Children's Book Reviews

Wild Horse Creek: The Mystery Stallion (Ages 9-12)

2009-07-06T14:39:00.000-07:00

* * * Wild Horse Creek: The Mystery Stallion
Author: Sharon Siamon
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Walrus Books (September 12, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1552859339
ISBN-13: 978-1552859339

Book description: Join Sophie and Liv in the explosive kick-off to the new Wild Horse Creek series.

When 13-year-old twins Sophie and Liv spend their spring break vacation with their grandparents in Arizona, they discover that the ranch in the Sonoran Desert is full of surprises. Both girls love horses, and they're thrilled to meet their grandparents' herd of Spanish Barbs who roam freely on the 3,000-acre ranch. Soon, however, the girls encounter more adventure than they bargained for.

When their grandfather's stallion is badly injured and the rest of his herd disappears, the twins try to find the missing horses and get to the bottom of the mystery. Along the way, the girls encounter rattlesnakes, good-looking cowhands and an interesting cast of characters who work at the ritzy local spa. Throughout their adventure, the twins come to terms with the fact that they are separate individuals with different paths to follow.

About the Wild Horse Creek series:

When horses are at the heart of a series, it's pretty much guaranteed that every book will also feature fun, adventure and friendship. This series follows twins Sophie and Liv adventures on their grandfather's ranch.

Book review: Sharon Siamon wastes no time drawing the reader right in to Liv And Sophie's world. A fast-paced, gripping read I couldn't put down. Horse lovers, tweens and teens will love this one and want more...and as a mother of twins, I have a special appreciation for Liv and Sophie's relationship and growing autonomy. Well done. Siamon really knows her audience.

Penny & Rio: The Locked doghouse Mystery (Ages 9-12)

2009-07-06T14:18:00.000-07:00

* * * Penny & Rio: The Locked Doghouse Mystery
Author: Jennifer Swanson
Illustrators: Rosita Schandy & Neal Wooten
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 44 pages
Publisher: Mirror Publishing (August 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1-936046-10-2

Book description: The crime-fighting dog duo of Penny and rio are on the case again. Squeaky, the mouse, needs Penny's help to get his prescious belongings from a locked doghouse. But how can a couple of dogs and a mouse open a metal lock? With the help of Hobbes, a massive Great Dane, Penny and Rio work to solve this mystery. But can they get Squeaky's valuables out before the doghouse is destroyed?

Book review: I hope the autor doesn't mind that I doctored up a book cover and quoted from the back cover. I just know readers who loved the first Penny & Rio mystery are going to want to read the next!

Penny drags Rio into solving the latest mystery and once again they steal the reader's heart with their charm and personality. Funning, endearing and engaging, I would encourage your early readers (1st and 2nd grade) to try reading this with your help. How can you not get hooked on reading with Penny & Rio? I just can't get enough of Penny & Rio!

This book is due out in August - be sure to check Amazon.com or visit www.pagesofwonder.com.

Penny & Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting (Ages 9-12)

2009-07-06T13:53:00.000-07:00

* * * Penny & Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting
Author: Jennifer Swanson
Illustrators: Rosita Schandy & Neal Wooten
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 44 pages
Publisher: Mirror Publishing (December 16, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982256019
ISBN-13: 978-0982256015

Book description: Penny and Rio are two dogs who are complete opposites. Penny is curious and always on the go, while Rio prefers a good nap. At their new house, Penny discovers that their backyard is the meeting place for several different animals. Penny doesn't know why a cat, a groundhog, a squirrel, and an owl could possibly be meeting, but she knows she has to find out. She comes up with an ingenious plan for spying on them and discovers their plot. She has to stop them - but can she get her sister dog, Rio, to help her or will Rio decide that sleep is more important? Follow along as these two pet detectives, Penny and Rio solve the first of many cases in Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting.

Book review: Lol! This is a great book. Penny steals the show and Rio is the winning 'straight man.' Not just a book about dogs with human characteristics - not at all. You can honestly tell these two dogs (real characters at that) really did behave this way and the story hooks you right in with both dogs' unique characterizations. We are a pet family here and I know my son is going to love, love, love this because our pets have such endearing personalities, too. We can relate! Great job.

