Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach

Deedy, C.A. (2007). Martina, the beautiful cockroach: A Cuban folktale (M. Austin, illus.). Atlanta, GA: Peachtree.

Genre: Folktale
Format: Picture Storybook
Recommended Age: 6-12 years
Awards: 2008 Pura Belpre Honor Book, for narrative

What felicity Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach will bring to any reader! Martina is a beautiful cockroach who at the ripe age of 21 days is just beginning to accept suitors for marriage. Among her suitors are the most unlikely of creatures to suit a cockroach: a rooster, a pig, and a lizard. As each one approaches, he woos her with the phrase "Martina Josefina Catalina Cucaracha. Beautiful muchacha. Won't you be my wife?" Yet little do her suitors know that Martina is acting upon her Cuban grandmother's wise and shocking advice, and as a test of their temperament she pours coffee all over their shoes. After the rooster is cocky, the pig behaves boorishly, and the lizard is just plain cold-blooded, Martina is ready to give up hope, yet her grandmother quickly points out a quiet, shy mouse waiting for her. Martina goes to meet him and finding him to be kind-hearted nearly doesn't go through with her grandmother's advice, yet at grandmother's urgings Martina begins to pour the coffee when suddenly the mouse himself grabs the cup and pours it on her shoes! "How did you know about the Coffee Test?" she asks. "Well, mi amor, my love...I too have a Cuban grandmother."

Filled with what appear to be computer generated illustrations, this book is a real gem. Not only do children get to experience a romantic and traditional Cuban story, but as they read they will also learn the meaning of such Spanish words as una peineta, una mantilla, abuela, and a plethora of others. I would recommend this book for children ages six to twelve, as children within this age span will appreciate the Cuban culture embedded deep within the tale, and the younger children will especially enjoy the personified animal protagonists. In addition, the book will greatly aid in language development, particularly for those children beginning to learn Spanish within the classroom. Overall, I give this book 10 stars out of a possible 5 stars! It would make a great addition to any library!

Del Negro, J. (2007, October 1). Martina, the beautiful cockroach [A review of the book Martina, the Beautiful Cockroach]. Retrieved April 30, 2010 from http://www.booklistonline.com/default.aspx?page=show_product&pid=2086688.

Del Negro has nothing but positive things to say about this book, but perhaps what is most evident within her review is her extensive knowledge of art: "The acrylic illustrations, in a hyperrealistic style reminiscent of a softer William Joyce, are rendered in a vivid tropical palette. Shifting perspectives and points of view add vitality to the compositions, and facial expressions reveal both emotions and character traits." In addition Del Negro too finds the Spanish words scattered throughout to be a real treat for the children. Though short, I found this review to be helpful, and I can't help but admit that her extensive vocabulary may have slightly seduced me. After reading her write-up, I don't know who wouldn't want to read this book!

Crossing Bok Chitto

Tingle, T. (2006). Crossing Bok Chitto (J.R. Bridges, illus.). El Paso, TX: Cinco Puntos.

Genre: Legend
Format: Picture Storybook
Recommended Age: 8 & Up
Awards: 2008 American Indian Youth Literature Award

Weaving together a tale of beauty and history, Tingle and Bridges work together to create an inspiring tale rooted deep within Native American history. Through the Mississippi bayou cuts a river called Bok Chitto. Before even the civil war, the Choctaws took up residence on one side of the river while plantation owners and their slaves lived on the other. It was law that if slaves were able to cross Bok Chitto, they were then considered free. The story begins when Martha Tom, a young Choctaw girl, is sent by her mother to pick blackberries for a wedding to take place later that night. However, Martha Tom did what she was never supposed to do---she crossed Bok Chitto. It is here that the author gives the importance of that crossing: "The only way to cross Bok Chitto in those days was a stone path just beneath the surface of the river. Only the Choctaw's knew it was there, for the Choctaw's had built it." Upon her crossing of the river, Martha meets many of the slaves, and begins a new friendship with Mo, who in turn visits her side of the river. From then on, Martha Tom crossed the river every Sunday to go to church with the slaves, yet trouble came when Mo's mother was sold to a new slave owner. When they had only one night left with their mother, then, the family decided to flee across Bok Chitto. The plantation heavily guarded, the family took to their fathers words, moving "not too fast, not too slow, eyes to the ground, away you go!" They made it to the river, but did not remain unseen. Thankfully, though, Mo made it across the river to ask Martha Tom and her family for help. The Choctaw women then gathered together, dressed in white ceremonial wedding gowns, carrying candles and singing as they walked to the river. When they crossed the river, it appeared as though they were walking on water, and the guards were so taken aback that they simply let Mo's family cross the river too. To this day, people still "talk about the night their forefathers witnessed seven black spirits, walking on the water---to their freedom!"

Not only is this a beautiful tale, but the book also provides a history lesson in the back which tells about the Choctaws today as well as their tradition of storytelling. I recommend this book for children ages eight and up as they're beginning to build interest in stories of the past. In addition, children this age are more open to discussion of books, and this book would make a great introduction to the topics of slavery as well as African American and Native American traditions. Overall, this was a wonderful story. The illustrations captured the mood and emotion perfectly, and readers are left with a sense of pride, hope, and fulfillment. Well worthy of its award, I recommend this book to all. Parents, teachers, and librarians shouldn't hesitate to add it to their collection.

Riedel, C. (2006, July 1). Preschool to grade 4 cont.: Crossing Bok Chitto [A review of the book Crossing Bok Chitto]. School Library Journal. Retrieved April 30, 2010 from http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6350108.html?q=crossing+bok+chitto.

