Biblio Reads | Children's Book Reviews | For ages 0-12

Dastardly Dames... (Ages 9-12)

2011-11-29T10:48:00.000-08:00

World of Ink Tours

in conjunction with

BiblioReads.com presents...

+ + + + + Cixi: Dragon Empress

Author: Natsha Yim

Illustrator: Peter Malone

Reading level: Ages 9 and up

Hardcover: 32 pages

Publisher: Goosebottom Books (September 1, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0983425655

ISBN-13: 978-0983425656

Book description:

This series of historical accounts profiles strong women who took extraordinary measures to achieve and maintain power—including murder, deception, and black magic—examining the women’s reputations in the context of their eras. Just how wicked were they? The books allow readers to decide for themselves if these infamous ladies were indeed heartless and evil or simply out of touch and making the most of their circumstances.

The last empress of China, Cixi fought ruthlessly to isolate her country from the West while cloistered inside her lavish Forbidden City, ignoring the needs of her people. Her extravagant lifestyle, bouts of bad temper, and brutal punishments earned her a reputation as a cruel and ignorant leader. An exploration of Cixi's daily life—including what she ate and how she dressed—this story explains how she became one of the most notorious figures of the Qing dynasty.

Book review: The Thinking Girl's Treasury is a great series to introduce some of history's dastardly dames. Cixi "The Dragon Empress" is filled with facts about what she wore and ate and stories about the kind of life she lived exemplifying those deeds that make her dastardly and making history more personable to readers. This book is engrossing and will capture the minds of young girls, making history interesting and fun.

+ + + + + Mary Tudor: Bloody Mary

Author: Gretchen Mauer

Illustrator: Peter Malone
Reading level: Ages 9 and up
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Goosebottom Books (September 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0983425620
ISBN-13: 978-0983425625

Book description: The first reigning Queen of England, Mary Tudor believed fervently that Catholicism should be the religion of the land, leading her to burn at the stake hundreds of Protestants. This visual history explores this real-life monarch who was at once a great yet brutal leader, detailing her day-to-day life and pivotal moments in the House of Tudor. Gorgeous illustrations and an engaging story bring to life a real dastardly dame who, fueled by her faith, created a religious firestorm and changed the course of English history.

Book review: I very much enjoyed this book in the series. It's informative and fascinating in a fun way. This is a series sure to appeal to inquisitive young ladies who have a curiosity about history, especially that of the dastardly kind. I think The Thinking Girl's series are wonderfully written and illustrated and perfectly target girls, exciting their interest. Very good.

Walking Through Walls (Ages 9-12), Day's End Lullaby (Ages 0-4)

2011-11-21T01:00:00.000-08:00

World of Ink Tours

in conjunction with

BiblioReads.com presents...

+ + + + + Walking Through Walls

Author: Karen Cioffi

Illustrator: Willow Raven

Paperback: 84 pages

Publisher: 4RV Publishing LLC (June 29, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0982659474

ISBN-13: 978-0982659472

Book description: Walking Through Walls is a fantasy chapter book based on an ancient Chinese tale, providing a magical adventure. Fun for children and adults alike.

Book review: Wang and his family are poor and more than anything he wants to be rich and never have to work back-breaking labor again. He thinks that if he can apprentice with the Eternals, he will learn magic and be set for life. He has a lot to learn. Leaving the Eternals after a year of intense training, he plans to steal from a rich merchant, but something unanticipated happens and Wang discovers a desire for something even more valuable than riches.

This is a coming of age story for children age 9-12. It is beautifully told and illustrated, a wonderful story about purity of heart and intentions. I loved it.

+ + + / + + + + Day's End Lullaby

Author(s): Karen Cioffi and Robyn Feltman

Paperback: 28 pages

Publisher: BookSurge Publishing (September 2, 2008)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1419691570

ISBN-13: 978-1419691577

Book description (from the back cover): From a reminder that the sun has set, that all beloved toys are tucked away and ready for another day's play, Day's End Lullaby soothes and quiets even those children who struggle against sleep.

Book review: Ages 0-4 will enjoy this calm and soothing lullaby. Each page and accompanying illustration settle the mind and prepare little ones for bed. Sing this lullaby to your little one and it will soon become a favorite part of your child's bedtime routine.

The Adventures of Rodger Dodger Dog: A Christmas Story (Ages 4-8)

2011-11-18T01:00:00.000-08:00

World of Ink Tours

in conjunction with

BiblioReads.com presents...

+ + + The Adventures of Rodger Dodger Dog: A Christmas Story

Author: Jan Britland

Illustrator: Mike Swaim

Paperback: 52 pages

Publisher: CreateSpace; Lrg edition (September 29, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1463737122

ISBN-13: 978-1463737122

From the author: This quite possibly is my favorite book in the series. It not only shows children they can have a great Christmas while making all the ornaments and presents by hand, but it also lets them know what is really important in life. While entertaining them with a great story!

Written in rhyme so the little ones can follow along easily with the amazing illustrations of Mike Swaim, this book is sure to become a Christmas classic!

Your children will want to read it over and over again. --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

Book review: This charming colorful book tells the joyous tale of Christmas among friends. Children will love the story and theme as well as the characters so delightfully created by Mike Swaim. Some of the phrasing is awkward and doesn't quite click as rhyme, but little ones will still enjoy the story. Recommended for ages 3-5.

Spotlight Interview with Anna Deskins

2011-11-15T18:59:00.000-08:00

The Adventures of Smitty - An interview with Anna Deskins
Courtesy of Anna Deskins

Anna Deskins with her children.

Hi, Anna. Your children's book, The Adventures of Smitty, looks magical. Tell us about it.

It's the story of a magical island of little creatures called Smilies and the mischievous little main character, Smitty. He's such a naughty boy. Haha! All the moms and kids I've shared it with have been giving me such a wonderful reaction. I cannot believe it. I have to tell you how excited I am to finally have a life-long dream come true. Writing The Adventures of Smitty was really about finding a story that I would want to read to my children at night. It has to be exciting but not scary so that my two daughters can go to sleep. Basically, I was looking for that perfect blend to read to my kids at night and decided, "Why not try writing my own?"

We've had a lot of changes in our life recently, so I want to make sure that when I put my daughters to sleep that they feel safe. I have short chapters because I know how busy we moms are but if you can just sacrifice 5 minutes at night reading to your kids, it makes a world of difference. Your kids will never forget it. And although we're running around the whirlwind of life, our kids grow up so fast, and that time that we'd rather finish watching what happened in our favorite soap opera instead of reading to our kids will never come again. I hope that The Adventures of Smitty and books like it help moms do exactly that.

The Adventures of Smitty

And it's only 99 cents this week. That's what I love about it. Now, You are recently divorced. How have you been able to continue writing when going through such a change?

Yes, it is by far one of the most challenging points in my life. To see a marriage you thought would last forever to not last forever was difficult for the two of us. I really learned a lot about myself and, most importantly, it's brought me closer to my daughters. I think that's what really motivated me to finish this children's book no matter what. When you're going through changes in your life like this, you need something to hold on to. There's a part of you that wants to prove that you can make it, that you will be a success even if it's not with the partner you originally imagined building a life with. I had to keep writing for my kids. I want to show them that they have to keep strong, no matter what.

We as women, as moms really need to stick together to support each other and our dreams. We're living in an age when I think we're finally realizing, although we want love, the men in our life aren't the answer to everything. We have to stand up on our own two feet and keep going. True love will happen, but until then, we have to keep moving forward. Our children depend on us and we depend on us.

In addition to being a children's book author, you're also a small business owner. How do you juggle taking care of two daughters and at the same time running a business?

Yes, I am a fashion designer and have a retail store. Any type of creativity is what I'm passionate about. That's why writing The Adventures of Smitty was so important to me. Let me tell you, running a small business in today's economy isn't easy especially when raising two girls at the same time. But somehow, it seems someone's watching over me because my dreams are coming true no matter what. To have that many moms glowing about my children's book, means so much to me. And I know my girls are proud.

When do you ever have time to write?

You mean, in between laundry, running a business, chasing my girls around the house, cleaning the house, and flying back and forth from Miami to New York? Haha? That's one thing I've learned, when you really want to do something, you find a way. Things fall into place if you just go for it and that's what I want to encourage all the moms who are reading this right now. Whatever your goal is, you can do it. Don't let the challenges in your personal life stop you from going for your dreams. Just go for it and it's almost magical how things fall into place.

Where can we get a copy of The Adventures of Smitty?

Right now, it's available online by going to: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/94655 You can also visit my website: http://www.AnnaDeskins.com where you can read more about my writing process, my recommendations for other books and my own adventures in Mommyhood.

I'm so grateful for your support and the support I'm getting from so many wonderful moms who dream of writing children's books one day too. Writing The Adventures of Smitty has been such an emotional experience for me, a true journey as I was going through so many changes while writing it. It's truly been a blessing in my life. It, along with my daughters and that guy upstairs, have really pulled me through a challenging time.

Thanks for the interview, Anna. And let's go out and support a fellow mom by getting a copy of The Adventures of Smitty today. I know I will!

Author/Book Spotlight - Jewel Kats

2011-11-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

World of Ink Tours

in conjunction with

BiblioReads.com presents...

Jewel Kats, 32, is an award-winning writer. She’s also one tough cookie. At the age of nine, Jewel endured a car accident. Her physical abilities altered forever. She spent weeks in the Hospital for Sick Children recovering, has survived eight leg surgeries, and currently walks with a cane. (Note: It’s fashionably handpainted!) Nothing stops Jewel. For six years, she penned a syndicated teen advice column for Scripps-Howard News Service and TorStar Syndication Services. Jewel has earned $20,000 in scholarships from Global Television Network and Harlequin Enterprises Ltd. She’s penned three children’s books, including: “Reena’s Bollywood Dream” and “What Do You Use to Help Your Body?” She calls Toronto home.

In a Kingdom far, far away lives Cinderella. As expected, she slaves away for her cranky sisters and step-mother. She would dearly love to attend the Royal costume ball and meet the Prince, but her family is totally dead set against it. In fact, they have gone so far as to trash her wheelchair! An unexpected magical endowment to her wheelchair begins a truly enchanted evening and a dance with the Prince. Can true love be far behind?

Publisher: Loving Healing Press

ISBN Number: 978-1-61599-112-9

Publication Date: May 2011

Genre of Book: Fiction / Disabilities

Maggie and Momma love going for walks. During every outing, Maggie learns about something new. Today’s no different! Momma has arranged for Maggie to meet lots of people in her neighborhood. They all have different jobs. They all come from different cultures. They all use different things to help their bodies. Maggie doesn’t just stop to chit-chat. Rather, she gets to the bottom of things. By asking the right question, she discovers how many people with disabilities use aids to help them out.

Publisher: Loving Healing Press

ISBN Number: 978-1-61599-082-5

Publication Date: Aug 2011

Genre of Book: Fiction / Disabilities

Author Website: www.JewelKats.com

Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=778885013

Publisher Website: www.LHPress.com

Places where book(s) are available for sale:

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-a-Million, Chapters (Canada)

When Monsters Get Lonely (Ages 4-8)

2011-10-28T08:48:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + When Monsters Get Lonely

Author: Maha Huneidi

Illustrator: Karen McDonald

Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace (June 4, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1461063078
ISBN-13: 978-1461063070

Book description: One night during a blackout, one of Hannah's worst childhood fears comes to life, when her monster pays her a visit in the dark of night. Hannah finds it difficult to control her dreadful fear, until Grams reveals how our thoughts magically create our lives.