This book is geared for readers aged 9-12, but younger listeners will love having Penny & Rio's adventures read to them as well.

Too Too many Tutus (Ages 4 - 8)

2009-07-06T11:07:00.001-07:00

* * * Too Too Many tutus
Author: Suzanne Davis Marion
Illustrator: Marj Hales
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: BookSurge Publishing (February 24, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1439218471
ISBN-13: 978-1439218471

Book description: Christina has a problem. Her ballet class is coming up, and she must decide which one of her many tutus to wear. She lays them all carefully on her bed to help her decide. The decision is difficult, because the colors are each so vibrant and lovely. She imagines herself inspired to dance in a unique and special way in each tutu, with each color evoking its own particular imagery. In her blue tutu she could dance by the sea, with the birds and fishes joining in. In her green tutu she could do a forest dance among the trees, and in the meadows. Her orange tutu creates images of a joyous dance in the firelight at sunset. There are other colors too, each suggesting its own special mood. At last she receives some wise counsel in solving her dilemma, and helping her to make the correct choice.

Book review: Wonderful! Colorful, vibrant and imaginative. Your young reader (daughter, most definitely) will love the many colors and feelings the story evokes as she imagines with Christina what it would be like to wear each tutu. I loved the watercolor illustrations. The story and pictures are a great marriage for this book. Loved it.

Famous figures of Ancient Times (Ages 6-10, 9-12)

2009-07-06T10:55:00.001-07:00

* * * Famous Figures of Ancient Times
Author: Cathy Diez-Luckie
Paperback: 96 pages
Publisher: Figures In Motion; First Edition edition (April 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0981856608
ISBN-13: 978-0981856605

Book description: Make Your Own Action Figures From Ancient History! Make history come alive in Ancient Egypt, Greece, China, Rome, and Jerusalem! Cut-and-color or pre-coloered action figures really move ans you play out the lives of Julius Caesar, Alexander the Great, King David, Jesus, Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi, Hannibal (and his elephant!) and other - or make up your own stories about these powerful men whose fame has lasted for thousands of years. Yes, they really move! Move their arms and legs, use their swords and shields, and act out their stories at home or at school - over and over again. History has never been so much fun! Emperors! Conquerors! Philosophers! These 20 people shaped history - and our world today. Yes, you can also read about their amazing lives, right in this book. Attention Teachers and Parents: use this book to reinforce the wonder of history and to support any ancient history curriculum through hands-on activities. Note: Your child will need a hole punch and inexpensive fasteners (available at stationary or craft stores-please see resources page).

Book review: What an awesome hands on approach to ancient history! Definitely worth purchasing for your homeschool library because you can make history lessons come alive through the use of 'paper dolls.' Helps kids visualize and relate to history. High quality cut-outs in color or in black and white for coloring. Note: No photocopying of these images is allowed as that is a breach of copyright.

Houdini's Gift (Ages 6-10, 9-12)

2009-06-23T15:00:00.000-07:00

* * Houdini's Gift
Author: Jeanne Gehret, M.A.
Illustrator: Michael LaDuca
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Verbal Images Press (September 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982198221
ISBN-13: 978-0982198223

Book description: Revisiting well-loved characters from a past adventure, this picture book presents animal-loving Ben with the challenge of having another pet after losing his pet hamster. Knowing that Ben is not ready to care for a new pet, his parents help him develop responsibility and readiness by using a reward chart. Young readers will enjoy sharing the secret that Mom keeps from Ben through the whole process of selecting and preparing for the new pet. The advice within the story shows how families living with ADHD or learning disabilities will gain solace by fine-tuning desired behaviors through setting and pursuing goals.

Book review: A great companion to Eagle Eyes. Having a character that the ADHD child can relate to and look up to is wonderful. Having a series of books with the same character is even better! Jeanne Gehret's books are sure to encourage ADHD kiddos as they work with therapists, teachers and their family members to master new skills and tactics that will help them live well.

