Preschool to Grade 4 Reviews: Octoboer, 2005 cont...
-- School Library Journal, 10/1/2005
FICTION cont.
MAYHEW, James. The Knight Who Took All Day. illus. by author. unpaged. Scholastic/The Chicken House. Oct. 2005. Tr $15.99. ISBN 0-439-74829-1. LC number unavailable.
K-Gr 2–A pompous knight who sets out to impress a princess by fighting a dragon is foiled by the fact that he can't find one. As the comical fellow searches fruitlessly, Mayhew's descriptive, watercolor cartoons show readers what the clueless knight has missed. This fun and interactive technique is used successfully throughout the story. The search ends when a dragon arrives on the scene and endangers the village and the castle. The happy knight orders his beleaguered squire to get the proper equipment and accessories to help him look the part of the vanquishing hero, including his shiniest armor, a long flowing cloak, and a peacock plume in his visor. When he is finally ready to do battle, the princess has already tamed the beast and there is no danger. This is no surprise to readers who have seen her getting ready all along. In a final twist, she marries the squire and they fly off on its back "and lived happily ever after." The major characters are given their own font within the text and large type with boldface is used for important words. This entertaining take on an old premise provides a good but not overbearing lesson, while still being a good read, especially aloud. Other books of this ilk include Robert Munsch's The Paper Bag Princess (Annick, 1986) and Katherine Paterson's The King's Equal (HarperCollins, 1992).–Catherine Callegari, San Antonio Public Library, TX
MEISTER, Cari. My Pony Jack at Riding Lessons. illus. by Amy Young. 32p. (Viking Easy-to-Read Series). glossary. CIP. Viking. 2005. RTE $13.99. ISBN 0-670-05918-8. LC 2005000779.
PreS-Gr 1–With one sentence per page, this book will satisfy emergent readers–especially those who have some experience riding. The story line is a brief overview of Lacy's lesson, including her arrival at Jack's stall, her trainer's directives and instruction, and a brush down and a nuzzle. The accuracy of the illustrations is commendable, from the design of the tack room to how a trainer touches the horse to the correct depiction of the trot and canter. Some new vocabulary is introduced, such as "bridle" and "canter," and a glossary is included. An appealing choice for young horse lovers.–Laurel L. Iakovakis, Douglas County Libraries, Castle Rock, CO
MORA, Pat. Doña Flor: A Tall Tale about a Giant Lady with a Great Big Heart. illus. by Raúl Colón. unpaged. CIP. Knopf. Oct. 2005. Tr $15.99. ISBN 0-375-82337-9; PLB $17.99. ISBN 0-375-92337-3. LC number unavailable.
PreS-Gr 3–A charming tall tale set in the American Southwest. Doña Flor, a giant, is a benevolent presence in her pueblo. While at first kids teased the young and large Flor, she quickly became an asset to them, whisking them off to school when they were running late or making tortillas big enough to be used as rafts on the river. The action starts when a puma is heard howling in the vicinity; the villagers are terrified and even Doña Flor can't find it. The animals know where the gato is so she follows their advice and the situation is delightfully resolved. Colón uses his signature mix of watercolor washes, etching, and litho pencils for the art. There is great texture and movement on each page in the sun-baked tones of the landscape. With Spanish words peppered throughout, this is a welcome entry to the canon that includes other heroines like Sally Ann Thunder and Thunder Rose.–Linda M. Kenton, San Rafael Public Library, CA
MORA, Pat. The Song of Francis and the Animals. illus. by David Frampton. unpaged. CIP. Eerdmans. 2005. Tr $16. ISBN 0-8028-5253-X. LC 2004010240.
PreS-Gr 2–Mora's narrative about the Saint and his tender relationships with wild creatures is more poetry than story. The lyrical text describes how Francis speaks with birds, tames a wolf that threatens the people of Gubbio, and re-creates the manger scene with the help of villagers, lambs, an ox, and a donkey. Throughout, the animals sing and call back to him. Some Italian phrases are included, with a translation at the front of the book. The variety of species that populate Frampton's vibrant, detailed two-page woodcuts will delight youngsters. The animals are full of character and personality and emphasize Francis's belief in their gentleness. The fierce wolf turns into a fawning supplicant and a falcon shelters the sleeping man with spread wings. While this book may be more relevant to parochial than secular schools, its message of treating all living things with kindness is universal. Francis's compassion for a worm shows children an example of having respect for even the lowliest of creatures.–Jane Barrer, formerly at Washington Square Village Creative Steps, New York City
MURPHY, Claire Rudolf. I Am Sacajawea, I Am York: Our Journey West with Lewis and Clark. illus. by Higgins Bond. unpaged. map. bibliog. further reading. Web sites. Walker. 2005. Tr $16.95. ISBN 0-8027-8919-6; RTE $17.85. ISBN 0-8027-8921-8. LC number unavailable.
Gr 3-5–This picture book focuses on the two slaves who accompanied Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery. Sacajawea, a Shoshone girl who was owned by the French trader Charbonneau, and York, Clark's slave, alternate in telling of the group's adventure and accomplishments. At first this is confusing, but different fonts are used for each one to aid understanding. Each individual gives a personal perspective on the journey and comments on the contributions of the other. There is a minimum of text, but historical detail is included. More information is presented in a lengthy afterword, and the appended bibliography and list of Web sites are helpful for further research. A full-spread map of the route appears on the front and back endpapers. David Adler's A Picture Book of Sacajawea (Holiday House, 2000) and Lise Erdrich's Sacajawea (Carolrhoda, 2003) offer more thorough examinations for this age group, but it is difficult to find separate books about York. Though Bond's dramatic, painterly illustrations show the terrain and give a sense of the difficulties the Corps faced, this volume is not a priority purchase.–Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ
NOBISSO, Josephine. The Numbers Dance: A Counting Comedy. illus. by Dasha Ziborova. unpaged. CIP. Gingerbread House. 2005. Tr $16.95. ISBN 0-940112-11-6; pap. $8.95. ISBN 0-940112-12-4. LC 2005000199.
PreS-Gr 4–A counting book that doesn't measure up. "And-a-1 And-a-2 And-a-3 And-a-4, Four dainty numbers waltz across the floor." As the numerals dance, the verses sketch the chaos that results from 5 and 6 (rumba and samba dancers) attempting to share the floor, followed by 7 through 10, who are enjoying country line dancing. The numbers, each of a slightly different design and color, border the right side of the spreads in small squares and tumble over the dance floor in larger form, colliding with each other. They try out one another's steps as order is restored and then they all go back to their own styles less boisterously. The verse does not flow naturally in structure or in rhythm, with "yahoo" made to rhyme with "lasso" and questionable words such as "crumped" and "rump" used to fit the rhyme scheme. In one place, the couplets become triplets. The digital illustrations, rendered from mixed media, have the look of minimalist collages, with largely white pages where the numbers, occasionally embellished by a prop, are cavorting. For a few pages, a background with wallpaper design is used. The general effect is not particularly appealing. The dance-floor milieu is unlikely to draw a preschool or primary-grade audience, and the book doesn't work as an exercise in artistic design for older children.–Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA
OGBURN, Jacqueline K. The Bake Shop Ghost. illus. by Marjorie Priceman. unpaged. CIP. Houghton. 2005. RTE $16. ISBN 0-618-44557-9. LC 2004013186.
PreS-Gr 3–The best cakes in town are made by Miss Cora Lee Merriweather, and when she dies, her ghost comes back to haunt the bake shop and harass any new owners until they leave. Years later, the establishment is bought by Annie Washington, the best baker ever to have worked on the Sea Star cruise ships. The ghost tries to scare this young woman into leaving as well, but to no avail. When Annie asks what she can do to be able to work in peace, Cora Lee asks for a cake "so rich and so sweet, it will fill me up and bring tears to my eyes. A cake like one…no one ever made for me." Annie bakes one good cake after another but doesn't discover the right one until she does some research at the library. Finally, Annie produces a birthday cake, and her present to Cora Lee is to call the shop Washington & Merriweather. Annie is an African-American woman with pluck who uses intelligence and kindness to win over a grouchy ghost. Priceman's illustrations are charming, with dashes of color and humor and a sense of action in each one. The art surrounds the text on most pages, causing readers to feel immersed in the plot. With two such wonderfully strong female characters, this is a delightful story with a satisfying conclusion.–Elaine Lesh Morgan, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR
O'HAIR, Margaret. Star Baby. illus. by Erin Eitter Kono. 32p. CIP. Clarion. Oct. 2005. RTE $15. ISBN 0-618-30668-4. LC 2004016187.