Book review: This is an awesome book! It might be a tad scary for 4 yr olds, but surely ages 5 - 8 will handle it just fine. Maha Huneidi takes children's night terrors and teaches them how to turn them around into something silly and happy with their imagination. Oh, but the lesson isn't spelled out. It's deftly couched in this highly inventive and imaginative tale superbly illustrated contrasting the darkness our fear conjures and the light and fun our thoughts can create. You'll really enjoy this one and it may be the go to book for your kiddo when a nightmare approaches or the imagination runs wild in the dark and spooky things seem to appear. The warmth of family love and support Hannah receives from her family gives kiddos all the reassurance they need to face Hannah's monster with her and discover how harmless and even fun it can be.

I'll Never Leave (Ages 4-8)

2011-10-24T16:57:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + I'll Never Leave

Author: Elaine Pease

Illustrator: Kerry Lee MacLean
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: PeasePod Books, LLC; 1st edition (November 15, 2000)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0970227507
ISBN-13: 978-0970227508

Book description: Little Leaf loves staying on Mother tree throughout the seasons and won't leave when fall arrives. A sweet tale about bravery and the seasons of life. Fun facts on leaves in the back and crafts and activities. Find hiding ladybugs!

Book review: This is a warm, cozy tale that's perfect for this time of year as the weather begins to change and the leaves turn colors and flutter to the ground. What will happen to Little Leaf?

I loved the mixed media artwork. It really characterized Little Leaf and added so much to the mood and tone of the story which was a very calm and gentle, secure feeling that will reassure little ones as Little Leaf faces her fears about the upcoming changes in her life. In a very non-obtrusive and subliminal way, this book could likely support a child facing major life changes or the death of a loved one, but that is my interpretation alone. At face value the story is genuinely bright, happy and a delightful seasonal tale.

Not only is I'll Never Leave appropriate for the season of fall and all the changes it brings, but it would also thematically support life sciences for second and third grade. You'll even find creative activities at the back of the book to compliment the story and boy do they ever look fun and easy.

Of all the books I have read and posted about today, this one is my favorite.

Even Sharks Need Friends (Ages 4-8)

2011-10-24T16:29:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + Even Sharks Need Friends

Author: Elaine Pease

Illustrator: Kerry Lee MacLean and Natalie Pease
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Peasepod Books; 1st edition (April 30, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0970227515
ISBN-13: 978-0970227515

Book description: Meet Hammy, a big, food loving hammerhead shark who needs a friend, in this light-hearted and funny tale. The other hammeheads bully him. He tries to fit in with a band of hammerheads called Swimmy Buffet and The Coral Waver Band, a "watered-down" version of the Jimmy Buffet band. Hammy finally learns something special when a little sea urchin tries hard to be his friend; good friends come in all sizes!

Book review: What a unique story! I was intrigued by each twist and turn of the tale...a totally creative plot that far out distances many of the books that cross my desk. See how Hammy learns to be a good friend. What I really liked was the shark's conscience and his change of heart. I think any kiddo reading this will identify with the characters and incorporate the lesson into his/her life simply by being a little more open-minded when it comes to making a new friend. Loved the originality...and Gloompa is adorable! (A great plus is the material at the back of the book that parents and teachers can use for added fun for the kiddos.)

The Day No One Played Together (Ages 4-8)

2011-10-24T15:39:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + The Day No One Played Together

Author: Donalisa Helsley

Illustrator: Sarah Harkey
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 26 pages
Publisher: Mirror Publishing (September 13, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1612250645
ISBN-13: 978-1612250649

Book description: Jadyn and Genesis want to play together but neither one wants to play what the other wants to. What will they do? Will they be able to brainstorm and find a way to play together? Will they play alone? "The Day No One Played Together" teaches an important lesson in a fun way. Join these sisters in the first of their series.

Book review: What I really liked about The Day No One Played Together is the creative and natural way the two sisters, with the guidance of Mom, work out the solution to their problem. Young readers will adapt this attitude and resolution for themselves and be sure to carry it over to their play. Jadyn and Genesis are likeable characters that kiddos can relate to--and who doesn't have children that sometimes can't play together? I'm looking forward to more from this author.

10 Yellow Bananas (Ages 0-4, 4-6)

2011-10-24T15:29:00.000-07:00

+ + + + 10 Yellow Bananas

Author: Helen Ross

Illustrator: Dee Texidor

Reading level: 4-8
ISBN: 9781921042898
Format: Paperback
Size: 210mm x 285mm
Pages: 32

Book description: “This charming reverse counting rhyme of the teddy bears that are stolen by ten bananas goes hilariously down the number chain, through all the types of fruit. The bears belong to 'nine sleepy pears' who are followed by lemons, apples, watermelons and the rest — right down to one small berry, The ridiculous procession proceeds down the street, risking life and limb as they chase the bananas, until stopped by what could have been a dreadful calamity.” Dr Virginia Lowe

Book review: The rhyme isn't always quite there, but the giggles are and that's what makes this colorful fruit-filled backward counting book a bonanza of fun. Little ones will take to this tale quite readily and naturally delight in identifying their favorite fruits and counting them down as they follow along the silly story that weaves this madcap world of fruit together.

Quincy Finds A New Home & Quincy Moves To The Desert (Ages 4-8, 6-10)

2011-10-21T10:36:00.000-07:00

World of Ink Tours

in conjunction with

BiblioReads.com presents...

+ + + + + Quincy Finds a New Home

Author: Camille Matthews

Illustrator: Michelle Black

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 40 pages

Publisher: Pathfinder Equine Publications; First edition (February 1, 2009)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 098192400X

ISBN-13: 978-0981924007

Book description: Author/illustrator team Camille Matthews and Michelle Black have created a new series of children s picture books. For ages 4-10, the stories introduce a red horse named Quincy and follow his exploits. Quincy Finds A New Home, the first book of the Quincy the Horse series, is a story about the importance of friendship. Quincy s life is turned upside down when he gets a new owner and is taken to a new home. His new home is the biggest barn he has ever seen. There are horse shows every Sunday, but Quincy does not know how to jump jumps and win ribbons. He finally makes a new friend, an old, brown horse named Beau and confides his secret. Together he and Beau find a very unexpected answer to the problem. This is an engaging, comforting story. The striking oil paintings bring Quincy and his world to life for young readers. Matthews and Black's knowledge and love of horses and attention to details of horse life instill the series with joy and authenticity. Winner of a Mom s Choice Gold Award and a Pinnacle Achievement Award.

+ + + + + Quincy Moves To The Desert

Author: Camille Matthews

Illustrator: Michelle Black

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 40 pages

Publisher: Pathfinder Equine Publications; First edition (June 15, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0981924018

ISBN-13: 978-0981924014

Book description: Quincy Moves To The Desert, the second book of the series, is a story of self-discovery. Quincy and his trusted friend, Beau, leave the comforts of home and go on a big trip West to find trails as far as you can see. Though hesitant at first, Quincy is soon soaking up the sights. To his amazement, Quincy discovers that Horses are everywhere. He learns about all the jobs horses do and begins to dream about his own possibilities. Full of energy and imagination, the beautifully illustrated book includes a map of the US with highlighted states. The sensitive descriptions of Quincy s feelings and experiences provide an environment of warmth and comfort. The striking oil paintings bring Quincy and his world to life for young readers. Matthews' and Black's knowledge and love of horses and attention to details of horse life instill the series with joy and authenticity.

Book review: I have fallen in love with this new series. It's not just the beautiful, detailed oil paintings or the stories that draw me in and make me want to read more about Quincy, it's the fact that kiddos who are not quite ready for chapter books can really sink their teeth into this series. Especially older kiddos, a bit delayed in reading, who can easily be turned off by picture books that are too juvenile for them. The Quincy series will engage and encourage a love of reading and bring children up to the next reading level, bridging the gap between picture books and chapter books in an intelligent way.

The Quincy books are not sugary sweet, they are a frank and detailed horse's perspective and therein lies the charm. Quincy's thoughts and feelings read like a kid's, ages 6-10, and not like a sappy, patronizing caricature. Are there lessons to learn in this series. Perhaps. But they are so subtle they don't get in the way of a plain old good story.

Gift of The Desert Dog (Ages 9-12)

2011-10-18T11:12:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + Gift of The Desert Dog
Author: Robert L. Hunton
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 194 pages
Publisher: Open Books Press (November 12, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0984575189
ISBN-13: 978-0984575183

Book description: A twelve year-old Tohono O'odham boy and his grandfather embark on a hazardous journey across Arizona's borderland desert to the summit of legendary Baboquivari Peak to seek the spirits of their ancestors. Treacherous mountain passes, ruthless drug smugglers, and the mystery of ancient petroglyphs prove the ultimate test of their dedication to one another on a quest to the place where I'itoi, the first O'odham, walked Mother Earth.

Book review: Gift of The Desert Dog is even more than the description puts forth. It is the bond between a boy and his grandfather. It is the hope of a troubled boy for his father to change and bring peace and happiness to the family again. It is the discernment of a young man regarding the path he will choose in life: to persist in anger and mischief, to leave at this age for an academy for gifted children or to postpone his higher education until college choosing, instead, to stay with family. All this is wrapped into a wonderfully warm and patiently told tale of a boy coming of age and embracing his heritage in the Arizona desert.

I could not help but be swept up in the life of Danny Rivas. I found myself deeply immersed in the tension, unfolding mystery, love and Native American spirituality that is woven throughout this story.

The only thing that troubled me was the author's use of broken language (w-what, I-I've, h-how, etc) to show emotion. It wasn't at all necessary and only made the characters sound like they were stuttering...but the story is otherwise written so well that I ignored this.

Gift of The Desert Dog is well worth a read. I look forward to more from this author.

"BRUSH BARRY BRUSH" EARNING TOP REVIEWS AND RECOGNITION

2011-10-17T10:49:00.000-07:00

San Diego author Linda Valderrama R.D.H. and illustrator Sudabeh Memarzadeh have received notification that their children's book, "Brush Barry Brush" has received recognition as a 2011 KART (Kids Are Readers Too) Book List winner in the pre-school/pre-K (ages 2-5) category.

“Brush Barry Brush” with chart and stickers, is designed for young children. It emphasizes in a fun way the importance of brushing teeth throughout the day. Our nation’s most significant, yet mostly preventable, childhood disease is tooth decay. For "Brush Barry Brush", Valderrama an experienced dental hygienist, teamed up with local artist Sudabeh Memarzadeh to match the interactive and whimsical story of Barry and his friends with brightly colored and engaging illustrations. She would like to see most young children going to the dentist for routine checkups..not for emergency toothaches or fillings.

The KART Kids Book List is assembled each year to introduce children’s books with age appropriate content that are memorable and enhance the gift of learning as a child grows. Each year over 1,000 entries are reviewed by the KART Foundation and this year, thirty two books were chosen as winners to be included in the book list. The KART Foundation believes that every child deserves to experience the magic of a storybook and introducing books at an early age will allow children to naturally master developmental milestones. They distribute new books to children through educational learning institutions and libraries.

Read the Biblio Reads review of Brush Barry Brush.

