animal. This book stands for the story of lost favorite animals and first words, but also for the illustrations. The background of every page is real world black and white photos of the places in the city where Trixie’s family lives. Trixie and her family are color and cartoons. The starch contrast connects real world and surreal world together in a unique format.

Also, Mo Willems is author of the "Don't let the Pigeon drive the bus."

Fever 1793

written by Laurie Halse Anderson
Young Adult (ages 12 and up)

In August 1793, yellow fever strikes the city of Philadelphia, changing it from the center of democracy and new beginnings to a barren wasteland. Fourteen year old Mattie Cook has big plans and ambitions far beyond what her Mother dreams for her. Her priority is turning Cook's Coffeehouse, the family business, into the finest establishment in Philadelphia. However, news from the docks is of fever, and the deadly disease begins to take the lives of Philadelphians and fill the cemeteries with bodies. It begins to spread closer and closer to Mattie and the family and livelihood that she holds so dear. Mattie is a strong young woman, showing great courage, strength, and perseverance as she lives a nightmare and tries to save what she holds so dear.

Well researched and written, this historical novel is riveting and powerful. Fever 1793 was selected as an ABA Pick of the Lists title.

Goodnight Gorilla

written and illustrated by Peggy Rathmann

This lovely picture book features a mischievous gorilla and his bedtime antics. Gorilla carefully takes the keys from the zookeeper's belt and unlocks the cages after the animals are tucked into bed. With gorilla in the lead, the animals quietly follow the zookeeper back to his house and snuggle in for the night. Find out what happens when the zookeeper's wife finds a menagerie in her bedroom.

Your child will be charmed by Gorilla and his animal friends and identify with his bedtime capers. Delightful writing and whimsical pictures will make Goodnight Gorilla a family favorite.

My one hundred adventures
by Polly Horvath

Jane is a twelve year old girl and she is ready for adventures; to move beyond the world of her siblings and single mother and their house by the sea. Over the summer, adventures seem to find Jane, whether it’s an exciting ride in a hot-air balloon, the appearances of possible fathers, or a unique new friendship with a preacher and psychic wannabe. Horvath creates a small town which holds a slew of characters that you can find anywhere; the weird preacher, the old man who doesn’t seem to do anything, the family with tons of kids and bad parents. Jane is any typical 12 year old girl. She is starting to see the world through adult eyes. Sometimes Jane’s duped, sometimes she’s played; but if hope fades, it returns and adventure still beckons. Horvath is able to capture a child’s inner voice and logic as she grows up. Jane’s discovery of what lies at the heart of all great adventures is that not what happens to you that matters, but what you learn about yourself.

Llama Llama Red Pajama

written and illustrated by Anna Dewdney
ages: infant to preschool

Baby llama is all ready for bed- he is wearing his red pajamas and has read a bedtime story with his Mama. After Mama kisses him goodnight and turns off the light, baby llama suddenly feels alone. He calls for a drink of water and Mama says that she'll be right up. But Mama doesn't come fast enough and baby llama starts to worry- maybe she has left him all alone! Baby llama starts to whimper, then cry, and then wail. Mama arrives just in time to reassure him that she will "always be near, even if she's not right here." And then with two kisses and an I love you, baby llama is fast asleep.

This warm and humorous book will bring a smile to the face of young readers who can relate to the comfort and love of a mama, and to their mamas who provide it. Llama Llama Red Pajama will surely become a bedtime favorite.

There's a House Inside My Mommy

written by Giles Andreae and illustrated by Vanessa Cabban
ages: preschool, early elementary

This sweet book begins, "there's a house inside my Mommy where my little brother grows." A soon-to-be big brother wonders what the baby is like and what it's like inside Mommy's "tummy house". He talks to the baby on the tummy telephone, watches as Mommy eats "crazy stuff," and makes sure that she gets enough rest.

Perfect for any big brother or sister, There's a House Inside My Mommy describes the anticipation and wonder that a sibling experiences when a new baby is going to join the family. This charming book isn't overly saccharine nor is it too clinical. This book can be read without any worry about the need to explain the "birds and the bees" to your preschooler. The watercolors are warm and inviting-this would be a wonderful bedtime read.

