Enter to win a copy of Hélène Boudreau’s Real Mermaids Don’t Wear High Heels. Giveaway begins January 27, 2013, at 12:01 A.M. PST and ends February 25, 2013, at 11:59 P.M. PST.

We’re over the moon to have Gayle Brandeis visit TCBR. Gayle is a powerhouse mama, writer, activist, teacher, and all-around lovely person. We’re grateful to her for sharing her family’s favorite books with us.

Enter to win a set of 12 Spectrum® Readers by Carson-Dellosa ($48 Value). Giveaway begins January 24, 2013, at 12:01 A.M. PST and ends February 22, 2013, at 11:59 P.M. PST.

Known throughout southern New England as Dave the Animal Man for his business called Animal Experiences, Dave Marchetti has three books geared to young children: Steve the Stickleback, Nestle’s Big Adventure, and The Frog with Slippery Fingers.

Dave's goal is to provide stories that entertain and encourage young children to read.

THE SELECTION is the first book in the captivating new series from debut author Kiera Cass.

Amy Timberlake talks about her research for her well received book "One Came Home," a western about a thirteen-year old girl who sets off to find her presumed-dead sister, is set in 1871 in southwestern Wisconsin.

Enter to win a copy of Amy Timberlake's One Came Home. Giveaway begins January 18, 2013, at 12:01 A.M. PST and ends February 16, 2013, at 11:59 P.M. PST.

Nancy Pearl has worked as both a librarian and a bookseller and is the librarian equivalent of Wonder Woman. She has been gifted with a wide range of superhuman powers; including, but not limited to, a natural ability to book talk. We're so honored to have spoken with Wonder Woman herself and we are delighted to share her excellent book suggestions.

Enter to win one of two signed copies of Anne and Freya Dinshah's Apples, Bean Dip, and Carrot Cake: Kids! Teach Yourself to Cook. Giveaway begins January 16, 2013, at 12:01 A.M. PST and ends February 14, 2013, at 11:59 P.M. PST.

"Growing Up Mabel" offers mothers, sisters and teachers a fun way to open discussion about those oh-so-awkward moments every young girl must go through.

Here’s a list of recent releases that will lull your little one off to dreamland.

Enter to win a copy of Brenda Ferber's The Yuckiest, Stinkiest, Best Valentine Ever; illustrated by Tedd Arnold. Giveaway begins January 12, 2013, at 12:01 A.M. PST and ends February 9, 2013, at 11:59 P.M. PST.

Enter to win one of two autographed copies of Antonee Boykin's Alex and Tony Help Stop Bullying. Giveaway begins January 11, 2013, at 12:01 A.M. PST and ends February 8, 2013, at 11:59 P.M. PST.

Eric C. Jackson is a graduate from The Art Institute of California where he evenly split time studying Digital Photography and Graphic Design. He talked to TCBR about his latest endeavor, using his design skills, he has created a wordless children's picture book that he hopes will have children laughing and smiling.

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: December 7, 2012

Enter to win one of two autographed copies of Terry P. O’Grady‘s The Kaleidoscope Kids; Illustrated by Rick Barrett. 

A colorful and lyrical primer for toddlers, preschoolers and kindergartners.

Giveaway begins December 7, 2012, at 12:01 A.M. PST and ends January 4, 2013, at 11:59 P.M. PST.

Reading level: Ages 1-5+

Paperback: 28 pages

Overview

In The Kaleidoscope Kids a group of children who are struggling to learn are introduced to ten fairies who are each characterized by a shape, number, and color.  These vivacious and appealing characters teach the children about their particular concepts with a lyrical rhyme.  This book is designed for children to learn from the bright, fanciful characters.

About the Author

Terry O’Grady is the father of four grown children, and grandfather to six grandchildren. He has worked extensively with youth organizations, especially Coaching Certification Programs and Coaching, in the Tampa Bay Area. Terry’s experiences with his own children, as well as with the youth from the local communities he has worked with, give him unique insight the world of children. From these experiences, Terry decided to use his knowledge to write a children’s book.