"Brush Barry Brush" is available at:

*www.shirleysgirlpublications.com

*Posies and Ponies Children Store ( La Jolla, California)

*The Yellow Book Road ( San Diego,California)

*Fireside Bookstore (Chagrin Falls, Ohio)

*as recordable e book at www.RippleReader.com

*www.amazon.com

For more information call (619) 723-8492

The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes (Ages 4-8, 6-10)

2011-10-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes

Author: Mark Pett & Gary Rubinstein

Illustrator: Mark Pett
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky (October 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402255446
ISBN-13: 978-1402255441

Book description: Beatrice Bottomwell has NEVER (not once!) made a mistake...

Meet Beatrice Bottomwell: a nine-year-old girl who has never (not once!) made a mistake. She never forgets her math homework, she never wears mismatched socks, and she ALWAYS wins the yearly talent show at school. In fact, Beatrice holds the record of perfection in her hometown, where she is known as The Girl Who Never Makes Mistakes. Life for Beatrice is sailing along pretty smoothly until she does the unthinkable–she makes her first mistake. And in a very public way!

Book review: What a perfectly perfect book for little perfectionists everywhere (whether they are going through a stage or were born that way), easing them into the idea that it's okay to make mistakes. I loved it. Written with warmth and humor and illustrated with charm, The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes is one of those books your kids won't forget and will want to have it read to them again and again. This one is definitely worth purchasing for your home library.

To enter your name for a drawing to win this book, send an email to BiblioReads@gmail.com with "Perfect" in the subject line. A winner will be drawn October 31, 2011.

Barkley Secret Service Dog: The Case of the Purple Diamonds (Ages 9-12)

2011-09-30T09:28:00.000-07:00

+ + + + Barkley Secret Service Dog: The Case of the Purple Diamonds

Author: H.K. Gilbert & Misty Taggart

Illustrator: Tim Davis
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 88 pages
Publisher: TAG Publishing LLC (May 23, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1934606073
ISBN-13: 978-1934606070

Book description: As Barkley, Secret Service Dog, surveys the rose garden of the White House on his morning patrol, he spies the suspicious Smedley Von Smellerhausen lurking about. Who is this purple clad villain? What mysterious plans does he have in store for the White House? Barkley is hot on the case until the new girl in town cramps his style. Kidnapping, intrigue and mystery make the hunt for the famous purple diamonds of Pajoon a case to remember. Barkley isn't your typical dog. He lives a life of belly rubs, crime fighting and spy catching. Barkley is a 'secret' Secret Service Dog for the White House. He operates undercover to keep the White House safe. With his special Gizmo Gear Collar, he is ready to take on the sneakiest bad guys, solve the most exciting cases and get a few table scraps too. A typical day for Barkley is filled with amazing surprises, unexpected adventure and a lot of fun and excitement. We can all rest easy knowing that Barkley, Secret Service Dog is on patrol protecting our National Security and chasing down evil villains.

Book review: The first book in this new series is fun and fast-paced. Follow the quirky canine Secret Service Dog as he solves the case.

What I liked: There is a good interplay between writing and illustration that makes this chapter book an easy and engaging read for kiddos. Advanced readers of ages 7 & 8 might also enjoy Barkley; it certainly is a book that will encourage early reading because of its simplicity, colorful characters (both in word and illustration) and mystery to be solved.

What I didn't like: This first book was a little long to be so light on character development, but it does a good job building suspense and that will definitely hold interest.

My 8 yr old son's reaction: Loved the dog, hated the girl. He wants more stories with dogs and boys...so he can, presumably, relate.

Overall, Barkley Secret Service Dog: The Case of the Purple Diamonds has an old school Saturday morning cartoon feel to it much like Scooby Doo or Hong Kong Phooey and that makes it very unique and will draw parents to the book as well.

I look forward to reading more about Barkley and the cases he must solve!

No Tildes on Tuesday (Ages 9-12)

2011-09-27T22:25:00.000-07:00

+ + + + No Tildes on Tuesday
Author: Cherrye S. Vasquez
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Perfect Paperback: 96 pages
Publisher: Tate Publishing; Pap/Psc edition (December 7, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1616636890
ISBN-13: 978-1616636890

Book description: Isabella never wanted to learn to speak Spanish. But when her parents announce that they are moving the family to a predominantly Mexican-American neighborhood, Isabella becomes desperately afraid that she won't be able to fit in and grudgingly agrees to start Spanish lessons with her abuela. But the lessons aren't as easy as she thought they would be. Abuela is a strict teacher and the words are a lot more difficult to memorize than Isabella thought they would be, so at the goading of her best friend she decides to put a stop to the Spanish lessons. Through a runaway adventure, a visit to her father in the hospital, and an introduction to a new kind of friend, Isabella comes to realize that Spanish may not be as bad as she thought, and that being able to communicate with people who share her heritage could be invaluable.

Book review: This is a great book that I hope many children get to read especially kiddos that are struggling like Isabella. Cherrye Vasquez perfectly captures the angst Isabella is going through as her family tries to share her Mexican heritage and the Spanish language with her. No Tildes on Tuesday introduces children to the beautiful Mexican culture and can encourage friendships between English and Spanish speakers within communities; it can encourage children to be bilingual. Best of all it helps Mexican-American kiddos appreciate both sides of their heritage.

BSL Storytime Part 2

2011-09-24T22:54:00.000-07:00

Teaching baby sign language doesn’t have to be a strict routine or curriculum. You already narrate your day, so adding some signs for your baby’s common activities is a practical and quick way to give your little one the independence to request a snack and a diaper change. It is this practical signing that makes “Babies (A Very First Picture Book)” by Nicola Tuxworth an excellent story to read and sign to your baby during the early months of teaching BSL.

Once your baby has graduated from cloth books and on to the board books, the bright and cheerful pages of this picture book are both captivating and sturdy. The subject matter is simple, clear and practical. The pages are full of everyday words and activities that baby will recognize, relate to and recall from the signs and activities that you already describe during your day.

Baby will read (and sign) about eating, diaper changes, getting dressed, and fun baby play activities. And the photography featuring fellow babies allows for maximum interaction and recognition. Allow baby to explore by touching the pages and photos. If one page is of particular interest, describe it in further detail, with both verbal descriptions and sign language; go beyond the words featured in the story text.

Right about the time babies are ready for board books, they are probably ready for these practical, everyday signs, too. A boardbook is not going to tear easily so it is little hand friendly, but unlike the cloth books it isn’t machine washable or teething material. So if your baby’s cloth book is receiving a little less chew time, your child is likely ready for a board book.

Board book BSL is a great introduction to adding a regular storytime into your daytime - or perhaps bedtime - routine. Particularly at bedtime, your little one may have the ability to sit still a little longer. During story time, you’ll be working to improve attention span, develop speech and teach baby to sign. But most importantly, you’ll be bonding with your bundle of joy by fostering a love of learning and reading.

We are honored to be a guest at Biblio Reads. You can explore more about sign language for babies by visiting us at Babysignlanguage

Secret of The Puking Penguins . . . and More! (Ages 9-12)

2011-09-23T09:53:00.000-07:00

When does a stomach stop working like a stomach? When does it stop digesting food and start preserving it instead? What can be more important than having a daily dose of nutrition? It turns out that
the King penguin, which is the second largest penguin, has successfully adapted this strategy to increase its chick's chances of survival in a very cold place. Read more about it and see what else is in this cool book on non-fiction children's book author Ana Maria Rodriguez's blog.

Make sure you check out all the books Ana shares on her blog - A place to find news about science, nature, and outstanding people: books, articles, blogs, and reviews. A place to find interesting science and nature topics teachers, librarians, and parents can use to teach science concepts or just for the fun of it!

Sparky The Fire Dog (Ages 0-4, 4-8)

2011-09-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + Sparky The Fired Dog
Author: Don Hoffman
Illustrator: Todd Dakins
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Imagine, a Charlesbridge Imprint (October 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1936140624
ISBN-13: 978-1936140626

Book description: Meet Sparky. This adorable Dalmation puppy--who's celebrating his SIXTIETH birthday--is an important member of the team at the fire station. But he's more than just a cute character in a book: Sparky is the official spokesdog for the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), and what he has to say can actually save lives. This canine hero rescued a little girl and her family, and now he's helping kids become junior fire inspectors right in their own homes. In colorful, appealing illustrations, Sparky takes a group of young animals through the neighborhood, pointing out hazards, giving basic fire prevention and safety tips, and showing them how to be prepared in case of an emergency. From having a working smoke alarm to being careful with candles and knowing where your exits are, Sparky's advice may be the most important thing children--and their parents--ever learn.

Book review: I really liked this easy to read, engaging story about Sparky The Fire Dog but give it + + + + + because it's filled with such important information that kiddos will read and remember. It will introduce fire safety to little ones and kiddos up to age eight. Follow Sparky as he travels the neighborhood with his junior inspectors and reminds friends about things like having a three-foot safety zone around the stove, never letting candles or fireplaces burn unattended, changing the batteries in smoke detectors, having a family plan to escape the house if it's on fire and more. Written in such a way that children will learn and remember what Sparky tells them, this book is a must have for every household.

Abe's Lucky Day (Ages 6-10)

2011-09-14T08:54:00.000-07:00

+ + + + Abe's Lucky Day

Author: Jill Warren

Illustrator: Kalpart

Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press (July 7, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1432773054
ISBN-13: 978-1432773052

Book description: Abe is a homeless man who lives in the alley behind a bakery and winter is coming. What will happen on his lucky day that will change his life?

Book review: I really liked the concept of this story. Abe is a homeless man, but he's very generous with what he does have. As he shares with others in need, we get a bigger picture of homelessness and the many different types of people in need who live among us. We also learn many ways we can help others no matter how much or how little we possess. Overall, this is a positive story that teaches 'love thy neighbor.'

Sally's Bones (Ages 9-12)

2011-09-09T08:10:00.000-07:00

+ + + + Sally's Bones

Author: MacKenzie Cadenhead

Illustrator: T.S. Spookytooth
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky (September 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402259433
ISBN-13: 978-1402259432

Book description: 2 Months, 28 Days, 9 Hours, and 12 minutes earlier...

Sally Simplesmith's life changed forever. She came face-to-face with death - a delightful, dearly departed little dog she lovingly calls Bones. But when the cadaverous canine is accused of a crime he didn't commit, Sally decides to solve the case herself!

Does Sally have what it takes to fetch a thief?

Sally's Bones is the impossibly possible tale of a girl, a crime, and a lovably lifeless, decidedly dead dog.

Book Review: The story idea seemed implausible at first. A girl and her pet dead dog? How could MacKenzie Cadenhead pull this one off, but succeed she did. The little decaying mutt grows on you. And so do the rest of the quirky and 'punny' characters.

Poor Sally is lost without her mother who passed away. And middle school is no piece of cake. The kids, especially Viola, can be downright cruel and vicious. Sally just doesn't fit in. But all that changes when Bones comes along.

For kiddos that gravitate toward oddities, the unusual, the grotesque and the spooky, Sally's Bones is a real treat. For anyone who has ever felt left out at school, Sally is a hero. And for laughs, the subtle humor and puns are worth a chuckle or two.

Original in premise and execution, the story will wrap itself around your imagination and your heart.

Note: This book is not at all scary...just a little disgusting. Think of it. A dead dog for a pet! Cool.

Spotlight Interview with Fiona Ingram

2011-09-07T01:00:00.000-07:00

The Secret of the Sacred Scarab - An interview with Fiona Ingram

by VS Grenier

Thank you, Fiona, for being my guest here on Biblio Reads.

