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+)
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Reading level: Ages 5-8
Add this book to your collection: E-mergency!
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Video courtesy of ChronicleBooks: “It’s an E-mergency! The letter E took a tumble and the only way to get her back on her foot is for people to stop using her. But who can take her place? The other letters have to make a decision ASAP. Z is too sleepy and Y asks way too many questions. Thankfully, O rolls in to try and save the day. Now E can rost up and got bottor . . . as long as ovorybody follows the rulos. Chock-full of verbal and visual puns, this zany book by Ezra Field-Meyer and New York Times bestselling illustrator Tom Lichtenheld is sure to tickle both the brain and the funny bone.”
©2011 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.
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JacketFlap tags: Ages Nine to Twelve: Books for Third Through Sixth Grade, Teens: Books for young adults, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, Yona Zeldis McDonough, Malcah Zeldis, Dolls, Chapter Books, Author Interviews, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Biographies, Louisa May Alcott, Books for Girls, Madame Alexander, Marilyn Monroe, Add a tag
By Nicki Richesin, The Children’s Book Review
Published: December 5, 2011
Yona Zeldis McDonough
Yona Zeldis McDonough is the talented author of many books for readers of all ages: fiction and non-fiction for adults and award-winning children’s books. She has most recently written the highly anticipated second book in her Doll Shop series, The Cats in the Doll Shop. Although a prolific writer, Yona still makes time for school visits and readings. She lives in Brooklyn with her family.
Nicki Richesin: It’s a great pleasure to interview you. You have proved a prolific writer of both fiction and nonfiction for adults, in addition to your award-winning children’s books. My daughter adored The Doll Shop Downstairs and The Cats in the Doll Shop. Could you explain how you first discovered Beatrice Alexander, or Madame Alexander as she’s known, and how her story inspired you to write about the resourceful Breittlemann family?
Yona Zeldis McDonough: I remember Madame Alexander dolls from my own childhood. I longed for them though I never had one back then. As an adult, I started collecting dolls and bought a few of Mme. Alexander’s creations for my collection. When I was reading about her early life, I found out that her father owned and operated America’s first doll hospital. It was on the Lower East Side and the family lived in an apartment above the shop. Beatrice (she was Bertha in those days) and her sisters were allowed to play in the doll hospital sometimes and when I learned that, I just knew: here was a perfect setting for a children’s story.
Many of your books are set in Brooklyn, where you live with your family. Why has this area of New York proved such a “fertile ground” as you put it in your work?
YZM: I love Brooklyn. It’s so vast and filled with its own history, character and even mysteries. It is both a part of New York, and yet retains a separate identity. I grew up in Brooklyn and so it holds many associations for me
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Reading level: Ages 5-8
Add this book to your collection: Brother Sun, Sister Moon
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Video courtesy of ChronicleBooks: “Artist Pamela Dalton demonstrates how she created the intricate paper-cut illustrates for Brother Sun, Sister Moon, a reimaginging of St. Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of the Animals by award-winning author Katherine Paterson.”
©2011 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.
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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
Where to Find Free eBooks for Children Online
THE NEW RELEASES
The most coveted books that release this month:
by James Patterson and Jill Dembowski
(Ages 11-15)
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
by Jan Brett
(Ages 0-5)
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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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By Nicki Richesin, The Children’s Book Review
Published: November 24, 2011
Kathleen Krull. Photo credit: Paul Brewer
Kathleen Krull is an award-winning author of many, many children’s books, including most recently Jim Henson: The Guy Who Played With Puppets. She specializes in biographies written especially for children. Krull lives in San Diego with her husband Paul Brewer a children’s book illustrator. She once worked a part-time job at a library and was fired for reading too often. Now she can read to her heart’s content- all in the service of research for her wonderful books!
Nicki Richesin: Jim Henson: The Guy Who Played With Puppets is a brilliant depiction of a man loved by the world for his creative genius. I admired how you followed the trajectory of Henson’s career and the paintings captured the various eras- from his humble beginning in Mississippi to the sweet seventies clothes and hairstyles- to the man himself. What was your approach when telling the story of Mr. Henson’s life?
Kathleen Krull: Thanks for your kind words. I wanted to shed light on a person who has done so much for children, a modern-day hero, just unbelievably creative. In his early days, everyone wondered what he was doing, playing with puppets, but he grew into this brilliant magician at making people of all ages laugh.
