The Crimson Review of Children's & YA Literature

Charles Dickens: England’s Most Captivating Storyteller by Catherine Wells-Cole

2012-02-14T14:38:00.001-06:00

Wells-Cole, Catherine. Charles Dickens: England’s Most Captivating Storyteller. Illus. by Templar Books. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011, Unpaged, Grades 4-6.

Readers who enjoy pop-outs will love the style of pictures, maps and text of this biography of Charles Dickens. The author includes facts on society and culture at the time Dickens was alive to complement the biographical details. The illustrations selected for the book are drawings and pictures completed during the Victorian time period. Despite the wonderful illustrations, there is still a large amount of text, which might deter younger readers with short attention spans. This book would be a good addition to a school library for young students looking for biographical books. Ages 10 and up. ADY

Cheesie Mack Is not a Genius or Anything by Steve Cotler

2012-02-14T14:31:00.001-06:00

Cotler, Steve. Cheesie Mack Is not a Genius or Anything. Illus. by Adam McCauley. New York: Random House Books for Young Readers, 2011, pp. 227, Grades 4-6.

“I’m Ronald Mack. People call me Cheesie. You can probably guess why.” With this humorous pun begins the story of Chessie Mack and his summer adventures after fifth grade. Cheesie is looking forward to his summer vacation, where he can spend time with his best friend Georgie at camp. Georgie can’t go to camp however, and in their quest to find new entertainment, they stumble upon an old letter that changes their summer. The black and white illustrations are not overwhelming and add small details to the story, which humorously focuses on the values of friendship and honesty in a manner sure to appeal to older elementary school children. A website for “Cheesie Mack” allows the children to continue to immerse themselves in Cheesie’s world. Ages 8-11. ADY

Starfish: A Novel by James Crowley

2012-02-14T14:29:00.001-06:00

Crowley, James. Starfish: A Novel. Illus. by Jim Madsen. New York: Hyperion Books, 2010. 310pp. Grades 4-6.

Lionel and Beatrice, Blackfoot Nation siblings, have run away from the boarding school they were attending after a confrontation with Army soldiers and are searching for their grandfather in the Montana forests. The black and white illustrations, while limited, add realism to the story. Unfortunately for reluctant readers, the story is not action-packed, focusing more on character development. A few chapters are set in a different font, which could prove interruptive for some readers. Still, Lionel’s adventures will draw in determined older elementary school children. ADY

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson

2012-02-14T14:28:00.001-06:00

Robinson, Barbara. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Illus. by Laura Cornwell. New York: HarperCollins, 2011. Unpaged. Grades 3-6.

The Herdman’s, the craziest and wildest family in town, are performing in the Christmas pageant, to the shock the rest of the town. The Herdman’s decide the Wise Men should bring a ham and the Angel of the Lord, now a Herdman, likes to say “Shazam!” No one quite knows how the pageant will turn out, but it is bound to be exciting. The bright, cartoonish illustrations extend the text, which is taken from the children’s novel of the same title. Certain readers might feel the narrative was better served in novel format, but new readers are sure to enjoy this picture book adaptation. Ages 5-11. ADY

Love Waves by Rosemary Wells

2012-02-14T14:25:00.001-06:00

Wells, Rosemary. Love Waves. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK-2.

Wells presents a delightful story about Little Bunny waiting for his parents to come home from work. The mother and father rabbit tell Little Bunny about love waves, the invisible waves of their love, as a way to help Little Bunny be brave while his mother and father “are far away or only down the hall”. The love waves are depicted as blue metallic swirls which make the pages pop and supplement for the slightly flat verse of the poems. Young children will like both these blue swirls and the brightly colored illustrations. This story can be helpful for those children who are anxious about being away from a parent. Ages 3-6. ADY

The Cheshire Cheese Cat: A Dickens of a Tale by Carmen Agra Deedy and Randall Wright

2012-02-14T14:24:00.001-06:00

Deedy, Carmen Agra and Randall Wright. The Cheshire Cheese Cat: A Dickens of a Tale. Illus. by Barry Moser. Atlanta: Peachtree Publishers, 2011. 228 pp. Grades 4-6.

“He was the best of toms, he was the worst of toms.” Skilley, a homeless tomcat in Victorian London, finds a job as the official mouser at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, but his days seem numbered when his secret that he prefers cheese to mice threatens to come out. Skilley strikes up an unlikely friendship with Pip, a talented mouse who learns to write with his tail, and the other mice of the inn and agrees to keep them safe if they supply him with cheese. However, the insatiable alley cat Pinch is a constant threat to both Skilley and the mice. Can Skilley and Pip outsmart Pinch once and for all and finally live in peace? This fast-moving and uproarious novel that is one part fantasy and one part historical fiction is sure to win readers with its colorful and clever language and deftly crafted characters. The wit and whimsy of this fanciful tale will also draw in readers and give them a first taste of “ye olde London” and classic Dickensian style that they are sure to beg for more of on the library shelves. CCV

Ghetto Cowboy by G. Neri

2012-02-14T14:22:00.001-06:00

Neri. G. Ghetto Cowboy. Illus. by Jesse Joshua Watson. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. 211 pp. Grades 4-6.

Cole is lost and angry when his mother—fed up with the trouble he’s been causing at home and school—drives him from his home in Detroit to live with a father he’s never known in Philadelphia. Baffled by the urban cowboys that surround him, Cole struggles to find his niche and warm up to a distant father. But after forming a special bond with a horse named Boo, Cole finally understands “the cowboy way” and embraces who he really is. Neri’s heartwarming take on the real-life urban horsemen of Philadelphia and New York City that fight to keep kids off the streets takes on new meaning as readers relate to the outspoken Cole and his no-nonsense worldview. Readers will find it easy to relate to the challenges Cole faces in his new home and will cheer on him and his urban cowboy friends as they fight to keep their stables from being seized by the city. Neri’s easy, slang-driven narrative style will attract a diverse group of readers and leave them wanting a sequel to this inspiring tale. CCV

Super Science: Feel the Force! by Tom Adams

2012-02-14T14:20:00.001-06:00

Adams, Tom. Super Science: Feel the Force! Illus. by Thomas Flintham and Andy Mansfield. Somerville, MA: Templar Books, 2011. Unpaged. Grades 3-5.

Readers will be blinded by science in this colorful and exciting book that cleverly teaches science lessons with entertaining drawings and fun pop-up and pull-out features. Each page is dedicated to a key scientific concept such as pressure, friction, force, and gravity and features exciting experiments that reinforce what has been learned. The simple, colorful drawings and easy-to-read explanations of what could be difficult scientific concepts offer a non-threatening way for readers to engage in learning. Even kids who think science is difficult or boring will be drawn in to this whimsical book that puts the fun back in learning. A great supplement to any classroom, teachers are sure to appreciate the clever ways that content is presented and students will have a hard time putting this secretly educational book down! CCV

Ladder to the Moon by Maya Soetoro-Ng

2012-02-14T14:19:00.001-06:00

Soetoro-Ng, Maya. Ladder to the Moon. Illus. by Yuyi Morales. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. Unpaged. Grades K-2.

Little Suhaila longs to know what her Grandma Annie was like, and her wish is granted one magical night when her grandmother descends a golden ladder and takes her to the moon to see the world from a new perspective. As the pair spends time with one another, they gaze towards Earth and bring suffering children up to the moon with them to join their peaceful world. The soft, dreamlike illustrations create a comforting setting in which serious topics like world suffering and death are tenderly broached. The simple dialogue conveys the quiet power of this multicultural story that transcends boundaries of race, age, and ethnicity to teach a story about the brotherhood of humanity. This ageless tale also creates a safe environment where children can explore the new and sometimes difficult concepts of death and human suffering making it a perfect read-aloud to generate positive discussion of thoughts and feelings about life and the world as a whole. CV

It’s Almost Time by Debbie Bernstein LaCroix

2012-02-14T14:17:00.001-06:00

Bernstein LaCroix, Debbie. It’s Almost Time. Illus. by Sarah Chalek. Tulsa, OK: Kane Miller, 2011. Unpaged. Grades Pre K-2.

“Tick-tick-tock. It’s almost time. The gears are winding, getting ready to chime!” Follow along with an unlikely pair of friends as they wait for their extensive clock collection to strike noon in this visually appealing story. Though the book contains no character dialogue and follows a sparse plot, the story is helped by its whimsical watercolor illustrations and catchy use—if albeit a bit too gratuitous—of verb and adverb combinations. In spite of the fact that this book could have been made into an educational resource on how to tell time rather than a slow-moving showcase of onomatopoeias, younger readers will no doubt be drawn to the fanciful and rich illustrations which make up for the lack of plot. Overall, this book could be best used as a compelling read-aloud to begin a unit on telling time, though at least one illustration depicts the wrong time when compared to the text . CCV

A Dazzling Display of Dogs by Betsy Franco

2012-02-14T14:15:00.001-06:00

Franco, Betsy. A Dazzling Display of Dogs. New York: Tricycle Press, 2011. Unpaged. Grades 1-6.

Dog-lovers will “howl” about this clever collection of visual poetry describing man’s best friend. Betsy Franco’s dog-themed poems are creatively depicted by Michael Wertz in a way that adds to the poems’ messages. Young readers won’t understand some of the wit and allusion, but will still enjoy the pictures and poems. What a great way to introduce visual poetry by using the simple, relatable subject of dogs. These bright, colorful poems are great to read aloud in a classroom and at home. AFT

Mystery Math: A First Book of Algebra by David A. Adler

2012-02-14T14:13:00.002-06:00

Adler, David A. Mystery Math: A First Book of Algebra. New York: Holiday House, 2011. Unpaged. Grades 4-6.

How appropriate to approach the “scary” concept of algebra through a mystery book with scary, Halloween-like illustrations! Students who are beginning to work with algebra will want to keep reading to find the answers to the questions presented on each page. Each step is presented in an easy to understand and non-threatening way that will help reluctant learners want to do algebra. Clever illustrations make the math entertaining and will help visual learners grasp the concept in a new way. This book is a math teacher’s dream for finding yet another way to present and demystify the sometimes difficult concepts of algebra. It is an all around great book for students, teachers and parents. AFT

America is Under Attack by Don Brown

2012-02-14T14:12:00.001-06:00

Brown, Don. America is Under Attack. New York: Roaring Book Press, 2011. Unpaged. Grades 4-6.

A bright blue page showing only a single airplane sets the stage at the beginning for this book that chronologically tells the sad details of the tragedy that changed America on September 11, 2001. This non-fiction work is written in a way that allows young readers to experience the events of 9/11 in a truthful, but appropriate way as they learn about the terrorist attacks. The personal accounts help the reader relate to the characters as they journey through a day that they were not alive to experience first hand. The story has amazing details, but the pictures do not. The drab artistic style seems to make the people seem unrealistic and expressionless. Students and teachers will enjoy this book that works better as a silent-read than a read-aloud to become well informed about an important day in the history of our country. AFT

Charlie Joe Jackson’s Guide to Not Reading by Tommy Greenwald

2012-02-14T14:10:00.001-06:00

Greenwald, Tommy. Charlie Joe Jackson’s Guide to Not Reading. New York: Rearing Brook Press, 2011. 220pp. Grades 3-6.