PreS–A mother and child play, cuddle, eat, and call dad at the office. At the end of the day, baby is asleep, with both parents smiling by his bed. Words carefully follow the action on each page. The steady rhythm makes the story fun to read aloud. "Phone, baby/Talk, baby/Laugh, baby/Look. Read, baby/Clap, baby/More, baby/Book." The acrylic artwork is stylized to accentuate the soft, rounded shapes. The effect is sometimes comforting, sometimes cutesy. It also distorts the figures. Some of these distortions are whimsical and appropriate, but others are less effective. Overall, the book is a sweet read to share one-on-one. It would have special appeal for traditional families and those who can relate to the lifestyle shown here.–Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK
OHI, Ruth. Me and My Sister. illus. by author. unpaged. CIP. Annick, dist. by Firefly. 2005. Tr $19.95. ISBN 1-55037-893-7; pap. $5.95. ISBN 1-55037-892-9. LC C2004-906364-2.
PreS-K–A simple picture book in which a girl describes a day with her toddler sibling. "Sister in the kitchen./Sister in my room./Sister in a box./Sister going zoom." The little one gets into her things but can be fun to play with and is endearing. The uncluttered design features sweet, expressive watercolors against white backgrounds. With one short line per spread, this book can be read easily by beginners. Most young children with siblings will relate to it.–Sally R. Dow, Ossining Public Library, NY
O'NEAL, Deborah & Angela Westengard. The Trouble with Henry: A Tale of Walden Pond. illus. by S. D. Schindler. unpaged. CIP. Candlewick. 2005. RTE $16.99. ISBN 0-7636-1828-4. LC 2004051895.
Gr 2-5–When Henry David Thoreau leaves Concord, MA, to live in his cabin at Walden Pond, the townsfolk think that he is crazy. They do not share his concerns about the loss of natural resources and view the construction of factories, industrial activity, and even the polluted air as signs of progress. At the end of a long winter, the mayor announces that a toothpick factory will be built near Walden Pond. Thoreau attends the town meeting and encourages everyone to join him for a walk in the woods. The townsfolk breathe in clean air, marvel at spring flowers, and chuckle at the antics of animals. They realize that the woods are precious and worth saving. The straightforward language reads like an informational book, and adults who introduce this title to children will need to explain the difference between the factual versus fictional events. Schindler portrays Thoreau as a lanky, healthy character in a village of pinched faces and upturned noses; he captures the gritty tones of an industrial village as well as the lushness of the forest.–Shawn Brommer, South Central Library System, Madison, WI
PEARSON, Tracey Campbell. Diddle, Diddle, Dumpling. ISBN 0-374-30861-6. LC 2003105957.
––––. Little Miss Muffet. ISBN 0-374-30862-4. LC 2003105954.
ea vol: illus. by author. unpaged. Farrar. 2005. BD $5.95.
PreS–These appealing books feature charming watercolor depictions of toddlers living out the "events" in beloved nursery rhymes. "My son John" falls asleep while reading Mother Goose and is lovingly put in his crib by his parents. "Little Miss Muffet" sits on a big fluffy pillow while she eats her usual snack. The traditional "along came a spider" has been slightly altered to read, "there came a big spider." These two titles join Pearson's versions of Hector Protector and Little Bo-Peep (both Farrar, 2004) to make nice additions to board-book collections.–Bina Williams, Bridgeport Public Library, CT
POWELL, Anna. Don't Say That, Willy Nilly! illus. by David Roberts. unpaged. CIP. Good Bks. Oct. 2005. Tr $16. ISBN 1-56148-488-1. LC 2005002672.
K-Gr 2–Various folks, beginning with his mother, unintentionally misinform a curly haired boy about verbal manners as he attempts an errand to the store. Mom's "Yum, yum, what a lovely dinner" doesn't serve Willy well when conversing with the garbage truck crew, and "good riddance to bad garbage" insults the neighbors moving away. Roberts provides haute humor with tidy spreads of Willy Nilly's urban travels. Highlights of his playful use of color and composition include a purple-coiffed granny and a park-keeper submerged in the pond. Couple this with Laura Krauss Melmed's A Hug Goes Around (HarperCollins, 2002) or Sarah Marwil Lamstein's I Like Your Buttons! (Whitman, 1999) for a positive twist on the passing-it-on plot.–Gay Lynn Van Vleck, Henrico County Library, Glen Allen, VA
RADFORD, Sheri. Penelope and the Monsters. illus. by Christine Tripp. unpaged. CIP. Lobster, dist. by Univ. of Toronto. 2005. Tr $15.95. ISBN 1-894222-94-6. LC C2004-905459-7.
PreS-Gr 2–Penelope knows there are monsters in her room, and she has no intention of going to sleep when her father callously kisses her goodnight. Sure enough, every time he leaves the room the furniture starts to shake, rattle, and roll. After returning twice to check for invaders, Penelope's dad refuses to come back, and she decides to confront the monsters on her own. Gnomes, trolls, and giants step out of their hiding places and retire to her parents' room, defeated by Penelope's refusal to be frightened. Tripp's watercolor-and-pencil cartoons capture the child's emotions broadly and with humor. The gnomes are of the garden variety, and the trolls and giants more like naughty children than monsters. With a similar plot line to Mercer Mayer's trilogy "There's Something There!" (Puffin), the story attempts to reassure youngsters by validating the existence of scary creatures lurking in their imaginations. For most children, this is an ineffective inducement to fearless sleeping. And the fact that Dad can hear the monsters when they relocate is even more worrying. Maurice Sendak's timeless Where the Wild Things Are (HarperCollins, 1988) safely locates the monsters on a faraway island, instead of under the bed or in the closet, and the poetic text makes it a better choice for a read-aloud even after all these years.–Jane Barrer, formerly at Washington Square Village Creative Steps, New York City
RADUNSKY, Vladimir. I Love You Dude. illus. by author. 45p. CIP. Harcourt/Gulliver. Oct. 2005. RTE $16. ISBN 0-15-205176-7. LC 2004018485.
Gr 2-5–A freshly painted white wall in NYC sprouts a "doodle"–a blue elephant with shoes and the inscription "I Love You Dude" above it. When the police are called to take care of the graffiti, Dude runs away and searches for a safe haven. He finds a blank yellow coffee mug, which is then purchased by a little girl who loves Dude and drinks her milk from the mug each day. The doodle is happy there until a weird aunt visits and drinks hot coffee from him. He leaves the mug in search of a place where he will be loved and appreciated. After several failed attempts, Dude gives up and lies on the sidewalk, where he is discovered by an art lover who gets him framed and hung in the museum between a Picasso and a Matisse. This odd story of acceptance and finding one's place is accompanied by Radunsky's quirky artwork, expertly rendered in mixed media and collage. Teachers may use this as a lesson in art appreciation–in this book, art truly is in the eye of the beholder. Some students will find solace in the self-realization tale and hope in the message presented; however, the audience for this "long short story" is limited and the book will have to be hand-sold to appreciative readers.–Angela J. Reynolds, Annapolis Valley Regional Library, Bridgetown, NS, Canada
RAND, Gloria. A Pen Pal for Max. illus. by Ted Rand. unpaged. CIP. Holt. Oct. 2005. RTE $16.95. ISBN 0-8050-7586-0. LC 2004024283.
K-Gr 3–Maximiliano lives with his family on a farm in Chile. His father works in a vineyard that produces grapes for worldwide distribution. One day Max slips a note with his name, address, and a request for a pen pal into a box of the fruit. Amazingly, he receives a reply from 10-year-old Maggie, who lives in the U.S. They develop a correspondence comparing their very different lives. When an earthquake strikes Max's part of the world, Maggie and her friends send supplies to his school. The realistic, energetic watercolor illustrations extend the tale. This is a lovely story, albeit a trifle long, with an important message about friendship.–Pamela K. Bomboy, Chesterfield County Public Schools, VA
RASCHKA, Chris. New York Is English, Chattanooga Is Creek. illus. by author. unpaged. CIP. S & S/Atheneum/A Richard Jackson Bk. Oct. 2005. RTE $16.95. ISBN 0-689-84600-2. LC 2004023188.
