Litlb00k's Spot

Except If by Jim Averbeck

2011-02-10T07:47:00.000-08:00

An egg is not a baby bird, but it will become one except if it becomes a baby snake. So begins this wonderful exploration of the unexpected. Even the shocking discovery the quickly loved main character (now known to be a dinosaur) is a fossil becomes joyful as readers learn of all the life the fossil harbors. A nice cyclical ending pulls the whole together perfectly. Simple, bright illustrations will capture even the youngest readers attention as will the expressive creatures they discover within it's pages. I loved this one!!

Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool

2011-02-09T11:37:00.000-08:00

I was in the room when the Newbery Award winner was announced this year. With my head filled with my favorites from the year, I was stunned into silence when I heard this title booming across the room. I had never heard of it. What was the committee thinking? I left feeling let down and disappointed sure that this title I had not picked up would be a Newbery disappointment. Still, I had to read the winner, so I put my new Kindle to use and downloaded the title on the spot and started to read. I'll be the first to admit I could not have been more wrong. This is a fabulous title - perhaps my favorite winner in decades. I love this many-leveled tale of 12-year old Abilene Tucker who is sent by her roaming father to live with his old friend in Manifest, Kansas in 1936. There, Abilene longs for stories of her father's youth, longs for a connection to the town, and longs to be reunited with the man she so loves. The author deftly merges Abilene's story with the history of the town and the mystery of her father. In these pages, readers will find a real winner - not to be missed!

Story Country: Here we Come by Derek Anderson

2011-02-09T11:25:00.000-08:00

Bright illustration make this a fun storytime romp as farmer and his animals build their farm from top to bottom. They include everything from pastures and sky to the barn where they all snuggle down for the night (farmer included). Chicken reads them all a story and dozes off in her rocking chair on the end paper. Just right for sharing with preschoolers.

Bedtime for Bear by Brett Helquist

2011-02-09T11:15:00.000-08:00

Helquist's artistic talents shine through in this fun take on the bear needs to hibernate tale. Here, bear is just settling down for his long winter nap when two little raccoons disturb his peace, attempting to get him to join them for some snow-time fun. Bear finally gives in, enjoying everything from building a snowman, to a rollicking snowball fight, to sledding wildly down a hill. The lovely detailed illustrations raise this outing above the ordinary. My personal favorite - Bears sweet little stuffed bunny that he snuggles with in bead. So cute!!!

Art & Max by David Wiesner

2010-11-16T12:37:00.000-08:00

You can count on a David Wiesner book looking fabulous. This adventure takes deconstructing art to a whole new level as young Max first tries to copy the master artist, Art, and then when Art suggests Max paint him, the little lizard takes the master seriously. The student learning from the master and the master learning from the student is playfully explored here with an explosion of colors, textures and styles worked into the adventure. Fabulous artistic play combines with a light story here to create a picture book that is sure to appeal across the board - parents, children, teachers, and more.

Octavia Boone's Big Questions About Life, The Universe, and Everything by Rebecca Rupp; Read by Ellen Grafton

2010-11-16T09:16:00.000-08:00

For Octavia Boone seventh grade starts out well enough but when Octavia’s mother, a life-long seeker of faith, joins the Fellowship of the Redeemer church, her world rapidly changes. For her artist father, Henry David Thoreau seems to have had all the answers but her mother finds very different answers and wants Octavia to accept them as well. Then, when her parent’s disparate world views collide and Octavia is forced to live with her mother and a couple of fellow “Redeemers” Octavia’s anger overflows. Octavia must confront her own prejudices, explore her feelings about God, and discover a way to move forward without her ideal life in tact. Reader, Ellen Grafton, does an excellent job giving voice to Octavia’s emotional turmoil. Her pacing will keep readers engaged as will her variety in tone and pitch. Listeners will quickly connect with this engaging young character and will come away hoping for an encore.

Theodore Boone - Kid Lawyer by John Grisham

2010-11-16T08:48:00.000-08:00

Theo is an intelligent, interesting character who helps his friends solve their legal problems. He tackles everything from helping a girl whose parents are divorcing, to hooking a boy up with a bankruptcy lawyer in an attempt to save his home. However, when a key witness in a local murder trial comes to Theo for help he finds he is in over his head. The witness, an illegal immigrant, refuses to come forward but has information that could ensure justice is served. I really liked the premise of this book and the characters, particularly Theo, are well-drawn. That said, there just isn't much action here to sustain the reader. And, the fact that Theo basically solves his greatest challenge by turning it over to the adults feels like a let-down. I suspect there will be further books following this intelligent hero and hope they better realize the potential of this young lawyer-to-be.

Return to the Hundred Acre Wood by David Benedictus

2010-09-30T13:39:00.000-07:00

I planned to boycott this book, upset that anyone would touch by beloved A.A. Milne's Pooh. However, I finally caved in wanting to see how badly it had been hashed. Within a few pages, I was my little girl self again listening to my mother read a Winnie the Pooh book to me. I smiled at the animals misadventures, at Christopher Robin's obvious care for them, and at their love for him. And, as I turned the last page I almost teared up at the gentle reminder that Christopher Robin is, after all, a boy and a boy must grow up. Not Milne, but not bad... I can still here Pooh going "bump, bump, bump" up the stairs behind me.