One of the many things I admired about your book is that you conveyed how Henson continued to pursue his dream of becoming a puppeteer, even when his father disapproved and even when his peers thought it was a little odd. Yet he stayed true to himself and his vision of what he wanted to achieve. I think this is such an important lesson for children, but really for everyone. I understand Henson’s children are running his company now. Do you think they’ve remained true to their father’s unique vision?
The family seems to be quite active in nourishing his reputation, as well as supporting new developments in puppetry with the Jim Henson Foundation, offering grants and other support.
Do you believe Henson’s work bringing Sesame Street to television programming for children revolutionized the way they learn?
I’m a bit past the Sesame Street target audience, but I well remember how progressive this show was when it premiered, how in tune with the spirit of the 60s and 70s. The idea that TV could be used as a force for good– wow– that laughter could help children learn– this was huge. It’s now the longest-running TV show for children ever, seen in more than 140 countries, so this is a major validation of his work.
At the end of the book, of cou
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By Nicki Richesin, The Children’s Book Review
Published: November 23, 2011
An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving
By Louisa May Alcott (Author), Jody Wheeler (Illustrator)
Reading level: Ages 4 and up
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Ideals Children’s Books (2010)
Source: Library
What to expect: Thanksgiving, Fall, Family, Tradition
Although Transcendentalist author Louisa May Alcott is primarily known as the creator of Jo March, the determined heroine in her classic novel Little Women, she penned over thirty books in her lifetime. Her short story An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving is a heartwarming selection for the holiday season. When the good-natured Barrett family are beginning to make preparations for their Thanksgiving celebration, Mrs. Barrett is called away suddenly to attend to her ailing mother. She puts her eldest daughter Tilly in charge of cooking the feast in her absence. Tilly undertakes this colossal challenge with confidence and the help of her siblings, but fails to pay attention when stuffing the turkey with catnip and neglects to add sugar and salt to the plum pudding. As her little sister Prue is prettily setting the table, her brothers discover a bear coming toward the house. Wielding axes and rifles out the door, the boys are shocked to find Tilly’s sweetheart in disguise. Disaster averted, Mrs. Barrett returns with cousins and aunts and uncles in tow and the happy news that their Grandma is well. The entire family savors the delicious dinner, despite its few shortcomings, and praise Tilly and her siblings for pulling off a Thanksgiving they will always remember. The Barrett family has much to be thankful for- their family and friends, good health, and love and laughter. Old-fashioned or not, you’ll enjoy reading this delightful tale with your family.
Add this book to your collection: An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving
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Nicki Richesin is the editor of four anthologies,What I Would Tell Her: 28 Devoted Dads on Bringing Up, Holding On To, and Letting Go of Their Daughters; Because I Love Her: 34 Women Writers Reflect on the Mother-Daughter Bond; Crush: 26 Real-Life Tales of First Love; and The May Queen: Women on Life, Work, and Pulling it all Together in your Thirties. Her anthologies have been excerpted and praised in The New York Times, the San Francisco Chronicle, The Boston Globe, Redbook, Add a Comment
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Reading Level: Ages 7-9
Add this book to your collection: Super Diaper Baby 2: The Invasion of the Potty Snatchers
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Video courtesy of TheScholasticChannel.
©2011 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.
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JacketFlap tags: Picture Books, Author Interviews, Jewish Books, Biographies, Actors, Gloria Spielman, Janusz Korczak, Mime, Marcel Marceau, Ages Nine to Twelve: Books for Third Through Sixth Grade, Cultural Wisdom: Books that teach, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, Add a tag
By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: November 19, 2011
Gloria Spielman
Gloria Spielman is the author of two picture books Janusz Korczak’s Children and Marcel Marceau: Master of Mime which has been awarded a Silver Medal in the 2011 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards in the category of Non-Fiction Picture Book. A former high school English teacher, Gloria has also written English teaching books and contributed to multi-media English courses. She has many more wonderful books in the works that we can look forward to reading soon.
Nicki Richesin: Congratulations on your lovely Marcel Marceau: Master of Mime. It’s a beautifully compelling book about his legendary career and how he brought the world’s attention back to the ancient art of pantomime, but it’s also the story of how he survived World War II. What inspired you to create this well-deserved homage to Mr. Marceau?
Gloria Spielman: Thank You, Nicki. I always enjoy reading The Children’s Book Review; it’s such a terrific resource for anyone in the world of children’s books, so I was thrilled to talk to you.