Butterflies in my Stomach and Other School Hazards

by Serge Bloch
Ages 3-8,Adults

Serge Bloch creates a humorous book about a boy’s first day of school. He combines idioms with great illustrations. The illustrations are a combination between the boy’s stick figured life and a real picture. The boy was told he was opening a can of worms and the picture is the stick figured boy holding a real picture of a can of worms. Ingenious combination of illustrations of well-known idioms depict a boy’s first day at school. I loved this book and think adults will enjoy reading this book with their children.

Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Things

written by Lenore Look and illustrated by Leuyen Pham
Ages: 7-10

Meet Alvin Ho, aka Firecracker Man, a very cool kid who is afraid of lots of things: heights, school, substitute teachers, the dark, kimchi, and wasabi, to name a few. After packing his personal disaster kit (or PDK), he prepares for the first day of second grade- little does he know the adventures that await. Alvin's encounters include learning about the "s-word," a girl named Flea (who has a peg leg and an eye patch), cursing a la Shakespeare, and scary piano teachers. With a family that loves and supports him (and occasionally drives him nuts), Alvin learns the importance of being himself- and he might just overcome a fear or two in the process.

Alvin Ho is a quirky, endearing character that your reader will cheer on. This is a book to fall into and devour. Fun and funny, yet pleasantly heartwarming with a wonderful message, Alvin Ho is a must read!

Seeing Stars

by Dandi MacKall and Illus. by Claudine Gevry
Ages: 3 to 7
Poetry book

A book about how stars connect the whole world together is great. It does not matter where you live or visit, the stars are in the sky. The first star the book helps you find is the North Star. You learn how to find the Big Dipper, the Little Dipper, Taurus the Bull, and other constellations. On each page, the stars are sparkly, with a dark blue background. Pictures of stars connecting making the constellations are on the right and in the sky are the stars connected to help readers see what they are and what they are representing. Under each night sky (on each page) is a different part of the world where people are enjoying the stars in the sky: people who live near the North Pole, on an island, in China, or in the woods camping. The last lines state it best, “You’re never alone when the stars are in view. Just imagine the world that is gazing at you.” Everyone is a part of this big world and we have the stars in common.

The Fairy Tale Detectives (The Sisters Grimm Series #1)

The Fairy Tale Detectives (The Sisters Grimm Series #1)
written by Michael Buckley and illustrated by Peter Ferguson
ages 8-adult

Sabrina and Daphne Grimm are left confused and alone after their parents mysteriously disappear. The girls are sent to live with their Granny Relda in Ferryport landing after a series of disastrous foster homes. Sabrina and Daphne soon discover that they are the descendants of the famous storytelling icons, the Brothers Grimm. Their Granny tells them that the book of fairy tales is not an act of storytelling, but actual case studies created by the their ancestors regarding Everafters (as the characters in fairy tales prefer to be called). Sabrina thinks that her Granny is more than a little odd and doesn't believe that the characters or events in the fairy tales were ever real. But as Sabrina and her sister meet a host of fairy tale characters from Prince Charming to the Big Bad Wolf, and her Granny is captured by a giant, she begins to change her mind. Sabrina and Daphne try out their fairy tale detective heritage as they try to save Granny and discover the Everafter behind the crime.

In the first novel of the Sisters Grimm series, Michael Buckley puts a spin on the fractured fairytale. Creative and engaging, this novel is just the beginning of an amazing 7 part series involving two plucky and heroic sisters. This novel is compelling as it is mixed with suspense, mystery, and humor. Lovers of fantasy will enjoy this book although it seems to appeal to a variety of readers. I have thoroughly enjoyed them and am not (generally) a reader of fantasy. I would also hesitate to recommend this novel to anyone whose child falls into the younger end of the 8+ spectrum-the novel does have some characters with scare potential. This book comes with a warning: once you start reading, you won't be able to stop!

