Summer Reading....Skippy Jon Jones!

Hola dudes! Reading out loud to kids-any kids-is one of my all-time favorite things to do. And no one writes books that are more fun to read out loud than Judy Schachner. Her Skippy Jon Jones series is wonderful: hysterical and fun with delightful illustrations. Skippy is one of the most imaginative and creative Siamese cats to ever grace the pages of a children's book.

Skippy Jon Jones is a Siamese cat who thinks he is a dog. He is always off on an adventure after a jump on his big boy bed.  He has an imagination that is wild and wonderful and so appealing to kids. Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Skippy Jon Jones with one of eight titles including: Skippy Jon Jones, Lost in Spice, Cirque de Ole, Presto Chango, and Skippy Jon Jones and the Big Bones. Coming this fall: Skippy Jon Jones Snow What.

Learn more about this fun author at www.judithbyronschachner.com. You can check these books out at your local library or take a look at http://skippyjonjonesstuff.com. Skippy Jon Jones books are also especially wonderful when read by the author; the books on CD make for fun road trip listening and are worth checking out!

Happy summer reading!

Cows to the Rescue

Cows to the Rescue
written and illustrated by John Himmelman
ages: 4-8

What could be more fun than a day at the county fair? Until Farmer Greenstalk's truck won't start. Never fear-it's cows to the rescue! Whether it's riding the ferris wheel, helping Ernie the duck win the handsomest duck contest, or giving lessons for the pigs to win the smartest pig contest, the Greenstalk's cows are always willing to help out.

Cleverly written with hilarious illustrations, Cows to the Rescue is sure to become a favorite with your preschooler or early elementary aged child. Cows to the Rescue follows the hilarious Chickens to the Rescue and Pigs to the Rescue. Also look for Duck to the Rescue chronicling Ernie the duck and his antics.

Weasels

Weasels
by Elys Dolan

What exactly do weasels do all day? Do they frolic in the leaves, collect nuts and berries, play, hide, or....plot world domination?

This clever and fun book, complete with coffee drinking, tool wielding, madcap weasels is silliness at it finest. Mayhem and mischief surround these clever critters as they plot to take over the world. Will they be successful?

Elys Dolan's illustrations are detailed, intelligent, and fun!  It's enough to keep any keen eye and clever brain very busy looking- and laughing. Enjoy this book with your favorite fan of all things silly.

How to Get Married

Written and illustrated by Sally Lloyd-Jones and Sue Heap
Ages: Ages 4-8 (and their parents)

Take it from the six year old bride there are just certain things that you should do if you want to get married. This book gives advice on how to choose the perfect person to marry, pop the question, and plan the ceremony and reception. Taking place in the narrator's daycare, this book is charming and so funny.  Some sage advice includes: you should definitely brush your hair so that it doesn't look like a bird's nest back there. And according to the narrator, who is wearing a paper crown, "you can marry anyone you like!" and advises the reader not to forget to "throw a big bunch of flowers at people's heads." The illustrations alone would certainly keep readers busy and engaged-no pun (entirely) intended!

We all enjoyed this book and laughed out loud! This would be a perfect book for your preschooler, early grade schooler, or a bride to-be. This book is the second from the creative team that wrote the NY Times Bestseller How to Be a Baby...by Me, the Big Sister. There is also a third installment in the series, How to Get a Job...by Me, the Boss. We will be getting both of those titles as soon as possible. Enjoy!

Goodnight Ipad

by Ann Droyd
All ages

A great parody book of our technology craze society.  I laughed so hard.  Everyone will enjoy this book if they loved "GOODNIGHT MOON."

Blackout

by John Rocco

A young girl and her family lived in the big city.  She wanted to play a board game with them, but everyone was too busy using the computer, watching television, and talking on the phone.  Then, suddenly all the lights went out in the city.  Because it was a hot and sticky, the family decides to go outside and they notice the stars in the sky, talk with their neighbors on the street, and were able to spend time together as a family.  The lights returned and everything went back to normal, but not completely. 

I was drawn to this book in the library because the cover intrigued me.  I loved the pictures of this book as well as the theme.  It focused on making sure we noticed the small things and take time with our family doing things together. 

The Little Red Pen

written by Janet Stevens and illustrated by Susan Stevens Crummel

ages: kindergarten through 4th grade

The Little Red Pen is working so hard to correct a mountain of homework. When she asks the stapler, scissors, eraser, pencil, and highlighter for help they all say, "no!" When the Little Red Pen becomes so exhausted with work, she falls into The Pit of No Return (the trash can). Will the school supplies learn to work together to save the Little Red Pen?

Run, run, run to get this from your local library or bookstore. This is quite possibly the most creative and clever take on The Little Red Hen that I have ever read. We have read this book enough that we have some parts memorized. Sisters and long time corroborators Janet Stevens and Susan Stevens Crummel have crafted a truly delightful story. Although there are numerous speaking parts and a somewhat complicated plot, it is just plain fun for everyone.

Too Many Toys

written and illustrated by David Shannon

ages: pre-reader through grade 3

Spencer has toys of all kinds: wooden pull toys, big toys, small toys, and electronic toys. But his toys are starting to take over the house. When Spencer's Mom tells him that some of the toys will have to go, the battle begins. Which toys will Spencer get to keep? Will Mom prevail? Will they ever see the floor of his room again?

David Shannon is a shining example of an author who combines creative storytelling with wonderful illustrations. The result is a story that both parents and children will enjoy; in our house we have read it multiple times in one day! Any family that has more than just a few toys will find that this book hits home-especially for Moms who get to take care of all of them. Witty and fun, Too Many Toys is a great read for preschool through the early elementary years. Look for Shannon's other picture books: Alice the Fairy and the David series.

Say Please, Louise!

by Phil Roxabee Cox
Illustrated by Jan McCafferty

A cautionary tale for children to warn them about the perils of behaving badly. Louise can't remember to say please and demands everything. Her parents pleaded to "Say Please" because that was all that was needed. Louise would not listen and when she demanded a new pet, she learns her lesson.

My sister recommended this book to me because it helps her with her 3 year old. When her daughter forgets to use kind words, she asked her what happen to Louise. It is a cute and fun story with great illustrations.

How Do Dinosaurs Get Well Soon?

written by Jane Yolen and illustrated by Mark Teague
ages: 2-6 years

What happens when a dinosaur gets sick? Does he whimper and whine in between each atchoo? What if a dinosaur goes to the doc? Does he drag all his feet till his mom is in shock? No, a dinosaur rests, takes all of his medicine, and gets well soon!

The How Do Dinosaurs... books are such a wonderful treat for parents and their children to read together. The rhyming text is fun and easy for even the youngest child to understand. Mark Teague’s illustrations are whimsical and delightful. Young readers will love seeing parents with giant dinosaur children. This book proves that silly is indeed wonderful!

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.