I’d much rather tell you what inspired me to write my first book, Janusz Korczak’s Children, it’s a far better story. My then third grade daughter had to do a project on Korczak for Holocaust Memorial Day, and that got me reading and thinking.
The truth is, the original inspiration for Marcel Marceau actually came from my friend Mandy. She was looking at Janusz Korczak and said “You know, you should write about Marcel Marceau. He was really interesting.” She told me of his work with the resistance and after she left I did some reading. Mandy was right. I started to imagine the pictures. I often imagine a picture book in pictures as well as words. My editor agreed. So did the publisher. And I started to write. I wish could say I saw a wonderful mime performance when I was a child and fell in love with it, but that would be a lie.
I was astonished to learn that Marceau was a part of the French resistance. He bravely smuggled Jewish children through the forests to safety and entertained allied troops. He led such a fascinating life. Did you discover anything that surprised you when doing your research?
It was all fascinating. But there is only so much that can go into a 32 page book. One anecdote that would have made a great picture book illustration is when Marceau came face to face with the man he called his creative father, Charlie Chaplin. He told Chaplin how he paid tribute to him in his American performance and began to imitate him in the middl
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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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Add these books to your collection: The Phantom Tollbooth 50th Anniversary Edition and The Annotated Phantom Tollbooth
Reading Level: Ages 8-12
Video courtesy of RandomBooks: “2011 marks the 50th Anniversary of the beloved classic, The Phantom Tollbooth. Meet the book’s creators, Norton Juster and Jules Feiffer, and hear them discuss how this classic came to be.
Also with commentary from Leonard S. Marcus, children’s books critic and historian, and author of The Annotated Phantom Tollbooth.”
©2011 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.
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JacketFlap tags: Sports, Picture Books, Jane Yolen, Books for Girls, George Ancona, Ages Nine to Twelve: Books for Third Through Sixth Grade, Book Lists: Specialty Picks, Christine Davenier, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, Ann-Marie Williams, Heidi E.Y. Stemple, Helene Kerillis, Jeff Kulak, Lucie Albon, race Maccarone, Add a tag
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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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
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)
by Christopher Paolini
(Young Adult)
by Jan Brett
(Ages 0-5)
Ivy an Bean: No News is Good News
by Annie Barrows
(Ages 6-9)
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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JacketFlap tags: Art, Klutz, Pat Murphy, Books for Boys, Activity Books, Ages Nine to Twelve: Books for Third Through Sixth Grade, Reluctant Readers: Will be begging for more, Book Lists: Specialty Picks, Interactive: Appeal to the senses, Seasonal: Holiday Books, Mike Herrod, Karen Phillips, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, April Chorba, Add a tag
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
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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JacketFlap tags: Classics, Fairy Tales, Picture Books, Hans Christian Andersen, Eric Carle, Brothers Grimm, Michael Hague, Goodie Bag: Books to share and give, Ages Nine to Twelve: Books for Third Through Sixth Grade, Book Lists: Specialty Picks, Brigette Barrager, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, Felix Salten, Maja Dusikova, Nancy Ekholm Burkert, Pirkko Vainio, Rand Burkert, Add a tag
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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By Nicki Richesin, The Children’s Book Review
Published: October 24, 2011
Jeanne Walker Harvey
Jeanne Walker Harvey is the author of a fascinating new children’s book My Hands Sing the Blues which traces the childhood migration of young Romare Bearden as he leaves his grandparents in Charlotte, North Carolina and then moves to New York City to eventually become a great painter during the Harlem Renaissance. Her remarkable book is filled with striking collages and poetic, jazz-inspired lines that mimic perhaps what influenced Bearden most as an artist: his childhood home and music. Harvey is also the author of Astro the Steller Sea Lion and she blogs about children’s narrative nonfiction books at True Tales & A Cherry on Top. She lives in Marin County, California with her husband and an adorable black Lab who sleeps at her feet while she writes.
Nicki Richesin: Congratulations on your exquisite children’s book My Hands Sing the Blues. I fell in love with the dreamy artwork and your rhythmic poetic telling of Romare Bearden’s childhood story. I read that you were first inspired by Bearden’s paintings while working as a docent at the San Francisco Museum of Art. What about his artwork captivated you and moved you to create your book?
Jeanne Walker Havery: Thank you so much, Nicki, for your kind words. It’s truly been an amazing experience to be part of this creative journey. And I really appreciate the opportunity to be interviewed by you as I think The Children’s Book Review is a terrific site and resource for families, teachers, librarians AND writers!