K-Gr 4–At once carefully intentional and casually random, this is both a fascinating exploration of the etymology and derivation of American city names and a characteristic Raschka farcical flight-of-fancy. Each city is portrayed as a colorfully costumed caricature relating to its name's origins, and each one has a headdress topped by a significant symbol. St. Louis wears its famous arch while New York is crowned by the Chrysler Building. The latter is depicted as a pompously bewigged Duke who plans a party for his friends, the other cities. A guest list at the beginning gives the history of the names of 39 invitees. The party is a success and a reminder of American diversity even in the founding and naming of its cities. (Unfortunately, Pittsburgh is capped anachronistically by pollution-spewing smokestacks.) Raschka's illustrations rendered in ink and watercolor employ his loose, impressionistic, brushy style to perfect effect, giving the book its humor while artfully delivering his message and entertaining information. It's a rousing reminder that, "A thousand names,/a hundred languages,/a million, and a million, and a million people/name one nation." Invite Laurie Keller's The Scrambled States of America (Holt, 1998) to the party for an even bigger celebration of Americana.–Kate McClelland, Perrot Memorial Library, Old Greenwich, CT
RICHARDSON, Charisse K. The Real Lucky Charm. illus. by Eric Velasquez. 76p. CIP. Dial. 2005. Tr $16.99. ISBN 0-8037-3105-1; pap. $4.99. ISBN 0-14-240431-4. LC 2005047584.
Gr 2-5–Readers were introduced to 10-year-old African-American twins Mia and Marcus in Richardson's The Real Slam Dunk (EnRich, 2002). Here, Mia and her friend Gabbie decide to try out for the new girls' basketball team. When not enough players sign up, they become part of a new coed team. When Mia plays particularly well, she begins to believe that her father's gift of a new charm for her bracelet is bringing her luck, not only in basketball, but also with her schoolwork. She slackens up in her practice and studies, depending instead on her lucky piece. When she loses it, she also loses her confidence on the court, doesn't score well on her spelling test, and is convinced that the missing charm is the cause. As the story progresses, she learns to trust her abilities and efforts to accomplish her goals. Supported by occasional attractive black-and-white drawings, this short, family-oriented sports story will capture the interest of beginning chapter-book readers as well as reluctant readers. Its message is simple and straightforward, as summed up by Mia's father–"Once you start believing in yourself again and not that charm, you'll be just fine."–Mary N. Oluonye, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH
ROBERTSON, M. P. The Dragon Snatcher. illus. by author. unpaged. CIP. Dial. Oct. 2005. Tr $16.99. ISBN 0-8037-3103-5. LC 2004028465.
K-Gr 3–The adventures of young bookworm George and his dragon, whom readers first met in The Egg (Putnam, 2001), are continued in this frothy fantasy. The story, which centers on the boy's attempt to foil a crotchety wizard who has been stealing dragon eggs, is lightweight. The motives of the wizard are never explained, and the realization that love conquers all when a newly hatched dragon mistakes the man for his mother is, frankly, corny. But the expansive illustrations, filled with moon-kissed snowscapes and moody evil castles, more than make up for any holes in the plot. A fine addition that is good for reading aloud or for young readers to tackle on their own.–Kara Schaff Dean, Needham Public Library, MA
ROMANOVA, Yelena. The Perfect Friend. illus. by Boris Kulikov. unpaged. CIP. Farrar/Frances Foster Bks. 2005. Tr $15. ISBN 0-374-35821-4. LC 2004050635.
PreS-Gr 1–Archie, the family dog, has been promised a surprise. Previous surprises–a goldfish, a turtle, a rabbit–have not been suitable playmates. This time the family brings home Max, "a wriggling, snuffling bundle in a cradle." Now no one, not Mother or Father nor Grandma or Grandpa, pays any attention to Archie, even when he acts out by peeing in the house. At last they notice him forlorn under a chair and, in turn, each one of them tries to cheer him up. It's not until Max, now walking, throws him a ball that Archie's dream of finding a perfect friend comes true. The fact that this book is about adjusting to a new baby is slowly developed. Readers at first will more likely fixate on the visual portrayal of Archie, who wears flowered boxers and walks upright. When sporting his overcoat and umbrella on the opening pages, he looks more like a dandy than a dog. Plus, the scene where he pees into the shoe is as visually disturbing as it is funny: Is this a dog or a boy? The depiction of the baby in his red stocking cap could be questioned as well: Is this an infant or a troll? Vibrant paintings humorously depict each scene and the bug-eyed characters with stylized precision. This wacky, rather sophisticated look at redefining familial roles may not be everyone's cup of tea but it does reflect a unique perspective.–Martha Topol, Traverse Area District Library, Traverse City, MI
ROSS, Sylvia. Lion Singer. illus. by author. 33p. CIP. Heyday. Oct. 2005. Tr $12.95. ISBN 1-59714-009-0. LC 2004029314.
Gr 1-4–A story set in long-ago California. Dog Cry, a Chukchansi boy, and his family are attending a summer gathering with the people from the other villages. Although he is responsible for watching his little sister, he wants to play with his cousins in the nearby woods. When Breaks Shells crawls into the lap of their great-grandmother, Dog Cry assumes that the elders will look after her. As he climbs a hill to join the other boys, he stops at a high ledge and looks back at the camp. He is annoyed to see that his sister is following after him. Then he spots a large mountain lion crouched in the shadows of the trees where she is heading. With quick thinking and determination, he runs down the path toward the creature, singing a song (his cousins join him in time) that causes it to retreat. Later, he is given a new name, Lion Singer; he also realizes how much he loves his sister. Glossy-looking, simplistic, cartoon illustrations are scattered throughout the lengthy text. Appendixes include information on the Chukchansi and tribal history. While the writing and plot are not stellar, this offering may find a home in regional collections.–DeAnn Tabuchi, San Anselmo Public Library, CA
ROSS, Tony. I Want My Tooth. illus. by author. unpaged. Kane/Miller. 2005. pap. $4.95. ISBN 1-929132-85-9. LC 2005923366.
K-Gr 2–The Little Princess is proud of her 20 straight, white royal teeth. She takes good care of them by brushing regularly and eating the right foods. Everything is going smoothly until the morning she notices that one of them is wobbly. As the days go by, the royal tooth wiggles more and more, a situation that the Little Princess comes to enjoy. Then, it disappears and she wants it back, and she wants it NOW! Everyone in the castle hunts high and low for the lost tooth until the Little Princess makes a most unusual discovery that leads to a funny ending. The lighthearted text is highlighted with Ross's bright, pastel watercolor-and-ink illustrations. The comic pictures show the Little Princess's tabby cat and teddy bear sharing her emotional ups and downs. A good-humored and different take on a common childhood experience.–Linda Staskus, Parma Regional Library, OH
RYLANT, Cynthia. Mr. Putter & Tabby Make a Wish. illus. by Arthur Howard. unpaged. CIP. Harcourt. 2005. RTE $14. ISBN 0-15-202426-3. LC 2004010983.
PreS-Gr 2–In the 14th adventure in the series, the bumbling yet endearing Mr. Putter wants to celebrate his birthday even though he thinks he's too old for such things. He calls to invite his good friend and neighbor Mrs. Teaberry to tea, and she keeps him waiting in order to surprise him with an enormous cake with dozens of candles, balloons, and a model-airplane kit. Mr. Putter enjoys the surprise and proclaims it was worth the wait. Howard's pencil, watercolor, and gouache illustrations continue to capture the feelings and emotions of the characters, especially as Mr. Putter impatiently waits for his guest to arrive. The humor in the illustrations as well as in the text will keep readers glued to the pages. The story is great for reluctant readers since the chapter-book format, short sentences, and mix of illustrations and text per page are perfectly balanced.–Sandra Welzenbach, Villarreal Elementary School, San Antonio, TX
RYLANT, Cynthia. The Stars Will Still Shine. illus. by Tiphanie Beeke. unpaged. CIP. HarperCollins. Oct. 2005. Tr $15.99. ISBN 0-06-054639-5; PLB $16.89. ISBN 0-06-054640-9. LC 2004014796.
PreS-K–This picture book serves as a reassuring reminder that good things are always around the corner. In gentle rhyme, Rylant greets a new year and celebrates the constants of life, including new beginnings, togetherness, and the cyclical wonders of the natural world: "the sky will still be there/the stars will still shine/birds will fly over us/church bells will chime." Beeke's soft and soothing watercolor scenes are as comforting as the text; each spread reveals a setting of gentle color–a pink-petaled field, a sunny kitchen, or a cobalt-blue night sky. The human characters are simply drawn and yet joyfully expressive. The book's subject matter and tone make it a wonderful bedtime selection for toddlers and preschoolers, especially when read after a tough day. The optimistic viewpoint and rhyme, along with the appealing visuals, will certainly rate with young children, making this a worthy addition to most collections.–Carol L. MacKay, Camrose Public Library, Alberta, Canada
SAN SOUCI, Daniel. Space Station Mars. illus. by author. unpaged. (A Clubhouse Bk.). CIP. Tricycle. 2005. Tr $15.95. ISBN 1-58246-142-2. LC 2004028619.