The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: The Mysterious Howling by Maryrose Wood

2010-09-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

This is the promising first book in an intriguing new series. Miss Penelope Lumley, age fifteen, is both excited and nervous about her first job. Having been raised in the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females, Penelope is confident of her knowledge and skills but unsure of this first experience on her own. The animal-loving girl soon finds that she is the perfect fit for her astonishing new role. The Lady and Gentleman of the house have discovered three wild children on their property - possibly raised by wolves. Penelope is expected to teach them the basics (how to dress, how to say their names, and so forth) in addition to the more complicated topics of reading, geography and Latin. When she is told to have the children ready for a fancy Christmas Party, the young governess is more worried than ever. And, when that party takes a disastrous turn, Penelope is left wondering if the gentleman of the house has the best interest of the children at heart. On top of questions about his motives there is another mystery - what is that mysterious howling and is there something living in the walls? This excellent book is part Jungle Book, part Sherlock Holmes, part Mary Poppins, and a nice touch comedy. Maryrose Wood has created a truly entertaining outing with this title and I am personally wishing number 2 were published yesterday!

Artemis Fowl: The Atlantis Complex by Eoin Colfer; Read by Nathaniel Parker

2010-09-14T08:57:00.000-07:00

I just finished listening to this 7th volume in the Artemis series. When I read the first book a few years I really disliked Artemis and I find it interesting how much that has changed over time. Colfer has done a nice job creating a unique, intriguing, not-at-all perfect character that has changed for the good without changing to the boring. In this episode, Artemis is facing the greatest challenge of his life. He has developed Atlantis Complex, a disorder generally found in guilt-ridden fairies. The Complex leads to obsessive-compulsive behavior, paranoia and, worst of all, the development of an alternate personality named Orion. The Orion character lends itself to plenty of humorous moments as he constantly declares his unending love and devotion to Captain Holly Short of the fairy police. Of course, throughout the book, the usual cast of characters are battling a dangerous foe - this time a maniac determined to escape from fairy prison at all costs. Holly, Foaly, and Butler get a little more play time in this outing as Artemis struggles with his illness and the fear that he will lose his mind completely. I always enjoy the fast pacing of this series and especially liked this episode as it added some new dimensions to Artemis Fowl.

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

2010-09-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

In somewhat of a departure for me, I just completed Mockingjay, the final book in Suzanne Collins gripping Hunger Games trilogy. Along with scores of others, I was on the edge of my seat waiting for this installment to come out. I really wanted to listen to the audio as I did with the previous titles in the series. However, I was too far down on the waiting list at the library and couldn't bear to wait for 2 or 3 months. So, I checked out the book and finished it in two days. Like the other titles, this one left me feeling breathless and plenty horrified. The reality of war cannot be denied in Collins dark tale. While reading, I often found myself asking if humans could really sink to such lows and sadly realized, in many ways we already have. As soon as I turned the last page, I rushed to find someone to talk to about the experience. My co-workers all agreed that this is not a title to read and close without another thought. It begs for thoughtful discussion - and maybe a little group therapy. Excellent from the beginning of the series to the final page of Mockingjay (a final page that I re-read several times before I could let the book go), this is one of the top Science Fiction novels I have read.

I Love Bugs! by Emma Dodd

2010-09-04T12:15:00.000-07:00

Emma Dodd's celebration of bugs is just right for sharing with large groups. The large, bright, colorful illustrations are full of kid-appeal and easy to follow. for the bug-loving child this is just right and for the child who isn't so sure about creepy crawly critters this is a fun introduction to their positives. Everything from slimy slugs to "flouncy frilly flutter bugs" to "eight-legged scary bugs" are saluted with Dodd's inviting pictures and rhyming bouncy text. I love to share this title with our Bugs storytime and it is even brief enough for our little Book Baby guests at the library.

Drum City by Thea Guidone; illustrated by Vanessa Newton

2010-09-04T11:51:00.000-07:00

"Drum. Drum. Boy in the yard drumming so hard, calling all kids to come drum in the yard." From one little boy banking on a pan, to an entire city drumming on anything they can find, this ode to drumming is a catching jubilee. Packed with action and fun, I think it would be a great addition to a Noisy Storytime or one celebrating instruments. The illustrations nicely capture the joy that the children feel as the DRUM!!!