Kids who don’t like to read and book-lovers alike will love this witty, quick-read about clever Charlie Joe and the great lengths that he will go to keep from reading. Greenwald lures non-readers into the book by promising things like, “It is an easy read that will show you how to get out of reading.” Charlie Joe has spent his entire school career getting other people to read for him, but when his bribery fails, he comes up with a new plan. Through many relatable events such as dating cliques, friendship and more, Charlei Joe prepares for his “position paper” but never reads. In the end, his punishment is to spend his summer writing a book. The very book the non-reader surprisingly realizes is the same book he has just completed. Kids will be surprised how much fun they had reading this creatively illustrated and well-written book. AFT

The Un-forgotten Coat by Frank Cottrell Boyce

2012-02-14T14:08:00.001-06:00

Boyce, Frank Cottrell. The Un-forgotten Coat. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. 43pp. Grades 3-6.

A typical sixth grade girl’s life is changed when two mysterious Mongolian brothers come to her class and choose her to be their “Good Guide”. Julie delights in the odd behavior of the Mongolian boys as she endeavors to help them and figure out where they live and why they believe they are being followed by demons. Readers will want to know the mystery behind the boys, too as they study the intriguing Polaroid pictures that enhance the journey the children take throughout the story. Although the narrative is a bit confusing at times, the intentional vagueness of the author becomes purposeful as the book comes to an end. Julie finds herself still seeking answers as to the disappearance of the brothers after a visit to her school as an adult leads her back to the eagle hood coat. Ultimately, the reader and Julie realize that the photos of “Mongolia” were really a look into their own backyard. This is a unique book that boys and girls are sure to enjoy. AFT

Possum Summer by Jen K. Blom

2012-02-14T14:06:00.001-06:00

Blom, Jen K. Possum Summer. New York: Holiday House, 2011. 155 pp. Grades 4-7.

It’s almost summer and P (short for “Princess”, which she certainly is not!) is ready for days of freedom from school and shoes! Dad is coming home from the war soon and she has promised the farm will be in perfect shape for his return. One afternoon, P discovers a baby opossum whose mother was just killed. Naturally, P decides she must take care of this little guy until he is ready for the wild. The only problem is, she can tell no one except her best friend, Mart. As P struggles to raise her new pet, Ike, she must also deal with the hardships that come along with running the farm. Set in modern day Oklahoma, Blom’s down-home, heartfelt tale of Princess’s summer with Ike is sure to appeal to late elementary and early middle school girls. P’s story deals with change, friendship, and grief, among so many other feelings young girls experience. With somewhat unappealing jacket artwork, this is one book that should definitely not be judged by its cover. CAS

Nerd Camp by Elissa Brent Weissman

2012-02-14T14:04:00.001-06:00

Weissman, Elissa Brent. Nerd Camp. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2011. 261pp. Grades 3-5.

As Gabe heads off to sleep-away camp, he worries that his new stepbrother will find out it is actually a camp for nerds! Although he is learning lots of new things and making many new friends, Gabe still tries to hide his activities from the cool, surfer, Californian, Zack. This story has potential to be a charming coming-of-age tale, however it’s slow pace and struggling character development leaves one wondering when the real story will begin. Although the topic of fitting in is relatable, the characters themselves don’t seem believable. The assumed target audience, gifted students, will be the most likely to be bored by the slow moving stories of the “Summer Center for Gifted Enrichment.” CAS

Never Forgotten by Patricia C. McKissack

2012-02-14T14:02:00.002-06:00

McKissack, Patricia C. Never Forgotten. Illus. by Leo Dillon and Diane Dillon. New York: Schwartz and Wade Books, 2011. Unpaged. Grades 3-5.

Through the form of poetry, Newbery Honor winner McKissack presents the story of a father’s search for his only son after he has been taken captive to be sold into slavery. With the help of the “Mother Elements,” Dinga discovers his son’s fate. The Dillons add unique, stylized illustrations that give great imagery to the characters and the emotions felt throughout the story. Dinga’s story is rich in history and recommended for older elementary students as an introduction to both poetry and the struggles of the African families who lost loved ones to the trappings of slavery. CAS

A Storm Named Katrina by Myron Uhlberg

2012-02-14T14:00:00.002-06:00

Uhlberg, Myron. A Storm Named Katrina. Illus. by Colin Bootman. Atlanta, GA: Peachtree Publishers, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK- 3.

This powerful story follows a young boy, Louis Daniel, and his parents as they face the devastating days after Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. As the floodwaters rise, Louis Daniel and his family must leave their home and head for safety in the Superdome. This chilling yet hopeful tale shares a child’s unique perspective on the tragedy that devastated millions. Uhlberg includes additional information about the destruction from Katrina, making this book a great resource to introduce youngsters to an important event in our nation’s history. Bootman’s beautiful paintings add yet another poignant level to this telling story. CAS

Naamah and the Ark at Night by Susan Campbell Bartoletti

2012-02-14T13:59:00.001-06:00

Bartoletti, Susan Campbell. Naamah and the Ark at Night. Illus. by Holly Meade. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. Unpaged. Ages 2-7.

As the storm rages on, Naamah is busy lulling her loved ones to sleep. In this delightful twist on a beloved story that many children have grown up hearing, Susan Campbell Bartoletti tells the whimsical tale of Noah’s wife, Naamah, as she sings her family and the animals of the ark to sleep, two by two. With the help of Caldecott Honor winner Holly Meade’s beautiful collage illustrations, this lullaby comes to life in a way that is sure to give a smile to readers of all ages. The rhythm of Bartoletti’s prose makes this a calming and lovely bedtime story, particularly good for young ones who might be afraid of storms. CAS

Benjamin Bear in Fuzzy Thinking by Philippe Coudray

2012-02-14T13:53:00.003-06:00

Coudray, Philippe. Benjamin Bear in Fuzzy Thinking. New York: Toon Books, 2011. 32 pp. Grades K-2.

As both a graphic novel and a joke book for young readers, the latest installment of Benjamin Bear reveals more funny and unusual situations that he and his friends encounter. Benjamin Bear prepares for his cold night outside by packing a sweater and t-shirt, but his rabbit friend has forgotten to bring warm clothing. They both strategize to find the best possible outcome- the rabbit uses the bottom of Benjamin Bear’s shirt and sweater as a blanket while they both sleep soundly. From making an ant trail to follow from being lost, to using your favorite rabbit friend to dry your dishes, Benjamin Bear gives children a very creative approach to thinking and solving puzzles. HR

Jack and the Beanstalk by Nina Crews

2012-02-14T13:46:00.003-06:00

Crews, Nina. Jack and the Beanstalk. New York: Henry Holt and Co., 2011. Unpaged. Grades K-3.

In this urban spin to a traditional tale, Jack is given magic beans as payment for doing chores. He plants the beans right away, as instructed, and wakes up the next morning to a giant beanstalk growing right outside of his apartment window. Curiosity getting the best of him, he climbs the giant beanstalk and is enticed by the smell of chocolate- chip cookies. He meets a giant and his wife. After hearing the giant brag about himself and his golden-egg-laying hen, he turns Jack over to his wife to do more chores. Jack escapes with the hen and the giants chase after him down the beanstalk. He then cuts the beanstalk and the giant and his wife fall to the ground, turning into very normal sized human beings. Jack breaks the spell that has the giant and his wife, “stuck up in the clouds.” The use of original photographs and photoshopped images gives the old tale a fresh perspective. HR

Everything You Need to Know about Animals by Nicola Davies

2012-02-14T13:42:00.003-06:00

Davies, Nicola. Everything You Need to Know About Animals. New York: Kingfisher, 2010. 160 pp. Grades 1-4.

This book gives a thorough examination of animals for young readers. The colorful design and brilliant photographs make every page in this book an eye-catcher. The organization and layout of the book is impeccable, with sections that include facts, vocabulary, questions, magic, animals from the past, crafts and materials list, and a “can you find” and “how it works” section. Website links are also provided at the bottom of the pages for further research. The book is split into five sections; listing the different types of animals and their anatomy, how each one moves and how their bodies are structured for their specific style of movement, how they get food and what types of food they eat, their senses, whether sight, sound, our touch is involved, and reproduction. While the book's size may be intimidating, the text is readable and appropriate for young readers.

My Name is Mina by David Almond

2012-02-14T13:38:00.002-06:00

Almond, David. My Name is Mina. New York: Delacorte Press, 2011. 300 pp. Grades 4-7.

Mina McKee enjoys her new lessons sitting in her favorite tree. Both she and her mother are recovering from the death of her father. After an interactive lesson with her mother, she takes her words for a walk by telling her story and by the journal she keeps of life observations. The sudden change of color, font, and text size manages the transition between her storytelling and journaling. Many readers can relate to Mina when she is considered an outcast at school, being called “Miss Bonkers,” having no friends, and eventually being cast out of school after a standardized test incident. She is encouraged to be as brave as the creatures she observes as she hopes to begin a new friendship with the new boy that just moved in next door. HR

Sparrow Road by Shelia O'Conner

2012-02-14T13:35:00.003-06:00

O'Conner, Shelia. Sparrow Road. New York: G. P. Putnam's Sons, 2011. 247 pp. Grades 5-8.

Raine, a twelve-year-old from Milwaukee, is shocked when her mother decides to take a job cooking and cleaning for visiting artists at Sparrow Road for the summer. More questions are raised when her mother makes frequent trips to the nearby town of Comfort, leaving Raine behind. She adjusts to the strict way of life on Sparrow Road and befriends most of its summer residents. Josie, an artist, helps Raine unravel a great mystery behind Sparrow Road- a former orphanage. The mystery of Comfort is finally revealed when Raine finds out her father is living there. Raine has a choice to reconnect with her father and stay at Sparrow Road, or go back to her old life in Milwaukee and her sorely missed grandfather. O’Conner writes a story of a young girl, exploring her creative talents, finding friends in unexpected places, making the best of a situation beyond her control, and embracing a new meaning to family. Recommended for grades 5-8. HR

The Clockwork Three by Matthew J. Kirby

2012-02-14T13:32:00.003-06:00

Kirby, Matthew J. The Clockwork Three. New York: Scholastic Press, 2010. 386pp. Grades 5 and up.

The lives of three strangers—Guiseppe, an orphaned and enslaved young street musician, Hannah, a girl who works as a hotel maid after her father is injured, and Frederick, an orphaned apprentice clockmaker—intertwine as together they learn to overcome the unpleasant circumstances in which they find themselves. While Guiseppe finds a green violin with almost magical qualities, which he hopes he can use to get a boat ticket back to Italy, Hannah becomes involved in a search for a missing legacy in the hotel in which she works, and Frederick is able to build a clockwork man using an ancient mechanical head. While the story remains engaging throughout, the novel is longer than necessary, especially considering its intended audience. This novel will appeal to young readers who love steampunk, historical fiction and historical fantasy. MP

The Summer of May by Cecilia Galante

2012-02-14T13:31:00.001-06:00

Galante, Cecilia. The Summer of May. New York: Aladdin, 2011. 252pp. Grades 4-6.