Gr 1-4–The boys from the The Dangerous Snake and Reptile Club (Tricycle, 2004) are back. After watching a movie about space aliens, the kids are convinced that a rock found in their neighbor's backyard is really a meteor from Mars. They quickly transform their clubhouse into Space Station Mars. Luckily, Neil is an expert on extraterrestrials. He uses his chemistry set to test the meteor for radioactivity and monitors intergalactic communication with his crystal radio. When he picks up strange transmissions, the club members are convinced that the Martians who lost the meteor are on their way back to reclaim it. They find the "alien spaceship" and return the rock to the "alien visitors." This book captures the wonderful time in children's lives when the line between reality and imagination is blurred. The boys are able to have great adventures because they believe in what they are playing. The bright cartoon illustrations, which are chock-full of detail and activity, increase the sense of fun. This is a great choice for independent reading or sharing aloud.–Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT
SANTORE, Charles. Three Hungry Pigs and the Wolf Who Came to Dinner. illus. by author. unpaged. CIP. Random. Oct. 2005. Tr $16.95. ISBN 0-375-82946-6; PLB $18.99. ISBN 0-375-92946-0. LC 2004012198.
Gr 1-3–When Bianca, a truffle-hunting pig, discovers that eating the mushrooms is even better than finding them, her owner sends her and her piglets away. Despite a scary night alone, life in the fungi-filled deep woods seems like the perfect place for the porker and her young. But danger intrudes upon their bliss when a hungry wolf stops by looking for a meal. Before he can get a taste for pork, Bianca pops a truffle into his mouth. Quickly the wolf is hooked, and together they search for the delicious treat. When the rest of the pack comes looking for a less vegetarian meal, Bianca's wolf comes to her rescue and saves the day. Then, the truffle-loving wolf and the truffle-finding pig family live happily ever after. While Santore's descriptive text is effective in evoking fearful emotions, it is balanced with scenes of happiness and hints of humor. The creative placement of the type and the use of bold reinforce some of the action. Rich with fall hues, the oil illustrations are a perfect complement to the text. The detail of the full-page paintings and full-bleed spreads beautifully reinforces the emotions and actions of the tale. A good choice for one-on-one sharing or to juxtapose with a story of a big bad wolf.–Catherine Callegari, San Antonio Public Library, TX
SAY, Allen. Kamishibai Man. illus. by author. 32p. Houghton/A Walter Lorraine Bk. Oct. 2005. Tr $17. ISBN 0-618-47954-6. LC number unavailable.
Gr 1-5–An elderly kamishibai (paper theater) man decides to return to the city and spend the day on his former rounds. His wife makes candies for him, just as in the past, and he sets off on his bicycle. Things have changed–there's traffic with honking horns and he wonders, "Who needs to buy so many things and eat so many different foods?" when he sees the shops and restaurants replacing beautiful trees that have been cut. He sets up his theater and begins to tell his personal story of being a kamishibai man in a flashback sequence. Soon he is surrounded by adults who remember him and his stories from their youth. Ironically, that night he is featured on the news on television–the very technology that replaced him. Say's distinctive style and facial expressions are especially touching. A foreword gives readers a glimpse of the importance of the kamishibai man in the author's early life, and an afterword provides a historical look at the forgotten art form. The power of the story and the importance of the storyteller are felt in this nostalgic piece that makes readers think about "progress." Those interested in storytelling and theater will be especially impressed with this offering, but it will have broad appeal.–Helen Foster James, University of California at San Diego
SCHUBERT, Ingrid & Dieter Schubert. My Hero. illus. by authors. unpaged. Front St/Lemniscaat. 2005. Tr $16.95. ISBN 1-932425-10-1. LC number unavailable.
Gr 1-3–Mouse and his "Mousegirl" sit in the tree together while he tells her all the risks he will take to prove his devotion to her. While he promises to brave mountains, deserts, and oceans, their tree branch breaks, leaving them in a compromising position involving a large cat. Now Mouse must deliver, and he saves Mousegirl by enticing the cat to chase after him instead–to what end, readers will never know. Effective watercolor illustrations manage to depict these rough and raw mice (complete with wiry fur and torn ears) in a funny and appealing way. However, the sharp contrast between the scruffily illustrated figures and their mushy dialogue is where the comedy ends. Many children will be put off by all the sappy proclamations of Mouse's love for his sweetheart, while others will be dissatisfied with the abrupt ending that leaves the hero's fate undetermined. Meanwhile, adults looking for books representing strong female characters will need to look elsewhere as this Mousegirl is completely dependent on her man.–Julie Roach, Watertown Free Public Library, MA
SMALLS, Irene. My Nana and Me. illus. by Cathy Ann Johnson. unpaged. CIP. Little, Brown. Oct. 2005. Tr $15.99. ISBN 0-316-16821-1. LC 2003056318.
PreS-Gr 2–As she did in Jonathan and His Mommy (1992) and Kevin and His Dad (1999, both Little, Brown), Smalls once again focuses on family relationships. In this charming picture book, an African-American girl tells readers about a special day that she shares with her grandmother. From a tea party and pat-a-cake to bath and bedtime, the routine activities will be widely recognized and celebrated for their simple pleasures. The child's voice allows the story to take on the rhythm of poetry. Several lines in particular recall many grandchild/grandparent relationships: "I am the smartest girl in the world/I know because my Nana told me so," and "Nana calls me her baby girl, but I'm/not a baby, I'm big." The affection between the two is reinforced by the golden-hued background and the watercolor illustrations of the smiling pair as they spend time together. The text adds to the playful spirit of the story by dancing across the pages and changing font style to emphasize certain words. A "sweetening" title that should win lots of smiles.–Maura Bresnahan, High Plain Elementary School, Andover, MA
SOCKABASIN, Allen. Thanks to the Animals. illus. by Rebekah Raye. unpaged. CIP. Tilbury House. 2005. Tr $16.95. ISBN 0-88448-270-7. LC 2004029039.
PreS-Gr 2–As the cold weather sets in, Joo Tum and his family dismantle their log house, load their bobsled, and prepare to move north "to their winter home in the deep woods." Squirrels, birds, and rabbits look on benevolently. When all is ready, the family nestles into a heap of sealskin coats and blankets, and they set off. While the other children sleep, baby Zoo Sap falls off the sled and is left behind. His frantic cries soon alert the animals of the forest, who gather around him in a warm, loving nest of fur and feathers. Before long, Joo Tum notices that the baby is missing, and walks all night to retrieve his son. Sockabasin weaves a powerful story of paternal love while simultaneously expressing the mutual respect between his Passamaquoddy culture and the natural world. His spare, straightforward prose calls to mind the gentle rhythm of a well-worn family bedtime story. Raye's luminous watercolor-and-ink paintings evoke the wintry majesty of rural Maine. Facial expressions are captured with warmth and subtlety as the family members experience excitement, fear, relief, and joy. In addition to being a lovely story, Thanks to the Animals gives a fascinating glimpse into a culture not often seen in picture books. An author's note provides further information about the Passamaquoddy tribe, including the names for the animals introduced in the book.–Rachael Vilmar, Atlanta Fulton Public Library, GA
SPALDING, Andrea. Bottled Sunshine. illus. by Ruth Ohi. unpaged. CIP. Fitzhenry & Whiteside. 2005. Tr $16.95. ISBN 1-55041-703-7. LC C2004-906852-0.
Gr 1-3–A sweet look at the love between a grandson and grandmother that endures even after the elder's death. Sam has spent the summer with his grandma at an idyllic waterside setting. When he is sad about leaving, she suggests that they "bottle some sunshine." Although unsure of what Grandma means, Sam readily follows along as they set out on an expedition to the blackberry patch. Blackberry jam, as it turns out, is her recipe for beating away the end-of-summer blues. Upon returning home, the boy places his treasured bottle of jam on a shelf and returns to his routine of school and related activities. It is only when his family receives news of Grandma's death that he opens the jar filled not just with blackberries, but with the wonderful memories of summer and his beloved relative as well. This gentle, heartfelt account is an age-appropriate treatment of loss and death. The soft hues of the illustrations are well matched to the tone of the story, making this a lovely addition for any collection.–Rosalyn Pierini, San Luis Obispo City-County Library, CA
SPURR, Elizabeth, adapt. The Peterkins' Thanksgiving. illus. by Wendy Anderson Halperin. unpaged. CIP. S & S/Atheneum. Oct. 2005. RTE $17.95. ISBN 0-689-84142-6. LC 2003004960.