The Dreamer by Pam Munoz Ryan; illustrated by Peter Sis

2010-08-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

This is the fictionalized biography of Neftali Reyes who grew up to be the Nobel Prize-winning Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. I realize that this will likely not fly of the shelves and that it may not have a wide readership among children. That said, for the child who does find it and connect with it, the experience will exceptional. Ryan has done a beautiful job capturing life through young Neftali's eyes. He perceives the world in a different way than anyone else. His brutish father sees this as only a weakness and constantly pushes Neftali to leave his day-dreaming behind and become a more active, physical boy. Angry words like "idiot", "worthless", "absentminded", "dim witted", and "fanatic" fill the boy's world. But even his father's harshness cannot stop Neftali from seeing the exquisite words in the world all around. Peter Sis's illustrations capture the struggles of Neftali and enhance the stunning beauty of this work. One touching illustration depicts the father's figure as an ocean with Neftali and his little sister bobbing lost on the waves. Lovely and touching this is a treat for the reader who enters its pages.

Clementine: Friend of the Week by Sara Pennypacker - AUDIO BOOK

2010-08-24T08:37:00.000-07:00

Clementine is going to have the greatest week ever! She has been chosen as Friend of the Week for her class. She'll get to do all kinds of fun things like feed the fish, collect the milk money, serve as line leader, and tell her autobiography. But, best of all, at the end of the week, all of the kids will write in a notebook about everything that makes Clementine the best friend. Acting on suggestions from her friend, Margaret, Clementine sets out to make a big impression on her classmates so they will write extra-nice things about her on Friday. However, when Clementine's kitten, Moisturizer, goes missing, "Friend of the Week" glory is quickly forgotten and the sad little girl devotes herself to finding her beloved pet. This story carries readers to the highest highs of third grade and the lowest lows of a young girl fearing she has lost something she loves forever. Narrator Jessica Almsay convincingly captures all of these emotions in her telling. As Clementine joyfully tells Margaret of her Friend of the Week appointment, Almsay picks up the pace, elation filling her own child-like voice. Then, as Clementine realizes she may never see her beloved kitten again, Almsay slows down, at times pausing between each word to help the listener genuinely connect with the young girl's sorrow. Fans who already adore Clementine will be transfixed by this reading and those who don't will come to love her through Almsay's pitch-perfect telling of Clementine's latest adventures.

No T.Rex in the Library by Toni Buzzeo; illustrated by Sachiko Yoshikawa

2010-08-20T10:56:00.000-07:00

A little girl's bad behavior in the library costs her a timeout. However, when she tangles with a T-Rex pulled from a book, the chaos grows beyond even her wishes. knights, pirates, squid and more begin to trash the library. Soon, Tess takes control of the situation in a completely satisfying manner. The action-packed, bright mixed media illustrations bring the action to life in this fun library romp that should appeal to young library goers - I am looking forward to a try in storytime.

The Islands of the Blessed by Nancy Farmer

2010-08-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

I picked up Sea of Trolls, the first book in this trilogy, simply because I have historically enjoyed reading Nancy Farmer. By the time I turned the final page, it had become my favorite book written by her (and that's saying a lot!). Then, I read The Land of the Silver Apples with some trepidation - could it live up to the original with a boring title like that? When the last page came, I was more hooked than ever. Finally, the concluding volume arrived. But my stacks of books were huge and I just didn't get it read until this month. Jack and Thorgil's final adventure did not disappoint. This time around Jack, Thorgil and the Bard set off to rid Jack's village of a vengeful, restless spirit that is set on settling a score regardless of the innocents that get hurt by her wrath. The journey finds them teaming up with the violent Northmen, a giant albatross, fin folk, and even the dead. Jack and Thorgil's tempestuous relationship adds some fun to the tale as do the many quirky mythical characters introduced along the way. In the tradition of grand epics, this story has it all - action, adventure, an undercurrent of possible romance, wild beasts, terrifying spirits, and so much more. And, at the conclusion of this satisfying saga, one final line that made me laugh out loud. Check it out!

Dancing Feet! by Lindsey Craig; illustrated by Marc Brown

2010-08-17T08:27:00.000-07:00

"Tippity! Tippity! LIttle black Feet! Who is dancing that tippity beat?" As it turns out the ladybugs are dancing, then the elephants, ducks, bears and more. This is an action-packed romp that is just right for an active preschool storytime. I especially like Marc Brown's texture rich collage illustrations. He has used beautiful hand painted papers to create illustrations that make you want to reach out and touch every page. I am still certain I should be able to feel that caterpillars bumpy body!

Saffy Looks for Rain by Paola Opal

2010-08-17T07:41:00.000-07:00

The other day I stumbled across a bright board book with an adorable giraffe on the cover. It caught my eye with it's solid simple colors and inviting story. It's a little small to share with a group but I decided to give it a try in my Book Baby program at the library. The results were unexpected! During the typical Book Baby day, a few of the babies will look at the book, some will look all over the place and others will be wandering around the room while mom's try to gather them up. Not this day!! Saffy was a hit. Every baby in the room was transfixed by the story - possible attracted by the bold lines and solid colors. It was a great day and I plan to try others by Paola Opal in the near future!!