The Don't-give-up Kid (Ages 6-10, 9-12)

2009-06-23T14:47:00.000-07:00

* * * The Don't-give-up Kid
Author: Jeanne Gehret, M.A.
Illustrator: Michael LaDuca
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Verbal Images Press (September 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982198205
ISBN-13: 978-0982198209

Book description: This revised edition about Alex, a child with learning disabilities, has been updated with completely new illustrations and reflects the use of the latest tactile techniques used in schools. In this story, Alex is inventing a cookie snatcher, but his lack of reading skills and impatience means that he needs extra help. There are new discussion starters for parents and professionals, and positive solutions are presented to help build a positive image for the learning-disabled child.

Book review: If you have a child with dyslexia, this book will be a winner showing that there are different ways of learning while encouraging your kiddo to never give up. What I really like about Jeanne Gehret's books is that they don't speak down to the child. The characters express their frustration and experience with their disabilities and then find good resolutions and a sense of accomplishment along with a boost to self-confidence and self-esteem, something a learning disability can rob you of before you get good help.

Eagle Eyes (Ages 6-10, 9-12)

2009-06-23T14:42:00.001-07:00

* * * Eagle Eyes
Author: Jeanne Gehret, M.A.
Illustrator: Michael LaDuca
Reading level: Ages 6-10, 9-12
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Verbal Images Press (September 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982198213

Book description: Revised with new illustrations, this tale begins with the hero’s fascination with nature, then shows how ADHD negatively affects his family dynamics, schoolwork, and self-esteem. The hallmarks of ADHD—impulsivity, distractibility, and hyperactivity, as well as difficulty sleeping—are clearly shown in this story. Newer updates of the treatment process are provided, including relaxation techniques, medication, and an entire song that a child can sing to help them gather school materials before leaving home. Discussion starters to help parents and professionals expand on the meaning of the book are included for use with individuals or groups of children.

Book review: What a great book! The updates really hit home helping the ADHD reader identify with the character and come up with solutions as well as the opportunity to feel really good about himself. I really like that the story emphasizes the good things about ADHD that, when combined with good medicine and therapy, can be real assets.

The Forever Dog (Ages 4-8)

2009-06-17T14:16:00.000-07:00

* * * The Forever Dog
Author: Bill Cochran
Illustrator: Dan Andreasen
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins (April 3, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0060539399
ISBN-13: 978-0060539399

Book description: No one knows exactly what kind of dog Corky is, but if you ask his owner, Mike, the answer is simple: "He's my dog."

Mike and Corky are best friends; they do everything together. In fact they even make a plan. Mike tells Corky that they will always do everything together—forever. It is their Forever Plan.

And it works well. From one year to the next Corky is right there with Mike. Until one day, when Mike comes home from school and Corky isn't there . . .

Book Review: I may be biased because our beloved dog just passed away, but I think Bill Cochran nailed it with this all too familiar topic. A great read for your kiddo especially after the loss of a pet. No sugar-coating, yet Cochran helps little ones face and cope with death and loss especially the loss of a furry best friend. And you just can't help but fall in love with Corky, thanks to the wonderful work of illustrator Dan Andreasen who guides the reader through joy, love, loss and peace.

My Parents Are Divorced, My Elbows Have Nicknames... (Ages 4-8)

2009-06-17T14:04:00.001-07:00

* * My Parents Are Divorced, My Elbows Have Nicknames, and Other Facts About Me
Author: Bill Cochran
Illustrator: Steve Bjorkman
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins; 1 edition (June 9, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0060539429
ISBN-13: 978-0060539429

Book description: Ted's parents are divorced, but that's just one fact about him. The fact that he has named his elbows Clyde and Carl? Or that Ted walks around with soap in his hair and likes to squawk like a chicken on the phone? Now, that's definitely weird.

As shown in this lighthearted yet heartfelt account, life with divorced parents isn't always easy, but above all Ted knows he's loved—and there's nothing weird about that at all.