After being nearly suspended from school when she plays a prank on her English teacher, twelve-year-old May must take a summer school class with the teacher, Miss Movado. As she learns about writing and poetic imagery, May learns more about her teacher and comes to accept her mother's death and understand the anger and despair she and her family feel about it. May's sarcastic but often pained voice is very believable, and should be very appealing to upper elementary and younger middle school students, especially those in similar circumstances to May. This warm and touching novel is a thought-provoking look into the life of a nearly delinquent girl and her emotional triumph as she accepts her new life. MP

Ancient Egypt: Tales of Gods and Pharaohs by Marcia Williams

2012-02-14T13:29:00.001-06:00

Williams, Marcia. Ancient Egypt: Tales of Gods and Pharaohs. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. Unpaged. Grades 2-4.

Ancient Egyptian stories can be a difficult subject for children to understand, but here they are told in a comic format with engaging, cartoon-like illustrations that evoke the drawings inside of Egyptian tombs. Multiple stories simultaneously develop on the same page, with the character of Rami the cat informing readers about the role of cats in Ancient Egypt as the main story progresses. Williams does little to differentiate between fact and fiction in this book, and it is difficult to tell when mythology ends and history begins as she describes the ancient gods of Egypt and its pharaohs up to the time of Cleopatra. The format is also somewhat hard to follow, as it is difficult to notice some of the fold out pages tucked into the page gutters, and the ongoing tale of Rami often distracts, rather than contributes, to the main text. MP

Before You Came by Patricia MacLachlan and Emily MacLachlan Charest

2012-02-14T13:27:00.002-06:00

MacLachlan, Patricia and Emily MacLachlan Charest. Before You Came. Illus. by David Diaz. New York: Katherine Tegan Books, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK-2.

A loving description of a mother's life before the birth of her child, and her life after her child's birth. The mother describes the red canoe, pets, plants and music she enjoyed before, and how she now finds joy in sharing them with her child. The stencils in Diaz's illustrations add depth and texture to the simple shapes representing people and objects. The pictures are vibrant yet soothing, filling the pages. Although a wonderfully restful bedtime story for parents to read to their children, the book’s lack of action may bore young readers with short attention spans. MP

If You Give a Dog a Donut by Laura Numeroff

2012-02-14T13:25:00.002-06:00

Numeroff, Laura. If You Give a Dog a Donut. Illus. by Felicia Bond. New York: Balzer and Bray, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK-2.

Giving a dog a donut leads to an exciting afternoon for a boy and his dog, involving playing baseball, dancing, water fighting, treasure hunting, building a kite, and finally enjoying apple juice. Featuring the return of the dog from If You Give a Pig a Party, the delightful illustrations reveal the enthusiasm and activity of the playful puppy and the boy who can hardly keep up with his excitable friend. Fans of the other “If You Give a...” books will enjoy this addition to the series, although this one may lack some of the sparkle and originality of other books in the series. MP

Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos

2012-02-14T13:22:00.001-06:00

Gantos, Jack. Dead End in Norvelt. New York: Farrar Strauss Giroux, 2011. 341 pp. Grades 5-6.

In 1962, Norvelt is a dying town marked by dying people, but one whose history lives through those old enough to remember it. When young Jack Gantos is grounded for the summer because he ruined his mother’s charity crops and shot his father’s war gun, his recreational outlets are limited to reading history books and typing obituaries dictated by the town crazy, Miss Volker. Gantos the author writes a carefully plotted book without feel contrived. The narrative is steeped in themes of history, death, and learning from the past, but the misadventures and humor will appeal to many, particularly boys. A word of caution for the conscientious, death and murder are handled in a flippant and casual way, which may displease some readers, and delight others. At times weird and surprising, Gantos has written a masterful story.

Marching with Aunt Susan: Susan B. Anthony and the Fight for Women's Suffrage by Claire Rudolf Murphy

2012-02-14T11:59:00.002-06:00

Murphy, Claire Rudolf. Marching with Aunt Susan: Susan B. Anthony and the Fight for Women's Suffrage. Illus. by Stacey Schuett. Atlanta: Peachtree Publishers, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK-1

Bessie’s dad won’t let her go hiking with him and her brothers because ‘strenuous exercise is not for girls.’ When Bessie’s Aunt Mary hosts a women’s suffrage tea party, Bessie’s initial disappointment melts away when she meets Susan B. Anthony, who teaches her that ‘women’s votes can change the world.’ Perhaps even her father’s mind? Bessie dedicates herself to the women’s suffrage movement in San Francisco, marching, attending lectures, and writing letters for the cause of women’s votes, but when the laws giving women the right to vote don’t pass will all her efforts be in vain? Based on a true story, this book offers more than just ‘a nice story.’ There are reference sources in the back including the true story of Bessie Keith Pond, the California Suffrage Campaign, a mini-biography of Susan B. Anthony, a women’s suffrage timeline, and recommendations for further reading. This book lends itself for use in classrooms and homes alike.

Fairly Fairy Tales by Esme Raji Codell

2012-02-14T11:47:00.001-06:00

Codell, Esme Raji. Fairly Fairy Tales. Illus. by Elisa Chavarri. New York: Aladdin, 2011. 32 pp. Grades PreK-2.

Esme Raji Codell’s book, Fairly Fairy Tales, begins when a child receives a kiss goodnight, a glass of water, and a good selection of fairy tales. Oh no, it’s bedtime! What follows is a parade of fairy tale stories with a twist. Little Red Riding Hood with shampoo? Jack and the Beanstalk with spaghetti? Cinderella with a disco ball? Well, maybe. Illustrations showing how fairy tales could have ended are imaginative and fun. This book has great potential as a read-aloud because of the patterns and predictability of the story text. Children will chime in with, ‘Well, maybe’ or ‘No’ as they discover the twists of each tale. The surprise elements to each story will appeal to young children, though not all may know what a disco ball is. Cleverly written and executed.

Belle, the Last Mule at Gee's Bend: A Civil Rights Story by Calvin Alexander Ramsey and Bettye Stroud

2012-02-14T11:41:00.002-06:00

Ramsey, Calvin Alexander and Bettye Stroud. Belle, the Last Mule at Gee's Bend: A Civil Rights Story. Illus. by John Holyfield. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. 32 pp. Grades 1-2.

When Alex stops in Gee’s Bend, Alabama so his mom can pick up quilting supplies, he unexpectedly receives a Civil Rights lesson from a local elderly woman and her mule, Belle. Alex is curious about the mule that wanders around munching whatever it pleases. The elderly woman, also Belle’s owner, explains why Belle receives such great privileges. She tells him about Gee’s Bends’ first ride to Camden to vote, the birth of Gee’s Bend quilters, and finally Belle’s involvement as a mule who pulled the cart carrying the body of Martin Luther King Jr. for his funeral procession. The events depicted through painting and text are rendered simply, without overwhelming the child reader, but enough to spur further research and study. This book is highly recommended to children, parents, and teachers interested in southern history, civil rights history, or the history of the United States.

The Trouble with May Amelia by Jennifer L. Holm

2012-02-14T11:34:00.004-06:00

Holm, Jennifer L. The Trouble with May Amelia. Illus. by Adam Gustavson. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2011. 200 pp. Grades 4-5.

In Holm’s sequel to Our Only May Amelia, our heroine is back and causing as much trouble for her family as she ever has. Fending for herself with six older brothers and a mean old Papa in rural Washington state during the turn of the century, has never been fun for the precocious tomboy. This causes Amelia to question their approval and love. When a family investment turns sour, all eyes and blame turn to May Amelia. Yet, she charms us with her candid child-like understanding from the perspective of a 2nd generation Finnish immigrant, using both humor and pathos. Holms’ narrative believably and accurately reflects the realities of the time, which she drew from stories of her own ancestors. Her gift for balancing the harsh realities of death and loss with tender understanding and even humor are unique. The voice of May Amelia is clear and believably crafted within the context of the setting. Holms’ nuance and subtlety in writing has appeal for children and adults alike. In addition, children bridging the gap between two cultures, their parents’ and mainstream society, will find this book resonates with them.

You'll Like It Here (Everybody Does) by Ruth White

2012-02-14T11:22:00.000-06:00

White, Ruth. You’ll Like It Here (Everybody Does). New York: Delacorte Press, 2011. 258 pp. Grades 4-6.

David and Meggie Blue are just ordinary kids living happy and comfortable lives in North Carolina, or so they thought. Unbeknownst to themselves, they are in fact aliens! After being identified as extraterrestrials by their hometown, the entire Blue family is forced to leave earth to find a new home. They land in a place called Fashion City, where the community eagerly welcomes them. Everything seems perfect, but soon the Blues realize that their new home is more complex than it seems. Citizens are locked in their homes for curfew, and protestors are being brainwashed. When their lives become endangered, the Blues must find a way to escape and quick! This fast paced dystopian tells the story of a family of aliens, searching to find a home planet to live peacefully on together. Told in alternating perspectives by quirky siblings David and Meggie Blue, this intermediate novel mixes humor with deeper ideas, such as governmental control and the judgments of society. Older children with interest in science fiction will enjoy this intense and thrilling ride. LDN

J.R.R. Tolkien by Alexandra Wallner

2012-02-14T11:21:00.000-06:00

Wallner, Alexandra. J.R.R. Tolkien. Illus. by John Wallner. New York: Holiday House, 2011. 32 pp. Grades 2-3.

John Ronald Reuel Tolkien experienced much during his lifetime- the early passing of his parents, participation in school writing clubs, romance, and the deaths of friends during World War I. All of these events are woven into Tolkien’s works, along with his love of language and words and his fondness for storytelling. This informative book provides an interesting and appealing introduction to Tolkien and his various works. The biography’s watercolor illustrations, which are dedicated to the “Game of Imagination,” fuse beautifully with the text and resemble a game board wandering throughout the book, playfully encouraging children to keep reading. Young readers who have not yet read Tolkien’s works may be enticed to seek more after reading this inviting biography. LDN

Bird in a Box by Andrea Pinkney

2012-02-14T11:19:00.001-06:00

Pinkney, Andrea. Bird in a Box. New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2011. 278 pp. Grades 4-5.

Hibernia is a preacher’s daughter, and she dreams of becoming a famous singer just like her long-time absent mother. Willie once had daydreams of becoming a champion boxer, but not anymore, not since his abusive father stomped them all away. Otis loves to retell his father’s riddles, because it helps to keep his memories of his parents alive. Despite their differences, these three children form a friendship through the admiration of one famous boxer’s quest for the heavyweight boxing championship, Joe Loius. Set during the Great Depression, this emotionally moving novel showcases the story of three young African-American kids living in Elmira, New York, dealing with their own individual battles in life. All three children are fans of Joe Louis and his conquest over adversity mirrors their own triumph over personal hardships. Pinkney writes a coherent, seamless narrative that changes perspective between three clear voices. The blend of real historical figures and scenarios creates a sense of realism that many older children will identify with as they find inspiration to conquer their own dreams throughout the book. LDN

Homer, the Library Cat by Reeve Lindbergh

2012-02-14T11:18:00.000-06:00

Lindbergh, Reeve. Homer, the Library Cat. Illus. by Anne Wilsdorf. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK-1.