What inspired you to write?

From an early age I would tell my younger brothers and their friends stories to entertain them, usually involving monsters, vampires, werewolves and skeletons in a haunted house called Gruesome Gables. Then we would act out plays (which I wrote) for my longsuffering parents. I would also write amusing poems on family birthdays, anniversaries etc. I gradually drifted into writing almost by chance, until one day I found myself writing for a living as a journalist. Only later did I begin writing books.

Do you consider yourself a born writer?

I didn’t at first because my writing work was largely editorial, reporting on events and dealing in facts; and I also edited other people’s work. Only when I wrote my first children’s book did I realize I was born to write. Even then the book started out as a short story to amuse my two young nephews.

What type of books do you mostly write?

Having a journalistic background has served me well. I find that when you are earning a living by the pen, you find yourself able to write on any subject. I love my middle grade adventure series Chronicles of the Stone and have just completed Book Two. However, I have written an historical romance and have collaborated on an historical adventure epic with a fellow writer.

Do your children or family inspire any of your books, characters, or plots?

Actually, my children’s book The Secret of the Sacred Scarab was inspired by a trip I took to Egypt with my Mom and my two nephews, then aged 10 and 12. When I came back I thought a short story with my young relatives as the heroes would be a unique memory of an amazing trip. I also put myself in as the boys’ aunt and my mother in as their intrepid adventure-loving Gran. Many of the characters and events in the book were inspired by people we met and our experiences in Egypt. Six months later I was hard at work on the first book and had already planned an entire series.

Can you share with us a little about your current book?

In The Secret of the Sacred Scarab a 5000-year-old mystery comes to life when a scruffy peddler gives Adam and Justin Sinclair an old Egyptian scarab on their very first day in Egypt. Only when the evil Dr. Faisal Khalid shows a particular interest in the cousins and their scarab, do the boys realize they are in terrible danger. Dr. Khalid wants the relic at all costs. Justin and Adam embark upon the adventure of a lifetime, taking them down the Nile and across the harsh desert in their search for the legendary tomb of the Scarab King, an ancient Egyptian ruler. They are plunged into a whirlpool of hazardous and mysterious events when Dr. Khalid kidnaps them. They survive terrifying dangers in a hostile environment (such as a giant cobra, as well as sinking sand), pursued by enemies in their quest to solve the secret of the sacred scarab. They must translate the hieroglyphic clues on the underside of the scarab, as well as rescue the missing archaeologist James Kinnaird, and their friend, the Egyptologist Ebrahim Faza, before time runs out. They must also learn more about the ancient Seven Stones of Power and the mysterious Shemsu-Hor. With just their wits, courage, and each other, the boys manage to survive … only to find that the end of one journey is the beginning of another!

Do you have any other works in progress? Can you share a little about them?

I am busy editing my second middle grade book in the series. It is called The Search for the Stone of Excalibur. My young heroes found at the end of Book One that they were enmeshed in an adventure of epic proportions and there’s no getting out it!

What is your creative process like? What happens before sitting down to write?

I don’t really have to think about what I am going to write because I think about scenes or plot developments much of the time when I am not in my office – in the bath, in bed, driving somewhere. I have lots of images floating in my head. When I sit down I usually reread a few chapters to give myself a link back to the story and then just dive in. Often while I type I have an idea of something I need to put into another section, so I can jump around my manuscript a bit. Something I found very useful is to do a synopsis of each chapter after writing it. It really helps to keep the threads of the plot tied together. Small things like someone leaving the room, or bringing something into a scene can destroy the credibility of a book if the writer does not keep an eye on the action.

Do you do a lot of research for your books?

Yes, I do because my entire story line for the book series delves into the ancient past, using magic, mysteries, myths and legends to create a compelling story. The plots are also set in different locations for each book, so other elements like geography and history and culture are very important.

What well-known writers do you admire most?

I have some favorite authors and books I like better than most but I don’t have set authors. I have favorite books from different writers. Some are: The Lord of the Rings trilogy, anything by Jane Austen, anything by Wilkie Collins, Isabel Allende, Mervyn Peake, John Fowles and Melvyn Bragg. My all-favorite non-fiction author is Graham Hancock because I enjoy his investigations into ancient history. I have hundreds of books so, as you can imagine, it is hard to pick out a few favorites.

Do you participate in competitions? Have you received any awards?

Competitions and book awards are a fantastic way to tell more people about your work. I enter as many as are suitable for my genre. I have been fortunate enough to garner a few accolades.

· Book Award Nominations & Wins:

· Finalist Children's Fiction USA Next Generation 2009 Indie Book Awards

· Finalist Juvenile Fiction USA National Best Books 2009 Awards

· Winner Pre-Teen USA 2009 Readers' Favorites Awards

· Number 2 in the USA Children's & Teens Book Connection Top Ten Favourite Books of 2009 for Kids, Tweens & Teens

· Winner Silver Medal Teen Fiction 2010 Nautilus Book Awards

· Finalist Children’s Fiction 2010 International Book Awards

· Winner Bronze Medal Pre-Teen Fiction 2010 Moonbeam Book Awards

· Finalist 2011 Rubery Book Awards

· Children’s Literary Classics Seal of Approval 2011

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

Please visit my website www.FionaIngram.com and also the book site www.secretofthesacredscarab.com for a wonderful, fun, exciting and informative trip into another amazing world.

*~*~*~*

Enter the drawing to win a copy of The Secret of the Sacred Scarab. Just send an email to BiblioReads@gmail.com with "Scarab" in the subject line. Must be a US resident. A winner will be drawn on September 30, 2011. Good luck!

Rachel and Sammy Visit the Prairie (Ages 6-8)

2011-09-06T11:46:00.000-07:00

+ + + + Rachel and Sammy Visit the Prairie
Author: Jannifer Powelson
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 52 pages
Publisher: Strategic Book Publishing (November 10, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1608607054
ISBN-13: 978-1608607051

Book description: Rachel and Sammy Visit the Prairie is an exceptional tool for teaching children about life on a Midwest prairie. With an entertaining and educational storyline, vivid photos plus realistic illustrations, the book will encourage readers to dive into the great outdoors and learn more about the natural world.

This little story on the prairie will teach children all about prairie plants. Rachel Raccoon and Sammy Skunk meet near a prairie and explore it together. Rachel is a very smart raccoon and teaches Sammy to identify 20 common prairie plants. The book serves as a junior field guide for children interested in learning about the prairie in a fun way.

Author Jannifer Powelson of Princeton, Illinois, shot the photos for her book. She wrote her master's thesis on raccoons and now works as a conservationist. This is the first book in a series about Rachel and Sammy.

Book review: The first two pages appear to be geared for ages 4-8, but afterward the book quickly slips into a 6-8, 6-10 year range which is the perfect audience for a book so chock full of facts about a Midwest prairie. Rachel and Sammy Visit the Prairie teaches in an engaging and interesting style by having the main characters hike through the biome and study the different flowers and grasses they discover. Young naturalists will readily gobble this up as Rachel and Sammy tour the prairie. Great for fun and homeschooling, too.

Rachel and Sammy Visit the Forest (Ages 6-8)

2011-09-06T11:29:00.000-07:00

+ + + + Rachel and Sammy Visit The Forest
Author: Jannifer Powelson
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 40 pages
Publisher: Eloquent Books (September 30, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1609761685
ISBN-13: 978-1609761684

Book description: Rachel and Sammy Visit the Forest is the second in the Rachel Raccoon and Sammy Skunk series. This beautifully illustrated book will help children learn about 15 common spring woodland wildflowers.

This fun story can also be used as a junior field guide to aid students in identifying the plants in the story, as each plant in the book features realistic illustrations and colorful photographs. The photos were taken by the author and will help readers learn more about the great variety of wildflowers. Join Rachel and Sammy as they frolic through the woodland wildflowers, learning as they go!

Jannifer Powelson lives in Princeton, Illinois, and has been writing children's books since 2003. The first book in her series was Rachel and Sammy Visit the Prairie. Her next will be Rachel and Sammy Learn About Trees. The author wrote her master's thesis on raccoons and now works as a conservationist. Publisher's website: http://www.strategicpublishinggroup.com/title/RachelAndSammyVisitTheForest.html

Book review: Rachel and Sammy Visit the Forest is an informative story that would be an excellent book to include when studying biomes like the North American forest. The realistic flower and plant illustrations and color photos will give kiddos an exact guide to go by. There isn't much to the story beyond the main point (studying spring woodland wildflowers) but that's perfectly okay as this book works well as a junior field guide. Homeschoolers take note!

September Giveaway

2011-09-01T01:00:00.000-07:00

Two New Goosebumps Adventures
Arrive on DVD September 13

Win a copy of the DVD

Arriving September 13^th

From Twentieth Century Fox Home

Entertainment

Get goose bumps and keep the light on to ward off the ghosts, goblins, mutants and madness as Goosebumps®: Attack of the Mutant and Goosebumps®: Ghost Beach scare their way onto DVD September 13, 2011 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.

With over 300 million books sold, R.L. Stine’s wildly successful children’s stories (www.scholastic.com/goosebumps ) come to life with two all-new terrifying tales. First, Attack of the Mutant includes “Attack of the Mutant Parts 1 & 2” and follows Skipper Matthews and his awesome comic book collection. Skipper’s favorite is The Masked Mutant, the story of an evil, power-mad super villain who is out to gain control of the universe. One day, while lost in a strange part of town, Skipper discovers a building that mysteriously resembles the Mutant’s secret headquarters... a building that magically disappears. Has Skipper read one too many comic books? Or does The Masked Mutant really exist? The DVD also features “Phantom of the Auditorium™,” a frightening story about a young actress who is thrilled after winning the lead in the school play... until the nightmares begin as there is talk of a real phantom who has haunted the auditorium for years.

Next, Ghost Beach includes “The Barking Ghost” and follows Cooper Holmes, a young man who is scared of just about everything. His father says he’s the only kid to scare himself on Halloween! But as he moves into a new house, this time Cooper is not just scared of his own shadow. In “Be Careful What You Wish For,” class klutz Samantha Byrd is the laughingstock of the girls’ basketball team. But now, Samantha has found someone who will grant her three wishes. Too bad she wasn’t more careful as now Sam’s wishes are turning her life into a living nightmare! Lastly, “Ghost Beach” focuses on Jerry, who is thrilled by the prospect of exploring the dark, eerie old cave he discovered down by the beach. When he hears the story of a 300-year-old ghost living inside, Jerry must decide if he will believe the legend or dismiss it as a silly made-up tale.

Watch these latest spooky Goosebumps® stories on September 13… if you dare!

Goosebumps Adventures Arrive available on DVD September 13^th.

Just send an email to BiblioReads@gmail.com with "Goosebumps" in the subject line and answer the question below. If you get it correct you are eligible for a drawing to win one of the DVDs - winner to be drawn September 13th.

What is Skipper Matthews favorite Goosebumps book?

a) Attack of the Mutant

b) Ghost Beach

c) The creepy one

Follow Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment on Twitter @FoxHomeEnt

Free reading: Diary of a Nerd King by Matt Ballard

2011-08-30T20:27:00.000-07:00

Children's book author Matt Ballard is offering Diary of a Nerd King free. It's written for tweens and early teens. He adds an entry to his blog fairly regularly, so you can depend on installments.