Yes, my docenting work at SFMOMA is exactly what inspired me to write this book. I was giving tours to school groups of the comprehensive Romare Bearden’s exhibit organized by The National Gallery when I fell in love with his art. As a teller of stories, I loved that his paintings told stories, especially the stories of his childhood in Charlotte, North Carolina. I found that I could hardly get the students to move on to the next painting in my tour because they were so engaged and drawn to his art, especially the huge vibrant collages. That’s when I decided that I would love to write a picture book about Bearden and the “people and the places” of his Charlotte childhood which he said was such an inspiration for his art.
Although Romare Bearden worked in different media, how important was it to you that the illustrator Add a Comment
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JacketFlap tags: Mary Norton, Fantasy: Supernatural Fiction, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, Kazuno Kaharo, Halloween, Diane Goode, Roald Dahl, Tony DiTerlizzi, Julia Donaldson, Goodie Bag: Books to share and give, Ages Nine to Twelve: Books for Third Through Sixth Grade, Book Lists: Specialty picks, Ages Baby to Three: Books for infants and toddlers, Mary Howitt, Adrienne Adams, Lorna Balian, Seasonal: Holiday Books, Add a tag
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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JacketFlap tags: Elisa Kleven, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, Picture Books, Illustrator Interviews, Author Interviews, Add a tag
By Nicki Richesin, The Children’s Book Review
Published: October 6, 2011
Elisa Klevin in her San Francisco Bay Area studio.
Elisa Kleven has created magical, fantastic worlds for children to explore in her acclaimed picture books including such gems as The Paper Princess, The Lion and The Little Red Bird, Welcome Home, Mouse, and A Carousel Tale. An author and illustrator, she employs an unusual mixed-media technique of watercolor, collage and illustration to create her fantasy landscapes. Her most recent titles include The Friendship Wish and One Little Chicken. The Friendship Wish tells the story of lonely dog named Farley who dreams of an angel and enlists his “friends” to help him find her when he awakes. For One Little Chicken, Kleven returned to her Russian-Jewish roots to illustrate this folktale about a little girl named Leora who finds a chicken and wants to keep it, but her parents insist on keeping it only until its rightful owner returns. Although Jewish law dictates that “finders aren’t keepers,” this delightful tale is a great lesson on generosity. Kleven lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband, daughter, son, and various animal friends.
Nicki Richesin: You have created some unforgettable picture books over the years including The Paper Princess series, Sun Bread, Ernst, and The Apple Doll. Would you tell us a little about your work on your latest book One Little Chicken?
Elisa Kleven: Although I’ve created pictures for quite a few stories and songs about Christmas, and many books with Latin American themes, One Little Chicken, by Elka Weber, is the first Jewish story that I’ve illustrated. Being of Russian-Jewish descent myself, the story seemed a natural fit for me. My ancestors come from the same kind of “shtetl,” or little Jewish town, in the story, and I grew up hearing a Passover song about a certain “father” who “bought a goat for two zuzim” (silver coins), which is just what the father in the book does!
Illustration © 2011 by Elisa Klevin
Furthermore, as an ardent admirer of goats (I love their sweet smiles, graceful legs, intelligent, soulful eyes, mischievousness — everything about them!) I was delighted at the prospect of illustrating a book in which they feature prominently. While illustrating One Little Chicken I made many trips to “
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JacketFlap tags: Community, Music, Love, Picture Books, American History, Bob Marley, Goodie Bag: Books to share and give, Ages Baby to Three: Books for infants and toddlers, Featured Videos, Social Graces: Books with a Purpose, Reggae, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, Cedella Marley, Add a tag
Add this book to your collection: One Love
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©2011 The Childrens Book Review. All Rights Reserved.
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JacketFlap tags: Music, Picture Books, Author Interviews, Bob Marley, Social Graces: Books with a Purpose, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, Cedella Marley, Vanessa Brantley-Newton, Reggae, Add a tag
By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: October 5, 2011
Cedella Marley, copyright © Peter Dean Rickards
Cedella Marley’s life has always been rooted in music and culture. As the oldest child of Bob Marley, she has dedicated herself to keeping her father’s message and memory alive. She is a musician as well, performing internationally with the three-time Grammy Award–winning Melody Makers, which consist of her brothers Ziggy and Steve and her sister Sharon. She lives in Miami, Florida, with her husband and three sons.
TCBR: What can you tell us about your latest book, One Love?