About the Illustrator

Richard Barrett is the father of two little girls. Ariel -8 and Lily -6. He received his bachelors of Arts degree at The Art Institute of Tampa studying media arts and animation. The last 3 years Richard has increased his skills working as a caricature artist at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and the Florida Aquarium. He letters comics with Dave Lanphear of Artmonkey studios every now and then as well. Richard Barrett has joined an entertainment company with his two business partners Samantha Ernman and Emily Eagan, called Fire Sharks Arts and Entertainment. Specializing in body art, Caricatures, and illustrations. He recently teamed up with Terry O’Grady to help produce this excellent story.

The Kaleidoscope Kids is Available Now

For Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-kaleidoscope-kids-terry-ogrady/1113064660?ean=2940015511826
For Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009J2ROMC
Paperback Book: https://www.createspace.com/4039119

More Information

Website: www.thekaleidoscopekids.com
Blog: http://kaleidoscopekids10.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Kaleidoscope-Kids/290657811016731
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KK10Author

How to Enter

• Fill out the required fields below

• Enter once daily

Giveaway Rules

• Shipping Guidelines: This book giveaway is open to participants in the United States, Canada and United Kingdom only.
• Giveaway begins December 7, 2012, at 12:01 A.M. PST and ends January 4, 2013, at 11:59 P.M. PST, when all entries must be received. No purchase necessary. See official rules for details. View our privacy policy.

Prizing courtesy of www.thekaleidoscopekids.com.

Original article: The Kaleidoscope Kids – Giveaway

©2012 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: December 6, 2012

The Christmas Quiet Book

By Deborah Underwood; Illustrated by Renata Liwska

Reading level: Ages 4 and up

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children (October 16, 2012)

It’s impossible to keep quiet any longer. It just has to be shouted loudly to everyone: We love the winning combination of Deborah Underwood’s sweet and pitch-perfect “quiet” holiday moments and Renata Liwska’s gentle and charming drawings that make you wish you could reach into the pages and give each and every character a warm embrace. Make a little book bundle and include the original The Quiet Book and The Loud Book—three books and a piece of ribbon and you have the perfect gift for any young child—go the extra mile and tie a little stuffy on top, too.

How Do Dinosaurs Say Merry Christmas?

By Jane Yolen; Illustrated by Mark teague

Reading level: Ages 0-4

Hardcover: 40 pages

Publisher: The Blue Sky Press (September 1, 2012)

Get ready to roar with laughter with your preschooler. The bestselling combo Jane Yolen and Mark Teague are back again with their winning “How Do Dinosaurs” series. The oversized, egocentric, juvenile dinosaurs wreak havoc through the house for the first half of the picture book—they have no regard for the special traditions of Christmas. As per usual, good behavior is highlighted in the second half and a lesson of “how not to act” is delivered brilliantly. This is a must-have Christmas book, especially for fans of prehistoric animals.

Christmas Magic

By Kirsten Hall; Illustrated by Simon Mendez

Reading level: Ages 4 and up

Hardcover: 20 pages

Publisher: Sterling Children’s Books (October 2, 2012)

With lyrical verses that have a nostalgic quality and a unique art form that allows every painted illustration to change with a simple pull of a tab, this is a Christmas book that will hold an audience captivated.

The Nutcracker: A Magic Theatre Book

By Geraldine McCaughrean; Illustrated by Kristina Swarner

Reading level: Ages 2-7

Hardcover: 24 pages

Publisher: Chronicle Books (October 3, 2012)

We can’t resist the magical movement of this new take on The Nutcracker. Large die-cut board pages have been made to be handled and allow the cast of characters to literally dance there way through the story. This Nutcracker version gets our vote based on the delightful illustrations and inventive paper-engineering—”A Magic Theatre Book” is definitely the write description.