Homer is a very quiet cat that lives with a very quiet lady in a very quiet house. One day, while the lady is gone, he ventures out into the very loud and busy world. Searching for a quiet spot to sleep, Homer comes across many new and surprising places. The world outside his quiet home is much too noisy, and all he really wants is to find is a calm place for a catnap! This is a short but lovable story of a cat that accidently wanders from home and eventually stumbles upon a library, where he enjoys a peaceful day and a nap among the stacks of books. Wilsdorf’s vibrant illustrations add a depth of humor to an already animated story. This picture book would be great to use for read aloud story time at home, school, or the library, and children are certain to be drawn to the colorful images, as well as Homer’s adventure. LDN

Zombie In Love by Kelly DiPucchio

2012-02-14T11:15:00.002-06:00

DiPucchio, Kelly. Zombie In Love. Illus. by Scott Campbell. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2011. Unpaged. Grades K-1.

Mortimer is a lonely zombie looking for a date to Cupid’s Ball. Despite a sincere charm, his attempts for finding a sweetheart seem to be more gruesome than romantic, as he offers a fancy box of chocolates filled with worms or a shiny diamond ring with a human finger still attached. Nothing he does impresses the ladies, but Mortimer isn’t ready to give up yet. Hoping to finally meet his perfect match in time for Valentine’s Day, he places an ad in the newspaper: “TALL, DEAD, & HANDSOME.” DiPucchio’s charming tale of a lonesome zombie looking for love is both humorous and sweet, Mortimer is faced with the challenge of enchanting a lady for a date, and even after several unsuccessful attempts, he still holds onto the hope that his perfect match is out there! The story itself is very simple, but it’s Campbell’s watercolor illustrations that truly breathe life into the undead. The pictures are playfully endearing, encouraging young readers to both sympathize and cheer Mortimer on with each turn of the page. LDN

Lost! A Dog Called Bear by Wendy Orr

2012-02-14T11:13:00.000-06:00

Orr, Wendy. Lost! A Dog Called Bear. New York: Henry Holt and Co., 2011. 112 pp. Grades 2-3.

In this tug at your heartstrings tale, Bear is lost, and Logan, his owner, doesn't know what to do! Logan and his mom are moving from the farm to the city, and his dog Bear is coming along. But during a stop along the move, Bear comes up missing. Meanwhile in the city, Hannah is dreaming and longing for the dog she never had. As these two friends meet through the Rainbow Street Animal Shelter, they discover some unique characters and a surprise that just may be in the best thing ever! This is a beautifully written chapter book perfect for readers transitioning into chapters. The sentences and chapters are short, there are great illustrations throughout the book, and the story is written using the limited vocabulary easy readers’ use. The very realistic plot and suspense will have readers wanting to turn every page! Great for pet lovers everywhere!

RRRalph by Lois Ehlert

2012-02-14T11:08:00.000-06:00

Ehlert, Lois. RRRALPH. New York: Beach Lane Books, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK-2.

This is a great young reader read-aloud that is sure to delight any dog lover. Ralph is a talking dog, and at the end of the story, you will want to run home to see if your dog can talk too! With simple questions, brightly colored pages, and abstract illustrations in this book, you can’t wait to see what to ask Ralph next. The book will defiantly receive a few laughs and lots of smiles from its readers.

The Adventures of Mark Twain by Robert Burleigh

2012-02-14T11:04:00.000-06:00

Burleigh, Robert. The Adventures of Mark Twain. Illus. by Barry Blitt. New York: Simon and Schuster, 2011. 48 pp. Grades 2-4.

This picture book biography of Mark Twain is told by one of his more famous characters, Huck Finn. Huck tells it in his own voice, describing Twain’s growing up days in Mississippi, his riverboat days, his writing careers and his family. The book’s engaging illustrations include whimsical caricatures that match the style of the book. This book aims to entertain and give factual information for children of all ages.

You Will Be My Friend by Peter Brown

2012-02-14T10:59:00.000-06:00

Brown, Peter. You Will Be My Friend. New York: Little, Brown and Co., 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK-2

In this sequel to Brown’s Children Make Terrible Pets, Lucy is on the hunt for a friend, and is determined to find one NOW. The precocious bear quickly realizes that it is harder than it looks to find a friend, and she quickly becomes discouraged and feels she will NEVER find one. Then something amazing happens; a friend is discovered right under Lucy’s nose! The vivid, simplistic pictures make this a wonderfully illustrated story, and the use of colored speech bubbles supports the narrative’s flow. Children and adults will find themselves laughing at Lucy’s antics and rooting for her to find a friend. A perfect read-aloud for young children, the book’s underlying message is very clear: always be yourself and new friends will appear when you least expect it.

Wilma Tenderfoot: The Case of the Frozen Hearts by Emma Kennedy

2012-02-14T10:55:00.000-06:00

Kennedy, Emma. Wilma Tenderfoot: The Case of the Frozen Hearts. New York: Dial Books for Young Readers, 2011. 304 pp. Ages 8 and up.

Wilma Tenderfoot is a 10-year-old orphan at the Cooper Island Lowside Institute for Woeful Children, which is an evil place run by Madam Scratch. Her life suddenly gets worse when she is sent to do work for Mrs. Waldock, until she discovers she lives next door to Theodore P. Goodman, the island's greatest detective. When a jewel called the Katzin Stone is stolen, Wilma sets out to prove herself to the detective so he will make her his apprentice. The mystery gets even stranger when the owners of the stone end up with frozen hearts! In this Nancy Drew style mystery, young readers will be on the edge of their seat trying to solve the case. Wilma’s detective deductions and suspect scouting, along with the antics of her trusty dog, Pickle, make this a funny, feisty and charming mystery.

Wild Life by Cynthia Defelice

2012-02-14T10:52:00.001-06:00

Defelice, Cynthia. Wild Life. New York: Farrar Straus Giroux, 2011. 177 pp. Grades 4-6.

Twelve-year-old Erik Carlson’s life takes a complete turn as he finds out his parents are being deployed to Iraq, and he has to live with his grandparents in North Dakota, who he has met only once and talked to on the phone barely a few times. While his grandmother is kind, his grandfather’s taciturn presence and lack of warmth makes him a little uncomfortable. To top it off, when he finds a lost dog with porcupine quills all over his face, his grandfather will not allow him to keep his new friend. Deciding to run away, Erik plans to use his rifle skills along with his dog's hunting ability to survive. After a few days, he eventually realizes the enormity of his actions. Erik's story will appeal to young boys as his adventure in the wild is not without mishaps. The book also highlights the situation of running away as not without its dangers and the importance of relationships. The satisfaction of living off the land and being able to realize one’s place on this earth are powerful metaphors for a young boy to understand. A great adventure story!

Encyclopedia Mythologica: Dragons & Monsters by Matthew Reinhart and Robert Sabuda

2012-02-14T10:45:00.000-06:00

Reinhart, Matthew and Robert Sabuda. Encyclopedia Mythologica: Dragons & Monsters. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. Unpaged. Grades 3-5.

This stunning book on Dragons and Monsters is a visual and creative delight. With a total of six pages each leading to monsters from antiquity, the western world, the eastern world, depths of the sea, the darkness of the night to the modern day, one is transported visually through the world of pop-ups into another time. In the center of each page is a giant pop-up, and on each bottom corner a smaller booklet of smaller pop-ups with introductions and stories behind each. One is entranced from the opening page that includes a giant Medusa with eyes to turn one into stone and a head full of snakes that pop up. Each page is just as thrilling as the previous. This book would be interesting for any child studying dragons and monsters, allowing the monster to take a form in front of their eyes. The WOW factor cannot be undermined here. A unique informational and artistic treasure of Dragons and Monsters!

Jim Henson: The Guy Who Played With Puppets by Kathleen Krull

2012-02-14T10:31:00.001-06:00

Krull, Kathleen. Jim Henson: The Guy Who Played With Puppets. Illus. by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher. New York: Random House Books for Young Readers, 2011. 40 pp. Grades 3-5.

This inspirational biography of the creative genius who brought Muppets to the world of television and made them household names starts from Jim Henson’s early childhood in Mississippi. Jim and his brother and a host of pets, used outside fun and creative imagination to entertain themselves. Families and friends regaled each other with stories and live entertainment, creating the beginning of a long relationship that Henson had with television. His father wanted him to pursue a career in science but Jim indulged in his own passions and graduated with a degree in Home Economics. Despite his creation of puppets or Muppets as he called them, he did not limit them to the world of children but instead supervised movies and T.V. shows that used other ways to creatively use his Muppets. Henson’s life and work is a testament to successfully following your dreams and is inspirational to all readers of all ages. The paintings by Johnson and Fancer are realistic and draw the reader into the story play by play. Children and adults alike will enjoy seeing the pictures of Big Bird, Kermit the Frog and a host of other Muppets.

Good-bye, Havana! Hola, New York! by Edie Colon

2012-02-14T10:26:00.000-06:00

Colon, Edie. Good-bye, Havana! Hola, New York!. Illus. by Raul Colon. New York: Simon and Schuster, 2011. Unpaged. Grades 2-4.

Six-year old Gabriella’s childhood in Cuba is about to come to an end as she moves to New York! In this story, based on true-life experiences of her own, Edie Colon, shares some of the angst experienced as people decide to emigrate to a new country and embrace a different culture. For Gabrielle the sound of waves is replaced by the sounds of a city, and school is taught in a different language. As she slowly makes friends and adjusts, her life is warm once again. Soon her grandparents emigrate too and she teaches them some of her own experiences to help them adjust. The narrative has good multicultural tones and will serve as a good tool for helping young people come to terms with moving as well as accepting other cultures. The glossary of Spanish words at the back of the book will be useful to readers unfamiliar with the language. The sepia illustrations take readers back to the sixties, possibly to the time that Edie Colon herself immigrated. A great read-aloud or read-alone book.

The Vampire Dare! Daphne's Diary of Daily Disasters by Marissa Moss

2012-02-14T10:22:00.001-06:00

Moss, Marissa. The Vampire Dare! Daphne's Diary of Daily Disasters. New York: Simon and Schuster. 2011. Unpaged. Grades 3-6.

Using a Journal style narrative to reach to the young audience, Moss, the bestselling author of the Amelia series, chronicles the thoughts and actions of Daphne who has to dress up for Costume Day at school. Daphne is an imaginative and dramatic fourth grader whose journey through what she believes is a disastrous day, dressing up as a vampire and trying to be cool, and its resolution where she finally feels vindicated is recorded with her musings and creative doodles. The artwork and hand writing play as significant role in the diary, as she expresses all her musings with corresponding doodles and drawings. The binding and cover of the book would appeal to young girls and the simple vocabulary and narrative style of first person allows readers to relate to her even if the entire book deals with only one incident. An entertaining book as most young girls would find Daphne very relatable.

Tom Thumb: the Remarkable True Story of a Man in Miniature by George Sullivan

2012-02-14T10:14:00.001-06:00

Sullivan, George. Tom Thumb: the Remarkable True Story of a Man in Miniature. New York: Clarion Books, 2011. 208 pp. Grades 6-10.