Riedel gives Crossing Bok Chitto and overall positive review, saying "This is a lovely story, beautifully illustrated, though the ending requires a somewhat large leap of the imagination"---a point I have to agree with. Riedel also points out that "Tingle is a performing storyteller, and his text has the rhythm and grace of that oral tradition. It will be easily and effectively read aloud." This was an aspect I hadn't really thought of, yet Riedel does well to point it out, as it is most certainly true. Overall, this was a good review. Short and sweet, it provides the basic plot outline as well as a few tidbits of information that most readers wouldn't know, yet that would also enrich their reading experience were they to go out and read the book.

Christian the Lion

Bourke, A. & Rendall, J. (2009). Christian the lion. New York: Henry Holt & Company, LLC.

Genre: Biography/Informational
Format: Picture Story Book
Recommended Age: 8 & Up

Christian the Lion tells the inspiring story of a young lion cub as he grows up in London and follows him until his eventual release into the wild. Composed in a scrapbook format, children will see pictures taken of Christian taken by his owners, John and Anthony, as he grows up in their flat. John and Anthony first saw Christian in a cage in a department store in London. Sad to see him in such a place, the two bough him and took him home to live with them in the apartment above a store. Eventually, Christian got too big to live in the apartment and he was taken to live in the country just outside of London. He eventually moved to Kenya, where he was introduced to other lions and slowly incorporated into the wild. As children read, they'll not only learn about Christian, but they'll learn loads of fun facts about lions, and they'll love all of the silly pictures of Christian as he grows up. Pictures of Christian watching TV, getting into the sock drawer, sitting on the couch, and hugging his owner are sure to warm the hearts of children.

I would recommend this book to children eight years old and up. Children this age are just beginning to find interest in biographies an informational books, and this book is a perfect introduction to the genre. Since it's in a scrapbook format and therefore not quite structured for story time, it's the perfect way to get children to read independently as well. Yes, it's true. Like every other book I've read, Christian the Lion, too, has the Tiffany stamp of approval. Librarians, teachers, and parents...consider this one recommended.

Bad Kitty

Bruel, N. (2005). Bad Kitty. New Milford, CT: Roaring Brook.

Genre: ABC
Format: Picture Storybook
Recommended Age: 3 & Up

Never has a trip through the alphabet been so charming and so fun. In Bad Kitty, readers go through the alphabet not once, but four times, and it's no ordinary journey. The first journey begins when kitty becomes upset with his owner because they ran out of food. As a result, he's forced to eat vegetables ranging from asparagus to zucchinis, thus the first span of the alphabet. Then, out of revenge, kitty decides to be a very very bad kitty and goes on an alphabetical rampage, clawing the curtains, damaging the dishes, and zeroing the zinnias, along with a plethora of other bad deeds. Perhaps the most hilarious misdeed is his quarreling with the neighbors, which is illustrated by an angry kitty peeking through the mail slot as his neighbors read his angry letter: "Dear neighbor, meow, hiss, hiss, hiss, meow, meow, meow, hiss, meow! Sincerely, *paw print*" It is only just after kitty goes on his angry rampage that mom comes home with all of his favorite food, ranging from kangaroo kidney pie to baked zebra ziti. This makes kitty very happy, and he therefore resolves to make up for all of his bad behavior. Thus ensues kitty's alphabetical charity in which he repairs the curtains, files their taxes, invites affection, and quits quarreling with the neighbor, an illustration which this time involves a happy kitty peeking through the mail slot as the neighbor reads: "Dear neighbor, purr, purrr, purr, purr, purrr, purr, purr! Sincerely, *paw print*" In the end, the owners are so happy with kitty's good behavior that they give him a reward...a brand new puppy! Kitty is not happy...

In the world of ABC books, this one tops them all. The plot is hilarious, the illustrations are hilarious, and the way in which children are introduced to the letters of the alphabet is, yes, hilarious. I would recommend this book for ages three and up. Children just beginning to develop their language will learn their alphabet as well as a plethora of new words, and children of all ages will especially love kitty as the main protagonist with all of his zany facial expressions and shenannigans. In addition, kids will also learn the names of all sorts of vegatables and animals, as they're purposefully incorporated throughout sections of the book. A wonderful story and a wonderful learning tool, I give Bad Kitty the highest of recommendations. Parents, teachers, and librarians...buy it immediately!

Bresnahan, M. (2005, October 1). Preschool to grade 4 reviews: October 2005 [A review of the book Bad Kitty]. School Library Journal. Retrieved April 29, 2010 from http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA446412.html?q=bad+kitty.

In this review, Bresnahan gives Bad Kitty a positive review, claiming it will "appeal to youngsters who like their stories more naughty than nice. She goes on to describe the contents of the book, pointing out that sometimes the use of the letters are a bit of a stretch, such as "sQuashes" for "Q" and "rhUbarb" for "U." In addition, I couldn't agree more with the fact that "it is Kitty who steals the show with her slyly drawn feline expressions. As always, School Library Journal doesn't disappoint and delivers a good review.

The Butt Book

Bennett, A. (2010). The butt book (M. Lester, illus.). New York: Bloomsbury.

Genre: Informational/Humor
Format: Picture Storybook
Recommended Age: 8 & Up

If you're looking for a way to lift your child's spirits, The Butt Book is the perfect antecdote to a foul mood. A rhythmic comedy, Bennett uses poetry as a medium to communicate the many functions of the rear end as well as a plethora of fun facts, all the while accompanied by even funnier illustrations. As soon as one turns the first page, they know they're in for a treat: "Eyes and ears are much respected, but the butt has been neglected. We hope to change that here and now. Would the butt please take a bow." Throughout the book children will learn what the butt is used for, which animals have butts, and different slang words used for the butt. Perhaps one of the most delightful illustrations in the book accompanied the lines "Some names for butts have foreign flair: tuchas, keister, derriere." Right above the lines, children's eyes are drawn up to see the bottom half of three men in their underwear. The first in boxers with the star of David across his tuchas, the second in suspenders, tall socks, and boxers with the German flag stamped upon his keister, and the third in little tighty whiteys with the French flag stretched across his derriere.

