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Results 1 - 25 of 106
1. Last Minute Christmas Gifts

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: December 17, 2011

Looking for some last minute gift ideas? Here are some fun books and book related items that you can’t go wrong with. There is something for everyone—babies to teenagers! Just click on the images to learn more …


The Adventures of Tin Tin: Season 1 (DVD)

The Magic School Bus: Oceans (Nintendo DS—Ages 5+)

The Giant Book of Giants (Ages 4+)

The Girls' Book of Secrets (Ages 8+)

A Pocket Library: Oh, David! (Ages 0+)

Star Wars: Darth Vader, A 3-D Reconstruction Log (Ages 5+)

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Strikingly True (Ages 10+)

Tiffany's Table Manners for Teenagers (Ages 12+)

2. December, 2011: Best Selling Kids’ Books, New Releases, and More …

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: December 1, 2011

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

THE HOT SPOTS: THE TRENDS

Kids’ Christmas Books: For the Naughty & Nice

Cedella Marley Inspires with “One Love”

Author Interview: Gary Paulsen

Review: Scat by Carl Hiaasen

Where to Find Free eBooks for Children Online


THE NEW RELEASES

The most coveted books that release this month:

Witch & Wizard: The Fire

by James Patterson and  Jill Dembowski

(Ages 11-15)

Big Nate and Friends

by Lincoln Peirce

(Ages 8-12)

Artemis the Loyal (Goddess Girls)

by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams

(Ages 8-12)

Pretty Little Liars #10: Ruthless

by Sara Shepard

(Ages 14-17)


THE BEST SELLERS

The best selling children’s books this month:

PICTURE BOOKS

Home for Christmas

by Jan Brett

(Ages 0-5)

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3. Favorite Holiday Books

By Nicki Richesin, The Children’s Book Review
Published: November 29, 2011

During the holiday season it’s a great joy to share family traditions and spend time together. Every year, I look forward to reading these beloved books below to my daughter.

The Story of Holly & Ivy

By Rumer Godden; illustrated by Barbara Cooney

Rumer Godden begins The Story of Holly & Ivy with the sweetest line, “This is a story about wishing.” When an orphan named Ivy and a dreamy doll named Holly see each other through a toy shop window, magic happens. In this classic Christmas tale, Holly and Ivy both find a sense of belonging in their new home and to each other. Wishes come true in part thanks to Barbara Cooney’s tender illustrations of the festive village and toys. Godden captures the precious beauty of a brave girl unwilling to give up on her dream. (Ages 5-10)

Christmas Tree Memories

By Aliki

My daughter and I love returning to Christmas Tree Memories by Aliki each December just like the family’s tradition in the book of sitting by their tree with cookies and a roaring fire to recount each story behind their homemade ornaments. Aliki imbues such gentleness to each character, whether it’s Papouli or the children, the love this family feels for each other comes across with her every detail. (Ages 4-8)

Jingle Bells

By Iza Trapani

Jingle Bells (as told and illustrated by Iza Trapani) is a rollicking fun songbook filled with holiday customs and traditions from around the world. Children will enjoy learning about bearded little gnomes in Sweden, lantern parades in the Philippines, breaking the piñata in Mexico, and presents found in their shoes in Italy. (Ages 4-8)

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4. New Books about Animals

By Nicki Richesin, The Children’s Book Review
Published: November 8, 2011

Whether you prefer animals as loveable yet zany characters who talk or as a species that live in the natural world, these entertaining books teach children about both fantasy and science. You’ll have a beastly good time reading with these funny, furry creatures that might inspire a life-long interest in nature. Let the wild rumpus commence.

School for Bandits

by Hannah Shaw

School for Bandits by Hannah Shaw is a fun romp with a little raccoon who wants to be a fine scholar yet enrolls in a school plagued by ruffians where “no niceness is allowed.” Check out the trailer for a sneak peek at the high jinx that ensues. (Ages 5-8)

A Cat Like That

by Wendy Wahman

A Cat Like That by Wendy Wahman details all the many benefits of having a furry feline friend. Pay close attention to the traits a cat looks for in a devoted companion in this lovely trailer. (Ages 4-7)

The Incredible L

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5. New Books on Dancing

By Nicki Richesin, The Children’s Book Review
Published: November 3, 2011

It’s such a pleasure to introduce children to new subjects, such as dance, through literature. Watching them discover a new love for learning about a topic they’ve yet to explore is pure joy. These books will open a ballroom door to the world of dance in its wide variety of forms, from the gypsies who migrated from India to Spain to the prima ballerina who dedicates her life to her craft.