This is copiously illustrated biography of Charles S. Stratton, the entertainer the world would come to know as General Tom Thumb. Born to a Connecticut carpenter, Stratton, who never grew taller than 3 foot 4 inches, shot to fame as an attraction in the traveling circus of P.T. Barnum, a distant cousin who gave Stratton his stage name. Filled with numerous photographs and reproductions of handbills from his career, Tom Thumb’s life is examined in great detail, inviting the reader to decide where the line between fame and exploitation should be drawn. This book is an informative biography for readers 10 and up. AH

Grandpa Green by Lane Smith

2012-02-14T10:12:00.000-06:00

Smith, Lane. Grandpa Green. New York: Roaring Brook Press, 2011. 32 pp. Grades K-3

Grandpa Green is getting old and unable to remember things as well as he used to, especially important things like picking up his tools. However with his knack for horticulture he has illustrated his autobiography in his garden, where he can remember the past and share his talent with the future. As his great-grandson wanders through the garden, illustrated in lush shades of green, he gathers up the tools his forgetful great-grandpa has left behind, and grows closer both in distance and in understanding of the old man. A wonderful story for children ages 4-7. AH

Itsy Mitsy Runs Away by Elanna Allen

2012-02-14T10:10:00.000-06:00

Allen, Elanna. Itsy Mitsy Runs Away. New York: Athenum Books for Young Readers, 2011. 33 pp. Grades K-3

Itsy Mitsy is not ready for bedtime. Dressed in her dinosaur costume, she is so annoyed by her father’s attempts to end her playful rampage that she has decided to run away. Her father agrees to let her go, but reminds her that running away is pretty hard to prepare for, and there’s always just one more thing to pack. Filled with humorously illustrated images of stuffed dolls, puppies, imaginary monsters, and all the other things Mitsy is bringing with her on her adventure, this tale will be a perfect bedtime story for active young children. AH

The No. 1 Car Spotter by Atinuke

2012-02-14T10:08:00.000-06:00

Atinuke. The No. 1 Car Spotter. Illus. by Warwick Johnson Cadwell. San Diego, CA: Kane Miller, 2011. 112 pp. Grades 3-6.

No. 1 lives in his tiny village along with his best friend, Coca-cola and his sister, Sissy. His favorite hobby is car spotting, and he dreams of cars all day. No. 1 rarely gets to spot cars passing through, because no roads lead to his home. However, there is one car in the village, an abandoned Toyota Corolla that his uncle tells him, “will never run again.” Nevertheless when the village’s only ox cart breaks No. 1 must use his creativity and preoccupation with the broken down Toyota to ensure that the village can get its produce to market in the next town over. This inspirational tale of an imaginative kid dreaming beyond the boundaries of his village is told as a series of short vignettes with accompanying illustrations, sure to appeal to young readers ages 7-10. AH

Darth Paper Strikes Back by Tom Angleberger

2012-02-14T10:01:00.000-06:00

Angleberger, Tom. Darth Paper Strikes Back. Illus. by Tom Angleberger and Jason Rosenstock. New York: Amulet Books, 2011. 167 pp. Grades 4-9.

In this sequel to The Strange Case of Origami Yoda, the children of McQuarrie Middle School find themselves in a new adventure involving an origami puppet. Dwight, an unusual kid who dispenses advice for his peers through a small origami Yoda finger-puppet, has been suspended from school and recommended for the CREF, the Correctional and Remedial Educational Facility. Worse yet, now that Dwight is gone a new origami puppet has taken over the school, the dreaded Darth Paper and his puppeteer Harvey. In order to save their friend, Tommy, Kellen, Sara, and the rest of the school must assemble a new collection of case files to convince the principle that Dwight should be spared from CREF, because Origami Yoda’s return is the only thing that can save the school from Darth Paper. A humorous collection of short stories with black and white illustrations sprinkled throughout the margins, this story is sure to entertain imaginative middle school aged children regardless of their interest in or familiarity with Star Wars. AH

Skippyjon Jones Class Action by Judy Schachner

2012-02-14T09:57:00.000-06:00

Schachner, Judy. Skippyjon Jones Class Action. New York: Dutton Children’s Books, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK-2.

Skippyjon Jones wants to go to school, and he doesn’t care if school is only for the dogs—he’s no ordinary cat! He can imagine a world like no other when he’s inside his infinite imagination: the kitty-boy is off to adventures at school with los chimichangos so he can get into all sorts of trouble. Mucho! Skippyjon Jones plays with dogs of all sorts—beagles and poodles and he learns all about Chihuahuas—what a day! Even school bullies can’t ruin anything in his imagination; he’ll always save the day. This book is a great read-aloud for younger children who love the antics of this crazy cat; there are plenty of opportunities for them to chime in on their favorite parts. The illustrations are charming and funny, like the main character, and it’s a victory for everyone when Skippyjon Jones comes out on top. MMH

Bootleg: Murder, Moonshine, and the Lawless Years of Prohibition by Karen Blumenthal

2012-02-14T09:55:00.001-06:00

Blumenthal, Karen. Bootleg: Murder, Moonshine, and the Lawless Years of Prohibition. New York: Roaring Brook Press, 2011. 123pp. Grades 4-6.

The seedy underbelly of the roaring twenties’ prohibition is dissected in this informational book—nothing is left untouched. The history of the events leading up to Prohibition—the protests, social activism, and the rise of the lawlessness of every day citizens who made it possible for some of history’s most infamous gangsters to make millions and murder indiscriminately. A lot of well-researched material is packed into numerous portraits of notable figures from the times. This book contains dozens of contemporary photographs, interesting anecdotes, and a take on history that humanizes a tumultuous time in history. This book isn't the most entertaining read for those who just want a good story, however it would be a great resources for late elementary or middle school kids, who want to learn more about the time or need a good source for a school project. MMH

Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver

2012-02-14T09:48:00.006-06:00

Oliver, Lauren. Liesl & Po. Illus. by Kei Acedera. New York: HarperCollins, 2011. 307pp. Grades 3- 6.

Liesl has been locked in her attic bedroom for months, at the mercy of her evil stepmother. Her father has died and there’s no one to talk to…until a ghost by the name of Po appears one night from the Other Side. They devise a plan for Liesl to escape the clutches of the cruel adults who keep her locked away, and in doing so, come across Will. An alchemist’s apprentice, Will is on the run to escape his murderous employer, all because of an accidental delivery—a delivery which leaves a box of extraordinary magic unattended. The three are drawn into an adventure that brings the magic of spirits into the realm of the living, where Liesl’s father’s soul hangs in the balance. Oliver seems to borrow from the magic of the greatest fantasies as she paints a picture of the seam between two worlds and what happens when the lines becomes blurred. Recommended for grades 3-6. MMH

Under the Green Hill by Laura Sullivan

2012-02-14T09:46:00.000-06:00

Sullivan, Laura. Under the Green Hill. New York: Henry Holt and Co., 2010. 308pp. Grades 3-6.

This is an illusory and otherworldly fantasy replete with fairies, mythology, and startling magic. Meg and her brothers and sister have been sent to the English countryside for the summer to stay at the Rookery. While they look forward to spending time exploring the nooks and crannies of an ancestral mansion, they are surprised to discover that not only do fairies exist; they are embroiled in a Midsummer War that could tear everything apart! Sullivan executes a story-telling ability that adds intriguing layers to a plot that already fascinates with bits and pieces or history and lore. Her attention to detail is meticulous as she allows the reader to discover the intricacies of a magical realm. Some children may have difficulty getting into the story, as some of the descriptions are too long and winding for waning attention spans; however, most kids will immediately be drawn to the characters and find themselves wishing everything under the Green Hill is real. MMH

The Twins' Blanket by Hyewon Yum

2012-02-14T09:44:00.000-06:00

Yum, Hyewon. The Twins’ Blanket. New York: Farrar Strauss Giroux, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK-2.

This blanket isn't big enough for the two of us! Two five-year-old twins discover that they can’t share everything as they grow up and begin to understand that they are individual little girls that like different things. They’ve outgrown the blanket they shared when they were babies, and now Mommy’s going to make two new ones. “I think yellow is an excellent color—no, pink is a much better color for everything!” Kids will be fascinated to see how twins have to share and still try out their own identities. The dreamy illustrations work in big white spaces that allow the twins to mirror each other on either side of the page. With understated text, the dialogue really gives the sense of how children’s minds work, and the result is charming. MMH

Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu

2012-02-14T09:39:00.001-06:00

Ursu, Anne. Breadcrumbs. New York: Walden Pond Press, 2011. 312 pp. Grades 4-6.

Imaginative daydreamer Hazel has begun 5^th grade, switching to the local elementary school, as her parent’s divorce has made her old private school no longer affordable. Considering herself a misunderstood outsider, the one redeeming factor is that Hazel now gets to spend recess with her best friend, Jack. When a magic spell changes Jack and their friendship suffers, Hazel must rescue both Jack and herself from the Snow Queen and the enchanted woods where he is trapped. Inhabiting a fantastical world filled with sci-fi, fantasy, and folktale references, Breadcrumbs is an adventure tale for both boys and, especially, girls. The heroine is an engaging character that many children can recognize and find relatable. Anne Ursu has done a masterful job describing the emotional changes occurring in 5^th and 6^th grade, especially in relating the complexities of friendship as they evolve and include others. CED

The Midnight Zoo by Sonya Hartnett

2012-02-14T09:35:00.000-06:00

Hartnett, Sonya. The Midnight Zoo. Illus. by Andrea Offermann. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. 217 pp. Grades 7 and up.

Twelve year-old Andrej is an Eastern European Gypsy running from the bombs and soldiers of World War II. Along with his younger brother, Tomas, and baby sister, Wilma, Andrej ends up in an unidentified village with a small menagerie of talking animals. Learning about the destruction of the village from the animals, the reader also learns the heartbreaking tale of why Andrej and his siblings are on the run. A book for more sophisticated readers, the dark themes and moving personal stories of the animals are not for the faint of heart. The historical details are sparse and pose questions for further research. Hartnett weaves an engaging, though sad, story for readers young and old, and the illustrations by Offermann lend themselves quite wonderfully to the overall tone of the book. CED

Mosquitoes Are Ruining My Summer and Other Silly Dilly Camp Songs by Alan Katz

2012-02-14T09:32:00.000-06:00

Katz, Alan. Mosquitoes Are Ruining My Summer and Other Silly Dilly Camp Songs. Illus. by Davis Catrow. New York: Margaret E. McElderry Books, 2011. Unpaged. Grades K-2.

The eighth book in a series of “Silly Dilly” poems by Alan Katz follows the same format as the others, using popular melodies to create poetry that is easily accessible. The theme of this particular book is about camp, though it may not accurately reflect true camp experiences. If anything, it makes the summer camp environment a horrible experience to participate in and is not something that is easily relatable to children who have enjoyed summer camps. At first glance, it may seem like another fun, “silly dilly” book of poetry, but on the whole, the illustrations and the poems make the camp experience seem unpleasant for children. It is especially not recommended for anxious children going to camp for the first time. CED

Manuela's Bread Doll/La Guagua de Pan de Manuela by María Sevilla

2012-02-14T09:28:00.002-06:00

Sevilla, María. Manuela's Bread Doll/La Guagua de Pan de Manuela. Illus. by Zonacuario. Self Published: Building Bridges Books, 2009. Unpaged. Grades K-2.