I would recommend this book for children ages eight and up. Children are just beginning to learn about their bodies at this age, and teaching them about their rear end will most likely be done best through the use of a little humor since at this age most will lack the maturity to seriously discuss the topic. Some parents, however, will likely have objections to this book as it uses the word "butt" on many occasions. For parents who do not wish their children to refer to their rear end as a "butt," I would therefore certainly not recommend this book. With this in mind, I would also suggest against the public reading of this book by teachers or librarians without first checking that it is alright with parents. Overall, though, The Butt Book was a joy to read. As I sat reading it in a Barnes & Noble, I found myself laughing quietly out loud on several occasions. This book has easily become one of my personal favorites, and I suggest it to anyone who enjoys a bit of silly humor every now and then.

Eric Carle's 123

Carle, E. (2009). Eric Carle's 123. New York: Grosset & Dunlap.

Genre: Counting Book
Format: Picture Book
Age Recommendation: 1-5 years

A compilation of Eric Carle's past illustrations, Eric Carle's 1, 2, 3 provides the bare basics when it comes to learning to count. Providing a two-page spread for each number 1-10, each number is both spelled out and represented numerically, as well as accompanied by a classic illustration of an animal. Also accompanying the number are the colored dots in the top left-hand corner, allowing children many different visual representations of the featured number. As children move forward with each new number, a brand new animal is added to a line formed at the bottom of the page. Beginning with the tallest animal, the giraffe, children will love Carle's classic artwork as they continue to discover the elephant, bear, hippo, pig, dog, squirrel, turtle, chick, and caterpillar. The best part of the book comes at the end, where a pull-tab acts as a flip book of each number so children can count along. Given the simplicity of the book, I would recommend this book for children ages 1-5, as they are just beginning to develop language and learn concepts such as counting. The fact that the book provides several different methods by which children can learn to count is indeed a plus as well: some will count the animals, some the dots, and some will simply recognize the number or spelling of the word. This is a great starter book for infants and toddlers, and I highly recommend it as a tool for parents, teachers, and librarians.

*Note: No review could be found for this book.

I See Colors

Disney Baby Einstein. (2010). I see colors. New York: Disney.

Genre: Concept Book
Format: Board Book
Recommended Age: 1-4 years

A simple board book, I See Colors is filled with captivating photographs and adorable cartoon illustrations to teach young children about basic colors. As one first opens the book, they are greeted by an adorable yellow chick on the left page, whose words describe the stunning photograph of a yellow rose on the right page: "Yellow as the sweetest rose," the chick says. On each page is also a peek-a-boo hole that gives children a sneak peak of the color to come, allowing them to interact with the book and guess the name of the color. In the end, a rainbow cutout reveals a photograph of a rainbow, asking kids "What other colors do you see?"

Since this book is a simple concept book mean to teach children about colors, I would recommend this book for ages 1-4. The sturdy format of the book will stay in tact after the wear and tear that infants and toddlers will no doubt cause to it, the bright colors will appeal to their senses, and the short length and interactive questions will keep their attention and excite them as they're able to name the colors. A good book for early childhood education, I highly recommend I See Colors to librarians, teachers, and parents everywhere, and encourage them to implement it into their collection.

Aigner-Clark, J. (2010). I see colors (Disney: Baby Einstein) by Julie Aigner-Clark. Retrieved April 29, 2010 from http://www.curledupkids.com/seecolor.html.

Aigner-Clark gives the typical book description, describing the many photographs and illustrations within the book. Yet she takes it a little bit further by throwing in some good parenting advice, suggesting "Make paging through the book a game by asking your child what color various objects are. Then, when you go out, ask, "Do you see something red?" (or some other color). While you are at it, you can practice animal recognition with the cow, monkey, zebra, and lion cartoon animals." Although a short review, it was a practical review nonetheless, providing the necessary basic information for those who want a quick read-up.

Bee & Me

McGuiness, E.J. (2009). Bee & Me. (H. Brown, illus.). Denver: Accord Publishing.

Genre: Picture Storybook/Informational
Format: Toy Book
Age Recommendation: 1-5 years

Young children will ooh and aah at Bee & Me, a story of only a few pages in which a little bee gets chased inside of a house by a dog only to get trapped inside with a little boy. "'Please help me,' said Bee, as I peered through the crack. 'I'm in a big hurry and have to get back. My friends are all busy working hard at the hive. They wiggle, they waggle, they jiggle and jive'." Told in rhyme, children's attention will easily be kept, yet the best part is the three dimensional aspect to each page, as different parts of the bee move as the page is turned back and forth. In one scene the bee shakes his booty, in another tears trickle down as he explains that all bees try to do is help people. They help the flowers and trees, yet humans run away in fear. In the end, the bee is released, and the boy is no longer afraid of bees: "Now that I've met you---I'm not scared anymore. I know lots about bees, way more than before." This book will serve as a perfect tool to teach young children about bees as well as comfort them about being around bees, yet the book does not seem to mention that bees sting and can cause pain, which is something I think children need to know as well. The last thing parents want is for their young children to seek out bees and personally investigate them. Overall, I recommend Bee & Me to all librarians, as it would make a perfect addition to an early childhood collection.

Brimful Curiosities. (2009, March 20). Bee & Me - Review and Book Giveaway. Retrieved from http://www.brimfulcuriosities.com/2009/03/bee-me-review-and-book-giveaway.html.

In her blog, Brimful Curiosities does a great job of reviewing the book. She provides the basic plot, and adds in the fact that "Bee & Me teaches kids the ecological and environmental importance of the honeybee and instructs children to respect the remarkable insect." In addition, she raves about the illustrations, saying "Young and old alike will have a hard time setting this unique moving picture book down with it's colorful, eye-catching illustrations by Heather Brown. Even my one-year-old watches with fascination and wonder as the pictures move." Perhaps what I liked best about the review was the fact that she gave a name to the three-dimensional aspect within the book, which is apparently called an AniMotion™ Illustration Technique. I for one feel relieved to know that there's a name for it, and that it's not something I should have known off the top of my head. Overall, it was a good review, and it's a great review if you consider the fact that she attached a YouTube video to her post which includes an interview of the author and illustrator.