The Barefoot Book of Dance Stories

By Jane Yolen and Heidi E.Y. Stemple

The Barefoot Book of Dance Stories by Jane Yolen and Heidi E.Y. Stemple is an eclectic collection including dance tales from Germany (The Twelve Dancing Princesses) Japan (Robe of Feathers) West Indies (Making the Stone Smoke) Spain (The Shepherd’s Flute) Czech Republic (Dancing with the Birch Fairy) Egypt (When The Goddess Danced) Scotland (Tam O’Shanter) and Mali (The Little Bird Who Went Dancing). Helen Cann’s paintings move and sinuate across the pages with brilliantly colorful strokes. Best of all, this book includes a CD with lively background music and grand dame of stage and screen Juliet Stevenson narrating the stories with her warm and gentle voice. (Ages 8 and up)

Miss Lina’s Ballerinas and the Prince

By Grace Maccarone; illustrated by Christine Davenier

Miss Lina’s Ballerinas and the Prince is an amusing tale of a classroom of little ballerinas who must welcome a new student, a boy. Quelle horreur! Grace Maccarone’s book is somewhat reminiscent of the Madeline and the Bad Hat (although this boy is not nearly as horrid as Pepito) with its rhyming lilt and even Christine Davenier’s illustrations remind me a bit of the little girls in Paris visiting the zoo with dear Miss Clavel. No need to fear, the prince doesn’t upstage the girls and all’s well that ends well for the little ballerinas of Messina. (Ages 3-6)

Ole! Flamenco

By George Ancona

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6. November, 2011: Best Selling Kids’ Books, New Releases, and More …

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: November 1, 2011

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

THE HOT SPOTS: THE TRENDS

Cedella Marley Inspires with “One Love”

Author Interview: Gary Paulsen

Lessons from Laura Ingalls Wilder

Review: Scat by Carl Hiaasen

Where to Find Free eBooks for Children Online


THE NEW RELEASES

The most coveted books that release this month:

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever

by Jeff Kinney

(Ages 8-11)

Inheritance

by Christopher Paolini

(Young Adult)

Home for Christmas

by Jan Brett

(Ages 0-5)

Ivy an Bean: No News is Good News

by Annie Barrows

(Ages 6-9)

Red Sled

by Lita Judge

(Ages 0-5)

Steps and Stones: An Anh’s Anger Story

by Gail Silver

(Ages 4-10)


THE BEST SELLERS

<

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7. Halloween Crafts for Kids: 4 Spooky Activity Books

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: October 27, 2011

Monster Comics

By Mike Herrod

Doodlers and fans of monsters and comics, unite! From freaked-out moms to thirsty vampires, using clean lines and minimal color, the talented children’s book author and illustrator Mike Herrod offers kids over 30 spook-tacular monster-pieces to finish off with their own drawings. However, it’s the “Magic Monster Pen” that steals the limelight. Kids can use the pen to compose their own secret messages or design their own hidden drawings; it also magically reveals 16 invisible ink picture pages throughout the book. This is an activity book that fans of Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid are bound to enjoy.(Ages 7 and up)

Make a Mummy, Shrink a Head and Other Useful Skills

By Pat Murphy

Pat Murphy and the Scientists of Klutz Labs have put together a very unique book of activities for fearless explorers. Kids that enjoy experiments can make their very own mummy from a hot dog and a few other household items, such as toilet paper. Kids that really enjoy art and have a little patience will love turning an apple into a creepy, shrunken head. The well organized book includes fun facts and amusing photographs every step of the way. (Ages 8 and up)

PomPom Monster Salon: Create, Cut & Style Your Own Monsters

By April Chorba

This is an activity that really brings out creativity and personal style. Easy to follow instructions and simple tools make it really easy to customize homemade pompoms. Although the publisher (Klutz) recommends this activity book for 8-year-olds and up, parent or guardian participation makes it a great choice for younger children, too. (Ages 8 and up)

Wicked Cool Friendship Bracelets

By Karen Phillips

This Klutz activity book offers a spooky take on the classic friendship bracelet. Including cord, charms and beads, kids are introduced to the basics of the bracelet making process before taking on the task of creating bracelets with names such as Bitten and Cobweb. And, even when the provided supplies are all used up, you can easily buy more sup

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8. New Books of Fairy Tales and Other Classic Stories

By Nicki Richesin, The Children’s Book Review
Published: October 26, 2011

Fairy tales have the power to teach us valuable lessons about love, loyalty and friendship. In these stories, characters are transformed into magical beings, sacrifices are made in their honor and small creatures perform enormous acts of courage and daring. These classic stories have been told for many generations and yet their legend grows richer with each telling.