Summer reading

Often, I am asked "How can I encourage my child(ren) to read more during the summer?" I have a few suggestions:

1. Go the Library at least every 3 weeks. Children need to be exposed to print and have options/choices for reading. Also if you go every three weeks, you will remember to return the books and not get fined.

2. Don't force your child to read certain books. Find out what interest your child and let them read about it. My mother was concerned about my brother because all he loved to read was comic books. Reading is good, even if they are comic books. Interest and motivation are huge factors in reading. Nobody likes to be forced to read something they are not interested in. It can destroy the desire to read.

3. Ask you children about what they are reading. Take a few minutes each week to have a book discussion/club with your child. Adults love to talk about what they read and how they felt. Children enjoy doing the same thing. Ask them questions about what they read, how it made them feel, inferences, did they like it, etc...

Show Way

by Woodson, Jacqueline.
Illus. Hudson Talbott.
Ages 4-10

Jacqueline tells the history of her maternal ancestors in this book. These ancestors were taught to sew, especially quilts. Quilts used to have secrets and directions sewn into them to help slaves escape to the north. Each ancestor had difficult circumstances but they were able to make a difference for the next generation. Jacqueline embraces this legacy of strong African-American women. Illustrations are like a quilt themselves. Each square tells a part of history and they are all connected together throughout the book. I really enjoy reading the history of women in Woodson's family.

Diary of a Worm

written by Doreen Cronin and illustrated by Harry Bliss
ages: k-3

What could possibly be so interesting in the life of a worm that he would want to keep a diary? Lots! A school-aged worm chronicles his everyday adventures including the dreaded fishing season and hopscotch. He has homework, a best friend, and quite a sense of humor. Find out what goes on in the life of a worm-you might be surprised at how much you have in common.

Brought to you by the author of Click, Clack, Moo: Cows that Type and Giggle, Giggle Quack, Diary of a Worm is just plain fun. The illustrations creatively portray what might really be going on underground. As you read, be on the lookout for some interesting worm facts. This has been in high demand since coming home from the library.

Do you have a hat?

By Eileen Spinelli
Illustrated by Geraldo Valerio
Ages-4 to 8

This book takes a relatable idea of everyone wearing a hat and mixes it with historical figures and their hats. There are snow hats, beach hats, cowboy hats, and rain hats. The historical characters in his book who are wearing hats are Abraham Lincoln, Nat Love (first African-American Cowboy), Amelia Earhart, Johnny Appleseed, etc… Each historical figure had a unique hat. It doesn’t matter what hat you are wearing, but that you are unique. The illustrations used bold colors to give a realistic view, but the characters are real, but still different enough children can relate.

This book was chosen because my father has a authentic hat collection and his birthday is tomorrow. Happy Birthday DAD!

The Seven Chinese Sisters

written by Kathy Tucker and illustrated by Grace Lin
ages: k-3

There once were seven Chinese sisters who lived and worked together and also took care of one another. Each sister has unique talents and abilities ranging from counting past 500 to making exceptional noodle soup--all except for baby Seventh Sister. Her talent still lies undiscovered. When a fierce red dragon takes Seventh Sister, the other six sisters work together to save her.

In this update of the classic Chinese folktale, the Seven Sisters work together in the love and bond that is sisterhood. This story reiterates the amazing strength of girls and the talents that each individual has. Read this with a girl that you love--it is truly a book filled with "girl power!"

America the Beautiful

by Minor Wendell
Poem by Katharine Lee Bates
Ages-3-8

American the Beautiful takes the poem/song written by Katharine Lee Bates and combines it with amazing illustrations to match the words in the poem. Each page is filled with bold images of America’s landscape: the plains in the Midwest, city lights in New York, bayou in the south, Mount Rushmore, and the Rocky Mountains. The illustrations fill the entire page giving the illusion that the reader is there in the picture. You can feel the wind in the grasses and smell the fresh air. You gain and love and understanding of the poem/song written by Katharine Lee Bates.