Gr 2-4–Spurr and Halperin team up again to present this companion to The Peterkins' Christmas (S & S, 2004), both adapted from Lucretia Hale's 19th-century classic, The Peterkin Papers. Here, the silly characters almost miss their Thanksgiving feast. Dressed in their Sunday best, they sit down at the table–upstairs of course–and Mrs. Peterkin rings her china bell, signaling Amanda the cook to send dinner up. Sadly, "the meal was substantially delayed, due to an odd circumstance." The food, it seems, is stuck in the dumbwaiter. Agamemnon, who is "relied upon for answers" because he "had been to college," has a solution. The family must eat downstairs–in the kitchen. Happily, they're not too proud to do so, but, unfortunately, the dumbwaiter still won't budge. After some amusing discussion, they decide they must call a carpenter but, of course, he can't come until later because he is at his relatives' house. All's well in the end, however, and this odd family does get to enjoy a satisfying Thanksgiving repast. This is a fine, entertaining tale, framed with phrases from correspondence written to their friend, the "Dear Lady from Philadelphia." The lighthearted watercolor illustrations have a Victorian flavor that fits nicely with the period-piece mood of the book. Gently amusing, this is a pleasing addition to any holiday collection.–Roxanne Burg, Orange County Public Library, CA
STOWELL, Penelope. The Greatest Potatoes. illus. by Sharon Watts. unpaged. Hyperion/Jump at the Sun. 2005. RTE $15.99. ISBN 0-7868-5113-9. LC number unavailable.
K-Gr 2–In this colorful tale, fry cook George Crum invents the potato chip after a complaining customer, millionaire Cornelius Vanderbilt, sends his plate of french fries back to the kitchen in disgust. According to an author's note, George Crum, descendant of an African-American father and a Native American mother, created this thin, crispy fried potato snack at Moon's Lake House Restaurant in Saratoga Springs, NY. Attractive watercolor illustrations, emphasizing greens and blues and curlicue designs, bring whimsy to the tale. Potato dishes are designed to look like the American flag or the Eiffel Tower, but none pleases the irascible Vanderbilt. An appended potato-chip recipe separates instructions for children from those tasks for adults. This unique offering about a favorite snack food will be a memorable addition for picture-book sections.–Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA
SUEN, Anastasia. Red Light, Green Light. illus. by Ken Wilson-Max. unpaged. CIP. Harcourt/Gulliver. Oct. 2005. RTE $16. ISBN 0-15-202582-0. LC 2004017664.
PreS-K–In this fun and lively presentation, a youngster sets up his toy vehicles and action figures to show busy traffic patterns, a train crossing, tolls, a fire engine responding to a call, and road-condition reports from the helicopter overhead. The flowing text rhymes and has a good pace and rhythm, which makes it an ideal read-aloud for transportation fans. The illustrations are bright and full of detail. Children will have plenty to peruse and will go back again and again to catch everything they missed. The story will definitely spark their imaginations and can also be used to encourage creative play.–Lisa S. Schindler, Bethpage Public Library, NY
TABACK, Simms. Kibitzers and Fools: Tales My Zayda Told Me. illus. by author. unpaged. photos. glossary. Viking. 2005. Tr $16.99. ISBN 0-670-05955-2. LC number unavailable.
Gr 3-6–These 13 tales range in humor from slapstick to ridiculous to poignant. Each story includes a Yiddish word or two followed by a simple translation and ends with a saying, e.g., "Not every thought is worth expressing"; "Everyone has his own craziness." The detail-filled cartoon illustrations include an occasional piece of realism–a tidbit of matzo; a snippet of cloth; little faces cut from photographs, with beards, hats, and rosy cheeks painted on; pieces of patterned paper that form a scarf or trim clothing. The stories take place in the small Jewish villages that existed in Eastern Europe during the late-19th- and early-20th centuries. Mixed-media paintings with predominantly gold backgrounds, type that looks hand printed, and a riot of color and pattern on each expertly designed page offer strong visual appeal. A glossary of Yiddish words is included. Some of the humor is a bit sophisticated, especially for those who have no background to which they can relate the stories. Libraries in synagogues and Jewish secular schools will want to purchase this collection, as will public libraries in areas where there is interest in Jewish literature.–Susan Scheps, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH
TERWILLIGER, Kelly. Bubbe Isabella and the Sukkot Cake. illus. by Phyllis Hornung. unpaged. CIP. Lerner/Kar-Ben. 2005. PLB $15.95. ISBN 1-58013-187-5; pap. $6.95. ISBN 1-58013-128-X. LC 2004013502.
PreS-Gr 2–One Sukkot, Bubbe Isabella builds a sukkah and decorates it with leaves and branches, colored cloth, apples, grapes, corn, and pumpkins. Each night she wishes for someone to sit with her and share her freshly baked lemon cake. However, the only guests she receives are a caterpillar, a moth, a squirrel, a raccoon, a deer, and a bear that accidentally smashes the cake. They all enjoy munching on different parts of the sukkah and spending the evening together. Just as she is about to disassemble it, a boy asks for her colored cloth to make a flag for the Simchat Torah holiday procession. Bubbe Isabella is happy to finally be able to share her sukkah with someone else. With pleasant, animated illustrations, this unique story connects two Jewish holidays. The simple text reads well aloud, but readers may be disappointed that the words to Bubbe Isabella's welcome song, which she sings each evening to attract visitors, are not included. A brief note explaining the two holidays is included.–Rachel Kamin, Temple Israel Libraries & Media Center, West Bloomfield, MI
TYLER, Anne. Timothy Tugbottom Says No! illus. by Mitra Modarressi. unpaged. CIP. Putnam. 2005. RTE $15.99. ISBN 0-399-24255-4. LC 2004028094.
PreS-K–Preschooler Timothy Tugbottom enjoys his daily routine and is reluctant to try anything new. His pregnant mother tempts him with a pair of pants with many pockets, a delicious blueberry muffin instead of his usual cereal, and a book about dinosaurs from his grandmother. To each suggestion, Timothy utters a resounding "No." He does not want to go to Polly Peartree's party or to sleep in his new big-boy bed. He tells his father, "I don't like DIFFERENT." However, after spending a restless night in the crib that he has outgrown, the child suddenly changes his tune. He wears his new pants, enjoys a couple of bites of the muffin at breakfast, has a great time at Bobby Bagel's party, and settles down to sleep in his new bed, which is "very, very comfortable." The genuine, straightforward story, which is told from the youngster's point of view, is accompanied by expressive watercolors in muted pastel shades. The pictures are filled with homey details that artfully create a portrait of the boy's loving family life and reflect the warm, positive tone of the story. Young readers will identify with Timothy and may also enjoy Tumble Tower (Scholastic, 1993), another successful collaboration from this team.–Linda L. Walkins, Mount Saint Joseph Academy, Brighton, MA
VANDE VELDE, Vivian. Three Good Deeds. 147p. CIP. Harcourt. Oct. 2005. Tr $16. ISBN 0-15-205382-4. LC 2004029578.
Gr 3-5–When Howard tries to steal the eggs that were just laid near Goose Pond, he is caught by the old woman who protects them. She is rumored to be a witch, but Howard has no reason to believe this is true until she turns him into a goose in order to teach him a lesson. The only way in which he can reverse the curse is to perform three good deeds, which is much harder than he first suspects. Vande Velde uses her usual subtle humor to show what it might be like to be a boy stuck in a goose's body. Kids will get a kick out of seeing how Howard goes about getting his deeds accomplished; nothing happens the way he thinks it will. This is a good naughty-boy-makes-good book for reluctant or easy-chapter-book readers. It's clear, uncomplicated, and entertaining, and Vande Velde manages to offer a message without being too pedantic.–Carly B. Wiskoff, Great Neck Library, NY
WALLACE, Nancy Elizabeth. Alphabet House. illus. by author. unpaged. CIP. Marshall Cavendish. 2005. RTE $16.95. ISBN 0-7614-5192-7. LC 2004025737.
PreS-Gr 2–Children can open this book to any page and find a catalog of objects beginning with a given letter to identify. The rabbit family that lives in the Alphabet House is also introduced. With no plot or text, the book would be welcomed for preschoolers, who could connect the objects in each room with the letter, as well as older children who will enjoy the "I Spy" aspect of it. An answer key is included. Wallace's cut-paper illustrations are sharp against the primary-color backgrounds. Endpapers show the complete alphabet in primary-color blocks (although the objects interspersed out of alphabetical order may confuse children). A cheerful concept book for youngsters who are beginning to learn the alphabet and colors.–Susan E. Murray, Glendale Public Library, AZ
WALSH, Ellen Stoll. Hamsters to the Rescue. illus. by author. unpaged. CIP. Harcourt. 2005. RTE $16. ISBN 0-15-205202-X. LC 2004021027.