Manuela, an Ecuadorian girl, has been looking forward to making the traditional bread dolls (guaguas de pan) to celebrate All Soul’s Day. Her joy is tempered by the fact that her grandmother is no longer alive to help her. A bilingual book, the English translations are a little clunky and do not always feel natural, which may be due to the vocabulary footnotes added on most pages. Reminiscent of movie product tie-in books, the illustrations do little to help the slightly stilted text. Though it attempts to explore a fascinating cultural tradition and universal emotion dealing with the death of a loved one, this picture book is not told in way that is readily engaging or visually appealing to most children. However, some librarians may find a specific use for certain passages to compare and contrast Day of the Dead traditions in Ecuador with other Latino American countries. For more information, please see the author's website at www.buildingbridgesbooks.com. CED

People Around The World Lift-the-Flap by Pat Jacobs

2012-02-14T09:23:00.000-06:00

Jacobs, Pat. People Around The World Lift-the-Flap. New York: Kingfisher, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK-1.

As with most Kingfisher publications, one can expect to be entertained and informed when looking through this offering. Part of the Lift-the-Flap series, the subjects chosen are uneven at best. The cartoon-like illustrations do justice to the material, though ultimately “the world” is only reflected in the showcase of an African village, a Middle Eastern market, Brazil’s Carnival, and a Bollywood movie set. The rest are American/Western European-centric, with “In The City” intended to be the sole Asian contribution to the world, though it doesn’t appear to be any different from a New York City or Paris street scene except for the vaguely Korean characters on the awnings. Though this book fails to meet its title objective, young children will still love the premise and the friendly illustrations. CED

Everything On It by Shel Silverstein

2012-02-14T09:19:00.001-06:00

Silverstein, Shel. Everything On It. New York: HarperCollins, 2011. 202pp. Grades K-2.

You know that uncle who teaches you jokes that get you in trouble when your parents hear you repeat them? That’s Shel Silverstein. This latest collection of poetry and drawings presumably serves as his swansong. Naughty, absurd, gross, and occasionally witty, this book serves as equal parts irreverence, rebellion, eulogy, and one final knuckle rub to the head. Rhymes about people being eaten that don’t exactly roll off the tongue won’t necessarily convert a new fan base, but those who already love their Uncle Shelby will find his farewell a required addition to their collection. SRD

Mimi by John Newman

2012-02-14T09:17:00.000-06:00

Newman, John. Mimi. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. 186pp. Grades 2-5.

It’s been 149 days since the death of Mimi’s mother, and her family is still coming to terms with it. Ever optimistic and determined, Mimi chronicles her family’s pain in her diary, filtering the events through her innocent, childish mind. Touching and humorous, Mimi takes the reader on a journey through the aftermath of a personal tragedy. While the premise may initially sound heavy, the story never becomes too uncomfortable for those sensitive to a similar loss. Recommended more as a gentle diversion than a seriously thought provoking tale. SRD

Gold! Gold from the American River by Don Brown

2012-02-14T09:13:00.000-06:00

Brown, Don. Gold! Gold from the American River! New York: Roaring Book Press, 2011. Unpaged. Grades K-2.

The gold rush is typically painted as an exciting period of prosperity, when in truth more lives and dreams were crushed in this historical gamble. Unromanticized accounts coupled with (often) sad images make this book a valuable presentation of reality. In the end, the merchants prosper more than the gold miners, offering a real life adaptation of the Tortoise and the Hare. Informative and easy to comprehend, this book invokes the ideal balance of adventurous optimism and harsh reality. A solid purchase for any children’s library. SRD

Too Many Dinosaurs by Mercer Mayer

2012-02-14T09:12:00.000-06:00

Mayer, Mercer. Too Many Dinosaurs. New York: Holiday House, 2011. Unpaged. Grades K-2.

Every little boy wants a puppy. But when told no by his mother, one boy discovers a dinosaur egg at a neighbor’s yard sale. After sneaking it home, the baby triceratops hatches and the real problems begin. With rich illustrations full of lushness and humorous moments, this innocent tale of consequence and responsibility will surely be treasured by dog and dinosaur lovers alike. While a few of the images might be a tad scary to the youngest readers, the warm resolution is certain to leave a touching memory in all. SRD

Fortune Cookies by Albert Bitterman

2012-02-14T09:11:00.000-06:00

Bitterman, Albert. Fortune Cookies. Illus. by Chris Raschka. New York: Beach Lane Books, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK-1.

An adorable little girl receives a box of seven fortune cookies in the mail. Each day of the following week she opens one and interprets the most dramatic event of that day according to the fortune. With colorful drawings in the style of crayons and interactive fortunes which physically slide right out of the illustrations, this book will delight young readers who are learning the days of the week. The fortunes are harmlessly general, so no worries about teaching superstition to children. This is the kind of book that could have come from a child’s imagination. SRD

The Little Plant Doctor by Jean Marzollo

2012-02-14T09:09:00.000-06:00

Marzollo, Jean. The Little Plant Doctor. Illus. by Ken Wilson-Max. New York: Holiday House, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK–2.

Told from the perspective of a tree that stands in the George Washington Carver National Monument, this book tells the story of a young George Washington Carver. It begins with George as young boy, the same height as the fledgling tree. George plants wildflowers around the tree and studies them intently as they grow. Reminiscent of Shel Silverstein’s The Giving Tree, George spends time with the tree and tells the tree his plans for the future. Eventually George leaves for college, uncommon for a young black man in the late 1800s. The vivid illustrations are full of deep colors and movement that draw the eye to the beautiful plants and scenery. The writing is awkward and at times hard to follow, but the book is educational and gives insightful background information on George Washington Carver. In the back of the book are discussions questions that could be used in a classroom setting. KD

Small as an Elephant by Jennifer Richard Jacobson

2012-02-14T09:07:00.000-06:00

Jacobson, Jennifer Richard. Small as an Elephant. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. 273 pp. Grades 4-6.

Eleven-year-old Jack lives an unsettled life. His mother erratically fluctuates from attentive and loving to careless and neglectful, clearly suffering from a mental illness. Even though she has left him alone before, Jack never thought she would abandon him at a campground in Maine with no way home to Boston, no way to contact her, and only $14 and some change. Jack swiftly goes into survival mode, figuring out how to get food, making a plan to get back to Boston or find his mother, and staying away from nosey adults who will contact DSS if they discover he is alone. His mother has told him all about the horrors of DSS and how they will put him in foster care or take him to live with his “evil” grandmother. With only a small toy elephant that he stole to keep him company, Jack begins his journey. The story here is an adventure with extraordinary characters around each corner. At times implausible, the story bases on coincidence but radiates courage and hope, describing one small boy’s search for a home. KD

Who Has What? All About Girls’ Bodies and Boys’ Bodies by Robbie H. Harris

2012-02-14T09:05:00.000-06:00

Harris, Robie H. Who Has What? All About Girls’ Bodies and Boys’ Bodies. Illus. by Nadine Bernard Westcott. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. Unpaged. Grades K-2.

Young children are curious about everything and ask a lot of questions. It’s how they learn about themselves and the world around them. From the New York Times best-selling author of It’s Perfectly Normal, comes a book that answers children’s non-stop questions about their own bodies and the differences between girls and boys. Readers will join siblings Nellie and Gus on a day to the beach as they learn that their bodies are the same and different. Informative illustrations show Gus and Nellie pointing to the parts they have that are the same – ears, mouth, hands, feet, and explains the different parts of their anatomy as they change into their swimsuits for the beach. The easy read-aloud text offers children honest and straightforward information that reassures them that even though everybody is different they are normal, healthy and amazing. KD

Lexie by Audrey Couloumbis

2012-02-14T09:03:00.000-06:00

Couloumbis, Audrey. Lexie. New York: Random House Books for Young Readers, 2011. 197 pp. Grades 3-5.

For as long as she can remember ten-year-old Lexie has gone to the beach with her parents every summer. It was always just the three of them - beachcombing for treasure, making s’mores, swimming. This summer is going to be different. Her parents are divorced and this time her mom won’t be there. To make it worse, her dad has invited his girlfriend, Vicky, and her two boys to join them for the week. Lexie’s vacation with her dad is seemingly ruined, but she will soon realize that you can find treasure in unexpected places. Couloumbis examines the effect of divorce on families in an honest voice children can relate to. KD

Slightly Invisible by Lauren Child

2012-02-14T09:01:00.000-06:00

Child, Lauren. Slightly Invisible. London: Orchard Books, 2010. Unpaged. Grades K-2.

Charlie and his friend Marv are on a top-secret mission to find a strange and tricky creature. Martians, sea monsters – they don’t care as long as it’s scary. And they come close to finding one too, if Charlie’s little sister Lola would stop bothering them and interrupting. But Lola knows how to catch the strangest and trickiest creature of all, with the help of her invisible friend Soren Lorensen and some pink milk – aka invisibility potion. The story here is charming, but the book’s illustrations and text art is what will keep children glued to the page, anxious to find out what happens next. KD

The Secret River by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

2012-02-14T08:58:00.000-06:00

Rawlings, Marjorie Kinnan. The Secret River. Illus. By Leo and Diane Dillon. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2011. Unpaged. Grades 1-4

Calpurnia and her dog Buggy-horse live with her Mom and Dad in rural Florida during the Great Depression, and hard times have hit the forest. Her father makes a living selling fish to other poor people but there are no fish to be caught. Calpurnia begins a journey to find a secret river where the fish run abundantly free and fast. She is able to find the river, and catch several big catfish. As she is returning home she gives part of her catch to the animals of the forest, to Mother Albirtha, the old wise woman, and the rest to her father to sell at the market. The next day she tries to find the secret river to no avail. Mother Albirtha tell Calpurnia that the river will be there in times of need but not in times of greed. Antheneum Books has taken an abridged version of Rawling's Newbery honor winning text from 1956 and paired it with some breathtaking illustrations from Leo and Diane Dillon in a picture book format. The story depicts an African-American family in the rural South. The warmth and humor that Rawlings injects into the text mask the simple morality story providing a heart-warming tale of an adventurous girl trying to make things better for her family and community. The Dillons' acrylic illustrations of the forest, the animals, and Calpurnia and friends are magnificent. I would highly recommend this book for boys and girls ages 6-10. PFC

The Unforgettable Season The Story of Joe DiMaggio and Ted Williams, and the Recording Setting Summer of '41 by Phil Bildner

2012-02-14T08:54:00.000-06:00

Bildner, Phil. The Unforgettable Season The Story of Joe DiMaggio and Ted Williams, and the Recording Setting Summer of '41. Illus. By S. D. Schindler. New York: G. P. Putnams's Sons, 2011. Unpaged. Grades 2-4

Bildner has created an unforgettable book for sports fans of all ages. Joe DiMaggio's hitting streak and Ted William's batting average are long standing celebrated records. This informational book chronicles the summer of 1941 when these two men unknowingly began a record setting baseball season that would have the whole country captivated. Did Joltin' Joe DiMaggio get a hit? Is the streak continued? How did Ted Williams (the Splendid Splinter) do tonight? Is he keeping up his batting average? Bildner combines baseball statistics with charming historical outtakes to keep readers just as engrossed with the book as sports fans must have been in 1941. The pictures help tell the story and the switch between DiMaggio's and William's stories are easily discernible with big bold blue type for the Yankee's Joltin' Joe and big bold red type for the Red Sox' Splendid Splinter. There is a list of sources including books and websites that can be used for further research in the front of the book. I would recommend this easy read for any sports fan, particularly reluctant boys ages 7-10. PFC.