Check it out: http://nerdkingdiary.blogspot.com

Life Is Not a Candy Store; It's The Way to The Candy Store (Ages 12-Up)

2011-08-29T08:20:00.000-07:00

World of Ink Tours

in conjunction with

BiblioReads.com presents...

+ + / + + + Life Is Not a Candy Store; It's The Way to The Candy Store: A Spiritual Guide To The Road of Life For Teens

Author: Tal Yanai

Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 72 pages
Publisher: Bat-el Publishing (June 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0983202508
ISBN-13: 978-0983202509

Book description: This small book is full of wisdom of the deepest kind, couched in simple language and written from the heart. Although the content is geared toward teenagers, it will equally appeal to adults. The combination of spoken truths and openness makes it easily accessible, and encourages readers to go back and reread. Anyone living by this philosophy can do no harm, and will radiate the light of gentleness, kindness and peace.

Book review: For teens who have grown up with a solid religious faith, this book is not necessary. For teens who are, perhaps, beginning their spiritual awakening or existential journey this book may be of use as a source of inspiration, though the suggestions, truths and directions are not meaty enough to form a solid life view or cause to really consider life's weightier concerns. Consider Life is Not a Candy Store... a starter kit or sampler of the following brand of thinking.

Life is Not a Candy Store... begins with the testament that "the Creator is not something we can fully understand or define. Throughout time people have given the Creator many names: God, Goddess, He, She, The Source of All Things, The Great Spirit, The Father and many more." And, though there will be many ups and downs in life, "the Universe will not challenge you to do something it thinks you cannot do."

Advice is given to avoid drugs, alcohol, gossiping, lying, stealing. Activities range from having your teen think about lessons learned (a good and positive exercise) to guided visualization where the imagination is used to envision the Universe's healing love filling your being while balls of negative energy flow from your body to the light. Encouragement is given to help others and do good things. And a final activity encourages, through guided imagery again, a way to work out important decisions relying on the light of the Universe to fill you and supply you with answers.

Much of the book seems a bit unorganized and lacking in detail. It's a plethora of 'wisdom and advice' with a loose guidance until Chapter Seven, Roadside Assistance, where six specific tools are advised for navigating life's road: religion and spirituality, your inner voice, meditation, choosing the right friends, the ability to forgive and the use of humor. Here we find the solidity the rest of the book lacks, with more sound detail. The final chapter on Road Hazards is sage advice about what to do and how to react when (and I think this is the most important question teens have) bad things happen to good people. Do we give up belief in an all good Creator and turn away from all that is good, or do we persevere in love?

Overall, this is not a book I think teens will choose to read and pass on, dog-eared, to their friends, but they may find it useful and interesting in a youth group setting. This is a fine sampler of existential thinking and new-age practices that those who embrace such beliefs will find good and helpful for introducing a higher, more purposeful life to their teen.

Part 1: Baby’s First Sign Language For Babies Storytime-Sweet Dreams

2011-08-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

Teaching your baby the sign for book can leave you with quite the little bookworm on your hands. And since both reading and signing are a great way to help your child’s language development, why not put the two together for some learning fun. Sign language for babies is an excellent addition to the learning routine of your little one

Depending our your signing vocabulary and the signing level or your child, just about any storybook will do, but for baby’s very first signing storytime, you may find an eager participant. I like to start with board books, cloth books and even the bathtime-friendly books that we can read and splash in the tub. Your little book worms will likely not have a very long attention span in the beginning, and they will want to touch and chew. To reinforce the newly learned signed vocabulary you can incorporate visual feedback by printing selected baby sign language flash cards.

Books that have one word and one picture per page are a great way to start. This is similar to doing flash cards, but the pictures and words usually flow in a way that flash cards don’t. For instance, the book may be all animal pictures, or different types of fruit. Since I like to read before bedtime, we chose My First Taggies Cloth Bedtime Book: Sweet Dreams by Scholastic.

We start with the bunny sign as I point out the cover. But there is also a puppy and other animals awaiting us on the inside. We read about big hugs and sweet dreams. And of course, we will need the sign for sleep, which is a sign I use again when I lay baby down in bed.

I like to go beyond the words on the pages and describe what we are looking at, too. I point out flowers and stars, and baby is always eager to point out (and chew on) the taggies.

With a good night message from a different animal awaiting us on each page, this cloth book is a great way to preface our bedtime cuddles and rocking before drifting off for our own sweet dreams.

Author:
Mey Lau
www.babysignlanguage.com

Horrid Henry Wakes the Dead (Ages 7-10)

2011-08-17T01:00:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + Horrid Henry Wakes the Dead

Author: Francesca Simon

Illustrator: Tony Ross
Reading level: Ages 7-10
Paperback: 112 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky; Reprint edition (August 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402259344
ISBN-13: 978-1402259340

Book description: You won't believe what HORRID Henry will do next!

Henry will do anything to win the grand prize at this year's talent show...even wake the dead! Plus three other stories that will leave you screaming for more.

If you read this book, you'll laugh so hard MILK MIGHT COME OUT OF YOUR NOSE!

(Find out why tens of millions of kids around the world love Horrid Henry.)

Book review: (Please read the entire review.) I thought Henry was absolutely HORRID. He and his brother are constantly fighting. Henry teases, bends the truth, exaggerates, bribes, screams and yells when he doesn't get his way, pouts and has a megalomaniac's drive for power and fame. His brother Perfect Peter is "better behaved" but only slightly less irritating. I had a headache just reading the book and found nothing funny about it. How could a responsible parent let their child read and laud such behavior? I seriously failed to see what so many people found so wonderful about Horrid Henry. If anything, the book is a lesson in how to misbehave, drive your parents and teacher up the wall and make your little brother feel like dirt. I see nothing redeemable about little Horrid Henry.

But I asked my eight-year old son to read Horrid Henry Wakes the Dead and tell me what he thought. Here's his review with my interjections in parentheses:

Horrid Henry Wakes the Dead is GOOD. I love how he screams NOOOOOOOOO! (Acting like a brat because he likes television so much and his mother puts a limit on it.) I don't like them (Henry and Peter) fighting all the time because they always end up regretting it but I liked the story about the purple dinosaur. It was funny. (Henry and Peter fight over one of two toys until it breaks and then they want the other toy and start fighting over it.) I liked all the stories. I'd be so grounded (if he acted like Henry). Horrid Henry is funny but his brother, Perfect Peter, is annoying. I give this book 3,000 stars out of five.

Your kiddo will find Horrid Henry highly amusing. How fun to read about someone being so bad, doing what kids might only wish they could do! How fun to act on impulse without self-restraint!

So long as your child has a good understanding of your rules and expectations, I don't think Horrid Henry will be a bad influence. He'll just be plain funny doing exactly what your child knows he shouldn't do. Don't worry. There are some consequences for Henry. His world has rules, too.

My son read Horrid Henry Wakes the Dead in under an hour and is eager to get the rest of the books in this series. He's going to gobble them up.

I still don't care for it, but I'm letting my son read the series because I think the discrepancy between our reviews of Henry is only a matter of personal taste and I think he's mature enough to handle the stories.

Not Fat Because I Wanna Be (Ages 6-10)

2011-08-15T01:38:00.000-07:00

World of Ink Tours

in conjunction with

BiblioReads.com presents...

+ + + + + Not Fat Because I Wanna Be

Author: LaNiyah Bailey, LaToya White

Illustrator: Laura Perez Ricaud
Paperback: 42 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace (March 2, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1461006767
ISBN-13: 978-1461006763

Book description: In her debut book "Not FAT Because I Wanna Be" 6 year old, author/youth advocate, LaNiyah Bailey, details the struggle of Jessica, a fictional girl who has an underlying medical issue that causes her to gain weight. Bullied by her peers, Jessica learns to accept her body and eventually opens up about her condition to her classmates.

Book review: This is an exceptional story told in earnest and with a lot of heart. Young Miss Jessica has a health condition that causes her to be overweight, but the bigger problem is the bullying. Good for her, she's got a super terrific loving family and an awesome doctor that support her.

I got so thoroughly wrapped up in this story and think young readers will too. The easy flow of dialog makes reading fun and fast paced. The first person narrative and touching illustrations make it easy to empathize with Jessica so the message to not judge someone based on how they look is well received. Kids will care about Jessica and have a new perspective when it comes to their classmates. Perfect for ages 6-10.

And...a job well done by this mother/daughter team!

Wild About Reading - Like this page on FB, I do!

2011-08-06T11:16:00.000-07:00

Check it out: http://www.facebook.com/WildAboutReading?sk=wall

Also check out the Wild About Reading blog.

Wild About Reading's mission is to encourage a love of reading in our children and re-ignite the love in you.

I See The Sun in Afghanistan (Ages 4-8)

2011-08-04T22:29:00.000-07:00

+ + + + I See The Sun in Afghanistan

Author: Dedie King

Illustrator: Judith Inglese

Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 40 pages
Publisher: Satya House Publications; Bilingual edition (July 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0981872085
ISBN-13: 978-0981872087

Book description: Through the eyes of a child, I See the Sun in Afghanistan portrays a culture that emphasizes patriarchal family, love of country and fierce loyalty to family and tribe. Although the story takes place against the backdrop of war, it is not political, but a simple story about one day in the life of a young girl. After waking before dawn, Habiba and her sister go out to fetch water. Following a breakfast of khojur, she tags along with her brother and father as they bring the sheep to pasture. She goes to school outside with other girls; the boys attend school later in the day. Her family is preparing for cousins and an aunt and uncle to move in with them and Habiba wonders how everyone will fit into their small home. A country overview and glossary is included for parents and teachers who want to go beyond the story and talk more about Afghanistan and why it is important. In English and Afghan Farsi.

Book review: As with I See The Sun in China and I See The Sun in Nepal, I See The Sun in Afghanistan takes us through a typical day in the eyes of a child and we learn about her family, culture, food, school and her world view. It's a story all too familiar as children will recognize the daily routines, but also learn and be fascinated by the differences--in clothing, names for family members, meals that are served, chores that need doing and types of schooling. They will also learn to not take for granted some of the basics that we have in America that are luxuries for others, such as running water.

I like this series. It gives a view of life through the eyes of children from different lands that I have not seen in other books. Children will immediately relate to the children featured in the stories and that makes this an excellent series for social studies in the classroom or at home.

Spotlight Interview with Elissa Weissman

2011-08-01T01:00:00.000-07:00

Nerd Camp - An interview with Elissa Weissman

by Lisa Barker

Hello Biblio readers, I am pleased to share an interview with Elissa Weissman. Not only does her book, Nerd Camp, resonate with smarter than average kiddos, it makes being a nerd or geek cool - a most welcomed attitude for today's youth which I am more than happy to support and, best of all, kids are grateful to read.

Hi Elissa, please tell us a little bit about yourself as a writer. When did the writing bug first bite you?

I’ve always loved to read, and that’s what made me want to write. I think I wrote my first real story in first grade—it was about a pterodactyl who is looking for a job. (He ends up delivering airmail! I think I may have gotten that idea from another book, but it’s still pretty clever.) All throughout elementary school, I filled notebook after notebook with stories. I had some friends who liked to write too, and we’d hang out and write stories on a parent’s computer—how wonderfully geeky is that? When I was in fifth grade, I wrote a novel that no one wanted to publish (I tried). I didn’t write another until my senior year of college, and that one did get published: Standing for Socks. So writing was always what I wanted to do, and I’m extremely lucky and grateful to be able to actually call it my career. In some ways I can still hardly believe it.