Michael Hague’s Treasured Classics has the old-fashioned appeal of books my mother once read to me. Reading “The Three Billy Goats Gruff,” I fondly remembered my mom growling like the fierce troll under the bridge. With fourteen tales to choose from including “Jack and The Beanstalk” and “The Gingerbread Man,” children will marvel at the intricately detailed illustrations. It seems this book played a magic trick on me by transporting me back in time. (Ages 6-9)

Mouse & Lion is an unusually beautiful retelling of Aesop’s fable. Rand Burkert’s rich language embellishes the familiar story and Nancy Ekholm Burkert’s lush illustrations reflect the magnificence of the African landscape (with its brilliant orange setting sun and ancient baobab tree) in this heartwarming tale.  Burkert has composed and recorded a CD of songs inspired by Aesop, also entitled Mouse & Lion. (Ages 4-8)

Brigette Barrager illustrations in Twelve Dancing Princesses reminded me of classic Disney movies such as Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty, but her version has a decidedly modern spin.  When Pip the clever cobbler discovers why the sleepy princesses’ shoes are worn out each morning, she unveils the mystery with witty dialogue rather than long-winded descriptions of the enchanted forest, boat ride, and ballroom (yawn). Well done, Miss Barrager. A lovely matching game is also available from Chronicle Books. (Ages 5-8)

Bambi by Felix Salten is such a sad story and yet this coming of age tale brings with it hope and resilience. The soft watercolor paintings by Maja Dusikova of the sweet woodland creatures glow in the forest ligh

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9. Kids’ Halloween Books: All-Time Family Favorites

By Nicki Richesin, The Children’s Book Review
Published: October 12, 2011

Looking for some spooky good reads this Halloween? Below is our family’s list of all-time favorites. Have a Happy Halloween!

A cautionary tale from 1829 The Spider and the Fly will capture your children’s imagination. Tony DiTerlizzi spins a masterful retelling of Mary Howitt’s poetic fable with his perversely charming pictures. It’s such fun and best read with a wicked voice… Ba ha ha ha ha! (Ages 6-9)

Humbug Witch is a little witch who can’t quite fly her broom or make her cauldron boil and bubble, but Lorna Balian’s surprise ending will delight your little ones. (Ages 3-8)

Diane Goode’s Book of Scary Stories & Songs is a fabulous collection of old folktales, poems, and songs that will either send a shiver down your spine or make you laugh out loud. Goode’s playful illustrations bring old favorites back to life like “The Ghost of John” and “The Green Ribbon.” (Ages 5-8)

From the creators of The Gruffalo, zooms Room on the Broom. Julia Donaldson tells the story of this enterprising witch and cat. Young children will become bewitched by the rhyme and have a silly time. (Ages 4-8)

The Witches’ Supermarket is a terribly clever book for ages 4-8 who will enjoy being one step ahead of the little girl in disguise who shops for all manner of shocking grocery items (like apples with worms and shake n’ bake snake) with her faithful dog. (Ages 5-8)

Ghosts in the House become repurposed by the new owner as lovely curtains, tablecloths and comforters. Decorating her cozy home with Kazuno Kaharo’s simple yet charming illustrations, kids might just want to move in. (Ages 3-6)

You’ll probably have to check your local library for copies of Adrienne Adams classic Halloween books

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10. Three New Picture Books on Courage

By Nicki Richesin, The Children’s Book Review
Published: September 27, 2011

Sometimes our children need encouragement—especially when they’re feeling a little shy in a new environment. Let’s face it; sometimes we all need a little bolstering to confront new experiences. The following books may help your children do so with grace and boost their confidence. After all, offering gentle words of support can go a long way. Just ask Mr. Bear.