Barnaby Grimes: Curse of the Night Wolf

Riddell, C. & Stewart, P. (2008). Barnaby Grimes: Curse of the night wolf. New York: David Fickling Books.

Genre: Mystery/Science Fiction
Format: Chapter Book
Age Recommendation: 10-12 years

Taking place in a Sherlock Holmes-esque setting, Barnaby Grimes works as a tick-tock lad delivering messages, yet he soon finds himself mixed up in an erie mystery when his friend Benjamin suddenly disappears. Already suspicious of a Doctor Cadwallader for his miracle concoction Benjamin spoke so highly of, Barnaby later intercepts a message from the Dr. to Benjamin speaking of a missed appointment and "side effects of the worst kind." Thinking he could be of more service to the Dr. than the lad who delivered the message too late, Barnaby goes to see the Dr. and is indeed hired on to deliver messages to Dr. Cadwallader's many patients. It isn't long before Barnaby finds himself mixed up in a plot involving werewolves, fur coats, disappearing patients, and mad scientists. Children ages 10-12 will especially enjoy this book as it sends them on an intriguing adventure and keeps them guessing the whole way through, yet readers beware...there are scenes describing bloody massacres caused by the werewolf that could easily frighten younger readers. Parents should keep this in mind and use the information to their own discretion. Nonetheless, Barnaby Grimes is a real gem, combining mystery with sci-fi, and all the while keeping the eerie tone of 18th century London that was so well-loved by Sherlock Holmes fans. Libraries shouldn't hesitate to add this to their collection, nor the books that follow.

Knight, E.E. (2008, December 21). Grades 5-8: Curse of the Night Wolf [a review of the book Barnaby Grimes: Curse of the Night Wolf]. School Library Journal. Retrieved April 21, 2010 from http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6618442.html?q=barnaby+grimes.

Knight gives a good overview of the book, describing the plot to readers in a concise, yet detailed manner, and supplying brief quotes for readers to get a taste of the text. A positive review, Knight says of the book, "The setting resembles Sherlock Holmes's London as seen in a shadowed, slightly warped mirror. There are hansom cabs, high-gabled row houses, and foul rat-infested slums, but mad scientists hold sway and fiendish creatures lurk in odd corners. Eerie, angular black-and-white drawings complement the atmospheric text." I love the way Knight describes the setting, and couldn't agree more with her descriptions. Overall a good review, and executed in an unbiased manner, which is always appreciated.

The Princess and the Frog

Del Vecho, P. (Producer), Clements, R. (Director) & Musker, J. (Director). (2009). The princess and the frog [Motion picture]. United States: Walt Disney.

Genre: Family/Fantasy/Musical
Format: DVD
Age Recommendation: All Ages

I was originally skeptical about The Princess and the Frog, as the last few animated Disney films released have not particularly met my personal expectations. Yet after having now watched The Princess and the Frog not once, but twice, I can say with much assurance that I absolutely LOVE this movie. Taking place in New Orleans during the rip-roaring twenties, the film is filled with jazz, humor, romance, and strong moral values. Tiana is a hard-working, strong-willed, African-Americna young woman, working two waitressing jobs with the hopes of someday opening her own restaurant. Prince Naveen, however, is a rich playboy cut off by his parents as a punishment for his bad behavior. When Prince Naveen comes to town, he gets mixed up with the big bad voodoo Dr. Facilier, who turns him into a frog. The plot takes a twist when Tiana and Prince Naveen first encounter each other, and Tiana, dressed as a princess for the ball, kisses the frog prince (at his urging) only to turn into a frog herself! From then on ensues a tale of adventure as the two frogs flee from Dr. Facilier's clutches to the Bayou swamp, then set out to return again and save the day with the help of their newfound friends, Louis the trumpet-playing alligator, and Ray the warm-hearted cajun firefly. I recommend this movie for all ages, yet some parents might find the voodoo magic present in the movie to be objectionable, especially as the dark shadows that act as the voodoo spirits can easily frighten small children. Some stereotyping is also present within the movie, as the cajuns, depicted as fireflies, are characterized as unintelligent, backwoods hillbillies. However, the theme of good vs. evil is ever present throughout the movie, with good prevailing in the end, and all the while enstilling the values of hard work and unconditional love within the viewers.

Dargis, M. (2009, November 25). That old bayou magic: Kiss and ribbit (and sing) [Review of the film The Princess and the Frog]. New York Times. Retrieved April 18, 2010 from http://movies.nytimes.com/2009/11/25/movies/25frog.html?pagewanted=print.

A more in-depth review of the movie, Dargis's review gives both negative and positive aspects of the film. Whereas he is appreciative of the fact that Tiana is a hard-working heroine, he also finds this aspect to make her somewhat of a bore. "Although she can be a whirlwind of activity, as when she balances multiple plates at the cafe where she works double shifts, Tiana doesn’t have the verve of the spunky little girl who bounces through the first few minutes of the movie. What she does have, like most Disney heroines, is a prince charming." Dargis also becomes somewhat disappointed with the fact that Prince Naveen indeed ends up being Tiana's savior, for she can not achieve her dreams without him. Dargis is clearly not sold on the film, as he counterbalances every positive aspect with a negative one: "Gorgeously animated with bursts of bright purple and acid green — the realistic lines of the characters explosively give way to increasingly jagged, graphic and surreal shapes — this number erupts early in the story, setting false expectations for the rest of the movie and its songs and animation. Despite some ensuing comic relief, largely in the hefty form of a musical alligator, Louis (Michael-Leon Wooley), and a snaggletoothed Cajun firefly, Ray (Jim Cummings), the film sags without Dr. Facilier and his menace." Overall, Dargis gives this movie a so-so review, yet I would have to disagree with him given the fact that it's a movie aimed at an audience of children. In my opinion, Dargis is over-criticizing the film, going too in-depth with details that despite his opinion, would undoubtedly capture the hearts of young viewers. I found Princess and the Frog to be fun and fancy free, staying true to the long-held traditional tone of Disney films, yet Dargis's review would communicate otherwise.