Book review: The only thing keeping me from giving this book three stars is the fact that circumstances surrounding divorce are different for every family and this book may or may not be an appropriate fit for your kiddo. That said, Bill Cochran does an outstanding job tackling the weirdness of divorce with a spunky character that feels good about himself even though divorce hurts, stinks and he has no control over that. A good book to help your kiddo search out his feelings about divorce, stepparents and readjustment while reinforcing just how much all his parents love him.

Hook (Ages 4-8)

2009-06-17T13:58:00.001-07:00

* * * Hook
Author/Illustrator: Ed Young
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press (April 28, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1596433639
ISBN-13: 978-1596433632

Book description: A young eagle learns to soar in Caldecott-winner Ed Young's newest work. With beautiful, sweeping artwork and spare, lyrical text, Ed Young tells the story of a boy who finds an egg and gives it to a flock of chickens. When the egg hatches not a chick but an eaglet, the hens, the roosters, and the boy all band together to help the young bird fly. In this lovely story about friendship and dedication, the eaglet perseveres and leaves behind the dusty earth for endless pastel skies.

Book review: Is there anything Ed Young can't illustrate? I know my kiddo and I are in for a great treat when I see his name on the cover. Tender, touching, triumphant. You and your little one will root for Hook as he grows and develops into the noble bird he was created to be..."for he wasn't meant for earth."

Tsunami! (Ages 4-8)

2009-06-17T13:50:00.000-07:00

* * * Tsunami!
Author: Kimiko Kajikawa
Illustrator: Ed Young
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Philomel (February 5, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0399250069
ISBN-13: 978-0399250064

Book description: Tsunami! tells the story of an old farmer in Japan who saves an entire village from destruction by a tsunami.

Book review: A touching and true story with unbelievable illustrations by Ed Young using cut and torn paper. Teaches children about sacrificial love of neighbor without getting in the way of the story - pensive, suspenseful, heart-warming. Very well done.

If America Were a Village (Ages 9-12)

2009-06-17T11:17:00.001-07:00

* * * If America Were a Village
Author: David J. Smith
Illustrator: Shelagh Armstrong
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press (August 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554533449
ISBN-13: 978-1554533442

Product description: America, with all its diversity, is not easily defined. David J. Smith's If America Were a Village takes a snapshot - past, present and future - to help define America for children. Using the same successful metaphor of the international bestseller If the World Were a Village, the book shrinks down America to a village of 100. The metaphor helps children easily understand American ethnic origins, religions, family profiles, occupations, wealth, belongings and more. Shelagh Armstrong's expansive illustrations imagine America as a classic, vibrant small town. Who are the people living in this vast and varied nation? Where did they come from? What are they like today? How do they compare with people in other countries? The book's simple statistical analysis provides a new way of learning about where people live in America, the state of their health, the shapes and sizes of families, what they use and more - forming a concise picture of a country. If America Were a Village is part of CitizenKid: A collection of books that inform children about the world and inspire them to be better global citizens.

Book review: A great book that should be in every classroom. Smith and Armstrong help kids (and adults) clarify who makes up this great country, where we all came from and how we live. Discover these and other fascinating statistics that we can use to compare America with the rest of the world. Definitely gives a global perspective and is the perfect companion to If The World Were a Village.

If The World Were a Village (Ages 9-12)

2009-06-17T11:08:00.000-07:00

* * * If The World Were a Village
Author: David J. Smith
Illustrator: Shelagh Armstrong
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (March 1, 2002)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1550747797
ISBN-13: 978-1550747799

Book description: There are currently more than six billion people on the planet! This enormous number can be difficult to grasp, especially for a child. But what if we imagine the whole world as a village of just 100 people? In this village * 22 people speak a Chinese dialect * 20 earn less than a dollar a day * 32 are of Christian faith * 17 cannot read or write * 39 are under 19 years old

In a time when parents and educators are looking to help children gain a better understanding of the world's peoples and their ways of life, If the World Were a Village offers a unique and objective resource. By exploring the lives of the 100 villagers, children will discover that life in other nations is often very different from their own.