The Next Door Bear is the perfect book for a child who is just starting a new school or moving to a new neighborhood. When the playful children outside Emma’s new apartment are less than welcoming, she feels terribly lonely. Everything is blue in Yelchin’s painted illustrations, until Emma meets a debonair bear on the elevator. After Mr. Bear invites her to tea, Emma’s world becomes a technicolored rainbow of trees and flowers and she feels encouraged enough to try and make new friends. Together talented husband-and-wife duo Eugene Yelchin and Mary Kuryla have created a balm for children who must learn to overcome their fears. (Ages 5-8)

Dan Yaccarino recounts his big Italian family’s true immigration story in All The Way to America. His great-grandfather embarks on the great journey from Sorrento to Ellis Island with a handy shovel and these parting words of wisdom, “Work hard, but remember to enjoy life, and never forget your family.” Through four generations the shovel is industriously used in food stands and bakeries, for gardening and even to pour rock salt over snowy sidewalks. Now it resides safely perched on Yaccarino’s shelf, a proud reminder of how far his family has come and what they have achieved in their adopted home. (Ages 5-8)

Ida Lewis was known as The Bravest Woman in America when she became the first woman to receive the American Cross of Honor. Determined to become a lighthouse keeper like her father, Ida learns “to pull her weight” by observing and following his careful instructions and courageous feats. Keeping watch over the harbor, young Ida rescues a boatload of boys whose sailboat capsizes. This beautifully written (by Marissa Moss) and illustrated (by Andrea U’Ren) book will light the way for brave girls to face their fears and reach for their aspirations. (Ages 5-8)

Add these books to your collection by clicking on the book cover images.

Nicki Richesin is the editor of four anthologies,W

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11. Kids’ Halloween Books: Cats, Bats, & Skeletons

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: September 21, 2011

It’s time to start prepping for the holiday season. First stop: Halloween. No tricks here—only treats!

When witches go riding,
and black cats are seen,
the moon laughs and whispers,
‘tis near Halloween.
~Author Unknown

Our 2011 Halloween book list spotlights everything from growing pumpkins; overcoming fears (a great topic for youngsters that tend to get a little surprised when they no longer recognize their family and friends due to colorful costumes and scary masks); witches; skeletons; cats and bats; and plain-old, creepy stories that beg to be read on a dark night with a flashlight. From babies to beginning readers to middle graders to young adults, TCBR has you covered.

Board Books

Spooky Boo! A Halloween Adventure

by Lily Karr (Author), Kyle Poling (Illustrator)

Reading level: Baby-Preschool

Board book: 12 pages

Publisher: Cartwheel Books; Brdbk edition (July 1, 2011)

Source: Publisher

Publisher’s synopsis: What’s Halloween without a haunted house? Come inside SPOOKY BOO! A HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE – it’s filled with tons of Halloween fun! With spooky lift-the-flaps, icky touch-and-feels, and outrageous mirrors throughout, this is one haunted house that trick-or-treaters will want to visit again and again!

Add this book to your collection: Spooky Boo! A Halloween Adventure

____________________________________________________________

Little Black Book

by Renee Khatami

Reading level: Baby-Preschool

Board book: 14 pages

Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers (July 26, 2011)

Source: Publisher

Publisher’s synopsis: Black is the new black in this darkly tantalizing touch-and-feel extravaganza for the senses! Now babies can enjoy this daring color in a novelty board book chock-full of gorgeous, full-color photographs. There are textures to touch, a flap surprise, and the scratch ‘n’ sniff scent of sweet licorice that you can almost taste!

Add this book to your collection: Little Black Book

____________________________________________________________

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12. School Tools and Brain Ticklers

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: September 2, 2011

From Dictionaries to a grammar guide to a book of homographs, the following list of books features some of our favorite school tools and brain ticklers…

Scholastic Children’s Dictionary

by Scholastic

Reading level: Ages 8 and up

Hardcover: 800 pages

Publisher: Scholastic Reference; New edition (July 1, 2010)

Source: Publisher

Publisher’s synopsis: The bestselling Scholastic Children’s Dictionary is brand new for 2010! Some of the outstanding new features include: brand new cover and interior design, more than 1,000 all new photographs and illustrations, and double the current number of word histories and sample sentences. New entries and definitions have been written by prominent lexicographers and reviewed by an advisory board of educators and librarians. Bonus material includes a thesaurus and specially commissioned endpaper maps.

With exciting new features, accessible definitions, and helpful illustrations and photographs throughout, the new Scholastic Children’s Dictionary is an essential resource that belongs in every home, classroom, and library.