You make writing look easy and you do it so well. What makes writing for the 9-12 year old age group so much fun?

Wow, thank you! 9-12 is a golden age of reading for many kids—it certainly was for me. Readers this age read a lot, and they get passionate about characters and books. They’re both open-minded and highly discerning, and they appreciate humor and wordplay. Even though many middle grade books tackle serious issues and big ideas, these readers are mostly looking for a good story, and for me, that’s what writing is all about.

What inspired your third and latest book Nerd Camp?

My summers teaching at the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth. I teach a class for rising fourth and fifth graders called “Writing and Reading Workshop,” and every year my room is filled with brilliant, clever, fun, funny kids. It’s wonderful to watch them bond over academic things and just regular kid things. Ever since the first day of my first summer teaching there, I’ve thought that a camp for smart kids would be a great setting for a book.

Were any of the characters based on real people?

I’ve gotten more than one email from my former CTY students asking if any characters are based on them! (My class last summer begged me to at least dedicate the book to them, if they couldn’t be characters.) But no, none of the characters are based on real people in particular, though they are all based on my students in general.

Actually, one character, Wesley Fan, gets his name—but nothing else—from someone real. When I was in college, I played on the table tennis team. I only had one win in my whole competitive ping pong career, and that was against a 7-year-old boy named Wesley Fan. I only won because we were supposed to play at night, and he forfeited because he was tired. If I’d actually had to play him, he totally would’ve beat me.

What gave you the inspiration to make Gabe and Zack complete opposites?

I started with Gabe’s character, and I knew he would be a kid who loves to learn and who would love being at nerd camp. But every story needs a conflict, which meant that Gabe’s soon-to-be stepbrother, Zack, with whom Gabe desperately wants to be friends, had to be Gabe’s opposite. It was a tough balancing act writing Zack, because even though he looks down on nerds, I still wanted Gabe—and readers—to like him. If Zack was such a jerk that Gabe and readers wouldn’t want to be friends with him, the story wouldn’t work. But I think I succeeded (phew!), because a number of readers have told me that Zack is not only super cool, but also—a pleasant surprise for me—their favorite character.

Besides the nerd issue, Gabe and Zack will become a blended family. Why did you choose this family situation? Is there anything special that you wanted to convey to young readers?

I chose to write about a blended family because it fit best with the story I wanted to tell. But the truth is that there are all types of families out there, and I’m glad that my book reflects that.

Did you ever go to a nerd camp? If not, did you ever want to?

You know, I never did go to nerd camp. I remember being invited to take the test for CTY, but I never took it, preferring to go to a more traditional summer camp. It’s too bad, though. I would have loved nerd camp.

Gabe is cool! How do you think attitudes toward nerds are in 2011 compared to, say, 1950? Are nerds more accepted these days in real life, books and movies?

I think Gabe’s cool too! I don’t think I can speak to 1950, but it does seem like it’s become cool to be a nerd recently. But maybe that’s just because I’m all grown up and don’t care who thinks I’m a nerd, or whether or not it’s true. I’m not sure we can say the same for kids, unfortunately. I do think there’s more to nerds now, though, than the old taped-up glasses, suspenders, overbite stereotype. And nerds are definitely popular in books these days—N.E.R.D.S., dorks, whimpy kids….that’s pretty cool to me!

You’ve written three books so far: Standing for Socks, The Trouble with Mark Hopper and Nerd Camp. What’s next?

I’m working on another novel for the same age group. It’s about a girl this time, which is fun, and she gets into some major trouble. The rest is top secret for now. You can check my website (http://www.ebweissman.com) for updates as I decide to reveal more details.

Where can people buy your books?

Anywhere books are sold! Try your local independent bookstore—it’s important to keep those in business—or go to a big bookstore or online. And of course I love for people to buy my books (it keeps me in business), but I’m also a big fan of going to the library, so feel free to get them there as well. (Get it—free? Sorry, that was a pretty nerdy joke.)

Is there anything else you’d like to share with readers?

I have a lot of fun nerdy activities on the book website: www.NerdCampPride.com. There are camp prep word games and logic puzzles, and some brain teasers kids have sent me. There are also a lot of great resources for teachers, including everything you need to throw your own Color War. I got to present the awards at the end of one fourth grade Color War, and it was a blast. There’s even Nerd Camp gear for purchase, so you can show off your nerd pride.

Thanks for reading!

# # #

Nerd Camp by Elissa Weissman- Read the book review on Biblio Reads.

Brush Barry Brush (Ages 4-8)

2011-07-29T01:09:00.000-07:00

World of Ink Tours

in conjunction with

BiblioReads.com presents...

+ + + + Brush Barry Brush

Author: Linda Valderrama R.D.H.

Illustrator: Sudi Memarzadeh

Perfect Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: Shirley's Girl Publications (December 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 057806605X
ISBN-13: 978-0578066059

Book description: Brushing after eating prevents tooth decay. Vibrant and playful illustrations in this book will make teaching your child this basic yet very essential routine a fun and enjoyable experience. Together, parents and children will love reading Barry's story again and again. Stickers and interactive chart included.

Book review: A simple, yet powerful book for the little ones. The main message is clear: Eat, then brush. What I like besides that message is the fact that every child is eating something good for them (some vegetable or fruit, unless you count dark chocolate as bad). I also like the bold color illustrations. There's no fear of cavities used to induce brushing; it's all about eating healthy and cleaning your teeth after each meal. Preschool through kindy will readily grasp the concept and have fun reading. The stickers and chart that are included will encourage brushing, too.

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW - Linda Valderrama

GIVEAWAY: Brush Barry Brush is such a great little book that Biblio Reads is proud to offer another giveaway! Enter now for the August 12th drawing.

The Misadventures of Belle and Chloe (Special Color Edition)...A book of short stories about two insane chocolate Labs growing up in Texas (Ages 9-12)

2011-07-26T13:02:00.000-07:00

+ + + + The Misadventures of Belle & Chloe - Special Color Edition

Author: Doyle Walker

Illustrator: Lisette Cunningham
Paperback: 100 pages
Publisher: Wild Icon Publishing Group; 2nd Updated edition (January 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0979933544
ISBN-13: 978-0979933547

Book description: "The Misadventures of Belle & Chloe" is a book of short stories based on the true and humorous escapades of two chocolate Labs growing up in Texas. No animals were harmed in the making of these stories, although one neighbor's cat may have suffered a slight nervous breakdown. The book is in short story format, and is suitable for readers of all ages.

Book review: First, the cover cracks me up. Then, these two zany mutts lived up to my expectations with their insane antics and asides. Often written in first-dog-person, with some occasional and mildly crude humor that kids in this age range love, these short stories tickle the funny bone and entice you to read just one more. This is a terrific book for middle school kiddos who aren't fond of reading and need a good book to settle down with. The humorous episodes will draw out the most reluctant reader and for that I give it a score of four. Finally, I am touched that Doyle Walker wrote these stories for his wife who had suffered a stroke and needed to read to improve her health. The love between Belle, Chloe, the Mister and the Missus and the rest of the family is self-evident and I hope Biblio Readers will give this one a try.

Peter and The Whimper-Whineys (Ages 4-8)

2011-07-25T22:39:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + Peter and The Whimper-Whineys

Author: Sherrill S. Cannon

Illustrator: Kalpart
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 30 pages
Publisher: Strategic Book Publishing (April 9, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1609115171
ISBN-13: 978-1609115173

Book description: "In a house in the forest all covered with vines, Lived a very small rabbit who did nothing but whine."

Thus begins the rhymed story of Peter and the Whimper-Whineys. Peter's mother warns him that if he cannot stop whining and crying, he'll have to go live with the Whimper-Whineys. His adventure continues as he later hops into the woods and finds lots of frightening Whimper-Whineymen! He discovers that the Whimper-Whineys are very ill-mannered and rude, and that everything is sour in Whimper-Whineland. He decides his mother was right...if only he can get back home...!

Book review: Ohhhhh, where was this book when I needed it most? This one is for parents! Oh, sure the kids will enjoy it and learn something from it, but that is exactly why it's for parents. Get rid of those whineys once and for all!

Yet again, Sherrill Cannon woos young readers with her rhymed storytelling inviting them to imagine and learn lessons in the same spirit as classic stories like The Boy Who Cried Wolf, Little Red Riding Hood and Goldilocks. You'll love it.

Be sure to reserve space on your bookcase for all of Sherrill Cannon's books: www.SherrillCannon.com

Santa's Birthday Gift (Ages 4-8)

2011-07-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

+ + + + Santa's Birthday Gift

Author: Sherrill S. Cannon

Illustrator: Kalpart
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 24 pages
Publisher: Eloquent Books (November 3, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1608608247
ISBN-13: 978-1608608249

Book description: If your child or grandchild has ever wondered where Santa fits in with the traditional Christmas story, now you can read them Santa's Birthday Gift. Finally, a book that ties two holiday traditions into one inspirational tale of wonder - as Santa brings gifts to baby Jesus.

The cleverly-written, rhyming book reveals Santa's adventure from toymaker to star follower -- right into the heart of Bethlehem where he meets Baby Jesus in the manger. Delivering toys to a king is a touching experience for both Santa and readers alike, as they discover where the tradition began -- Santa makes a promise to Jesus to bring gifts to good boys and girls each year on Jesus' birthday.

This delightful story is engaging and delivers meaningful lessons using recognizable nativity characters, and of course, Santa and Jesus. Author Sherrill S. Cannon says her inspiration for this book came from her granddaughter who, after hearing the Christmas story, asked, "But where's Santa?"

Santa's Birthday Gift is the winner of the 2011 National Indie Excellence Finalist Award.

Book review: I gotta tell you that I really love Sherrill's rhyme and way with words. This is the second book of hers that I have reviewed and I heartily recommend her as a children's book author.

Santa's Birthday Gift opens with the nativity scene on that very holy night so long ago. I really enjoyed this part of the book and Sherrill's way of creating with words a very visual mental image of that special event. She writes so well that the illustrations are just frosting on the cake.

Her weaving of the mythical Santa with the birth of Christ is highly imaginative and does provide an answer for children who ask, when hearing the story of Christmas, "But what about Santa Claus?". However, I was disappointed that Sherrill did not introduce St. Nicholas, a very real person on whom Santa is based that ties in even better with the Christ story and will not later be a potential cause for crisis of faith.

So that's a heads up for parents when considering this book. For those in favor of this tale intertwining Santa's role and the origins of his gift-giving with the birth of Christ, you will NOT be disappointed.

The Magic Word (Ages 4-8)

2011-07-21T23:20:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + The Magic Word

Author: Sherrill S. Cannon

Illustrations: Kalpart
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 28 pages
Publisher: Strategic Book Group (February 9, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1609769090
ISBN-13: 978-1609769093

Book description: The Magic Word is one that everyone needs to learn.

"Elisabeth Keys never said thank you, excuse me or please. She made fun of people, she'd argue and tease. She took what she wanted whenever she could, Elisabeth's manners were not very good."

So begins the rhymed story of Elisabeth, who discovers her lack of friends when no one wants to come to her birthday party. Her mother suggests that she learn to be considerate of others and to say "please" as well as "thank you." She should treat others "the way that you know you would like," and should "think more about others and less about you."

When Elisabeth goes to school the next day, she remembers her mother's advice and uses the magic word "please." She also tries to become more thoughtful of others. Imagine her pleasure when she returns home to find out that her new friends are all coming to her birthday party.