Cedella Marley: One Love is my adaptation one of my father’s favorite songs. I kept the spirit of the lyrics, but made a few changes for young readers. I’m thrilled to introduce the spirit of One Love to a new generation.
What age group is it intended for?
Like most picture books the primary ages are between 4 and 8, but kids older and younger will also love the message and illustrations in One Love.
What do you think children will connect with the most?
[I'm] very proud that there is such a diversity in the characters depicted in One Love – every child will find someone who looks like them or a member of their family. And I hope they’ll also love singing along with the book.
Illustration © 2011 by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
To what extent did you collaborate with Vanessa Brantley-Newton when creating the illustrations? Do the illustrations match your vision for the book?
Vanessa and I collaborated very closely and I could not be happier with how she brought my vision of the book to life! She added so many wonderful touches, like the bedspread that has dictionary definitions of the words “happy” and “laugh,” the number 56 on the town house – which was the house number of the home we grew up in, and the appearances of my father throughout the book.
As well as One Love, you have adapted two more of your father’s songs: Boy from Nine Mile and Three Little Birds. With so many legendary songs to choose from, what was it that inspired you to bring these three songs from your father’s great legacy to a new generation?
In The Boy from Nine Mile I wanted to tell the story of my father’s childhood in a way that was accessible to young readers and share the joy and challenges growing up in Jamaica at that time. One Love and Three Little Birds are the songs
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JacketFlap tags: Folktales, Picture Books, Author Interviews, Bilingual Books, Latino, Author Showcase, Alma Flor Ada, Susan Guevara, Ages Nine to Twelve: Books for Third Through Sixth Grade, Cultural Wisdom: Books that teach, Hispanic Heritage, F. Isabel Campoy, Vivi Escriva, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, Felipe Dávalos, Leyla Torres, Add a tag
By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: September 30, 2011
F. Isabel Campoy
F. Isabel Campoy is a scholar devoted to the study of language acquisition. She is a well-known author of numerous children’s books in the areas of poetry, theatre, folktales, biographies, and art. She is the recipient of many notable awards, including the Reading the World Award 2004, for “Cuentos que contaban nuestras abuelitas;” and the Junior Library Guild Premier Selection Award, 2006.
TCBR: As a writer, you have a strong focus on the culture and civilization of the Hispanic world. Can you share a little on your background and how you became a children’s book writer?
F. Isabel Campoy: I cannot remember a time in my life in which I wasn’t part of the world of children’s literature. As soon as I learned to read I became the person that teachers chose to read out loud to the rest of the class while they did art, or sewing. I had a good voice and I couldn’t hold a thread and needle for more than two seconds, so it was a perfect match to keep everyone busy. That practice stimulated the writer in me and when I was eleven-years-old I published my first tale in a local magazine. I continued writing throughout my childhood. When I came to the U.S. for the first time at age fifteen in 1963, writing kept me alive through the difficult moments of missing my family (I was here as an AFS exchange student), and conquering my fears after the tragic assassination of John Fitzgerald Kennedy on November of that year.
My first job after college was as an assistant editor in Madrid. I applied to the position because it was my way to be part of the publishing world. Later I was offered the opportunity to co-author with Phillip Locke a series for the teaching of English, my responsibility being to provide the literary texts. I left publishing many years later. At the time, I was a Senior Acquisitions Editor for College publications in a company in Boston. I realized then that the joy of publishing others was hiding my fear to publish my own manuscripts… so I finally quit everything and became a full time writer.
I love to travel. I am interested in the places, the people, and their histories. When I began writing for children I wanted to contribute to present the cultural richness of Latino history, art, and literature for readers in this country. There is much to be written about our culture.
Tales Our Abuelitas Told: A Hispanic Folktale Collection is one of the many books you have written with Alma Flor Ada. Why do you think so many readers are drawn to your retellings of these particular folktales?