Stable in Bethlehem: A Countdown to Christmas

By Joy N. Hulme; Illustrated by Dan Andreasen

Reading level: Ages 1-3

Board book: 22 pages

Publisher: Sterling Children’s Books; Brdbk edition (October 1, 2012)

Not just a numbers primer for babies and toddlers, the stunning artwork of Dan Andreasen and Joy N. Hulme’s gentle rhymes also introduce the littlest readers to the religious beginnings of Christmas.

Looking for more suggestions? Try our lists from previous years:

20 of the Best Kids Christmas Books

Christmas Board Books for Babies and Toddlers

Original article: Christmas Books: Five of the Best New Gift Books for Christmas

©2012 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: December 5, 2012

In case you’re looking for some new books to spice up your “Books that Celebrate Hanukkah” collection, here are two titles that we think you’ll love reading (and cooking with) as you celebrate the Festival of Lights.

Maccabee Meals: food and Fun for Hanukkah

By Judye Groner & Madeline Wikler; Illustrated by Ursula Roma

Reading level: Ages 5-10

Paperback: 64 pages

Publisher: Kar-Ben Publishing (August 1, 2012)

Chow your way through Chanukah with this kid-friendly cookbook that provides recipes for eight kinds of latkes (and much more), crafts and games for eight themed parties, and tidbits of factual information about the holiday itself.  Illustrated dreidels highlight the degree of difficulty for each recipe: One dreidel means no cooking or baking is required. Two dreidels means the recipe may require chopping or slicing. Three dreidels means a hot stove is used to boil or fry. Safety tips are party etiquette are offered up, too. Here comes Chanukkah! Use this cookbook and you’ll have so much funukah! And … don’t forget your yamaka!

How Do dinosaurs Say Happy Chanukah?

By Jane Yolen; Illustrated by Mark Teague

Reading level: Ages 0-4

Hardcover: 40 pages

Publisher: The Blue Sky Press (September 1, 2012)

This bestselling writer and illustrator duo hit the spot (AGAIN!) with their zippy rhymes and entertaining illustrations. Gigantic dinosaurs with their juvenile and mischievous antics take the edge off  any holiday tension and manage to encourage good behavior. A lesson in manners and a laugh, what more could you ask for? This book is a guaranteed must-read all eight nights of Chanukah.

Looking for more Hanukkah books? Try our lists from previous years:

8 Hanukkah books: One for Each Day

Kids’ Hanukkah Books: One for Each Night

Original article: 2 New Hanukkah Books

©2012 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.

Reading level: Ages 8-12

Add this book to your collection: Unusual Creatures: A Mostly Accurate Account of Some of Earth’s Strangest Animals by Michael Hearst

Video courtesy of ChronicleBooks: With humor and flair, Michael Hearst introduces the reader to a wealth of extraordinary life-forms. Which animal poops cubes? Which animal can disguise itself as a giant crab? These fascinating facts and hundreds more await curious minds, amateur zoologists, and anyone who has ever laughed at a funny-looking animal.

To learn more, visit: http://unusualcreatures.com

Original article: Unusual Creatures by Michael Hearst — Book Trailer

©2012 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.

Dedicated Review

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: November 29, 2012

The Legend of Atticus Rex: Book 1: The Amulet

By Philppe de Vosjoli; illustrated by Santiago Iborra

Reading level: Ages 8 and up

Hardcover: 136 pages

Publisher: Advanced Visions Inc.; First edition (November 19, 2012)

What to expect: Fantasy, Family, Fears, Dogs

Where the Underworld meets this world— in a place where shadows lurk— good is forced to fight evil. Set in Roman Times, a young boy and his canine companion fight to bring safety to their family and fellow village people.