Who's That Snoring?

Chapman, J. (2008). Who's that snoring?: A pull-the-tab bedtime book. New York: Campbell Books.

Genre: Picture Storybook
Format: Toy Book/ Board Book
Age Recommendation: 1-4 years

This pull-tab story will delight young children as they go through the book in search of the barnyard culprit who's waking up all of the animals with his loud snoring. Five pull-tab pages let children open the eyes and mouth of each animal as they awaken with a start. Children will love being able to interact as the story is read, and the simple rhyme with which the story is told will capture their attention as well: "Who could snore so loudly? No one had a clue. Ducks, cat, chick, and chicken didn't know what to do." My personal favorite part is the awakening of the culprit---the dog, as his ears perk straight up and his eyes shoot wide open when the other animals yell "Wake up dog!" I couldn't help but laugh at the accuracy of the expression, and the soundtrack in my head supplied the image with a deep, gruff "Barrr?" I would recommend this book for children ages 1-4, as it will aid in the development of motor skills and is short enough to keep their attention. Parents and librarians will love the delighted expressions on their childrens' faces as they read through this book, and they might as well prepare to read it again and again, because the children will love it!

Carter, R.J. (2010, January 18). Book review: Who's that snoring?: A pull-the-tab bedtime book. Retrieved April 18, 2010 from http://www.the-trades.com/article.php?id=11605.

Carter has nothing but positive things to say about this book, but given the fact that the entire book is only five pages long, his review is bound to be short and sweet. Through several quotes directly from the book as well as descriptions of the delightful pop-up-feature, Carter gives readers an overall picture of the book. Parents in search of a good bedtime book will find much use out of his review, and should keep an eye out for the book at their local bookstore.

Rapunzel's Revenge

Hale, D and Hale, S. (2008). Rapunzel's revenge (N. Hale, illus.). New York: Bloomsbury.

Genre: Fractured Fairy Tale
Format: Graphic Novel
Age Recommendation: 8 & up

Shannon Hale and her husband Dean Hale, accompanied by illustrator Nathan Hale (no relation) work together to make their graphic novel debut with Rapunzel's Revenge, an adventure story set in the old west, loosely based on the fairy tale classic Rapunzel. Having been raised with a privelaged life by Mother Gothel inside the castle walls, Rapunzel one day lets her curiosity get the best of her and ventures outside the towering walls only to find a ravaged land and her own mother enslaved as a mine worker. Having previously believed Mother Gothel to be her real mother, all of Rapunzel's repressed memories come flooding back to her and in her bravery she confronts Mother Gothel, only to be tied up, dragged away, and locked up in a towering magical tree. With no hope of being rescued, Rapunzel passes her time reading books and practicing kicks and flips. As her hair grows longer, she begins using it to jump rope, swing from the towering heights of the tree, and practice rope tricks. Her hair eventually grows so long that she's able to escape from the tree holding her captive, and she sets out on a journey to return to Mother Gothel and defeat her once for all so as to free the land from her magical destruction. Along the way, Rapunzel meets Jack (who is later discovered to be the same Jack from Jack and the Beanstalk), and together they face villain after villain until the final showdown with Mother Gothel. (My personal favorite parts of the book are, of course, these very fighting scenes where Rapunzel uses her long braids as a whip to defeat the villains. Only the Hale's could think of such a creative use for her classic long locks...)

Full of fun, adventure, wit, romance, and every other ingredient needed for a successful graphic novel, Rapunzel's Revenge is an absolute delight. I recommend this book to children at least eight years old, as children of this age are developing more of an interest in adventure stories as well as stories set in the past. Children stuck in a cowboys and indians phase or a fairy tale phase will especially love this book. Schools, libraries, and parents alike shouldn't hesitate to own this book, as it will no doubt be a great way to get kids interested in reading.

Bird, E. (2008, June 24). Review of the day: Rapunzel's revenge by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale. School Library Journal. Retrieved April 15, 2010 from http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/blog/1790000379/post/1650028565.html?q=rapunzel%27s+revenge.

Bird gives Rapunzel's Revenge a raving review in School Library Journal, and her sharp wit makes even the review a delight to read: "Why an enterprising young man or woman---and man, could perhaps even take a fairy tale and do wondrous things with it. You could even, and maybe I'm just talking crazy stuff here, take the fairy tale of Rapunzel slap it into a psudo-cowboy/wizardry setting. Add in Newberry-Honor winner Shannon Hale, her husband, and a guy with the same last name who doesn't happen to be related to either of them, and you have a rip-roaring tale of betrayal, escape, romance, and very long locks. Hypothetically, of course." Had I read this review without having read the book, I would have gone out and bought it. She describes the plot with great detail, discusses the personality quirks of the characters, and describes the book as a "kick-butt girl package," a term that would have had me sold in an instant. In the end, the only problem Bird finds with the book is "in figuring out what to recommend to patrons when they finish the book and want more of the same." Now that's a good review if I ever saw one.

What's Wrong Little Pookie?

Boynton, S. (2007). What's wrong little pookie? New York: Robin Corey Books.