Yes Day! by Amy Krouse Rosenthal & Tom Lichtenheld

2009-06-25T14:50:00.000-07:00

What if the answer to your every wish was "YES" for one whole day? This clever, fun-filled picture book answers that very question. Don't miss the shopping cart filled with cereal boxes sporting names such as "Big Awesome Toy Prize Cereal", "Marshmallow Fluff Cereal: With Bits of Actual Cereal", and my favorite, "Hot Fudge Sundae and Oats Flakes: 1 Whole Oat Per Serving". Fun for a quick read or a closer look.

The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan

2009-06-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

A fabulous series, the final book, a huge build-up...no disappointments! As Percy Jackson's 16th birthday approaches, his mind is far from the typical teenager's concerns. Prophecies indicate that Percy will make a decision on his birthday that will affect the fate of all mankind - and perhaps cost him his life. With his half-blood friends at his side, Percy races to New York to battle the coming Titan army in an attempt to save both humans and the gods. This book is a rush of action from beginning to end with one battle flowing into another and the fate of the world (and Percy) in the balance. With all that is going on, Riordan still manages to include enough humor to keep readers from boiling over with the continuously increasing tension. Perfectly told and ultimately satisfying, the final Percy lives up to the hype.

The Diamond of Drury Lane by Julia Golding

2009-03-31T11:00:00.001-07:00

The Theater Royal on Drury Lane is the only home that Cat Royal has ever known. Left there as an infant, the owner and staff took her in. Smart and adventurous, Cat often finds herself in tricky situations. Believing a diamond to be hidden in the theater, Cat soon finds herself the target of a ruthless street gang, the keeper of a life-threatening secret, and friend to a couple of high-society youth. This is an action-packed mystery full of twists and turns as well as a cast of fun characters. Cat, herself, is likable and well worth cheering for. This is an A+ mystery for older kids.

Peak by Roland Smith

2009-03-31T10:51:00.000-07:00

When Peak Marcello is caught climbing a skyscraper in New York City it looks like he may be experiencing less friendly skies for awhile (or no sky at all!). However, when his estranged father offers him the opportunity to climb Everest together and rigs it so Peak doesn't have to serve any time if he leaves the country with his father, Peak jumps at the opportunity. Peak quickly learns that this climb comes with strings attached and that his father isn't in it just so he can spend some time with his son. In the course of facing this incredibly difficult physical challenge, Peak learns a lot about himself, his father, the family he left behind in the States, and the direction he wants to take his life. This title has plenty of gripping action to keep the interest of even wary readers and the intriguing characters make it even more appealing.

Birds by Kevin Henkes; illus. by Laura Dronzek

2009-03-23T14:23:00.000-07:00

As a huge Kevin Henkes fan, I was surprised (and a little dismayed) to discover that his latest offering is illustrated by Donzek (who also illustrated his title, "Oh!"). However, my disappointment quickly disappeared. This is a lovely title that perfectly captures birds from a child's perspective. My favorite pages of the book show many birds sitting in a row on a wire: "Once I saw seven birds on the telephone wire. They didn't move and they didn't move and they didn't move. I looked away for just a second ..." The reader turns the page and sees... a single thick black line running across two empty pages and the words, "and they were gone." That's just how it is with birds. Hundreds can be spread out in front of you and, blink, they are gone! The pictures do an excellent job expanding on the text throughout the story and are paced just right to supply the reader with several "Aha" moments. Just right for even the youngest bird enthusiasts.

My One Hundred Adventures by Polly Horvath

2009-01-21T10:50:00.000-08:00

Five starred reviews and lots of positive buzz were not enough to sway my opinion on this mediocre title. The writing is solid but the story drags and I can't imagine too many children (or some adults) who will be drawn to this often-bizarre, adult-sounding title. The child and star - twelve year old Jane - prays for 100 adventures and chronicles fourteen in these pages. The adventures range from an odd balloon ride in which her pastor friend, Nellie, forces her up in a hot-air balloon to drop Bibles to the earth below to meeting her many possible fathers. For me the oddness was over the top and the adults were not believable.

Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes by Mem Fox; illus. by Helen Oxenbury

2008-12-04T10:53:00.001-08:00

I used this title for Book Baby this morning and loved it! The text is super sweet and the illustrations perfectly capture that gentle tone. The repetition appealed to the little ones who enjoyed showing their own ten little fingers and ten little toes over and over again. I was worried it might be a little long for my youngest crowd but they responded well to the rhythm of the text and Oxenbury's lovely illustrations. A winner!!

The Underneath by Kathi Appelt

2008-10-31T10:46:00.000-07:00

This is my choice for the Newbery Medal this year. Some may wonder about audience and child-appeal but the writing is so well-crafted and beautiful that I was riveted from the first page and found the story lingering long after I closed the book. The unfortunate cover (unfortunate because it makes the book look like a 2nd-3rd grade read) is one of the very few negatives for me in this title. For older, sophisticated readers, this is a fable of sorts that weaves three stories together: That of an abused child who grows to be an evil man named Gar Face; a dog named Ranger and the Calico cat with her kittens that join him in the "Underneath" to become his family; and a 1,000-year old creature of mystery. Ranger is Gar Face's dog and is treated harshly. Chained to the porch for many years, he is lonely and heart broken until the cats fill his life with something new - love. This is a complex tail with multiple thought-provoking levels. For me, the ultimate message of the fable is this: Whatever else you do, choose love. An absolutely masterful work for mature readers.