Book Review: What a fascinating way to play with statistics and bring them down to a child's understanding. This book will open the world up to your child, introducing him/her to different people, languages, and ways of life. A great tool to get your child thinking about his/her own 'statistics,' identity, culture and place in the world.

The Adventures of Snip in Oregon (Ages 9-12)

2009-06-16T15:09:00.001-07:00

* * * The Adventures of Snip in Oregon
Author: Betty S. Moir
Illustrator: Yumi V. Vong
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 42 pages
Publisher: BookSurge Publishing (December 29, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1439220204
ISBN-13: 978-1439220207

Book description: The Adventures of Snip in Oregon recounts the tale of a lovable shaggy dog as he wanders into the hearts of the Moir Family and their daily lives in the peaceful countryside. Betty S. Moir paints a colorful portrait of "home life" in the Northwest during the 70's in these first five chapters introducing Snip.

Book Review: I love this book and I can't wait to read more! This is written perfectly for this age group, engaging the reader in a tale of one family's love and their adventures with beloved pet Snip. This book will encourage young readers to make the change from picture books to chapter books, hooking them with a narrative that entertains without speaking down to readers making it unique and not 'just another children's story about a pet dog.' Love it, love it!

Deceptively simple. Betty Moir wants young people to know about the warm friendly life of a family and she does that very well.

Dragon's Heart: The Pit Dragon Chronicles, Volume Four (Ages 12-Up)

2009-06-08T16:21:00.000-07:00

* Dragon's Heart: The Pit Dragon Chronicles, Volume Four
Author: Jane Yolen
Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 400 pages
Publisher: Harcourt Children's Books (May 4, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0152059199
ISBN-13: 978-0152059194

Book Description: Austar IV isn't the planet it once was, and when Jakkin and Akki finally return to the dragon nursery, their homecoming arouses mixed emotions. Together they've survived the insurmountable, and now they can weather the brutal conditions of Dark After and communicate with the dragons they love. But with this knowledge comes responsibility. What they've learned about survival could transform the planet--or, if entrusted to the wrong hands, bring about its destruction. Akki's insistence that she return to the Rokk to finish her training and begin new experiments drives a chasm between her and Jakkin. Suddenly she finds herself in the midst of a political battle that could claim her life. Only Jakkin can save her. If only he could reach her. . . .

Book Review: A great fantasy book for twelve-yr-olds with interesting plot twists, this book is not full of the average fantasy cliche's. A great book for animal lovers. Don't forget to read book one! N.C. ,15 yrs old.

Running For My Life (Ages 12-Up)

2009-06-08T16:12:00.001-07:00

* * Running For My Life
Author: Ann Gonzalez
Hardcover: 238 pages
Publisher: WestSide Books; 1st edition (March 24, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1934813001
ISBN-13: 978-1934813003

Book Description: Running for My Life is the powerful story of Andrea McKane, a fourteen-year-old who struggles to cope with her mother's schizophrenia. She must face the heartbreaking fact that her mother, with whom she once laughed and played, has vanished into her disease, possibly forever. The book accurately portrays the difficulties a teen faces when dealing with the illness, the abuse and absence of a psychotic parent.

Book Review: This book compassionately shows what it's like to have family members with mental illness. Emotionally gripping. Will give you a great sense of understanding for such families. N.C., 15 yrs old.

Rise of Hero (Hero.com) (Ages 12-Up)

2009-06-08T16:06:00.000-07:00

* Hero.com
Author: Andy Briggs
Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 272 pages
Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers (April 28, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 080279503X
ISBN-13: 978-0802795038

Book Description: Toby, Pete, Lorna, and Emily are just average kids—until they stumble upon a Web site called Hero.com and download powers that turn them into superheroes. At first, flying, teleporting, and shooting lasers from their eyes seems like nothing but fun. But when the supervillain Doc Tempest kidnaps Toby and Lorna’s mom, things take a darker turn.

Now the heroes must band together and use their new skills—from super-strength to invisibility—to rescue their mom, fight evil, and try to save the world from destruction.

Of course, little do they know that Villain.net is out there too, recruiting teens for the other side....