The Magic Word has won the NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Award and is also a Global eBook Nominee.

Book review: Very well done! I was very impressed with Sherrill Cannon's expert use of rhyme. Not only does the text flow smoothly and rhythmically, it weaves a story that totally makes sense and stays on target without fail due to forced rhyme. And because it is done so well and is so comfortable and fun to read, the reader and listener will be quite entertained.

This is an exceptional story about the benefits of good manners and common courtesy. The reader will really care about Elisabeth, her predicament and the final outcome. I immediately liked the tender and gentle way Elisabeth's mother guides and counsels Elisabeth. This book will definitely encourage the use of the magic word and I suspect manners will improve greatly with the reading and re-reading of this book.

Buffy and The Carrot (Ages 4-8, 9-12)

2011-07-19T20:13:00.000-07:00

+ + + Buffy and The Carrot

Author: Jennifer Probst

Illustrator: Taylor Probst
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 24 pages
Publisher: Eloquent Books (November 30, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1609763327
ISBN-13: 978-1609763329

Book description: Buffy the rabbit loves playing with his friends at the farm, but Buffy is still a lonely rabbit. He wants someone special to share his life. One day, Buffy finds a very special carrot and knows it is true love! He names his carrot, Julianna. The other bunnies make fun and won't play with him anymore. Buffy doesn't care; he only needs Julianna to make him happy. One day, a storm ravages the farm and damages all the food. Buffy looks for food at his friends' house, but they won't let him in since he's still with Julianna. Buffy grows hungrier and hungrier. Whatever will he do? He looks at his one true love and makes a decision.

Book review: This book certainly doesn't need something special because the story idea is definitely creative and novel as you can tell by the book description. What a quirky and fun book! The story is unique, silly and playful and the black marker/colored pencil illustrations have childlike appeal.

Heads up for parents of 4-8 yr olds to whom this may matter: This book is silly but very mildly includes the concept of dating.

This is possibly a great little book for the older child that's behind in reading skills and not yet ready for chapter books, who may also appreciate the offbeat humor.

The Quirky Kids' Zoo (Ages 0-4, 4-5)

2011-07-19T19:41:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + Quirky Kids' Zoo

Author: Pat Brannon

Illustrator: Jimena Pinto-Kroujiline

Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: wandering sage bookstore & more, LLC (April 8, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1933300833
ISBN-13: 978-1933300832

Book description: Have you ever seen elephants and ants play leap frog? What about goldfish playing guitars? If you've ever wanted to watch tigers jump rope or catch a glimpse of polar bears in pink tennis shoes, then head on over to the Quirky Kids' Zoo. While there, be sure to check out the gopher races and the giraffes playing hopscotch.

Book review: I love the graphics. Straight up, they are colorful, eye-catching and definitely fun. True, this book may rate a reading level for ages 9-12 (because of the vocabulary; the words are not all simple to sound out), but the concept certainly isn't going to be over the heads of preschoolers and kindergarteners. Even first graders will enjoy it. I found the text to be, well, quirky and playful. Children will love seeking the critters on each page and counting out loud with their parents. I was really impressed with this highly creative counting book. Well done.

The Skinny on Bullying: The Legend of Gretchen (Ages: Middle School)

2011-07-19T19:16:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + The Skinny on Bullying
Author: Mike Cassidy
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Perfect Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Rand Media Co (November 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982439016
ISBN-13: 978-0982439012

Book description: The Skinny on Bullying, the Legend of Gretchen (Rand Media Co, 2010) by Mike Cassidy, is written for children who are at the age where bullying first begins to take form. The book is written for both the bullied and the bully alike in the award winning Skinny On format.

The book is about two best friends named Beth and Billy who are about to start their first day at Stickville Middle School.

Beth and Billy were popular at Stickville Elementary School. Billy was the class president and Beth was one of the best soccer players her class. Everything changes when they get to Middle School and experience bullying for the first time by the older eighth graders. Just when they think their situation can't get any worse, the pair learns from their friend Ronnie that a legendary bully named Gretchen is transferring to the school.

Beth and Billy don't believe the story until Gretchen arrives at the school a few days later. She terrorizes everyone in site. Beth and Billy are especially targeted by Gretchen after she spots them dressed in costume for the school play.

With the help of friends, teachers, & counselors the young students do everything they can to make the best of their situation.

The Skinny on Bullying teaches young readers how to:

- Identify if they are being bullied.

- Understand the different types of bullying.

- Defend someone else being bullied.

- Avoid bullying.

- Avoid and prevent cyberbullying.

- Identify with celebrities who were bullied.

- Know if they are being a bully.

- Stop being a bully.

Book review: This book is dead-on and perfect for those in middle school. The stick figure illustrations and the clean copy make this graphic novel easy to read and internalize the concepts. This entertaining book is a terrific resource that will empower the bullied and help bullies understand themselves a little better. I would like to see a copy of this book in every middle school child's hands as mandatory reading--it would help A LOT.

A caveat: Children in younger grades may be attracted to the book because of the stick figure illustrations, but parental guidance is wise. My eight-year old, a victim of bullying, picked up the book and focused only on bullies and what they can do instead of cluing into the resolutions the book provides. We will have to go over the book together to help him feel more confident and skilled--not a bad thing at all. Just a heads up.

How Back-Back Got His Name (Ages 4-8)

2011-07-18T10:47:00.000-07:00

+ + + / + + + + How Back-Back Got His Name
Authors: Thomas Weck and Peter Weck
Illustrator: Len DiSalvo
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Lima Bear Press; First edition (July 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1933872144
ISBN-13: 978-1933872148

Book description: Can you imagine what it would be like to lose your back!!? Well, that is exactly what happens to Plumpton, the Opossum. Lima Bear and his clever friends become detectives searching for this missing back. Follow them as they try new and different ways of thinking to solve the mystery. See how they band together to protect each other in times of danger! Will they ever find Plumpton's back? The message of the story is: The tolerance of difference in others yields benefits. In the series entitled The Lima Bear Stories, each has a distinct personality that shines through in every story. While the children have no idea what twists and turns the story may take, they come to know the characters and have a pretty good idea of how they are likely to act in different situations and settings. In essence, the children become friends with the characters. There is a form of bonding that develops. Each story carries an important overriding message (such as courage, tolerance, honesty), and we believe that knowing the characters creates a better understanding and appreciation of the message.

Book review: This story is cute and engaging but a little long for shorter attention spans. I don't agree that the children will necessarily pick up on the fact that each book presents a character with unique abilities, but parents will and that's a plus. I do agree that children will come to know the characters and become friends with them. Megalasaurus, another Lima Bear book, is just as long but holds attention spans because of a tighter more traditional plot that will resonate with kiddos. How Back-Back Got His Name is a new and inventive plot and will surely engage young readers, but you may have to read it in two sittings. The 'what happens next' factor is not as strong in this story, though it is not by any means a disappointment. It just means that it won't quite hold the attention of younger ones for 27 pages. The Lima Bear books are new, well illustrated and worthwhile.

The Ultimate Guide to Basketball (Ages 9-12)

2011-07-18T10:29:00.000-07:00

+ + + / + + + + The Ultimate Guide to Basketball
Author: James Buckley, Jr.
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Beach Ball Books (January 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1936310023
ISBN-13: 978-1936310029

Book description (from the back cover): Thank goodness for Dr. James Naismith. If you don't know who he is, you'll find out inside. (Okay, we'll tell you: He invented basketball. Thanks, Doc!) In this book, you'll find page after page of awesome stuff about basketball, a sport that is now popular worldwide. Read about how the first pro leagues began, meet the greatest stars of past and present, and dig into basketball plays, slang, positions, stats, and much more. The Ultimate Guide to Basketball is the one-stop shopping spot for hoop heads everywhere!

Book review: The Ultimate Guide to Basketball is set up to attract and hold the attention of this age group. Facts, stats, stars and stuff say it all as page after page is chock full of detail with an attention grabbing layout. This is a fun read that will become a favorite of those who own a copy. Expect your basketball fan to quickly absorb and memorize morsels from this book in no time.

First Pitch (Ages 9-12)

2011-07-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

+ + / + + + First Pitch
Author: John Thorn
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 40 pages
Publisher: Beach Ball Books (May 15, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 193631004X
ISBN-13: 978-1936310043

Book description: Forget that you ever heard the name Abner Doubleday. In this new book from America's most important baseball historian, the myth of that Army general's role in creating baseball is forever shattered. Instead, Thorn fills readers in on the real story of how a game played by kids with bats and balls became a sport played and loved by millions, in the United States and around the world. Be the first kid on your baseball team to know why your shortstop should thank Doc Adams, why your hitters should remember Louis Wadsworth, and why the umpires tip their caps to William Wheaton. Meet unsung heroes like these and more . . . in FIRST PITCH! Every baseball game starts with the first pitch. But who threw the first pitch . . . ever? That's the question that historian John Thorn tries to answer in this amazing tour of the earliest days of our National Pastime. Using detective work, tons of research, and a deep love of the game, Thorn takes readers back in time to meet some people who had a huge impact on the game that millions play and love today. Readers will find out that much of what many people think about early baseball is wrong . . . and Thorn will put you on the right basepath to finding out what the real story is. (Hint: Gen. Doubleday had nothing to do with it!)

Book review: First Pitch lives up to the book description very well and for that reason die hard fans of the game, ages 9-12 and up, will appreciate the book and consider it for their collection. However, it's not an exciting read and may discourage the interest of general readers. It would have worked better if First Pitch read like a story, but it doesn't, and can seem very dry to young readers. And it is frustrating that the answer to "Who threw the first pitch?" is answered at the start of the second chapter: "So who really threw the first pitch? Whose bat struck the first ball? No one in particular, is perhaps the disappointing answer." That said, for teaching purposes, First Pitch makes a compelling resource - kids will get the facts, but in general, without an assignment, this is not a book most will pick up for leisure reading.

July 1st drawing! And the winners are...

2011-07-01T12:39:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, Cathy B. And Amanda L.!!

You are the winners of the July 1st drawing!

Check your email...

The Megasaurus (Ages 4-8)

2011-07-01T12:15:00.000-07:00

+ + + + The Megasaurus

Authors: Thomas Weck & Peter Weck

Illustrator: Len Di Salvo

Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Lima Bear Press (May 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1933872128
ISBN-13: 978-1933872124

Book description: What's the King of Beandom to do? The tiny, multi-colored bean-shaped bears of Beandom are under attack by a monster. Even the King's wisest advisors seem unable find a solution. Who will save Beandom? Can an ordinary tiny bear step forward with a plan that works? Welcome to Beandom! It's a great place to visit. Or, it will be just as soon as we get rid of that pesky monster!

Book review: This is a good story with colorful captivating illustrations and a novel idea to have tiny little bears as characters with one of the youngest as the hero. This is a long read for a picture book, but it will hold a young reader's attention until the end. What will happen to the bean bears? Will Megasaurus be vanquished? How will the bean bears do this? Good triumphs evil and the wisest aren't always so wise in this well-thought out modern fable. It might be a little scary for little ones, but it's also fun and imaginative just as children would make believe in play.

Seven Fathers (Ages 4-8)

2011-07-01T12:04:00.000-07:00

+ + + Seven Fathers

Retold by: Ashley Ramsden

Illustrator: Ed Young
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press (April 12, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9781596435445
ISBN-13: 978-1596435445

Book description: In the midst of a fearsome blizzard, a weary traveler seeks refuge from the cold.