PreS-Gr 1–This tale lacks the simplicity and tight plotting that have made Walsh's previous books so successful. Pell and Henry find a seagull feather and decide to return it. Their trip to find the owner leads them along the seashore where they have a series of short adventures and meet some seaside dwellers. Finally, they reach the bird, who thanks them for the return of his now-broken feather and gives them plumes of their own. After playing with them, they decide to find their way home. The meandering plot, while extremely childlike, lacks momentum, some of the phrasing is awkward, and the ending is abrupt. The final page includes a picture of shells and the question: "Can you find these shells in Henry and Pell's story?," implying a search-and-find game, which may be the only motivation for repeated readings. Walsh's appealing hamsters and the backgrounds in her signature cut-paper collages are easy on the eye, yet curiously static. The bright colors, interesting textures, and speckled rocks are pleasing to look at, and readers will learn about seaside animals along the way. Unfortunately, the story feels overburdened and is less than satisfying.–Amy Lilien-Harper, The Ferguson Library, Stamford, CT
WELLS, Rosemary. Yoko's World of Kindness: Golden Rules for a Happy Classroom. illus. by John Nez & Jody Wheeler. 154p. Hyperion. 2005. RTE $19.99. ISBN 0-7868-5109-0. LC number unavailable.
PreS-Gr 2–Wells presents an anthology of six stories first published as individual volumes, starring Yoko, the Frank twins, Timothy, Noisy Nora, and their unflappable teacher, Mrs. Jenkins. Each chapter aims to teach a new rule to promote classroom harmony. "Mama, Don't Go!" addresses Yoko's separation anxiety. "Doris's Dinosaur" and "Make New Friends" offer encouragement to children who follow a different drummer. "Bubble-Gum Radar" tackles teasing, and "The Secret Birthday" speaks to gossiping. "The School Play" teaches ingenuity in the face of disappointment. While some of the stories are stronger than others, all of the lessons are gently told in lighthearted prose. Wells's signature watercolors, produced by John Nez and Jody Wheeler in the interior pages, illustrate the beginning-reader text. The selections are nearly identical to the originals, except for a slightly larger format and the axiom at the head of each story. Unfortunately, most of the principles feel contrived to fit the stories into the context of the collection. Others are written in such a way as to make them unclear and difficult for the intended audience, such as "Teasing hurts like hitting. It always goes under the guise of joking." Libraries that have the original editions need not purchase this repackaged version. Those who missed them the first time around may want to acquire this title for the sake of convenience.–Rachel G. Payne, Brooklyn Public Library, NY
WENINGER, Brigitte. Double Birthday. ISBN 0-698-40015-1.
––––. "It Was Me, Mom!" ISBN 0-698-40014-3.
ea vol: tr. from German by Charise Myngheer. illus. by Stephanie Roehe. unpaged. (Miko Series). Minedition. 2005. Tr $10.99. LC number unavailable.
PreS-K–In the first book, a little mouse and his toy friend are celebrating their birthdays. Miko receives many gifts and wants to share with Mimiki. However, a stuffed animal cannot play with any of the gifts (blocks, book, cassette player, remote-controlled car) so Miko decides they can use them together instead. The charming, exuberant single-page and full-spread illustrations accent the tale with aplomb. In "It Was Me, Mom!" Miko knows he isn't supposed to play ball in the house, but he and Mimiki do it anyway, and accidentally break Mom's favorite vase. They hide the broken pieces and clean up the mess, and ponder over what to tell his mother. When she finally comes home, Miko has Mimiki "tell" her what happened. Mother then talks to Miko and forgives him, and they glue the vase and it becomes a candy dish. The warm watercolor illustrations give a soft feel to the text. While not essential purchases, these serviceable titles might find an audience.–DeAnn Tabuchi, San Anselmo Public Library, CA
WESTON, Anne. My Brother Needs a Boa. illus. by Cheryl Nathan. unpaged. CIP. Star Bright. 2005. Tr $15.95. ISBN 1-932065-96-5. LC 2004029604.
Gr 2-4–Benito owns a small shop in a tiny rainforest village. When a customer discovers that a rat has been gnawing at the chunks of brown sugar carefully wrapped in corn shucks, she runs shrieking from the store. Soon, the other shoppers stay away. Worried, Benito tries unsuccessfully to catch the rat. His sister tells him that he needs the services of a boa and, when word gets out, neighbors arrive with potential rodent-chasers. One snake is too small and another is too big. When Benito is about to despair of ever finding the right snake, one shows up on its own and chases the pest away. The story is based on the author's experience in a rainforest preserve in Costa Rica, and subtle cultural detail makes the tale interesting and fresh. The exotic setting is brought to life by Nathan's brightly textured cut-paper illustrations. Her style is reminiscent of Eric Carle's and is both accessible and expressive. Unfortunately, the type looks dull compared to the lively art and the text seems to have been stuck on the page wherever it would fit. In a few places, it is printed on top of the picture and is a little hard to read. Despite these shortcomings, this is an amusing peek into rainforest culture.–Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT
WOOD, Douglas. The Secret of Saying Thanks. illus. by Greg Shed. unpaged. S & S. Oct. 2005. RTE $16.95. ISBN 0-689-85410-2. LC number unavailable.
K-Gr 3–A quiet, reflective piece on the importance of a grateful attitude. With a light hand, Wood shares the idea that there is "a secret [in life], one of the happiest ones of all." Readers may discover it as the sun welcomes a new day, or maybe it will come when they really notice a flower and its fragrance for the first time. Maybe just some cool shade on a hot day or hearing a bird sing will lead them to say, "Thank you." There is much to be grateful for: the stars, the moon aglow at night, lakes and rivers, ponds or puddles, family and people we love. Each spread is a reminder of the wonders around us. "The heart that gives thanks is a happy one….We don't give thanks because we're happy. We are happy because we give thanks." This is a pleasing story for times of contemplation. It is not heavy-handed or preachy, and should appeal across cultures or religions. While it has a definite spiritual tone, it does not promote a singular point of view. Shed's oil illustrations of a young girl and her golden retriever noticing the world around them appear as though they are being viewed through a gauzy shade. The effect plays well with the peaceful nature of the text. This title could be used anywhere books with "values" lessons are in demand.–Roxanne Burg, Orange County Public Library, CA
YEE, Wong Herbert. Upstairs Mouse, Downstairs Mole. illus. by author. unpaged. CIP. Houghton. 2005. RTE $15. ISBN 0-618-47313-0. LC 2004005238.
K-Gr 3–Aptly dedicated to "Friends of Frog and Toad," this delightful beginning reader introduces two endearing neighbors. In the first chapter, Mouse inadvertently sends all her dirt cascading onto Mole's pristine floor when she sweeps. When he confronts her, they learn that with a bit of ingenuity and cooperation, they can clean both floors and still have time to plant a garden. In "The Invitations," the new friends attempt to share a meal, but their innate differences–Mole likes his house damp and dark and eats worms, Mouse likes the warm sun and prefers cheese–make it impossible. Next, the animals find clever ways to reconcile their dissimilarities: Mole presents Mouse with some candles to use when she visits, and she gives him a pair of sunglasses. In the final entry, Mole surprises Mouse with a rowboat. Although it's missing an oar, they manage to have fun. The next day, Mouse has a surprise of her own–a new paddle to make "A pair…like you and me!" The expressive bamboo-pen and watercolor with colored-pencil illustrations capture the humor of the situations as well as the emotions of the characters. With its controlled vocabulary, repetition, and humor, this tale of friendship also introduces opposites, homophones, and letter writing. A real winner.–Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools
ZIEFERT, Harriet. Circus Parade. illus. by Tanya Roitman. unpaged. Blue Apple. 2005. Tr $15.95. ISBN 1-59354-088-4. LC number unavailable.
PreS-Gr 2–This parade produces such strong rhythm and rhyme that it clamors to be read aloud. Leading off is, "A rat-a-tat-tat, a rum-a-tee-tum…/Sounds the beat of the first snare drum./A dancing dog from Kalamazoo/Shows the crowd what he can do." Next to pass by are a clown, elephant, horses, majorettes, acrobats, and more, with a tight ending summarizing all of the participants. Roitman's exuberant cartoons capture all of the fun as characters march through the colorful town set off against a black-road backdrop. The bold spreads make this a winning choice for group or individual sharing. Pair it with Donald Crews's Parade (HarperCollins, 1986) or Sarah Weeks's Paper Parade (S & S, 2004) for a lively storytime.–Laura Scott, Farmington Community Library, MI
Nonfiction
ADAMS, Michelle Medlock. Brandi Chastain. ISBN 1-58415-390-3. LC 2005004250.
MURCIA, Rebecca Thatcher. David Beckham. ISBN 1-58415-384-9. LC 2004024611.
––––. Freddy Adu. ISBN 1-58415-385-7. LC 2004024612.
––––. Landon Donovan. ISBN 1-58415-386-5. LC 2004030740.
ea vol: 32p. (A Robbie Reader. No Hands Allowed Series). photos. bibliog. chron. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Mitchell Lane. 2005. PLB $16.95.