Genre: Picture Storybook
Format: Board Book
Age Recommendation: 1-4

Sandra Boynton is back again with yet another charming story, What's Wrong Little Pookie? Little Pookie is upset, yet his mother can't figure out why: "Oh sweet little Pookie! Your eyes are wet. Come over and tell me why you are upset." Yet Pookie simply will not reveal his dilemma. "Are you tired?...Are you hungry?" his mother asks in big bold print. "No," he responds, in little red letters. His mother goes on to suggest that perhaps hippos are borrowing his shoes, or frogs are snoozing in his bed, or maybe tiny green blue-winged elephants are stealing cookies. Maybe that's why Pookie is upset! Yet Pookie's mother's suggestions are so silly, that when she makes her final plea as to what's wrong, he responds with "Um...I forget." Accompanied by simple illustrations, with Pookie and his mother drawn as the most adorable pigs anyone has laid eyes upon, this book is a delight for young children and their parents. I would recommend this book mainly for toddlers, ages 1-4, as it can easily aid in calming them down during a crying episode as well as teach them about their emotions and how to communicate them. This book is a real gem, and parents and teachers will find it to be a wonderful resource for young children.

Slide & Find ABC: Early Learning Fun for the Very Young

Play and Learn. (2004). Slide & find ABC: Early learning fun for the very young. New York: St. Martin's Press.

Genre: Alphabet Book
Format: Board Book/ Toy Book
Recommended Age: 3-5 years

Slide & Find ABC: Early Learning Fun for the Very Young is more than just an average alphabet book, it's an interactive photographic world for young children to revel in as they grow and learn. Each letter of the alphabet is accompanied by a photograph of an object, animal, or action that represents that letter, such as a zebra for the letter z, or a child jumping for the letter j. For some, but not all, of the letters is a small yellow sliding window which displays the letter on top, yet when the child slides the window the corresponding photograph is revealed. Throughout the book, further learning is prompted, as questions such as "I'm a baby dog. What am I?" or "Which M can you dance to??" are asked along the top of the page. At the very end of the book, the page also displays several groups of pictures that all begin with the same letter, asking children "Which letter does each group begin with?"

Being an ABC book, this book is clearly meant for a younger age, typically children around 3-5 years old. Since children within this age range are rapidly developing language and love to explore things, this book is a perfect way to teach them the alphabet. Some of the questions asked in the book, however, may be too difficult for some children to answer, especially since the children might not know what the picture displayed is, yet overall, this book proves to be a fun and interesting read for young children.

*Note: No review could be found for this book.

Yellow Star

Roy, J. (2006). Yellow star. Tarrytown, NY: Marshall Cavendish.

Genre: Biography
Format: Chapter Book
Recommended Age: 10-12
Awards: 2009 William Allen White Award

A relative of the main character, Roy tells the true story of Syvia, a young Jewish survivor of WWII who spent the majority of the war locked in the Lodz Ghetto among thousands of other Jews. From the time Syvia was 4 1/2 years-old to when she was released at the age of 10, Syvia witnessed unspeakable horrors during her time in the ghetto. Told from the perspective of a child, at times the dreadful events were vague, yet at the same time perfectly obvious to the adult reader, such as the sudden disappearance of her friend Hava. Throughout her time there, children were murdered, families were shipped off on trains to meet their eventual death, and the Jewish extermination was well underway, yet miraculously, Syvia and her family survived, with Syvia being one of only 12 children left alive in the ghetto. The content of the book is violent at times, sad at others, yet sprinkled with happier memories here and there. Although the prose is never too violent, I would still recommend this book for children ages ten and up, as they are so easily drawn to stories of adversity and individuality. The fact that the story told here is true will only serve to grasp their attention even more. Beautifully told, this story will capture the hearts of readers. They will both laugh and cry, and be inspired to press on in the face of difficulties as Syvia and her family did when it seemed all hope was lost.

Ford, S. (2006, October 19). Yellow Star - Jennifer Roy [Review of the book Yellow Star]. Message posted to http://childlitbookclub.blogspot.com/2006/10/yellow-star-jennifer-roy.html.

On her blog for The Children's Literature Book Club, Stephanie Ford provides a wealth of insight into Roy's work Yellow Star. In addition to an overview of the book, Ford points out that "Holocaust books for middle grades can be very difficult because they shouldn’t hide the truth, but they shouldn’t be overly graphic and gruesome. Yellow Star walks the fine line perfectly because it’s told from the point of view of a young girl who didn’t always understand the truth and her parents and older sister protected her as much as they could." Ford also mentions that the story seems to be strengthened through verse, as "the simplicity of prose matches the descriptions young Syvia lends credit to her perspective as a child." Ford gives far more valuable insight than I tend to see in other book reviews, perhaps because of its blog format, so I particularly enjoyed reading her review of the book. She had nothing but positive things to say, and the same goes for me.

Scaredy Squirrel

Watt, M. (2006). Scaredy Squirrel. Tonawand, NY: Kids Can Press.

Genre: Easy to Read
Format: Picture Book
Recommended Age: 4-6

Words can not fully express how much of a delight Scaredy Squirrel is to virtually any reader. Scaredy is an agoraphobic squirrel, too frightened to venture out of his tree in case of an unexpected mishap with the likes of tarantalas, poison ivy, killer bees, green martians, germs, and sharks. Through the use of humor, colorful illustrations, and many lists, Watt reveals Scaredy's daily schedule, the advantages and disadvantages of leaving his nut tree, and his own well-thought out emergency exit plan. Yet things don't go quite according to plan when Scaredy suddenly spots a "killer" bee and in a frenzy drops his emergency kit. Without thinking, Scaredy leaps out of the tree to retrieve it only to accidentally discover that he's not just any squirrel, but a flying squirrel. After hours of playing dead upon his landing, Scaredy finds that nothing horrible happens if he leaves his tree after all, and in the end he incorporates both flying and playing dead into his new daily routine. Joyful, witty, and filled with adorable illustrations, Scaredy Squirrel is a treasure. Children of all ages will enjoy this book, and adults will enjoy reading it to them. Children ages 4-6 will especially enjoy the artwork and the many lists used to tell the story. It is of my opinion that every home, school, and library should own not just this book, but the whole series.