Madam President by Lane Smith

2008-10-28T12:17:00.001-07:00

A young girl imagines what it would be like to be President - everything from giving executive orders to kissing babies to exercising her veto power. The straightforward text holds a nice undercurrent of humor that is enhanced by the fabulous illustrations. I've always been a Lane Smith fan but like his newest titles even more than his early work. His illustrations are so full of action and detail that it can, at times, almost become a distraction - not so here. The illustrations are the perfect blend of movement, detail, and story. I like this as an introduction to young children during this election year.

bees, snails, & peacock tails by besty franco

2008-10-28T12:13:00.000-07:00

Lovely, vibrant torn-paper illustrations bring this collection of poetry to life. Each double-page spread celebrates a different animal, various shapes, and a variety of patterns. This title is both a visual and auditory feast.

Rapunzel's Revenge by Shannon and Dean Hale

2008-10-24T16:14:00.000-07:00

Shannon tries her hand at a new format in this graphic novel version of the Rapunzel tale. Full of action, heroics, and some fun, this is a pretty good attempt. I don't love this title the way I love "Goose Girl" or "Princess Academy". Still, it held my attention and pulled out a smile from time-to-time. In this telling, Rapunzel is an independent, right-minded, girl determined to save her mother and rid the land of the evil witch who raised Rapunzel as her own. Rapunzel and her new-found friend Jack (think Jack and the Beanstalk) are drawn with a distinct Western flavor and her hair becomes her weapon. Worth a look.

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

2008-10-24T16:03:00.000-07:00

Alvin Ho is afraid of everything. At school, he is so terrified that he never speaks a word. Not being able to speak at school, makes finding friends difficult. Alvin, however, wants a friend desperately. However, when an opportunity for "friendship" comes along Alvin must decide if having a friend is worth giving up the person that you are. As the book closes, Alvin may still be afraid of many things but he has also made some important discoveries that make his life better. This is both humorous and touching. The simple text and black and white illustrations will appeal to young chapter book readers. Just right.

Wangari's Trees of Peace by Jeanette Winter

2008-10-24T15:54:00.000-07:00

This is another truly lovely telling of the life of Wangari Maathai. A little simpler than "Planting the Trees of Kenya," by Claire Nivola, this is, nevertheless, full of the basic information of Wangari's life of service. The telling is smooth and pulled me in. The bright, simple illustrations further enhance the text. I loved this version as much as Nivola's - and that's saying alot. I've been very grateful this year to learn so much about an amazing human figure that I had not know before.

Nic Bishop Frogs

2008-09-29T09:42:00.001-07:00

Bishop’s latest non-fiction effort, is a wildly appealing celebration of frogs – with all of the color and dazzle these amazing creatures have to offer.

The Magic Thief by Sarah Prineas

2008-09-29T09:22:00.000-07:00

Every wizard carries a stone of power that allows him or her to focus magic and work spells. When gutter thief Conn picked the pocket of the powerful Wizard, Nevery, stealing his locus magicalicus stone, he should have been instantly killed by that power. Intrigued by the fact that the boy suffered no negative effects from touching his stone, Nevery takes him on as an apprentice with the condition that Conn must find a locus magicalicus of his own. In his search for his stone, Conn makes an astounding discover about why the city of Wellmet is losing it's magic and about the nature of magic itself. Full of intrigue, adventure, and truly likable characters, this is one of my favorite new fantasy titles of the year.

Sally and the Purple Socks by Lisze Bechtold

2008-09-29T09:18:00.000-07:00

When Sally’s purple socks begin to stretch, she uses them first for a scarf and a cap and then, as they continue to grow, as curtains and a blanket. But, the growing doesn’t stop there and neither does the fun in this quirky, imaginative tale with a just-right ending.

Old Bear by Kevin Henkes

2008-09-29T09:06:00.000-07:00

Snuggled down for the winter, Old Bear soon finds himself dreaming of magical seasons when he was young. From flowers as big as trees in the spring to blueberry raindrops in summer, bear's dreams bring each season to life with a touch of wonder. Kevin Henkes thick-lined watercolor illustrations accent each time of the year perfectly.