Authors love all their books, but there are some that connect with you in a very personal way. “Tales Our Abuelitas Told” was published the year I lost my mother. She was the greatest storyteller, imaginative, soft spoken, and these were tales
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JacketFlap tags: Picture Books, Books for Girls, Social Graces: Books with a Purpose, Linda Ravin Lodding, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, Suzanne Beaky, Add a tag
By Nicki Richesin, The Children’s Book Review
Published: September 9, 2011
The Busy Life of Ernestine Buckmeister
by Linda Ravin Lodding (Author), Suzanne Beaky (Illustrator)
Reading level: Ages 5 and up
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Flashlight Press (October 1, 2011)
Source: Publisher
Trying to “make every moment count” as her father advises, Ernestine Buckmeister is shepherded to and from her daily tuba, yoga, karate, knitting, sculpting, water ballet and yodeling lessons by her Nanny O’Dear. Linda Ravin Lodding’s amusing send-up to overscheduled children who don’t have time to frolic and just enjoy being kids imparts a very wise lesson disguised as a comic adventure tale. Poor Ernestine’s hectic schedule doesn’t allow for much downtime to play with her friend Hugo, so she tricks Nanny into skipping her tuba lesson to play for one “heavenly” afternoon. They spend it doing all the things they have missed out on like staring at the clouds, playing pretend, building twig forts and making daisy crowns. As a result, Ernestine’s family decides together to redefine “living life to the fullest.” The Buckmeisters bike to work and help Ernestine build a tree house while Nanny O’Dear discovers the joy of flying kites. Suzanne Beaky’s lightheartedly silly illustrations, of Ernestine’s teachers like Pearl Stitchem, Grand Master Hi Ya and Mr. Oompah, make this book even more playful and fun. For a sneak peek at The Busy Life of Ernestine Buckmeister, check out this entertaining book trailer.
Add this book to your collection: The Busy Life of Ernestine Buckmeister
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Nicki Richesin is the editor of four anthologies,What I Would Tell Her: 28 Devoted Dads on Bringing Up, Holding On To, and Letting Go of Their Daughters; Because I Love Her: 34 Women Writers Reflect on the Mother-Daughter Bond; Add a Comment
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JacketFlap tags: Author Showcase, Alma Flor Ada, Ages Nine to Twelve: Books for Third Through Sixth Grade, Cultural Wisdom: Books that teach, Hispanic Heritage, F. Isabel Campoy, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, Multicultural, Folktales, Picture Books, Add a tag
Author Showcase
By Isabel F. Campoy, for The Children’s Book Review
Published: September 29, 2011
Tales Our Abuelitas Told: A Hispanic Folktale Collection
by F. Isabel Campoy and Alma Flor Ada
Atheneum. Simon & Schuster
Book overview: Once upon a time, in a land far away…
These stories have journeyed far—over mountains, deserts, and oceans—carried by the wind, passed on to us by our ancestors. Now they have found their way to you.
A sly fox, a bird of a thousand colors, a magical set of bagpipes, and an audacious young girl… A mixture of popular tales and literary lore, this anthology celebrates Hispanic culture and its many roots –Indigenous, African, Arab, Hebrew, and Spanish.
F. Isabel Campoy and Alma Flor Ada have retold twelve beloved stories that embody the lively spirit and the rich heritage of Latino people.
This unforgettable collection is highlighted by the work of four leading Latino artists: Felipe Dávalos, Viví Escrivá, Susan Guevara and Leyla Torres.
Awards
A Junior Library Guild Selection
Kirkus Reviews Best Books
A Parent’s Choice Recommended Book
Best Books of the Year, Notable Books for a Global Society – American Library Association
Best Folklore in Best Books of the Year, Nick Jr. Magazine
Featured Book of the Month, Colorín Colorado Website, American Federation of Teachers
List of Best Books for 2006, New York Public Library
Critical Acclaim
The introduction to this delightful collection explains clearly how stories develop and change over time; in fact, the two storytellers heard most of these amusing tales when they were children and have retold them many times since in their own unique styles. … Children will relish their humor, especially if read aloud, and teens will also enjoy this lively presentation. Traditional story beginnings and endings are provided in Spanish and translated into English … . Make room on your shelves for this excellent book. ~ School Library Journal
The authors celebrate Hispanic culture and its many roots–indigenous, African, Spanish, Arab, Hebrew–assembling tales from as far afield as Spain and Idaho, and showing how the tales have transformed and influenced one another, and even how Ada and Campoy have changed them. … The spacious book design will work well for both independent reading and reading aloud, and each story is illustrated with one or more full-page pictures in
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JacketFlap tags: Courage, Encouragement, Books for Girls, Book Lists: Specialty picks, Eugene Yelchin, Dan Yaccarino, Cultural Wisdom: Books that teach, Picture Book - Wordless, Marissa Moss, Social Graces: Books with a Purpose, Ida Lewis, Ages Four to Eight: Books for Pre-School Through Second Grade, Andrea U’Ren, Mary Kuryla, Add a tag
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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