Like many children, Gabriel, the story’s young protagonist, has a fear of shadows. “Gabriel was in bed, lying perfectly still on his side, covered with blankets from head to toe. He focused on breathing quietly to avoid drawing the attention of the shadow beings.” When Gabriel is given permission to venture through the Crimson Forest with his Roman soldier father, Marcus, and their loyal pet, Nero, his fear of nighttime shadows becomes a reality. Forced to fight the Volgoths, sinister shadow creatures from another world, Gabriel and Marcus discover Nero’s connection to the Great Spirit Dog, Atticus Rex, who has the ability to vanquish the shadow creatures. A special keepsake the family has possessed for a long time, the Atticus Rex Amulet, turns out to be the key for summoning the Great Spirit Dog when darkness falls and the Volgoths come near. The combination of bravery and the protection that the amulet offers helps Gabriel to overcome his fear. Author Philppe de Vosjoli has well imagined his Roman setting and the imaginary creatures that exist in the worlds he has created in the first book of his trilogy, The Legend of Atticus Rex—Iborra’s rich color illustrations add depth too, along with the detachable Atticus Rex Amulet that can be removed from the intriguing book cover.

This is a daring page-turner for readers that are feeling brave and ready for a dark adventure—especially boys ages 8 and up.

Add this book to your collection: The Legend of Atticus Rex Book 1: The Amulet

For more information visit: http://legendofatticusrex.com

Dedicated Reviews allow authors and illustrators to gain prompt visibility for their works. The author of this book paid for this non-biased review. Learn more …

Original article: The Legend of Atticus Rex: Book 1: The Amulet – Dedicated Review

©2012 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.

By Nina Schuyler, The Children’s Book Review
Published: November 28, 2012

Lunch Lady and the Picture Day Peril: Lunch Lady #8

By Jarrett J. Krosoczka

As if you need one more reason to start reading the Lunch Lady series. After a near collision with a grocery employee who was mindlessly rolling a train of carts straight at me, I mumbled, “What an idiot,” or something like that.

To which my nine-year-old said, “Remember Lunch Lady.”

“What?”

“She looks normal, but she’s got supernatural powers.”

He’s right, of course. The extraordinary parading around as ordinary. You never know. Besides, it’s good to be kind. There’s enough of that other stuff going around to last you a life time.

Number eight in the series is now out, Lunch Lady and the Picture Day Peril, by Jarrett J. Krosoczka. Lunch Lady and Betty are trying to figure out why nearly the entire school has come down with a case of acne on picture day. Things get messier when Stefani, the photographer, persuades one of the students that she could be a model, only it will cost $1000 to do the head shots. Betty runs some tests on the photography permission slips and finds they were tainted with acne-inducing chemicals. To get to the bottom of this, Lunch Lady has to use a lot of her fancy tools—the ketchup packet laser, mustard grappling hook, the serving spoon crowbar.

Ages 9-12 | Publisher: Random House Children’s Books | September 11, 2012

A Wrinkle in Time: The Graphic Novel

By Madeleine L’Engle; Illustrated by Hope Larson

Can it be done? Should it be done? Why not? If the point is to get kids reading, then why not turn the classics into graphic novels? It’s the fiftieth anniversary of Madeline L’ Engel’s A Wrinkle In Time, and Hope Larson has paid homage to the book by putting it in graphic novel form. Larson, an award-winning graphic novelist, says she fell in love with the book as a girl, and you can see that love poured into her illustrations. Larson brings her talent, imagining the likes of Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, Mrs. Which and the Happy Medium.

Ages 10 and up | Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux | October 2, 2012

All-Action Classics No. 4: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

By L. Frank Baum, Ben Caldwell

Marvel comic artist Ben Caldwell teams up with L. Frank Baum to bring to young readers, The Wizard of Oz. Baum has gone a step further in reimagining the classic by jazzing up the dialogue. When Dorothy lands in the Land of Oz, she looks around, “Huh. I’m pretty sure I remember Kansas having more prairie and less blue houses.” When she comes across the talking scarecrow, Dorothy says, “Oh, this is just silly. Scarecrows can’t talk!” To which the scarecrow answers, “Hmm. I have so much to learn, you see, I was born yesterday.”