Book Review: This is a good book for the third grade range for avid and advanced readers. Very original. Kids download superpowers off the internet and get caught up in saving the world. Suspenseful. Would have liked to have seen the idea developed more, but will definitely read a sequel. - N.C., 15 yrs old.

The Heroes of Googley Woogley (Ages 4-8)

2009-05-20T12:47:00.001-07:00

* The Heroes of Googley Woogley
Author: Dalton James
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 24 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press (March 11, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1432727826
ISBN-13: 978-1432727826

Book description: Space Boy Pete saves the day. A tale of a young boy Space Boy Pete, and his dad, Space Man James, rocketing off into deep space to save the day. This small boy's active imagination are again taking him and his dad into a cartoonish adventure that is funny and a must read for little readers.

Book review: A second book by Dalton James, The Heroes of Googley Woogley continues the imaginative adventures of a young boy and his dad, this time using their fame and fortune as rock stars to fund space exploration. Wonderful illustrations by the author himself. I would like to see a collection of Dalton's stories such has been done with the Little Bear stories and Amelia Bedelia so that my son and I can read one adventure after another. I think that format would sell best and make purchasing these little gems even more worthwhile. As in my other review of Dalton James' first book, The Sneakiest Pirates, Dalton's stories are cohesive, coherent and fun and encourage young readers to express themselves with their own stories. I look forward to more from this young author.

The Sneakiest Pirates (Ages 4-8)

2009-05-20T12:37:00.000-07:00

* The Sneakiest Pirates
Author: Dalton James
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 20 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press (May 17, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1432724770
ISBN-13: 978-1432724771

Book description: Watch out for those sneaky pirates. A tale of a young boy, Pirate Pete, and his dad, Scurvy James, setting sail on a mischievous adventure on the high seas to find the King’s loot, stolen by Peg Leg Chuck. This small boy and his Dad are clearly having the time of their lives. This book is cartoonish, funny and a must-read for little readers.

Book Review: Dalton James makes reading fun. How better to get inside the imagination of a child than through the imagination of a child? Written by a seven-year old, my six-year old son and I found The Sneakiest Pirates engaging, fluent and fun. This is not just a cute book that somebody's kid wrote, but rather a coherent, enjoyable read that has inspired my kiddo to think up his own stories, too. Thank you, Dalton. We love pirates and we really enjoyed your book.

Seamus McNamus (Ages 9-12)

2009-04-28T12:33:00.001-07:00

* * * Seamus McNamus - The Goat Who Would Be King
Author: Rob Kurtz
Illustrator: Mike Lester
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Idea & Design Works Llc (March 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1600103375
ISBN-13: 978-1600103377

Book description: Rob Kurtz and Mike Lester, winner of The National Cartoonist Society Award for Best Book Illustrations in 2007, bring us the enchanting Seamus McNamus: The Goat Who Would Be King. This modern-day folktale, based on the traditions of the centuries-old Puck Fair in Ireland, chronicles the journey of a very unlikely king, a goat named Seamus McNamus. The funny adventure begins when Seamus reluctantly takes up the crown to save the McFadden family farm. Rich in humor, lore, and love, this book's gentle message reminds us that sometimes it's the most unexpected hero who saves the day.

Book review: Hilarius, creative, fun! The story flows naturally and is sillier and laugh-out-loud funny because of it. Don't think your 9-12 yr old is too old to hear a bedtime story. A great book to prove that reading together is still fun.

Carl The Frog (Ages 6-10)

2009-04-28T12:27:00.001-07:00

* * Carl The Frog
Author: David N. Weiss
Illustrator: Pete Whitehead
Reading level: Ages 6-10
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Worthwhile Books (March 11, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1600103383
ISBN-13: 978-1600103384

Book description: Carl is a frog in search of a friend - but his outlandishly long tongue (and even larger appetite!) always sabotages his plans. An unsuspecting gnat tries to show young Carl how to use his tongue - but thawoolp! He ends up as Carl's first meal. Then a rambunctious horsefly tries to engage Carl in a game of cards - but thawoolp! He meets the same fate as the gnat. Even sweet Miss Fish tries to give Carl a chance - only to become the latest course in Carl's all-he-can-eat buffet. When a wise old kingfisher sets his sights on Carl as his next meal, Carl finally learns to change his ways. The true test comes when a small ant tries to befriend the hungry frog. Carl musters all of his willpower and redefines the phrase "tongue tied" to keep himself from snacking on the ant, and in the process makes the best friend he could ever hope to have. This rollicking romp will keep families giggling while imparting the friendly lesson that it's better to have friends than to eat them!