What's that AWFUL Smell?

written by Heather Tekavec and illustrated by Margaret Spengler
grades: k-3

Something is stinky in the barnyard! All dog wants is a nice nap in the cool barn, but something smells awful! The dog, cows, sheep, and duck spend the hot afternoon trying to figure out what could be causing the smell, when they discover an innocent pink piglet. The animals decide that it must be the piglet that is so smelly. They try everything to make the piglet smell pretty- a bath, flowers, and even strawberry juice, but nothing helps! Find out what really is causing the awful smell in the barn-it just might come from someplace that they least expect.

Kids and parents alike will enjoy this fun read aloud storybook.

The Wednesday Wars

The Wednesday Wars
by Gary Schmidt
Ages 11+
Newberry and Printz Honors

Schmidt creates a story about a young boy growing up and his family and their experiences during the difficult 1960’s. A typical 7th grader believes his teacher hates him because he is stuck with her on Wednesday afternoons when the rest of the class attends various church activities. His teacher makes him read Shakespeare novels and other various activities that he sees as punishment. 1967-1968 was a hard year in American History; Martin Luther King, Jr. and Bobby Kennedy were shot, race riots and protests were happening. Holling’s older sister embraces the flower girl philosophy of the time. Holling’s parents were very traditional and his father was more focused on wealth and prestige in the community. Readers relate to Holling’s difficulties at school and home.

The book seems as it might be serious considering the historical background, but it is not that serious. The book contains quite a bit of humor. It is typical middle school boy humor, but not gross or overdone (tasteful.) I loved this book and laughed aloud a few times.

A great quote from the book:
"That’s the way it is in the real world.

It’s not always smiles. Sometimes the real world is like Hamlet. A little scared. Unsure. A little angry. Wishing that you could fix something that you can’t fix. Hoping that maybe something would fix itself, but thinking that hoping that way is stupid."

Bras and Broomsticks-Magic in Manhattan Series

written by Sarah Mlynowski
ages 13-18, but even adults would enjoy it (I certainly did!)

14-year old Rachel Weinstein finally sees the cure for all of her teenage woes--magic courtesy of her witch sister! It all starts when Rachel's shoes inexplicably morph into a fabulous silver pair that she had been admiring at Bloomingdale's. Rachel hurries home only to find out that the fabulous shoes appeared on her feet compliments of her sister Miri. Rachel soon discovers that her sister and her mother are witches. While Miri is concerned with using her magic for things like world peace and ending hunger, Rachel begins scheming to use magic to attract the attention of her popular crush, dance without looking like she's being electrocuted, and stopping her Dad's wedding. Rachel soon discovers that (most) things are better off without the use of magic and that being yourself is paramount. Although Rachel is disappointed because she isn't the one who inherited magical powers, she may be more magical than she thinks....

Rachel and Miri are truly unique and charming characters who bungle spells and get into their fair share of mischief. This hilarious book is the first of four in the Magic in Manhattan Series. Bras and Broomsticks is a quick read that would be a wonderful choice for the young adult who is a reluctant reader.

Cinderella's Rat

written and illustrated by Susan Meddaugh
grades: k-3

What really happened when Cinderella was at the Royal ball? Learn all about the rat who was turned into the coachman and the adventures that he has while Cinderella is meeting Prince Charming. When the rat and his sister, Ruth, are caught in a trap, they are certain that it is the end. But instead of being killed, the rat is turned into a coachman by Cinderella's fairy Godmother and his evening takes a very different turn. Follow Cinderella's rat as he helps in the castle larder, finds his sister, visits a bumbling sorcerer, and finally what happens when a the sorcerer's spells go horribly awry.

This is a comical and fun twist on a beloved fairytale and its lesser known characters. Cinderella's Rat is a perfect book for the very curious and those who have big imaginations.

Lila Bloom

written and illustrated by Alexander Stadler
Ages 3-10

Lila Bloom had a bad day and was angry. After school, she did not want to go to ballet class and decided it would be her last day of ballet. At first, Lila was not dancing well and the teacher commented on it. Then, Lila wanted to show the teacher that she was the best dancer in class and make the teacher miss her. Lila started to get better and realized that she was not angry anymore. Now, the bad day had turned into a good day.

The theme of changing one’s attitude is what makes all readers able to relate to this book. It also has a strong appeal to young girls who love dancing.