Nick of Time by Ted Bell

2008-09-23T12:33:00.000-07:00

Twelve-year-old Nick McIver and his little sister Kate live on the smallest of the Channel Islands in 1939 - on the brink of war with Germany. His father, a pilot injured in WWI is the lighthouse keeper for the tiny island where Nick doubts any real adventure will ever find him. More than anything the likable Nick wants to be a true hero like his idol - Admiral Lord Nelson of the Royal Navy. Any time, his courage is tested he chants to himself, "Nelson the strong, Nelson the brave, Nelson the lord of the sea." On one of their many excursions along the sea shore, Nick and his sister discover a mysterious old sea chest that looks like new and bears the name Captain Nicolas McIver - Nick's ancestor. Shortly after the discovery a truly evil pirate named Captain Blood enters their lives and kidnaps Nick's beloved dog, Jip, in an attempt to get his hands on the locked chest. Desperate for help, Nick turns decides to brave the forbidding Castle Hawk in an attempt to reach the owner, Lord Hawk, who has some desperate secrets of his own. With Hawk's help, the chest is opened and Nick finds himself the owner of an amazing time travel device - one of only two in existence. The other belongs to the evil Blood himself. With the help of the device, Nick and his companions embark on a journey back to 1805 to save Nick's dog and Lord Hawk's missing children. With plenty of honor and courage as well as more than a share of blood and death, this title is full of old-time adventure that will appeal to many readers, particularly boys.

When the Wolves Returned by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent

2008-08-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

Fabulous photographs by Dan and Cassie Hartman highlight this informative text chronicling the disappearance of the wolf from Yellowstone National Park and the successful efforts to bring them back. This title includes more detail than the lovely "The Wolves are Back" by Jean Craighead George. One side of each double-page spread provides a brief, simple overview of the information while the facing side offers more detail.

The Wolves are Back by Jean Craighead George

2008-08-27T13:52:00.001-07:00

This is a lovely celebration of the return of the wolf to Yellowstone National Park and beyond. George's rhythmic words are beautifully accented by Wendell Minor's soft detailed illustrations. Full of joy.

Dragon Flight by Jessica Day George

2008-08-27T13:35:00.000-07:00

In this sequel to "Dragon Slippers" Creel once again finds herself acting as an arbiter between the dragons and humans. This time an army of hundreds of dragons appears to be in league with the human city of Citatie in a quest to overthrow Creel's home of Feravel. Creel, her human allies, and her dragon friends set off on a quest to find out why the dragons are attacking and how to stop them. Facing an army of hundreds of mounted humans on dragons and a large and truly evil dragon named Krashath, Creel and her companions find themselves in greater danger than they have ever before imagined.

Safari Animals by Simms Taback

2008-08-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

This is the perfect animal guessing book for very young readers. The pictures are simple, bright, and inviting. Best of all, the pages fold first up, then over, to create a large illustration of the animal. At each turn, the visual and print clues to the animal increase, allowing even inexperienced readers to successfully guess the coming creature. Fun!

Queste by Angie Sage

2008-08-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

This fourth title in the Septimus Heap series provides more action, adventure, and fun. Angie Sage has a nice way of creating characters the reader can connect too. Even some of the mildly villanous characters are appealing and intriguing in their own way. She gives each personality time to develop and provides the reader with the chance to meander just a little without losing the pace and suspense of the story. Another winner!

Mail Harry to the Moon! by Robie H. Harris

2008-07-02T13:23:00.000-07:00

"Before Harry was born, there was ME! Now there's me and HARRY!" A young boy thinks of several ways to get rid of his new annoying brother only to dash off in a rush to save him when he believes the baby has really been sent to the moon as he had suggested. "Before Harry was born - there was ME. Now there's ME AND HARRY!" This is a cute title celebrating the journey a young one goes on when learning to welcome a new baby into a household. The bright, kid-friendly illustrations nicely capture this young boy's frustration - and eventually his joy.

Savvy by Ingrid Law

2008-06-23T10:18:00.001-07:00

Mibs Beaumont is looking forward to her 13th birthday – the day when members of her family discover their “Savvy” – a magical power unique to each individual. Unfortunately, just two days before her momentous birthday, her father is critically injured in a terrible car accident that leaves him in a coma. Convinced that her “Savvy” will give her the power to awaken her father, Mibs, two of her brothers, and the local minister’s children hide on board a pink Heartland Bible Supply bus Mibs believes is headed towards Salina where her father lies in a hospital. However, when the bus turns left instead of right and the driver’s tattoos begin to talk to each other, Mibs realizes her Savvy isn’t what she’d hope for and her plan could be heading toward a whole bunch of trouble – for everyone. Quirky characters, loads of bad luck, and a young girl determined to get to her dad make this book a true stand-out adventure.

Ever by Gail Carson Levine

2008-06-23T10:16:00.000-07:00

When 14-year-old Kezi’s mother falls gravely ill, her father makes a rash promise to Admat, the god of their city Hyte. He swears that if Admat will restore his wife’s health he will kill the first person who congratulates him within three days. The family hides out hoping for the three days to pass without contact. Unfortunately, Kezi’s beloved Aunt Fedo arrives without warning and begins to comment on the mother’s health, to save her aunt’s life, Kezi congratulates her father herself, bringing the oath down upon her own head. Meanwhile, Olus, the Akkan god of the winds has been observing Kezi’s family from afar and has fallen deeply in love with the girl. Determined to save her life, Olus reveals himself to Kezi and the two set off to change her fate by completing a series of quests that could make her immortal. The question of faith is prevalent throughout this tale. There is no tangible sign – even to the god Olus – that Kezi’s god exists and yet, she never abandons her belief in him or turns her back on her father’s oath to him even when doing so could prevent her death. That exploration of the meaning and power of faith allow this title to stand out from Levine’s other romantic works as one not only worth reading but also contemplating for some time after the last page is turned.