Ages 10 and up | Publisher: Sterling Children’s Books | September 4, 2012

The City of Ember: The Graphic Novel

By Jeanne DuPrau

First published in 2003, then turned into a movie, now The City of Ember, by Jeanne DuPrau, is a graphic novel. Adapted by Dallas Middaugh and illustrated by Niklas Asker, the graphic novel follows the same plot, but comes alive with the pictures. The city of Ember is the last light in a dark world. But with the lights flickering and supplies running low, the world may fall into complete darkness. As the threat becomes more real, the beautiful illustrations become darker, full of brown and black tones. Fortunately Lina and Doon find a mysterious document that may hold the answer to retaining the light.

Ages 8 and up | Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers | September 25, 2012

Original article: 4 New Graphic Novels to Love

©2012 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.

Best Selling Kids’ Books & New Releases

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: December 1, 2012

Here’s the scoop on the most popular destinations on The Children’s Book Review and the most coveted new releases and bestsellers.

20 of the Best Kids Christmas Books

Oliver Jeffers on Writing, Illustrating, and Bookmaking

Christmas Board Books for Babies and Toddlers

How Picture Books Play a Role in a Child’s Development

20 Sites to Improve Your Child’s Literacy

THE NEW RELEASES

The most coveted books that release this month:

Pandora the Curious (Goddess Girls)

By Joan Holub & Suzanne Williams

Ages 8-12

Huggy Kissy

By Leslie Patricelli

Ages 1-3

The Twilight Saga White Collection

By Stephenie Meyer

Ages 14 and up

The 39 Clues: Cahills vs. Vespers Book 5: Trust No One

By Linda Sue Park

Ages 9-12

Deadly Little Lessons

By Laurie Faria Stolarz

Ages 12-17

THE BEST SELLERS

The best selling children’s books this month:

PICTURE BOOKS

This Is Not My Hat

by Jon Klassen

Ages 4-8

Pete the Cat Saves Christmas

By Eric Litwin

Ages 4-8

Llama Llama Time to Share

By Anna Dewdney

Ages 3-5

Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site

By Sherri Duskey Rinker (Author), Tom Lichtenheld (Illustrator)

Ages 4-8

Olivia and the Fairy Princesses

by Ian Falconer

(Ages 3-7)

_______

CHAPTER BOOKS

“Who Could That Be at This Hour?”

By Lemony Snicket

Ages 9-12

LEGO Ninjago: Character Encyclopedia

by DK Publishing

Ages 6-12

Lincoln’s Last Days: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever

by Bill O’Reilly

Ages 10-15

Wonder

by R.J. Palacio

Ages 8-12

Insurgent (Divergent)

by Veronica Roth

Ages 14 and up

_______

PAPERBACK BOOKS

Divergent

by Veronica Roth

Ages 14 and up

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

by Stephen Chbosky

Ages 14 and up

The Book Thief

by Markus Zusak

Ages 14 and up

Thirteen Reasons Why

by Jay Asher

Ages 12 and up

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

by Sherman Alexie

Ages 12 and up

_______

SERIES BOOKS

Hunger Games Trilogy

By Suzanne Collins

Ages 12 and up

Dork Diaries

By Rachel Renee Russell

Ages 9-12

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

By Jeff Kinney

Ages 9 to 12

The Heroes of Olympus: The Demigod Diaries

by Rick Riordan

(Ages 10-14)

Matched Trilogy

By Ally Condie

Ages 14-17

This information was gathered from the New York Times Best Sellers list, which reflects the sales of books from books sold nationwide, including independent and chain stores. It is correct at the time of publication and presented in random order. Visit: www.nytimes.com.

Original article: Best Kids Stories – December 2013

©2012 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.

Reading level: Ages 3-6

Add this book to your collection: The Chicken Problem by Jennifer Oxley

Video courtesy of RandomBooks: Full of humor, refreshingly original characters, and math problems that young readers will be clamoring to help solve, The Chicken Problem is an ideal addition to the home or classroom. Left-brained Peg and her right-brained pal, Cat, are enjoying a picnic on the farm with Pig. However, when someone leaves the chicken coop open and the chicks run-a-muck, it’s up to Peg and Cat to use their math skills to help solve their poultry predicament. 