Add this book to your collection: Scholastic Children’s Dictionary


Scholastic Guide to Grammar

by Marvin Terban

Reading level: Ages 8 and up

Paperback: 256 pages

Publisher: Scholastic Reference; Student edition (August 1, 2011)

Source: Publisher

Publisher’s synopsis: The ultimate resource for proper grammar.

The SCHOLASTIC GUIDE TO GRAMMAR is an easy-to-use, color-coded, tabbed guide packed full of information, examples, and tips for English language arts success. Write a paper, meet new people, apply for a job, and more, with perfect grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Join “Professor Grammar” on this guided journey through the intricacies of the English language.

Add this book to your collection: Scholastic Guide to Grammar


Clifford’s Big Dictionary

by Scholastic

Reading level: Ages 4 and up

Hardcover: 128 pages

Publisher: Cartwheel Books (July 1, 2011)

Source: Publisher

Publisher’s synopsis: The perfect back-to-school reference book for the early elementary set!

From Scholastic, the most trusted name in learning (R), comes this picture dictionary featuring America’s favorite big red dog, Clifford!

The 128-page dictionary

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13. September, 2011: Best Selling Kids’ Books, New Releases, and More …

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: September 1, 2011

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

THE HOT SPOTS: THE TRENDS

Back-to-School: Books About School

Best Halloween Books for Kids: Scary, Spooky, and Silly

20 Sites to Improve Your Child’s Literacy

Review: Scat by Carl Hiaasen

Where to Find Free eBooks for Children Online


THE NEW RELEASES

The most coveted books that release this month:

Wonderstruck

by Brian Selznick

(Ages 9-12)

LEGO Star Wars Character Encyclopedia

by DK Publishing

(Ages 12 and up)

Every Thing On It

by Shel Silverstein

(Ages 8-11)

You Have to Stop This (Secret)

by Pseudonymous Bosch

(Ages 9-12)

The Bippolo Seed and Other Lost Stories

by Dr. Seuss

(Ages 6-9)

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14. Back-to-School: Books About School

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: August 10, 2011

It’s that time of the year again: school time! Whether it’s the first day of school or the first day of a new grade, there is always an adjustment period. Excited, nervous, or shy, reading books about school, or stories that revolve around the classroom, can be a great way to begin switching gears from the vacation mindset. In this book list, you’ll find picture books, chapter books for the early fluent and fluent readers, as well as a novel for young adults.


Picture Books

Bailey

By Harry Bliss

Reading level: Ages 3-7

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Scholastic Press (August 1, 2011)

Source: Publisher

Add this book to your collection: Bailey

____________________________________________________________

Sea Monster’s First Day

By Kate Messner (Author), Andy Rash
(Illustrator)

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 36 pages

Publisher: Chronicle Books (June 22, 2011)

Add this book to your collection: Sea Monster’s First Day

____________________________________________________________

My Best Friend Is As Sharp As a Pencil: And Other Funny Classroom Portraits

By Hanoch Piven

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 40 pages

Publisher: Schwartz & Wade; 1 edition (May 11, 2010)

Source: Publisher

Add this book to your collection: My Best Friend Is As Sharp As a Pencil: And Other Funny Classroom Portraits

____________________________________________________________

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15. August, 2011: Best Selling Kids’ Books, New Releases, and More …

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: August 1, 2011

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

THE HOT SPOTS: THE TRENDS

20 Sites to Improve Your Child’s Literacy

Learning How To Read

Review: Scat by Carl Hiaasen

Superhero Books: Batman, Superman, Spider-Man

Where to Find Free eBooks for Children Online


THE NEW RELEASES

The most coveted books that release this month:

Llama Llama Home with Mama

by Anna Dewdney

(Ages 1-5)

The 39 Clues: Cahills vs. Vespers: Book 1: The Medusa Plot

by Gordon Korman

(Ages 8-12)

Big Nate on a Roll

by Lincoln Peirce

(Ages 8-11)

Darth Paper Strikes Back: An Origami Yoda Book

by Tom Angleberger

(Ages 9-12)

Aphrodite the Diva (Goddess Girls)

by Joan Holub

(Ages 8-12)


THE BEST SELLERS

The best selling children’s books this month:

PICTURE BOOKS

Skippyjon Jones, Class Action

by Judy Schachner

(Ages 3-7)

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16. Awesome Kids’ Activity Books

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: July 28, 2011

Rain, hail or shine, summer, winter, fall or spring, activity books are fantastic boredom busters. They also make wonderful birthday gifts that are budget savvy. From doodles to stickers to making your own animation movies, this list of activity books showcases some of our favorites. We’ve also included a great resource for parents that is all about building your child’s self-esteem through reading, crafting and cooking.