Planting the Trees of Kenya: The Story of Wangari Maathai by Claire Nivola

2008-06-20T15:37:00.000-07:00

Wangari Maathai grew up on a farm in central Kenya and went on to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004. As a young woman she left Kenya to attend college in the United States. Upon her return, she discovered that her beloved land had been decimated and that many families, who once grew their own food on family farms, now labored on large plantations, forcing them to purchase expensive store-bought food. Lack of nutrition had left many of the people weak and susceptible to illnesses. Starting with the women, Wangari began to encourage the people to replant the land – particularly the trees. One seed at a time, this picture book biography celebrates the ability of one person to ignite a spark that will make a significant difference in thousands of lives.

Silent Music by James Rumford

2008-06-20T15:00:00.001-07:00

More than anything, Ali loves calligraphy – “I love to make the ink flow – from my pen stopping and starting, gliding and sweeping, leaping, dancing to the silent music in my head.” The skill and effort required by this art form help young Ali through the difficult nights when the bombs fall and destruction reigns all around his home in Baghdad. The message is clear – the Arabic symbol for Harb (or war) is easy to create; the lovely symbol for Salam (or peace) takes time and practice. The mixed-media illustrations echo the graceful rhythm of calligraphy and the form of the Arabic language to create a picture book that is both somber and hopeful.

Monkey and Me by Emily Gravett

2008-06-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

An active young girl imagines visiting all kinds of animals with her stuffed monkey. Exuberant illustrations of muted reds, browns and grays spotlight sprightly penguins, high hopping kangaroos, flitting bats and more. As the text repeats, “Monkey and me, Monkey and me, Monkey and me, We went to see, We went to see some…”, the illustrations capture the child in various points of movement that hint at the animal to come. Utterly child friendly from the first line to the final “zzzzzzzz”, this picture book is a spot-on hit.

If Animals Kissed Good Night by Ann Whitford Paul

2008-06-20T12:44:00.000-07:00

Candy sweet illustrations cheerfully adorn this cozy bedtime story in which a mother and daughter imagine what it would be like if animal parents kissed their little ones goodnight like humans do. Rhyming text describes everything from the waggling twirling kiss of the snake to the jumpity-jump kisses of the kangaroo. One of the highlights of the tale is the repeated mention of the soooo slooowwwww kiss of the sloths.

Hello, Day! by Anital Lobel

2008-06-20T12:22:00.000-07:00

"The Sheep said, 'Baa.' The Horse said, 'Neigh.' The Dog said, 'Woof.'... What they all meant was 'Hello, day!.'" A variety of animals greet the day and an owl welcomes the night in this vibrant picture book. The notably simple text and bright illustrations make this the perfect title for little ones who are just learning their animal sounds.

Airman by Eoin Colfer

2008-06-07T15:37:00.001-07:00

Conor Broekhart was literally born in the sky, entering the world while his parents were on an ill-fated hot air balloon ride. In the 1890’s Conor and his parents live on the Saltee Islands off the Irish Coast, an idyllic life where young Conor spends his days playing with the Princess Isabella, exploring the intriguing castle, and dreaming of flight. However, at fourteen, his life takes a disastrous turn when Conor witnesses the king’s murder and that of his beloved tutor by the truly evil Bonvilain. When Conor tries to intervene, he is branded a traitor and cast into the island’s inhumane underground prison where the prisoners are forced to mine for diamonds under terrible conditions. There, Conor sees his dreams of flight dimming and struggles to survive. Adopting the name Connor Finn as his own, he wonders if he must lose his true self in order to survive. As the terrible years pass, Connor devises a daring plan to fly to freedom that will require all of the courage and scientific ability he possesses. Not for the faint of heart, this title contains enough daring, action, sword fighting, battle scenes, intrigue, revenge, and honor to satisfy the most demanding reader – with a touch of romance thrown in for readers like myself! Dark and fearsome but also hopeful and touching this is a title that will keep readers fully engaged and turning pages until the last word is read.

Keeping Score by Linda Sue Park

2008-06-07T15:05:00.001-07:00

More than anything in the world, Maggie Fortini wants the Brooklyn Dodgers to win the World Series. She’s tired of saying “Wait till next year!” – the unofficial slogan of Dodger fans. Maggie doesn’t play baseball herself but she listens to every game possible, often gathering around the radio with the guys at the firehouse where her father worked before a career-changing injury. One day, a new firefighter is at the house and, horror-of-horrors, he’s a Giant’s fan! Despite her shock, Maggie and Jim quickly become friends as he introduces Maggie to a wonderful new dimension of baseball – keeping score. She quickly learns to love the complicated system of tracking game statistics on a sheet of paper, developing some of her own touches along the way. When Jim is called up to serve in the army in Korea, Maggie devotedly keeps in touch. However, Jim’s letters suddenly stop and Maggie is left feeling hurt and worried. Part baseball story, part growing-up tale, this is, ultimately a story of hope and the power of one person trying to make a difference in the life of another.