Gr 2-4–These slim biographies cover the childhoods and early fame of these young soccer stars. All have a large, bold font and mostly short declarative sentences and contain a multitude of colorful action photographs. However, all too often the captions include the word "here" as in "here she celebrates…" or "here he holds…," which makes the texts stiff and redundant. The lists of further reading cite recent, age-appropriate magazine articles. The chronology in Chastain differs from the text, which may confuse readers. In Donovan, the author mentions that when the athlete scored a goal, he would "do something crazy," but the author neglects to elucidate any further. While reluctant readers will find these titles appealing, their flaws render them serviceable at best. A note in each book states that it has not been authorized or endorsed by the biographee.–Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA
ADAMSON, Thomas K. Tsunamis. 24p. (Bridgestone Bks). diags. illus. map. photos. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Capstone/Bridgestone. 2005. PLB $21.26. ISBN 0-7368-5248-4. LC 2005001640.
Gr 2-4–Adamson explains how tsunamis are caused and how they move through the ocean and grow in height as they approach the shore. He describes the damage they cause, the kinds of warning systems used to detect them, and the impact of the 2004 Indian Ocean disaster. The writing is concise but clear, and the layout features a full-page illustration facing each page of easy-to-read text. Excellent photos of the 2004 tsunami are featured, and the diagrams of the earth's plates and earthquakes are simple but informative. An effective and attractive introduction.–Jeffrey A. French, Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH
ALI, Rasheda. I'll Hold Your Hand So You Won't Fall: A Child's Guide to Parkinson's Disease. 40p. with CD. illus. photos. Merit. 2005. Tr $19.95. ISBN 1-873413-13-0. LC number unavailable.
Gr 2-4–Ali's father, Muhammad Ali, suffers from Parkinson's disease, and she answers questions children may have about the illness. She demystifies some of the more obvious symptoms, like shaking, trouble walking, and slurred speech, and also explains more puzzling or unseen symptoms such as sleep disorders, depression, and "masked face," in which the patient cannot display expressions. The text is well written and basic, without being oversimplified, and the layout is clever. Each verso includes large-print type for children, advice for adults for speaking with their child, and related facts. It faces a full-color photo with colored-pencil enhancements that complements the comfortable nature of the writing. Terms are explained as they appear in the text. A short CD-ROM of the author introducing the book and its contents is included. An excellent overview written in an approachable style that will be reassuring to young readers.–Christine A. Moesch, City of Tonawanda Public Library, NY
BARBE, Walter B., sel. A School Year of Poems: 180 Favorites from Highlights. illus. by Dennis Hockerman. 116p. CIP. Boyds Mills. 2005. RTE $17.95. ISBN 1-59078-313-1; pap. $11.95. ISBN 1-59078-395-6. LC number unavailable.
K-Gr 3–Recalling earlier times when memorizing poems was a given in school, Barbe groups these selections into nine predictable categories (animals, weather, holidays, etc.). Each selection is short, upbeat, rhymed, and easy to read. Marguerite Hamilton's "My Dog" is representative: "My dog is lots of company/When I am all alone,/But he is too much company/When I have an ice-cream cone." A chart at the beginning of the book, "Suggestions for Teachers," lists page numbers for themes and exercises, such as "Recognizing rhyming words" and "Recalling the main idea." Although Barbe explores the many ways in which poetry can be used as a teaching tool to reinforce reading skills, he stresses that "poetry…is, above all, meant to be enjoyed." Each selection is illustrated with well-executed black-and-white line drawings that give the book a nostalgic look. The poems and illustrations together reflect a safe, sunny, and somewhat old-fashioned world of childhood that will appeal to many.–Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI
CASTELAIN, Céline & Aurélien Liutkus. Asha: A Child of the Himalayas. photos. ISBN 1-4103-0286-5. LC 2005000695.
GIRAUD, Hervé. Basha: A Hmong Child. photos. by Jean-Charles Rey. ISBN 1-4103-0547-3. LC 2005000698.
––––. Kradji: A Child of Cambodia. photos. by Jean-Charles Rey. ISBN 1-4103-0548-1. LC 2005000700.
ea vol: 24p. (Children of the World Series). map. CIP. Gale/Blackbirch. 2005. PLB $21.20.
K-Gr 3–These attractive titles have immediate "pick-me-up" appeal. The covers feature a full-color photo of a child from the featured country. Inside, readers find a political map of the world with the area in focus outlined and a few basic facts about it. The books function like photo albums with good-quality, well-captioned color photographs being the most prominent feature of each spread. The brief accompanying texts offer information about the child's home life and culture. While these volumes would not be useful for reports, they're excellent for browsing.–Be Astengo, Alachua County Library, Gainesville, FL
CLEARY, Brian P. The Mission of Addition. illus. by Brian Gable. unpaged. (Math Is CATegorical Series). CIP. Millbrook. 2005. PLB $15.95. ISBN 1-57505-859-6. LC 2004031105.
K-Gr 2–The team behind the "Words Are CATegorical" series (Carolrhoda) offers the first in a series about math. Through playful rhymes, the book explains basic concepts such as, "No amount gets smaller when you're working in addition. The numbers climb from low to high 'cause that's addition's mission!" Children count bubbles, rings, school buses, baseballs, baby-sitters, eggs, and musicians in this fun introduction, which also covers terms that are indicative of the operation: "'Equals' can be used like 'is,' or 'totals,' even 'makes.' It doesn't matter if you're adding friends or birthday cakes." Silly cartoons of the catlike cast in flat colors are outlined in black ink. It is sometimes difficult to count the objects such as bubbles, which float individually in the air as well as fill the tub in a solid mass. While 10 baby-sitters are introduced in one segment, they are sometimes difficult to differentiate from their charges and are never pictured together for youngsters to count. The final spread challenges readers to solve five simple addition problems, only two of which include tangible objects to count. Without memorizing number facts, it may be difficult to make the jump from "three eggs plus two eggs equal five eggs" to "6+5=?" Furthermore, the small size of the book makes it difficult for group sharing. All in all, an additional purchase.–Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools
CREECH, Sharon. Who's That Baby?: New-Baby Songs. illus. by David Diaz. unpaged. CIP. HarperCollins/Joanna Cotler Bks. 2005. Tr $15.99. ISBN 0-06-052939-2; PLB $16.89. ISBN 0-06-052940-7. LC 2003012613.
PreS–In 16 "songs," Creech celebrates a newborn's world from the infant's point of view. For example, in "Football Baby": "My daddy thinks/I am a football./I think that/he is mistaken./I hope that/someone will tell him/that I am a baby./his little sweet baby./…I am not/a little pigskin." Other selections tell of looking "like a stuffed banana," of "gazing at pictures of me me me!" and of "Blurping milk/on Mommy's clothes/and Daddy's clothes." "Pearly Girl" and "Joy Boy" are charming displays of self-confidence. As songs, the words do not really scan or rhyme, especially without actual music to move the rhythm along. Despite this, the imagery is lovely and babylike. However, the humor and sensibilities are clearly geared to new parents. With warm, muted earth tones and intriguing patterns, Diaz's gorgeous illustrations perfectly capture the love surrounding these infants.–Bina Williams, Bridgeport Public Library, CT
EDWARDS, Pamela Duncan. The Bus Ride That Changed History: The Story of Rosa Parks. illus. by Danny Shanahan. unpaged. chron. CIP. Houghton. 2005. RTE $16. ISBN 0-618-44911-6. LC 2004009207.
Gr 2-4–Published 50 years after Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus in Montgomery, AL, this book retraces the segregation laws and the events surrounding the early stages of the Civil Rights movement. This historical account, illustrated with pen-and-ink and watercolor artwork, has a new twist as it is interspersed with modern-day cartoon characters guiding readers through the events and posing questions via dialogue-balloon conversations. Each new page builds from the previous one in the cumulative fashion similar to "This Is the House That Jack Built." If used as a read-aloud, listeners will want to join in on the refrain, "which was overturned because one woman was brave." This is an excellent tribute to Parks and to her role in history, told in a child-friendly style.–Tracy Bell, Eastway Elementary School, Durham, NC
EGIELSKI, Richard. Saint Francis and the Wolf. illus. by author. unpaged. HarperCollins/A Laura Geringer Bk. Oct. 2005. Tr $15.99. ISBN 0-06-623870-6; PLB $16.89. ISBN 0-06-623871-4. LC number unavailable.