Pinkalicious: Pinkadoodles

By Victoria Kann

Reading level: Ages 3-12

Paperback: 128 pages

Publisher: HarperFestival (May 31, 2011)

Source: Publisher

Publisher’s synopsis: Get Ready to Think Outside the Lines!

Drawing and coloring is doodlicious!

Over 100 pages of pinkatastic pictures for you to complete.

  • Includes coloring, drawing, and activities to inspire creativity
  • Perfect for Pinkalicious fans of all ages

Add this book to your collection: Pinkalicious: Pinkadoodles

____________________________________________________________

Vacation Doodle Book

By Scholastic

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Paperback: 64 pages

Publisher: Scholastic Inc. (May 1, 2009)

Source: Publisher

Publisher’s synopsis: This is a doodle book, a journal, and a scrap book – the perfect buy for any child going away on summer vacation! Includes more than 50 vacation-themed doodles to complete, it doesn’t require any drawing skills, just a little bit of imagination!

More doodles and activities include:

* Design your own sandcastle.

* Draw your vacation home.

* How much money are you spending?

* Which was your favorite day on vacation?

* What is dad cooking on the campfire?

* Design a flag for your family.

* Fill the beach with seashells.

* Draw the twists and turns of a rollercoaster.

Add this book to your collection: Vacation Doodle Book

____________________________________________________________

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17. Summer Reading List: Best Beach Reads

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: July 26, 2011

Whether you’re heading to the beach, park, lake, or hanging-out at home, we have some great summer-themed books picked out for kids of all ages—including a couple of Young Adult titles.

Picture Books

When a Dragon Moves In

By Jodi Moore (Author), Howard McWilliam (Illustrator)

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Flashlight Press (May 1, 2011)

Source: Publisher

Publisher’s synopsis: On a beautiful day at the beach, a young boy brings his bucket, shovel, and imagination, and builds a perfect sand castle. Right away, a dragon moves in. The boy decides to befriend his dragon and they spend time roaming the shore, flying a kite, braving the waves, defying bullies, and roasting marshmallows all while Dad is busy sunbathing and Mom is engrossed in her book. Unfortunately, no one believes the boy when he tries to share the news of this magnificent creature. That’s when the mischief begins, and the dragon becomes a force to be reckoned with. While adults will recognize the naughty antics as a ploy for attention, children will dissolve into giggles as the dragon devours every last sandwich, blows bubbles in the lemonade, and leaves claw prints in the brownies. Maybe the dragon really is running amok on the beach, or maybe it’s a little boy’s imagination that is running wild.

Add this book to your collection: When a Dragon Moves In

____________________________________________________________

Seaside Dream

By Janet Costa Bates (Author), Lambert Davis (Illustrator)

Reading level: Ages 6-10

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Lee & Low Books (September 30, 2010)

Source: Publisher

Publisher’s synopsis: As family and friends arrive from near and far for Grandma’s seventieth birthday, Cora is surrounded by excited shouts and laughter and the smells of favorite Cape Verdean dishes cooking. Everyone’s getting ready for the big beach party tomorrow, but Cora still doesn’t know what to give Grandma as a present. It has to be something special.

Grandma is overjoyed to see so many of the people she loves, but Cora knows she still misses family in Cape Verde whom she hasn’t seen in decades. Could Cora convince her to make the trip overseas for a visit? After a nighttime walk on the beach with Grandma, Cora has a dream that gives her an idea for the perfect birthday gift.