The Map of Me by Tami Lewis Brown

2012-02-14T08:53:00.000-06:00

Brown, Tami Lewis. The Map of Me. New York: Farrar Straus Giroux, 2011. 152 pp. Grades 3-5

Margie is a typical twelve–year-old with typical problems. Her mother is obsessed with chickens, her father is obsessed with work, and her bratty brainiac little sister seems to be obsessed with making Margie's life miserable. One day Margie and her sister, Peep, come home from school to find a note on the refrigerator from their Mom that says “I Have to Go.” Her suitcase is gone, her car is gone, and she is gone. The girls try and call their Dad, but the receptionist won't let them through. So they walk down to their Dad's work and he waves them off without even hearing them. Margie decides to take an unauthorized road trip in her father's truck to the International Poultry Hall of Fame to get her Mom. She does not find her Mom but she finds out a lot about herself and her Dad. Margie's twisting and winding journey through back roads of Kentucky mirror her personal journey of self discovery. This is a good read for girls ages 8-12. PFC

The Big Sunggle Up by Brian Patten

2012-02-14T08:49:00.001-06:00

Patten, Brian. The Big Snuggle Up. Illus. By Nicolo Bayley. Tulsa: Kane Miller, 2011. Unpaged. Grades Pre K-1

An unidentified voice speaks from a warm and welcoming cottage asking a scarecrow if he would like to come in out of the snow. The scarecrow asks “Can I bring a friend, for in my sleeve lives a mouse?” The scarecrow and the mouse are welcomed into the house as are a whole litany of animals who gather together in the small cottage for a big snuggle up on a cold winter night. The story is told in simple rhyme with a repeating refrain at the end of each page spread that starts with “Into the house and out of the snow came...” a whole list of animals with a new one being added to the beginning of the list. The rhyme scheme and simple text make for an excellent read aloud. It is the exquisite illustrations however, that steal the show. Bayley's hand drawn animals are realistic with detailed attention paid to the look of the feathers and fur. This book is an excellent read aloud for boys and girls ages 3-7. PFC

The Familiars Secrets of the Crown by Adamn Jay Epstein and Andrew Jacobson

2012-02-14T08:46:00.001-06:00

Epstein, Adam Jay and Andrew Jacobson. The Familiars Secrets of the Crown. Illus. by Pater Chan and Kei Acedera. New York: HarperCollins, 2011. 372pp. Grades 3-6

In book two of this delightful new series Epstein and Jacobson continue the adventures of the familiars, Skylar the bird, Aldwyn the cat, and Gilbert the frog. Paksahara the evil rabbit has returned and cast a spell that removes all magic from the humans. The three familiars must learn to master their own magic as they embark on a quest to find the crown of the snow leopard so that they can save the Kingdom of Vastia. This fantastical animal adventure is a fast paced read that keeps readers raptly turning the pages. If readers enjoyed Erin Hunter's Warrior Series then they will love The Familiars. This book is an excellent choice for fantasy aficionados ages 8-12. PFC

Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans by Kadir Nelson

2012-02-14T08:44:00.001-06:00

Nelson, Kadir. Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans. New York: Balzar and Bray, 2011. 108 pp. Grades 4-7.

Our nation’s heart and soul lie in its promise of liberty, equality, and justice. Not all Americans have known such freedoms. In a style and voice similar to his previous book, We Are the Ship, Nelson’s newest work portrays the struggles of the African American people within the larger context of American history. The first person narrative voice is a grandmotherly ‘everywoman’ sharing her story, from her ancestors aboard slave ships to casting her vote for the first African American president. While condensing 400 years of history into 100 pages leads to an oversimplified view, Nelson manages a unique chronicle in words and pictures. This book can provide children with a captivating introduction to a variety of topics – the American Revolution, slavery, the Civil War, the Reconstruction era, the civil rights movement, women’s rights, and even African American inventors. Although the text is capable of standing on its own, it is enriched by the dramatic style of Nelson’s masterful oil paintings. The full-page images, sometimes two-page spreads, depict Southern landscapes, everyday people, and famous civil rights activists. The back matter includes an epilogue, author note, timeline, bibliography, and index. This essential library purchase will be appreciated by children and adults alike. CC

Robots by Andy Parker, Mike Davis, Hannah Wilson, Clare Hibbert, and Simon Holland

2012-02-14T08:39:00.001-06:00

Parker, Andy, Mike Davis, Hannah Wilson, Clare Hibbert, and Simon Holland. Robots. New York: Kingfisher, 2010. Unpaged. Ages 3-6.

“Are you ready to enter the futuristic world of robots?” This question on the back cover is misleading, as the book features four types of present-day robots – a moon rover, an underwater rover, a volcanobot, and a tomb rover. The front cover is even more misleading with its shiny mechanisms and hints at the inner workings of sleek robots. The text, a 20-page booklet dubbed the operator’s manual, provides basic information about the robots but largely focuses on the terrains these robots are capable of exploring. The moon base, reef wreck, fiery volcano, and Egyptian tomb are four separate pop-up scenes. The pop-ups are large and attractive in the center of the spread and contain questions that prompt interaction. These interactive questions are relevant only if the reader has first constructed the four feature robots from the included press-out pieces. Adult assistance is necessary for the assembly process. The thin cardboard and ill-fitting tabs produce small, flimsy robots that will survive perhaps 30 seconds in the hands of pre-school age children. Not suitable for a circulating library collection. CC

Eddie: The Lost Youth of Edgar Allan Poe by Scott Gustafson

2012-02-14T08:34:00.002-06:00

Gustafson, Scott. Eddie: The Lost Youth of Edgar Allan Poe. New York: Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2011. 201 pp. Grades 4-7.

Caught at the scene of a mischievous prank in the neighbor’s yard, young Eddie has 24 hours to prove his innocence or face the wrath of his foster father. Accompanied by his pet raven and the devilish imp who resides on his shoulder, Eddie sets out to find the real culprit. The main suspect, Captain Mephisto the magician, becomes a friend who helps clear Eddie’s name. Both the introduction and prologue provide background information about the real-life Edgar Allan Poe and incorporate true facts from his early childhood. The book then embarks on a fictional journey with young Poe as the central character. Familiarity with Poe’s writing is not necessary to understand or enjoy this narrative, although fans of Poe’s work will recognize several literary references. Reminiscent of Brain Selznick’s style, the pages are filled with dramatic, monochrome drawings harmoniously blended with an engaging text. Gustafson’s exceptional graphite illustrations enrich the text and intensify the macabre overtones. This thrilling tale is perfectly creepy without being too frightening. Highly recommended for intermediate and middle grade readers, especially those who enjoy mystery, adventure, or detective stories. A word of caution for those sensitive to demonology and mention of "the devil." CC

My Life As a Stuntboy by Janet Tashjian

2012-02-14T08:30:00.000-06:00

Tashjian, Janet. My Life As a Stuntboy. Illustrations by Jake Tashjian. New York: Henry Holt and Co., 2011. 256 pp. Grades 3-6.

Teachers and parents who think the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series lacks substance will be eager to recommend this book of similar style and voice to intermediate readers. In this sequel to My Life as a Book, twelve-year-old Derek is offered the opportunity of a lifetime – a job as stunt boy in a movie filming near his Los Angeles home. As he pursues this dream, conflicts arise involving jealous friends, a pet capuchin monkey, and responsibilities at home and school. Derek’s struggling reading ability and lack of concentration build a bridge for reluctant readers. However, the messages related to reading, responsibility, and overcoming obstacles come across a bit heavy-handed. Derek’s parents require “a commitment to your reading - a promise to read and work on your vocabulary every single day” and at one point mom declares, “I just wonder when some of your listening and paying attention skills will kick in.” Despite the didactic nature, this story offers fanciful adventures and honest portrayals of friendship. The short chapters and oversized font will entice reluctant readers. The stick-figure sketches, appearing in the page margins, are illustrated vocabulary word from the text and are not integral to the plot action. CC

Mali Under the Night Sky: A Lao Story of Home by Youme Landowne

2012-02-14T08:27:00.002-06:00

Landowne, Youme. Mali Under the Night Sky: A Lao Story of Home. El Paso, TX: Cinco Puntos Press, 2010. Unpaged. Grades 1-3.

As a young child in Laos, Mali enjoyed spending her days playing in the open rice fields and towering bamboo forests. But as the fighting of nearby countries moved closer to home, five-year-old Mali and her family sought refuge from the war. Sneaking through the dark of night, the family is arrested upon crossing the border into Thailand. Mali wonders if she has lost her home forever. This picture book biography incorporates true events from Malichansouk Kouanchao’s early childhood in a war-torn country. While the subject matter is grim, the story is gentle. The comforting resolution that one can keep home in their heart is appropriate for young audiences. The endnotes and front flap provide more information about Mali and her life after leaving Laos. The text poses questions to the reader that foster thought and discussion. The narrative is also interspersed with words and characters from the Lao language. The illustrations are beautiful - ngam lai - watercolor paintings. Landowne’s artistic details reflect traditions within the Lao culture and the thoughtful use of color matches the changing tones of the story. Recommended for those looking to increase their multicultural collection for grades 1-3. CC

Geek Fantasy Novel by E. Archer

2012-02-09T16:44:00.001-06:00

Archer, E. Geek Fantasy Novel. New York: Scholastic Press, 2011. 320 pp. Ages 12 and up.

Ralph is very much your typical bespectacled geek. He is great with computers, loves to game, has trouble speaking to girls, and can really rig up a wicked network. As any IT nerd will tell you, the wonders of this ability come with the price of everyone in your family ringing you up for computer help. Which is exactly what starts out the adventure one summer, as a down-in-the-dumps Ralph receives an invite from British relatives to hop across the pond and set up their WI-FI. Without bothering to ask permission from his parents, he sets off. Soon Ralph finds himself on an adventure, as a wish lands him and his cousins in the middle of a fantasy world ripped right out of one of his computer games. Archer's style is wonderfully unconventional. At times surreal, brutally violent, yet always hysterical, Archer has crafted a book that any self-identifying geek will adore.

When Life Gives You O. J. by Erica S. Perl

2012-02-09T16:37:00.001-06:00

Perl, Erica S. When Life Gives You O.J. New York: Knopf, 2011. 208 pp. Grades 3-6.