Book review: Funny! And fun to read. This is the kind of book my six-year old picks up and wants me to read it to him over and over again. Love it when I find a book that makes my munchkin laugh out loud.

Michael Recycle Meets Litterbug Doug (Ages 6-10)

2009-04-28T12:10:00.000-07:00

* * Michael Recycle Meets Litterbug Doug
Author: Ellie Bethel
Illustrator: Alexandra Colombo
Reading level: Ages 6-10
Hardcover: 24 pages
Publisher: Worthwhile Books (April 8, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1600103928
ISBN-13: 978-1600103926

Book description: Litterbug Doug is lazy. He is wasteful. He is messy. But worst of all, he hates recycling! The clean and green town where he lives is in danger from his lazy ways, not to mention suffering from the stench released by the mountains of garbage that Doug leaves wherever he goes! So strong is its stink that even the army of rats that follow Doug around are rethinking their friendship with him. It's up to Michael Recycle, planet Earth's green-caped crusader, to show dastardly Doug the error of his ways...before it's too late!

Book review: What a great way to introduce kiddos to recycling. Charming illustrations, sing-song rhymes. Fun to read with a good lesson that slips under the radar. Love it.

Save The Planet (Ages 9-12)

2009-04-23T11:17:00.001-07:00

* * * Help Your Parents Save The Planet!: 50 Simple Ways to Go Green Now!
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 56 pages
Publisher: Play Bac (April 10, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1602140855
ISBN-13: 978-1602140851

Book Description: This is the first green guide for kindergarteners and first-graders who are ready to get busy and make a difference. An uncomplicated guide for kids who know they "know better," How to Help Your Parents Save the Planet is filled with actions you can take immediately and implement easily. The style is light, informative, and—above all: kid-friendly. With a focus on the Three R's—Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle—this is the perfect introduction to a lifetime of care and nurturing of planet Earth. Curious children will learn:

• Why cooking at home beats ordering in
• How to recycle crayons
• How dusting your light bulbs and putting on a sweater can help
• Why you should never let go of that balloon!
• What are the best "re-use" ideas for coffee cans and oatmeal containers

Book Review: Filled with practical doable ideas that will inspire families to make the switch from a consumer lifestyle to green living. Crafted in a captivating, informative style this book will engage your children and make it easier to grasp and this timely topic.

In The Garden / On The Farm (Sticker Books) (Ages

2009-04-23T11:08:00.000-07:00

* * Eye Like Stickers: On The Farm
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Paperback: 12 pages
Publisher: Play Bac (March 30, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1602140820
ISBN-13: 978-1602140820

Book description: The brightest, most appealing stickers in the garden! Plenty of birds, beetles, berries, ladybugs, sunflowers, roses, snails, and peas to satisfy even the most active imaginations!

The freshest stickers nature has to offer! Each EyeLike Stickers book features over 400 reusable stickers from the natural world. Your kids will use them to mix, match, trade, collect, and create their own stunning artwork! Perfect for journals, scrapbooks, craft projects, homework assignments and so much more.

* * Eye Like Stickers: Gardens
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 12 pages
Publisher: Play Bac (March 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1602140812
ISBN-13: 978-1602140813

Book Description: The brightest, most appealing stickers On the Farm! Enough rabbits, eggs, donkeys, hay, horses, lambs, corn, and cabbages to satisfy even the most active imaginations.

Book Reviews: These two books are AMAZING. Truly life-like photographs that can be used again and again. Will definitely inspire preschoolers.