In her picture book debut, Janet Costa Bates invites readers into to a celebration of the s

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18. July, 2011: Best Selling Kids’ Books, New Releases, and More …

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: July 11, 2011

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

THE HOT SPOTS: THE TRENDS

Best iPad Apps for Kids

Learning How To Read

Review: Scat by Carl Hiaasen

Superhero Books: Batman, Superman, Spider-Man

Where to Find Free eBooks for Children Online


THE NEW RELEASES

The most coveted books that release this month:

Skippyjon Jones, Class Action

by Judy Schachner

(Ages 3-7)

Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes

by Eric Litwin

(Ages 3-7)

Forever

by Maggie Stiefvater

(Young Adult)

Pretty Little Liars: Twisted

by Sara Shepard

(Young Adult)

Dragon’s Oath

by P.C. Cast

(Young Adult)


THE BEST SELLERS

The best selling children’s books this month:

PICTURE BOOKS

Silverlicious

by Victoria Kann

(Ages 5-8)

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19. Father’s Day: Books for Dads and Their Kids

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: June 14, 2010

Its time to celebrate dads! Here are four new books that we think daddies everywhere will find lots of fun …

Blue-Ribbon Dad

By Beth Raisner Glass (Author), Margie Moore (Illustrator)

Reading level: Ages 3-7

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers (May 1, 2011)


Me and My Dad

By Alison Ritchie (Author), Alison Edgson (Illustrator)

Reading level: Ages 3-7

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Good Books (May 2011)


A Father’s Day Thank You

By Janet Nolan (Author), Kathi Ember (Illustrator)

Reading level: Ages 5-7

Paperback: 32 pages

Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company (March 1, 2011)


Tyrannosaurus Dad

By Liz Rosenberg (Author), Matthew Myers (Illustrator)

Reading level: Ages 4-6

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press (May 10, 2011)


©2011 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.

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20. Books for Mother’s Day

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: May 5, 2011

Checkout three of our favorite picture books that celebrate moms beautifully!

Mad At Mommy
by Komako Sakai

My Mommy Hung the Moon: A Love Story
by Jamie Lee Curtis (Author), Laura Cornell (Illustrator)

Who Loves the Little Lamb
by Lezlie Evans (Author), David McPhail (Illustrator)

21. Beautiful, Bilingual Picture Books

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: May 4, 2011

To celebrate Cinco de Mayo, take a look at the bilingual books that we’ve been reading …

The Cazuela That the Farm Maiden Stirred
by Samantha R. Vamos (Author), Rafael Lopez (Illustrator)

Mama and Me
by Arthur Dorros (Author), Rudy Gutierrez (Illustrator)

Ten Little Puppies/Diez perritos
by Alma Flor Ada (Author), F. Isabel Campoy (Author), Ulises Wensell (Illustrator)

22. Earth Day Books: Gardens, Compost & Bees

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: April 12, 2011

Learning to Nurture Nature

Gardening, recycling, composting, and being at one with nature (including our vanishing honeybees) and all it has to offer; these are great ways to connect young children with our environment and encourage them to nurture our special one-of-a-kind Earth.

Picture Books


Compost Stew

By Mary McKenna Siddals (Author), Ashley Wolff (Illustrator)

Reading level: Ages 4-7

Hardcover: 40 pages

Publisher: Tricycle Press; 1 edition (March 23, 2010)

Source: Publisher

Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth uses a clever and entertaining rhyme that, just as the title suggests, gives a great recipe for making compost. All of the ingredients are familiar household products, such as vegetable trimmings, coffee grounds, and oatmeal. At the back of the book the “Chef’s Note” can be found—it’s another witty rhyme all of its own and teaches readers what shouldn’t go in compost. The illustrations, which are rendered in gouache and collage, compliment the tone of the recipe with the use of more familiar recyclable materials.

Add this book to your collection: Compost Stew

Sofia’s Dream
By Land Wilson (Author), Sue Cornelison (Illustrator)

Reading level: Ages 4-7

Hardcover: 19 pages

Publisher: Little Pickle Press LLC; 1st edition (November 24, 2010)

Source: Author

Sofia’s Dream was written for the sole purpose of inspiring children to take care of the earth. Beginning with the cover image of an angelic young girl soaring high in the sky, her eyes full of hope and untarnished optimism, a magical tone is set for the story. Wilson’s appreciation for nature and environmental protection shine through in this powerfully uncomplicated picture book.

Add this book to your collection: Sofia’s Dream

Water, Weed, and Wait
By Edith Hope Fine (Author), Angela Halpin (Author), Colleen M. Madden (Illustrator)

Reading level: Ages 4-7

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Tricycle Press (August 10, 2010)

Source: Publisher

Gardening requires a little hard work and patience, but the benefits are plentiful. In Water, Weed, Wait, Miss Marigold&rs

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23. Spring Books, Easter Books, & Farm Animals

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: April 4, 2011

Spring brings warmer weather, fragrant and bright colored flowers, adorable baby farm animals, and taller children. Spring also brings more books—books that encompass all of those topics and more, for our taller children with blossoming minds. It’s time to select a book that matches the tone of the season, grab a blanket and find a nice spot outside for a spring story time session.