Learn more at: http://www.randomhouse.com/book/212872/the-chicken-problem-by-jennifer-oxley-…

Original article: The Chicken Problem by Jennifer Oxley – Book Trailer

©2012 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.

Reading level: Ages 3-6

Add this book to your collection: Andrew Drew and Drew by Barney Saltzberg

Video courtesy of Abrams Books: When Andrew gets hold of a pencil, anything can—and does—happen in this innovative and artistic book. The story literally unfolds step-by-step as readers are invited to follow Andrew through flaps and gatefolds. After sharpening his drawing implement on the first page, Andrew challenges the boundaries of each spread by beginning with a line that leads . . . and leads . . . to unexpected finishes. Staircases become dinosaurs, kites become rockets, and even the most unassuming squiggle morphs into a giant chicken! This lighthearted depiction of artistic inspiration is sure to engage doodlers of all ages.

Praise for Andrew Drew and Drew

“Any question of reality versus representation is the gentlest kind, utterly unobtrusive…Joyful imagination, plain and simple.”
—Kirkus Reviews

“The magic comes from the accompanying artwork, which follows the eponymous boy and his adventures in drawing… Like a certain boy with a purple crayon, Andrew knows that drawing offers limitless possibilities, and readers will, too.”
—Publishers Weekly

“In this humorous and heartfelt portrait of a young artist, Andrew models by example the ebb and flow of the creative process.”
—Shelf-Awareness

“Each page in this cleverly-designed book is filled with a line, a loop, even a stair step that Andrew has doodled on the paper, and the beginnings of his drawings often lead to something that even the artist himself doesn’t expect.”
—Reading Today Online

Available now wherever books are sold! 

Find out more: http://www.abramsbooks.com/Books/Andrew_Drew_and_Drew-9781419703775.html

Original article: Andrew Drew & Drew – Picture Book Trailer

©2012 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.

Author Showcase

New book invites children to jump into the pages of

The Misadventures of Mel B 

LOS ANGELES, CA. (July 27, 2012) – Children’s book author David Villanueva Jr. is putting out an invitation to kids, and that is to jump into the pages of his new children’s novel, The Misadventures of Mel B.

Mel B, aka Melanie Brooks, is a fearless 10 year old girl, who along with her best friend Donte Diaz, experience the adventure of a lifetime when they discover a set of mysterious books in her grandmother’s attic, and fall into the glowing pages of a magical book.

What happens next to the fearless twosome is a whirlwind journey which takes them through an endless jungle, being chased by a Tyrannosaurus Rex, both of which are just some of the sticky situations the best friends encounter on their quest to find their way back home.

The Misadventures of Mel B is the third book, but first children’s novel, that author Villanueva Jr. has had published.

His other work published includes the children’s picture books Caleb’s Birthday Wish, an uplifting tale of a handicapped child who realizes that with a bit of hard work and determination, all dreams can be fulfilled, and Bella The Crooked Hat Witch (written under Villanueva’s pen name Jordan Serafin), which through the book’s main character, reinforces the message to children that despite being a bit different, anyone can succeed and achieve their goals and dreams.

With a family background that encompasses both Mexican and Polish heritage, David Villanueva Jr. himself is a native of Whittier, California.  His current projects include his first offbeat humor book geared towards adults, which he is currently pitching to publishers, and is based upon his childhood experiences with his eccentric grandmother.  With a mix like that, this book is sure to be a best seller!

Title: The Misadventures of Mel B

Author: David Villanueva Jr.

Reading Level: Ages 8-11

ISBN-10: 1612251412

ISBN 13: 978-1612251417

Publication Date: July 2012

Publisher: Mirror Publishing

Publisher Contact Info: Neal Wooten, info@pagesofwonder.com

Contact: David Villanueva Jr.

Email: booksbydavidv@yahoo.com

The Author Showcase is a place for authors and illustrators to gain visibility for their works. This article was provided by the author. Learn more …

Original article: Take A Read On The Wild Side

©2012 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.