Gr 1-3–A simple retelling of a familiar legend. A wolf is terrorizing the Italian town of Gubbio. Knights, armies, and a threatening-looking "war machine" have all failed to put a stop to his terrible behavior. Only St. Francis, who can speak the wolf's language, is able to find a workable compromise for the creature and the town. The expressive cartoon art is done in Egielski's characteristic style and is full of child appeal. The warm bright colors of the townspeople's garb mixed with Francis's earth tones create a visually pleasing design; touches of humor (such as the wolf picking its teeth with a knight's spear) keep the tone light even when the story mentions frightening topics. Egielski summarizes St. Francis's life in a couple of paragraphs, concentrating primarily on his ability to communicate with animals and his message that "every man, woman, and child should love all God's creatures that walk on the earth, fly in the sky, and swim in the sea." Because of this, the book is appropriate for children of all faiths. For more information about the saint, consult Brian Wildsmith's longer Saint Francis (Eerdmans, 1996).–Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond, VA
FOREST, Heather, retel. Feathers: A Jewish Tale from Eastern Europe. illus. by Marcía Cutchín. unpaged. CIP. August House/LittleFolk. Oct. 2005. RTE $16.95. ISBN 0-87483-755-3. LC 2005041115.
Gr 2-5–This retelling of an 18th-century tale attributed to Rabbi Levi Yitzhak of Berdichev explores the cruel and uncontrollable nature of gossip. The book opens with a poem. Appearing before a wise rabbi, a woman who has damaged the reputation of another insincerely vows to make amends: "'I will take back my words….'" The rabbi, fearing that she has not learned her lesson, instructs her to gather all the feathers released into the wind from a feather pillow. Forest's retelling is simple and elegant, using some dialogue and spare descriptions. Cutchín's bright watercolor illustrations fill in the Eastern European setting well, using varying and fresh perspectives. Brightly colored feathers play prominently across the pages. The artist's style is rich in detail, but her people appear somewhat wooden. Still, this is an entertaining tale, ably retold, with a timeless lesson.–Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI
GIOANNI, Alain. Arafat: A Child of Tunisia. photos. by author. ISBN 1-4103-0289-X. LC 2005000694.
GIRAUD, Hervé. Leila: A Tuareg Child. photos. by Jean-Charles Rey. ISBN 1-4103-0545-7. LC 2005000702.
NICOLOTTI, Muriel. Kuntai: A Masai Child. photos. ISBN 1-4103-0290-3. LC 2005000701.
ea vol: 24p. (Children of the World Series). map. CIP. Gale/Blackbirch. 2005. PLB $21.20.
K-Gr 3–Tunisia is seen through the eyes of a boy who lives in a modern city, attends school, and helps out at his family's bookstore. However, this title loses its focus on Arafat when it switches to the Sahara Desert and the Bedouins' lifestyle. It ends abruptly, explaining that "Many tourists come to explore the desert. They travel either on camelback or in an SUV." In Leila, readers follow a youngster in a nomadic Berber tribe as the people break camp and move to search for new pastures and water. Kuntai introduces the life of a child who lives on a wildlife reserve in Kenya. It shows children taking care of the smaller animals and explains that the elders teach them the history of their people. Clear, crisp photographs enhance the information in all three texts. Although this series does not provide much detail, it does offer limited introductions to these cultures.–Margaret R. Tassia, Millersville University, PA
GIOANNI, Alain. Thanassis: A Child of Greece. ISBN 1-4103-0284-9. LC 2005000704.
ITUKO: AN INUIT CHILD. ISBN 1-4103-0282-2. LC number unavailable.
REY, Jean-Charles. Avinesh: A Child of the Ganges. ISBN 1-4103-0287-3. LC 2005000696.
ea vol: 24p. (Children of the World Series). map. photos. CIP. Gale/Blackbirch. 2005. PLB $21.20.
K-Gr 3–These extremely simple books purport to use a child as their focus but really don't do so. The featured youngster is barely mentioned and rarely pictured. The information is spotty and sometimes too advanced for the format, and difficult words are not defined. (Do children really need to know that the Inuits' major problem is alcoholism, which is explained in the last sentence in the book?) There are also several errors in Thanassis. Greece no longer uses drachmas as it has been in the EU and using euros as its currency for quite a while, and the assertion that it was the birthplace of mythology excludes consideration of the Egyptian myths. Each book has a detailed table of contents and a good map of the world that shows the location of the country highlighted, but there is no large map of the area itself pointing out where the child lives, and there is no pronunciation guide. The photos are numerous but small and in a couple of cases not keyed to the text. There are many series on countries available, and several for this age group.–Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA
HALL, M. C. Ben Cohen: The Founder of Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream. ISBN 1-4034-6349-2. LC 2004021935.
––––. William Wrigley, Jr: The Founder of Wrigley's Gum. ISBN 1-4034-6347-6. LC 2004021938.
VICKERS, Rebecca. Asa Candler: The Founder of Coca-Cola. ISBN 1-4034-6343-3. LC 2004021939.
ea vol: 32p. (Lives and Times Series). photos. reprods. chron. further reading. glossary. index. CIP. Heinemann Library. 2005. PLB $24.21.
Gr 1-2–Each title covers the life of a person who was successful in starting a business. Cohen founded Ben & Jerry's with his friend Jerry Greenfield. The story of the company's growth includes interesting and colorful photographs. Although most of them appropriately depict the text, a few do not or seem irrelevant. A picture of hands working on a clay pot is accompanied by text explaining that Cohen enjoyed making clay pots. Are the hands in the photo his? William Wrigley, Jr. began his business career by selling soap and gave free baking powder away as a promotion. A photo shows a woman holding a can of baking powder and is labeled, "William started selling baking powder." Cander sold furs as a young boy. A photograph of pelts hanging outside a store faces a page showing the subject when he was very young. How did such a young person obtain and sell fur pelts? All three texts present interesting information about these business pioneers, but the lack of clarity makes them of limited use.–Rebecca Sheridan, Easttown Library & Information Center, Berwyn, PA
HANSEN, Rosanna. Panda: A Guide Horse for Ann. photos. by Neil Soderstrom. 48p. further reading. index. Web sites. CIP. Boyds Mills. Oct. 2005. RTE $19.95. ISBN 1-59078-184-8. LC number unavailable.
Gr 3-5–Everyone knows about guide dogs for the blind. But guide horses? Panda is a miniature horse, one of the first to be trained to help Ann Edie, a blind woman. Readers are introduced to Panda and Ann and taken through their day together. While the woman teaches at a high school, Panda stays nearby. She accompanies Ann to the grocery store, and on a picnic. She's truly part of the family. The audience learns how the horse was trained and how she came into Ann's life after her beloved guide dog succumbed to old age. Cuddles, the first full-time trained guide horse, gets a mention. The topic is fresh and interesting. The writing is inviting and clear; the pictures are heart-warming. Abundant photographs are large and colorful. Panda is shown ringing her bell to be let out for a bathroom break. She's also shown picking up dropped keys, helping Ann cross a busy street, etc. She is competent and adorable. Cuddles is even shown wearing sneakers to protect her hooves. There is little else available on this new topic. A pleasant, upbeat introduction to a current subject.–Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI
HARNICK, Sheldon. Sunrise, Sunset. music by Jerry Bock. illus. by Ian Schoenherr. unpaged. score. CIP. HarperCollins. Oct. 2005. Tr $15.99. ISBN 0-06-051525-2; PLB $16.89. ISBN 0-06-051527-9. LC 2004019104.
PreS-Gr 2–Schoenherr's stunning artwork done in colored pencil, ink, and acrylic beautifully illustrates this song from Fiddler on the Roof. Jewish life in the shtetls of Eastern Europe is portrayed through the story of Tzeitel, Tevye's oldest daughter, as she grows up, falls in love, marries the tailor, and has a child of her own. The lyrics appear in large font on each page and the musical score is appended. However, with no introduction, background note, or explanatory text, only readers well-versed in the plot of the musical and familiar with the song will understand, appreciate, and enjoy this magnificently illustrated book.–Rachel Kamin, Temple Israel Libraries & Media Center, West Bloomfield, MI
HARRISON, David L. Mountains: The Tops of the World. illus. by Cheryl Nathan. unpaged. (Earthworks Series). further reading. CIP. Boyds Mills. Oct. 2005. RTE $15.95. ISBN 1-59078-326-3. LC 2004029067.
Gr 1-3–Beginning with the question of how a fish can wind up on a mountaintop, this picture book explores such concepts as sedimentation, plate tectonics, and the changing face of the planet. Lush, full-color artwork lends a fantasy aspect to serious scientific information. However, some of the concepts may be too difficult to understand without adult explanations. "Some plates collide, and one is forced under the other. The bottom edge slides into the mantle, where it melts and is called magma." Although accompanied by labeled illustrations, this is still a highly difficult idea for children to conceptualize. With help, their interest may be piqued enough for them to ask questions.–Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY
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