Waking Beauty by Leah Wilcox

2008-06-07T14:22:00.000-07:00

The fabulous team that brought us the hysterical “Falling For Rapunzel” returns with their take on “Sleeping Beauty”. “Once upon a Saturday, in search of dragons he could slay…” Prince Charming happens upon a castle reverberating with a terrible thunder. Certain he has found a dragon, the prince enters only to discover to his dismay that the noisy disturbance is caused not by a dragon but by a “snoring girl in bed.” Adding to his disappointment is the pronouncement by the little fairies hovering over the girl that he must find a way to rouse the sleeping lass. Ignoring the poor fairies who try to explain to him the proper wake-up call, the prince proceeds to try everything from yelling to shooting the princess out of a cannon. At last, the fairies get through to him and the look on the horrified Prince’s face is priceless as he exclaims, “One hundred years of morning breath. Wow! That could be the kiss of death!” Hilarious from first snore to final kiss.

Piano Starts Here: The Young Art Tatum by Robert Andrew Parker

2008-06-07T13:59:00.000-07:00

This lovely illustrated biography tells of the young life of Jazz pianist, Art Tatum. Told in first person, with just a touch of fictionalization, illustrator/author Robert Parker charms the senses with mood-capturing watercolor illustrations and brief but beautiful text. When describing Art's love of the piano, the author writes, "When I am at the piano, I close my eyes. I play clouds of notes, rivers of notes, notes that sound like skylarks singing and leaves rustling, like rain on a rooftop. I forget that my eyes aren't good. I have everything I need." A well-thought out end note tops off the story with more detailed information about Tatum's life. Absolutely captivating!

Oggie Cooder by Sarah Weeks

2008-06-05T09:40:00.000-07:00

Oggie Cooder's teachers say he is "different", "one-of-a-kind", "quirky", "unusual" - and not, necessarily in a positive way. Oggie certainly has his own style - he wears clothes from his parents second-hand store and especially likes to combine stripes and checks. He also has an extraordinary talent - the ability to "charve" (a combination of chewing and carving) slices of cheese into the exact shape of the various 50 states. Through a shocking sequence of events, this distinctive ability lands him on the popular game show, "Hidden Talents." This has some positive consequences, including a new popularity - even the boys Oggie's always dreamed of playing basketball with invite him to join in their daily game. But, the snooty Donnica Perfecto wants a piece of Oggie's fame and she will go to any length to get what she wants. Oggie must decide if he will allow Donnica to rule his life and take him down the path of fortune or if he will choose his own way. Fun and quirky with plenty of laughs along the way.

The Key to Rondo by Emily Rodda

2008-06-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

When Leo Langlander inherits an old, painted music box from his great-aunt he is very careful to follow the instructions - only wind the box three times, never move the box while it is playing, never close the lid until the music stops, and never wind the box while the music plays. However, when his odd cousin Mimi arrives for a visit she quickly breaks the music box rules with shocking results. Leo and Mimi ultimately find themselves in the mythical land painted on the outside of the box. On a quest to save Mimi's dog, they soon learn that this is a dangerous land where the name Langlander is feared and sometimes hated. They find some kind assistance along the way but never know who they can fully trust. The children are determined but not without fear and doubts, particularly the careful Leo. Action packed, this creative world should appeal to a wide-range of fantasy lovers.

The Castle Corona by Sharon Creech

2008-05-30T14:10:00.000-07:00

Long ago and far away there lived a king, a queen, the heir to the throne, the second prince, a beautiful princess, and two orphan children. The cast of delightful characters in Sharon Creech’s gentle fairy tale intrigue and entertain from page one to the final turn. When a supposed thief (unheard of in the simple land) charges out of the castle on horseback with a mysterious pouch, the royal community is in an uproar. Meanwhile, two orphans discover the dropped pouch and find themselves suddenly connected with the castle in ways they never imagined. On an additional note, the audio book is fabulous. The reader, Jennifer Wiltsie, does a wonderful job of giving voice to the inimitable players in this often humorous tale. She perfectly captures the tone and pace of the story, transporting the listener to a land both enchanting and droll

2008-05-30T13:38:00.000-07:00

This quirky title pokes fun at the overwrought themes of some "classic" children's stories - i.e. odious parents, orphan (or practically orphan) children, THE nanny, a baby on the doorstep, the lonely (and shockingly rich) widower...and more! I found myself unexpectedly bursting into laughter throughout as the nefarious parents plot to rid their lives of their children and the children set out to become "deserving orphans" free of their horrible parents. True to form, all turns out perfectly for the children and not so perfectly for the villanous adults. An amusing glossary tops off the tale.