Like so many youngsters, Zelly wants a puppy but her parents don’t want her to have one. Enter Ace, her quite kooky grandfather! He leaves her a note which reads: "KID, SEE ME IMMEDIATELY WHEN YOU GET THIS. DO NOT SPEAK OF THIS TO ANYONE, NOT EVEN YOUR PARENTS OR YOUR BROTHER. ACE. P.S. I HOPE YOU ARE READY FOR THIS." A very interesting way to begin the book, and in a quick twist, he gives her an empty orange juice container as a practice dog. She has to feed it- a messy combo of dog food and water, clean its poop, and take it on walks around the block. She isn’t sure about all this responsibility, and her parents maintain that taking care of a carton won’t influence anything, yet she gives into the insanity and so begins the hilarious trip. Some readers may be put off by the Yiddish works sprinkled through the novel, but there is a handy dictionary in the back. A very good very funny tale with a good moral message that’s not over the top, this book is a great read for anyone, dog lover or not.

Bumble-Ardy by Maurice Sendak

2012-02-09T16:24:00.001-06:00

Sendak, Maurice. Bumble-Ardy. New York: HarperCollins, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PK-3.

Bumble-Ardy's parents have tragically been eaten, and he's just been adopted by his aunt. He has never had a birthday party, and as the pig turns nine, he decides to throw himself a costume party to celebrate. So all his piggy friends show up and have a piggy mardi gras. The party itself is the most visually interesting part of the book, which seems to almost hold its breath in anticipation until its arrival. The party is also the strongest source of controversy for this book as Sendak again proves, that even at the age of 83, he is far more in tune with the sensibilities of children than their often oversensitive parents. The story is a wonderful blend of poetry and dark art set to thrill, and a welcome addition to any collection.

King Hugo's Huge Ego by Chris Van Dusen

2012-02-09T16:15:00.000-06:00

Van Dusen, Chris. King Hugo's Huge Ego. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PK-3.

King Hugo is short in stature, but has a mammoth sized ego! Due to thinking only of himself, he commits the classic fairy tale blunder of invoking the ire of a magic user by knocking the sorceress Tessa into a muddy ditch. Infuriated by the selfish king, she casts a spell on him that causes his head to inflate with every stroke of his over-sized ego. When the head becomes comically far too much to deal with anymore, Hugo seeks out Tessa and pleads her, lesson learned, to remove the curse. This book is funny, and the art is simply wonderful. Full of bright colors, great detailed characters and landscapes, and excellent “camera angles,” it even teaches a great lesson on the importance of humbleness and the dangers of being too egotistical. A really great read-a-loud for kids of any age.

Who Do You Think You Are? Be a Family Tree Detective by Dan Waddell

2012-02-09T16:11:00.000-06:00

Waddell, Dan. Who Do You Think You Are? Be a Family Tree Detective. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. Unpaged. Grades 2 and up.

This book, inspired by the successful television series “Who Do You Think You Are?,” challenges kids to become a genealogy detective. It starts off by giving a brief and easy to understand introduction to the subject of genealogy itself. On the same page, kids get their first Detective Tip! in the form of a magnifying glass shaped pull-down tab. These tips and other cutely colored and shaped tabs are littered through the book and used to great effect to create a very engaging and fun atmosphere, while containing useful tips and ideas for pint-sized researchers. The book comes with a full color family tree poster, a keepsake treasure book, and family research cards. It also outlines different activities like instructions for building a time capsule, a mini-census and making your own family crest. Along with numerous helpful hints like interview tips, a list of old job definitions, and lots of internet links to additional sites and content. All in all this is an incredibly helpful and fun book for any kid who wants to learn about their family's history in a very crafty way.

Galaxy Games: The Challengers by Greg Fishbone

2012-02-09T16:05:00.000-06:00

Fishbone, Greg. Galaxy Games: The Challengers. New York: Lee & Low Books, 2011. 331 pp. Grades 3-6.

For his eleventh birthday, Tyler Sato’s family names a star after him. However, Tyler finds out that this star is really a space ship headed for earth. In a situation that is similar to the movie Space Jam, a young alien named, M’Frozza, has asked Earth to take her planet’s spot in the Galaxy Games, and asked Tyler to be the leader. Fishbone does not do a great job of transitioning from everyday life to science fiction. Many of the events in the forgettable novel are feel random or awkward. The narrative has humor that children might find funny such as aliens communicating through toilets; however, the humor will be lost in the irreverence of the story. RLB

The Fabulous Flying Machines of Alberto Santos-Dumont by Victoria Griffith

2012-02-09T15:54:00.001-06:00

Griffith, Victoria. The Fabulous Flying Machines of Alberto Santos-Dumont. Illus. by Eva Montanari. New York: Abrams Books for Young Readers. 2011. Unpaged. Grades 3-5.

When people think about the first self-propelled airplane, they think about the Wright brothers. However, this book sheds light on the fact that the first plane was actually flown by Brazilian inventor Alberto Santos-Dumont. Santos-Dumont’s progress with his flying inventions is chronicled in the narrative driven story which describes a long-forgotten hero. The illustrations do a fantastic job transporting the reader into the early twentieth century, and an author’s note is provided to add additional information that enhances the story for readers. The inventions in this story will help educate young children about how certain devices came to be used. RLB

Reading to Peanut by Leda Schubert

2012-02-09T15:52:00.000-06:00

Schubert, Leda. Reading to Peanut. Illus. by Amanda Haley. New York: Holiday House, 2011. Unpaged. Grades PreK-1.

Lucy wants to be able to read and write, although she makes it a mystery as to why she also wants to learn. She practices learning how to write and spell new words throughout the book by writing on sticky notes. Each sticky note is eaten up by her troublemaking dog, Peanut. The chaos that Peanut creates will probably remind children of pets they have at home. The text in the story is made to look like a child’s handwriting which properly complements the story. This book will make a great read aloud for children under six, because it helps teach them learn to spell simple words. It also has the potential to encourage literacy among young children. RLB

Pearl Verses The Wold by Sally Murphy

2012-02-09T15:48:00.000-06:00

Murphy, Sally. Pearl Verses The World. Illus. by Heather Potter. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2011. 73pp. Grades 3-6.

Pearl is a very independent young girl who feels alone at school and is trying to bear the pain of losing her grandmother. Told from Pearl’s point of view, the narrative concentrates on close family relations and learning how to make friends at school. The story contains black and white, hand drawn pictures that properly complement the book. It is written entirely in poetic verse, which enhances the story since Pearl learns how to write poetry. Any child who has lost someone close to them will be comforted by this book, because many children will be able to relate to Pearl’s emotions. This story could also help children gain an appreciation for poetry and help reluctant children gain confidence to read. RLB

The Hungry Ghost of Rue Orleans by Mary Quattlebaum

2012-02-09T15:47:00.000-06:00

Quattlebaum, Mary. The Hungry Ghost of Rue Orleans. Illus. by Patricia Castelao. New York: Random House, 2011. Unpaged. Grades K-3.

Fred the ghost happily lives in his New Orleans house with his squeaks, leaks, creeks, and dust until the day a father and young daughter move in to start a restaurant. The new residents fix and clean the house much to Fred’s dismay. The ghost tries to solve his problems by scaring the diners who come into his house, but he is so soft spoken that no one can hear him. Parents need not need worry about Fred terrifying their children, as he is a friendly poltergeist. This book is illustrated with bright colors that capture the essence of New Orleans and it includes plenty of onomatopoeias that will entertain young children. RLB

The Line by Teri Hall

2012-02-09T14:52:00.000-06:00

Hall, Teri. The Line. New York: Penguin Group, 2010. 219 pp. Grades 7 and up.

Rachel lives on The Property with her mother and Ms. Moore, and just outside her house is The Line, an invisible barrier that encircles the country's borders. The Line keeps the citizens safe inside of its walls, but what is the barrier keeping out? This series opener has a slow but interesting start, and the majority of the novel contains background information and long descriptive passages. Readers will learn about the history and political climate of this oppressed future society throughout the novel. The story does gains some momentum towards the end, when Rachel discovers the truth about the Line and the Others, and the last few chapters are definitely worth the wait in this intriguing work of science fiction. JR

Tutored by Allison Whittenberg

2012-02-09T14:46:00.002-06:00

Whittenberg, Allison. Tutored. New York: Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 2010. 192 pp. Grades 7 and up.

It’s a case of opposites attract when two black teens from different sides of the tracks meet in inner-city Philadelphia. In an attempt to connect with her African American heritage, middle-class Wendy volunteers as a tutor in the "ghetto." Hakiam comes in to get help with his GED, and his attitude paired with Wendy's money cause them to clash. At the end of the day, Wendy goes to her nice house to discuss colleges with her father. Hakiam goes home to his cousin's dirty apartment to find his baby niece in a puddle of blood. Fast-moving and filled with smart dialogue, this novel is a good introduction to urban fiction for young adults. JR

Leverage by Joshua C. Cohen

2012-02-09T14:41:00.000-06:00

Cohen, Joshua C. Leverage. New York: Dutton Juvenile, 2011. 420 pp. Ages 17 and up.

Sophomore Danny is a promising athlete on his high school’s gymnastics team, but like the rest of his teammates, he is mercilessly bullied by the larger, more popular football players. In spite of team rivalries, Danny and his teammates form an unlikely alliance with the football team’s rising star, Kurt. When a prank war between the two teams goes very wrong, ending in tragedy, both Danny and Kurt are forced to be the most brave they’ve ever been and face demons from their past in order to do what is right. Cohen confronts the issue of teen bullying in lurid detail, tacitly asking his adult readers to assess the ways they effectively condone such bullying. A compelling sports novel, and a heartbreaking triumph. ETM

Like Mandarin by Kristen Hubbard

2012-02-09T14:38:00.003-06:00

Hubbard, Kirsten. Like Mandarin. New York: Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 2011. 320 pp. Ages 14 and up.

Fourteen-year-old Grace Carpenter’s unexciting life in Washokey, Wyoming changes dramatically when she is paired up with the exotic and beautiful Mandarin for a group project. Though polar opposites, the two strike up an unlikely friendship that leads to excitement, self-discovery...and even danger. A raw, bittersweet look at life in a small town, the ups and downs of friendship, and what it really means to be strong. This engaging read is a mirror to many teen girls’ need to feel beautiful, to look cool and, most of all, to be accepted. Recommended. ETM

The Abused Werewolf Rescue Group by Catherine Jinks

2012-02-09T14:36:00.000-06:00

Jinks, Catherine. The Abused Werewolf Rescue Group. New York: Harcourt, 2011. 409pp. Ages 12 and up.

Toby Vandevelde’s thirteen-year-old life is turned upside down when he discovers that he is a werewolf. Complications arise when he is kidnapped and taken to the Australian outback by men who make money by staging werewolf pit fighting. In this companion novel to The Reformed Vampire Support Group, we are re-introduced to several characters who help Toby understand just what he is and what he needs to do to cope with his “condition.” Jinks may have found a fresh angle from which to write werewolf and vampire fiction, but the actual execution is far from fresh. Two-dimensional characterizations, a plot that drags out over 400-plus pages, and an almost utter lack of real action will make this an irritating read for even determined readers. ETM