From bunnies to eggs to butterflies to chicks and even a spring shower, these books that have been selected all harness some kind of special spring power and celebrate Easter in its secular form.

Picture Books


Quiet Bunny’s Many Colors

By Lisa McCue

Reading level: Ages 4-6

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Sterling (March 1, 2011)

Source: Publisher

Hands down, the best spring book of 2011. The colors, the critters, the bugs, every illustration captures the essence of spring. The story is light and bounces with fun read-aloud words and finishes with a gentle-but-powerful message of self-acceptance. Simply gorgeous!

Add this book to your collection: Quiet Bunny’s Many Colors

Little White Rabbit
By Kevin Henkes

Reading level: Ages 2-7

Hardcover: 40 pages

Publisher: Greenwillow Books (January 25, 2011)

Source: Publisher

Kevin Henkes is brilliant and so is Little White Rabbit. The pastel colors of the pencils and acrylic paint give off friendly charm as the rabbit explores nature and his own abilities. The gentle details given to the rabbit’s face allow the readers to truly experience the delicate emotions experienced on every page—especially the bliss of true devotion from his mother. The double-page spread of Rabbit imagining what it would be like to flutter through the air with butterflies provides sheer elation.

Illustration by Kevin Henkes

Add this book to your collection: Little White Rabbit

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24. April, 2011: Best Selling Kids’ Books, New Releases, and More …

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: April 1, 2011

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

THE HOT SPOTS: THE TRENDS

Kids’ Earth Day Books: Green with Environmental Awareness

The 39 Clues Blog Tour: Access Granted, Peter Lerangis

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

Review: Scat by Carl Hiaasen

Where to Find Free eBooks for Children Online


THE NEW RELEASES

The most coveted books that release this month:

The 39 Clues, Book 11: Vespers Rising

by Rick Riordan, Peter Lerangis, Gordon Korman, Jude Watson

(Ages 8-12)

Ranger’s Apprentice, Book 10: The Emperor of Nihon-ja

by John Flanagan

(Ages 9-12)

Big Nate Boredom Buster: Super Scribbles, Cool Comix, and Lots of Laughs

by Lincoln Peirce

(Ages 8-12)

The Loud Book!

by Deborah Underwood

(Ages 1-6)

Athena the Wise (Goddess Girls)

by Joan Holub

(Ages 8-12)


THE BEST SELLERS

The best selling children’s books this month:

PICTURE BOOKS

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25. Books About Women: Celebrating Women’s History Month

By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: March 8, 2011

Our shared history unites families, communities, and nations.  Although women’s history is intertwined with the history shared with men, several factors – social, religious, economic, and biological – have worked to create a unique sphere of women’s history. ~ The National Women’s History Project

Just Being Audrey

by Margaret Cardillo (Author), Julia Denos (Illustrator)

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Balzer + Bray (January 25, 2011)

Source: Publisher

From her life as a child in Nazi occupied Europe to her rise to fame as an actress to her empowering work with UNICEF, Hepburn’s kindness and compassion has been highlighted clearly and carefully and will most definitely inspire young girls. The beautifully painted artwork truly captures the eloquence and signature style that exuded from Hepburn her entire life. Just Being Audrey certainly has a special je ne sais quoi.

Add this book to your collection: Just Being Audrey

My Name Is Not Isabella: Just How Big Can a Girl Dream

by Jennifer Fosberry (Author), Mike Litwin (Illustrator)

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky; Reprint edition (September 1, 2010)

Source: Publisher

This picture book is a brilliant way to introduce young girls to some very wonderful women. It’s empowering and inspiring and a whole lot of fun. These are some of Isabella’s role models: U.S. Astronaut Sally Ride, activist Rosa Parks, and sharpshooter Annie Oakley.

Add this book to your collection: My Name Is Not Isabella: Just How Big Can a Girl Dream

Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart

by Candace Fleming

Reading level: Ages 8-12

Hardcover: 128 pages

Publisher: Schwartz & Wade (February 8, 2011)

Source: Publisher

Candace Fleming is a non-fiction writing master. There are many books about Amelia Earhart that have been written for children, howev

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