Payne, R.G. (2006, June 1). Reviews: Preschool to Grade 4 [a book review of Scaredy Squirrel]. School Library Journal. Retrieved April 3, 2010 from http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6340931.html.

Having not even read Payne's review before writing my own, I found both our reviews and our opinions to be strangely similar. Payne gives a quick, witty summary of the book, and ends by saying, "with his iconic nervous grin and over-the-top punctiliousness, Scaredy Squirrel is an endearing character. Thick-lined cartoons with bold patches of color, quirky charts and graphs, and clever asides provide humor that will appeal to children...Scaredy Squirrel needn't fret about finding readers to cheer him on." Short, sweet, and to the point, this review is for those who want just the basic overview of the book, yet Payne still delivers a positive review by keeping the fun and witty tone of the book throughout her review.

Electricity: Bulbs, Batteries, & Sparks

Stille, D.R. (2004). Electricity: Bulbs, batteries, and sparks (Sheree Boyd, illus.). Minneapolis, MN: Picture Window Books.

Genre: Non-fiction/Informational
Format: Picture Book
Recommended Age: 7-9

Stille's book Electricity: Bulbs, Batteries, & Sparks is a treasure trove of information. Children will learn about where electricity comes from, how it's made, how we store it, and the many uses we have for it in this world. Simple, colorful illustrations accompany each new page, demonstrating acts such as a girl using electricity to blow-dry her hair or a boy using electricity to turn the TV on and off. Pictures of powerlines and windmill farms also give children a visual image of the many ways we create and store electricity. Scattered throughout the book are "fun facts" and at the back of the book children are provided with fun science experiments to try out, as well as important safety tips concerning electricity. This book would work wonders for children ages 7-9, as it is a wonderful introduction to children on the topic of electricity. Children will get fun illustrations they wouldn't usually get with textbooks, and the experiments in the back will give them hands-on experience they need to better understand electricity and how it works. An excellent resource for the classroom and any library, I highly recommend this work to any collection.

OK Go by Carin Berger

Berger, C. (2009). Ok Go. New York: Greenwillow Books.

Genre: (Nearly) Wordless
Format: Picture Book
Recommended Age: 2-4

Carin Berger uses OK Go as an environmental plea to children to take care of their planet. Charming collages made of recycled materials such as old patterned papers, magazines, letters, & newspapers create a setting of a seemingly neverending traffic jam, where the only accompanying words are "Go." Soon after, though, smog fills the air, and the characters are pleaded with a two-page spread yelling "Stop!" A few pages later, children are given a solution with a whimsically illustrated fold-out spread filled with flowers, balloons, sunshine, and a plethora of happy things, accompanied by the chracters finding new ways to get to where they're going. "Waste less, Jess," it says. "Roller skate, Kate," it suggests. "Use the bus, Gus. Recycle, Michael," it pleads. At the end, the characters are assured that all is well conce again as one yells happily, "OK Go!"

Being a nearly wordless book, I would suggest this book for children aged 2-4 years. Children will love the bright, unique illustrations, and will undoubtedly love reciting the simple words back as it's read to them. Some parent could possibly have an issue with the strong environmentalist message of the book, yet the message is not too overpowering. After all, it's never too early to teach children to be resourceful and to be a good steward of their belongings and this beautiful planet on which we reside. I would recommend this book for home, school, and public libraries, as it serves as an excellent introduction to teaching children good stewardship.

Elleman, B. (2009, April 1). Reviews: Preschool to Grade 4. [a book review of OK Go]. School Library Journal. Retrieved April 4, 2010 from http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6648615.html?q=OK+Go.

Never have I read a more eloquent review of a book with so little words in it itself. Elleman perfectly captures the essence of OK Go through her description of the plot, using phrases such as, "Idiosyncratic creatures decked out in fabric pieces, buttons, and tall imaginative hats sail along in even more idiosyncratic vehicles that are variously colored and decorated with stickers and decals." Elleman gives the book an overall positive review, saying "While the opening pages may puzzle younger children, the offbeat presentation will undoubtedly initiate interest among older readers, and the fanciful collages (made from recycled materials) will have artistic readers poring over the pages." I couldn't agree more with Elleman's review, as I personally found the message to be positive yet not overwhelming, and was utterly captivated by the fanciful illustrations. A good review of a good book in my opinion.

Django: World's Greatest Jazz Guitarist

Christensen, B. (2009). Django: World's greatest jazz guitarist. New York: Roaring Brook.

Genre: Biography/ Poetry
Format: Picture Book
Awards: 2009 Schneider Family Book Award
Recommended Age: 8-10

Django: World's Greatest Jazz Guitarist by Bonnie Christensen is truly a work of art. Having myself never even heard of Django, Christensen's work served both as a history lesson and as a lesson in will and determination. As the book relates, Django grew up as a traveling gypsy in France. A hard life through and through, Django pressed on and began writing and playing music at an early age. The text describes this beautifully through the use of poetry when it says "Still a boy he's playing dance halls. Fingers flying down the fretboard. Writing waltzes, making records, putting money on the table. Known around the streets of Paris 'Gypsy Genius,' 'Prodigy Boy'." Django became well-known throughout Europe, yet tragedy soon struck when a fire severely impaired him: "'Such awful burns, that leg, that hand.' The hand he used to fret guitar---Burned so deeply, nearly useless." Against all odds, however, through hard work and determination, Django was one day able to take the stage again and play his music for all to hear. Captured beautifully through oil paintings and rhythmic poetry, Christensen presents an inspirational story that both children and adults will appreciate.

Django would be an ideal book for children ages 8-10, as the poetry can at times be a little more difficult for younger children to understand. In addition, the content teaches a more serious topic, showing children how hard life can be, but also revealing to them that obstacles can indeed be overcome. Children will certainly enjoy the illustrations within as well as the poetic style that so brilliantly accompanies them. I highly recommend this as a book to add to any and all library collections.

Goedhart, B. (2010, March 13). True stories, real people: Henry Aaron, Django Reinhardt, Houdini, and Tim Horton are among the subjects of new illustrated biographies for children. The Gazette (Montreal). Retrieved April 2, 2010 from LexisNexis Academic database.

Perhaps what I appreciated most about Goedhart's review was his inclusion of other biographies in addition to his review of Django: World's Greatest Jazz Guitarist. Goehart did not shy away from praising Chrsitensen's work, as he deemed that the "text has a music all its own, written in a free-verse style and accompanied by lively, vibrantly coloured paintings that befit the gypsy arts and lifestyle." In addition, Goedhart made a very practical suggestion that I hadn't thought of, which was to provide a CD of Django's work to accompany the book. This would surely give the book even more meaning to its readers, as children would be able to hear the music for themselves. Among other books that Goedhard reviewed for this article were Henry Aaron's Dream by Matt Tavares, Shake, Rattle, & Turn that Noise Down: How Elvis Shook up Music, Me, & Mom by Mark Alan Stamaty, and It's a Snap! George Eastman's First Photograph by Monica Kulling, illustrated by Bill Slavin, yet many more are included within the article. I would highly recommend one give this review a read if they are looking for a good biography to introduce their child to.

Goose Girl

Hale, S. (2003). The goose girl. Syracuse, NY: Full Cast Audio.

Genre: Folk Tale
Format: Audio Book
Recommended Age: 8 & Up

It's been several months since I listened to this audio book, but I loved it so much that I simply have to review it. In Shannon Hale's Goose Girl, 16 year-old Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee, Crown Princess of Kildenree, is promised in marriage to the neighboring Prince of Bayern and shipped to Bayern to meet the royal family. However, trouble arises when the Princess's guards and lady-in-waiting betray her, carrying out a scheme to murder her and allow Selia to take on her identity. The princess barely escapes with her life, and spends the remainder of the story disguised as Isi, the goose girl on the Prince's very estate, who ,unbeknownst to everyone, can magically speak to animals as well as the wind. Wrapped in adventure, romance, and imagination, The Goose Girl is a must-read and an even greater listen, as the audio book provides listeners with a full cast of characters.

Were this merely just the printed book, I would recommend an age of at least 10 and up, but because it's an audio book, I think children from even age eight, and maybe younger, can both understand and enjoy the content since it is more of a storytelling or a play than a book. If parents, teachers, or librarians have a desire to introduce children to the world of audiobooks, Goose Girl will be the perfect starting point, and kids will undoubtedly get hooked because of it.

Lombardo, C. (2006, February 1). Goose Girl [A review of the book Goose Girl]. School Library Journal. Retrieved April 1, 2010 from LexisNexis Academic database.

Short and sweet, this review speaks the highest praise of Shannon Hale's retelling of the classic fairy tale, Goose Girl. Providing details of the adventurous plot, as well as the audio cast, which apparently consisted of more than four dozen actors, Lombardo clearly loves both the story and the format it's presented in. I couldn't agree with her opinion any more.

Jumping to Conclusions

Brunstetter, W.E. (2009). Jumping to conclusions. Rachel Yoder, Always Trouble Somewhere Series, Book #7. Uhrichsville, OH: Barbour Pub.

Genre: Contemporary Realistic Fiction/ Religious Fiction
Format: Chapter Book
Recommended Age: 8-12

Jumping to Conclusions is the 7th book in Brunstetter's charming "Rachel Yoder-Always Trouble Somewhere Series", yet don't let the fact that it's the 7th dissuade you from reading it. Having read none of the previous books in the series, I still found this book to be an absolute delight! Set in an Amish community, eleven year-old Rachel Yoder constantly finds herself getting into trouble. Within the pages of this particular book, Rachel gets into several predicaments after having eavesdropped on other's conversations and "jumped to conclusions." Although it takes several incidents of the same mistake, Rachel ends up learning many valuable lessons throughout the book, and despite her constant troubles, she is continually surrounded by a warm and loving family who aren't afraid to speak the truth in love.

This book is perfect for children ages 8-12, especially since children within this age group are typically drawn to series of books. Readers will laugh at Rachel's predicaments, learn about a different culture, learn bits and pieces of Pennsylvania Dutch, and find that they can even relate to an eleven year-old Amish girl. Just like most children, Rachel gets into arguments with her siblings, is prone to clumsiness, and at times says and does things that she knows are wrong. This book is a great starting point for discussion about areas such as family dynamics, eavesdropping, and gossip, yet given it's Christian background some parents might find it offensive as it includes Bible verses and lessons. Nonetheless, though, I deem it a wonderful addition to any library!

Tidman, M. (2010, January 1). Jumping to conclusions [A review of the book Jumping to Conclusions: Rachel Yoder-Always Trouble Somewhere Series, Book 7]. School Library Journal. Retrieved April 1, 2010 from LexisNexis Academic database.

Much to my surprise, Tidman's review of Jumping to Conclusions took on a flat tone and came across as thoroughly unimpressed. She did a wonderful job of recapping the story's main events, yet it seems as though that was all she did. If I were to read this review, I probably would not have wanted to read the book, despite the fact that she didn't necessarily give it a negative review. I of course agree that although "Rachel's adventures are set in a modern Amish settlement, young listeners will easily identify with her moods and mishaps", and I also agree to an extent that the events were somewhat repetitive, yet at the same time the repeated mistakes of Rachel are more true to life than most of us would like to admit. I also don't necessarily agree with Tidman's suggestion to purchase the book only wherever previous books are available, as it often refers to events in earlier books. While earlier events are mentioned, I personally did not ever feel like this detracted from the current plot, nor did I find myself confused about the mentioned past events. This book is by no means going to be an award winner, but I find the cultural Amish roots and moral values instilled in this book to be intriguing and thought-provoking, and would have no hesitation in reading it to my own children someday.