"Good evening, Father, I'm so glad I found you. Would you, by any chance, have a room where I could spend the night?"

"Oh," said the old man. "I'm not the father of the house, You'll have to ask my father. He's around back, in the kitchen."

And so the traveler is sent on a journey within his journey, arriving at a surprising destination.

Book review: The repetition and chalk/collage illustrations make this folktale fun and intriguing, encouraging readers to turn the page and find out what happens next. This is a great story to use in a classroom setting and encourage children to imagine and draw the next story in the traveler's journey. One reviewer (School Library Journal) wrote that older readers will appreciate the spiritual underpinning of the story, but it escapes me and I think it will not make much of an impression on kids. The ending was a little confusing--how did the seven fathers become seven kings and what does that mean?--but there is enough fantastical element to the story that it doesn't matter and will invite creative deduction by children. I recommend this book as a fun starting point to have children create their own stories about the traveler, illustrating them as Ed Young has done in Seven Fathers.

Spotlight Interview with VS Grenier

2011-06-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

Babysitting Sugarpaw - An Interview with VS Grenier - A World of Ink Blog Tour

BiblioReads.com has the privilege of featuring VS Grenier in our Spotlight Interview. Not only has she written a wonderful story for children, but she's a great asset for other children's book authors that want to get the word out. Read on...

Hi VS, could you tell us a little about yourself?

I’m a mother of three beautiful children and lucky enough to be able to stay home with them. I live in the middle of the desert of Southern Utah, however, I am from Southern California and its coastline. How I miss the beach and the mild weather the ocean brings.

I never thought of myself as being a writer. In fact, I use to work in stores as a buyer. Now I’m an award-winning children's author, founder & owner of Stories for Children Publishing, LLC., chief editor for Halo Publishing, Int., and also, the host of the blog talk radio shows Stories for Children, SFC Magazine News and The Writing Mama.

When I’m not busy talking with authors and illustrators on my radio shows, working for Stories for Children or Halo Publishing and spending time with children, then I’m busy writing new adventures in the World of Ink.

What inspired you to write?

I didn’t start off writing to become an author. I thought it would be a nice hobby while I stayed home with my kids. As I started writing in my spare time and taking writing courses, the writing bug bit me. Next thing you know, I’m sending out manuscripts to publishers. I look back and think, why didn’t I start writing sooner in life. I really love doing what I do and wouldn’t trade working from home for anything.

Do you have a favorite quote?

Yes, I do. Oh, you want me to share it. It’s from author Tom Clancy. “…the difference between Fiction and Reality? Fiction has to make sense.”

What is the best advice you've ever received?

Don’t write how you talk or how real life is. This maybe why I love Tom Clancy’s saying. Reading real dialogue (how people really speak) or how things really happen in life would bore a reader out of his mind. That’s why there are copy editors in this world. They delete all the unnecessary details from our story lines.

What are your top three favorite books and why?

Harry Potter – I’m not really sure why. All I know is I picked the book up at a time I really need to get my mind off what was happening in my real life and it did just that. I would go to bed at night after reading and dream about walking the halls of Hogwarts.

Lord of the Rings – I love all the hidden life lessons within its pages. Tolkien did a great job mixing action, a love story, adventure and friendship all into one saga. I true literary classic.

Picking a third book is hard. There are so many I like at this point. Well, I’m going to say the “Giving Tree”. I love this book and reading it to my children.

Tell us about your current book. Give a short summary, tell us about your publisher, and also how you got the idea for this book.
My current book is “Babysitting SugarPaw” and is a picture book for children of all ages, even though picture books are for ages 3 to 8 mostly. What makes my book unique is the story teaches about friendship and honesty while a little bear named SugarPaw is left with a babysitter for the first-time. Bonnie Whiskers is a first-time babysitter and so together they learn about each other and how spending time with a babysitter can be fun…as long as you follow the rules and tell the truth.

It’s a great book for babysitters to take along and read to the child they are watching or for parents to read with children being left with a babysitter or caregiver. And if you like to create mischief…you’ll love this picture book, too.

Do you have any other works in progress? Can you share a little about them?

I have two picture books almost ready to be submitted to publishers. I also have two YA novels I’ve been working on when I get the chance. One of them is in rough draft form. Meaning it’s my first draft and no one will ever see it until I’ve made a billion revisions. LOL. The other is only outlined, but the story likes to play as a movie in my head at night when I’m sleeping. I guess I need to write it soon before I get locked up in the padded room.

What is a typical writing day like for you? I don’t have a typical writing day per say, but I do start all my mornings the same. I wake up and get ready for the day. Then I jump on the computer while the kids sleep in (now that it is summer) and check my emails. I do a bit of promoting for our World of Ink Tours here at Stories for Children and get my To Do list in order. After that, my day can go about a hundred different ways depending on my kids, household earns and what is on my To Do list.

I would love to have a typical writing day, but I don’t see that happening anytime soon for me. I can say this…I work about 20 to 22 hours a day between my family, Stories for Children and my personal writing/editing.

What is the most difficult part of writing for children? Letting others read my work. Sounds funny I know, especially since I’m an editor, however, I’m never totally happy with my work. I have a hard time letting it go and sending it out for submission.

Do you do first drafts on a computer or by hand?

I do everything on the computer. My mind and thoughts go too fast to even try to write my stories by hand. I do do my outlines by hand though.

Do you make school visits? If so, please describe a typical school presentation.

Yes, I do make school visits. So far I have done visits for author nights and have been a judge for writing contests at schools where I also share writing tips with those interested.

If you are interested in having me come speak, do a workshop or school visit, you can find out more about the types of things I’ve done or offer on my website http://vsgrenier.com or I can be reached via email at storiesforchildren AT vsgrenier DOT com. This is my author email and not my company email.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

Of course, keep writing and reading. Never give up on your dreams. Surround yourself with people who will lift you and support your goals. Don’t give up and come visit me in the World of Ink at http://vsgrenier.com or http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com.

BOOK GIVEAWAY: Win a copy of Babysitting SugarPaw. Drawing to be held July 1, 2011.

Read the Book Review.

Follow Babysitting SugarPaw on the rest of the tour!

June 28^th

Stories for Children Magazine FG Interview

http://storiesforchildrenmagazine.org/pastfeaturedguests.aspx

June 29^th

Children’s and Teen Book Connection – Guest Post http://childrensandteensbookconnection.wordpress.com/

June 30^th

MomnBaby Network - Author Spotlight

http://momnbaby.com/blogs

Babysitting SugarPaw (Ages 4-8)

2011-06-27T09:35:00.000-07:00

World of Ink Tours

in conjunction with

BiblioReads.com present...

+ + + + Babysitting SugarPaw

Author: VS Grenier

Illustrator: Kevin Collier
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: Halo Publishing International; Edition edition (June 30, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935268066
ISBN-13: 978-1935268062

Book description: A little bear named SugarPaw hopes to get rid of his babysitter, Bonnie Whiskes, by getting her into trouble after making changes to his rules chart. As the story unfolds SugarPaw learns about honesty and friendship, in this fun loving story. Babysitting SugarPaw, with its child-centered plot on getting to know others, is the perfect book for little ones scared of being left alone with a babysitter for the first time. This book will delight three-to-eight-year-old readers, especially those who like to create mischief.

Book review: What I like best about Babysitting SugarPaw are the rules! We know right up front what SugarPaw's home is like because of them--it's filled with love by two caring parents. We know what the expectations are and VS Grenier writes from those parental expectations. This isn't some cutsie, sugary story that rhymes poorly (it doesn't rhyme at all) and heavy-handedly 'teaches' children that babysitters are good and obeying rules is the right thing to do. All that comes organically from a good telling of the story which is heavy on the dialogue and well done at that. It's definitely worth purchasing whether your little one will be babysat for the first or fourth time. It's a great book for babysitters to read to their charges as well.

Hot, Hot Roti for Dada-ji (Ages 4-8)

2011-06-24T00:27:00.000-07:00

+ + + + Hot, Hot Roti for Dada-ji

Author: F. Zia

Illustrator: Ken Min

Reading level: Ages 4-8
School & Library Binding: 32 pages
Publisher: Lee & Low Books (May 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1600604439
ISBN-13: 978-1600604430

Book description (from the jacket flap): Aneel's grandparents have come to stay, all the way from India. Aneel loves the sweet smell of his grandmother's incense, and Dada-ji, his grandfather, tells the world's best stories.

When he was a boy, adventurous, energetic Dada-ji had the power of a tiger. Hunh-ji! Yes sir! He could shake mangoes off trees and wrangle wild cobras. And what gave him this power? Fluffy-puffy hot, hot roti, with a bit of tongue-burning mangle pickle. Does Dada-ji still have the power? Aneel wants to find out--but first he has to figure out how to whip up batch of hot, hot roti.

Book review: Some of my best memories are visits from my grandparents and eating special family foods. I loved to hear stories they would share from when they were young. I loved the things about them that made them unique and dear to me. These are things children love about their grandparents and they will readily appreciate and relate to Aneel's relationship with his dada-ji (grandfather) and dadi-ma (grandmother).

Ken Min's colorful artwork places family front and center illustrating Dada-ji's amazing and exaggerated stories and Aneel's first try at making roti. It's this special connection between Dada-ji and Aneel that F. Zia weaves so well, the main anchor being hot, hot roti. It will absolutely pique your child's curiosity and I encourage you to Google a recipe and make some for your family. In fact, guess what we'll be having with our supper soon?

Win a copy of Hot, Hot Roti for Dada-ji!

Send an email to BiblioReads at gmail dot com with Contest - Hot Roti as the subject. Drawing will be held on Friday, July 1, 2011.

Read the Spotlight Interview with author F. Mia and illustrator Ken Min.

Spotlight Interview with author F. Zia and illustrator Ken Min

2011-06-24T00:22:00.000-07:00

Discussing Culture and Food with
F. Zia and Ken Min

Author and illustrator of Hot, Hot Roti for Dada-ji

Reprinted with permission from Lee & Low Books: http://www.leeandlow.com/p/hot_hot_roti.mhtml

This is a great book to encourage kids to spend time with their grandparents. Were you close with your own grandparents? F. Zia, are you close with your grandchildren?

F. Zia: I never knew my paternal grandfather, but I display his photograph with great pride in my home. I have wonderful memories of my other grandparents. My paternal grandmother was majestic and reigned over her domain with quiet dignity. Her very presence was comforting. My maternal grandmother was gentle, an accomplished linguist, and a fountain of knowledge and wisdom. She was the storyteller, who regaled me with stories that are still on the tip of my tongue. My maternal grandfather was the epitome of grandeur. He was noble . . . in the truest sense of the word. I was in awe of him, but at the same time secure in his protective and unconditional love.

I am Amma to my three grandchildren, and I’d like them to remember me, one day, with the same love and regard I have for my own grandparents. And yes, I am very close to all three grandchildren and try as much as possible to stay connected with them, physically as well as emotionally.

Ken Min: I was very close with my maternal grandmother. In fact, I always considered her my favorite person. She played basketball in college and so we shared a love of sports. Some of our best moments were just hanging out watching a game on TV. Her favorite player was Magic Johnson of the LA Lakers, which is unusual given that she lived in San Francisco. (LA and SF are very big sports rivals!)

Hot, Hot Roti incorporates traditions from Aneel’s grandparents in India into the life of a modern family in Western culture. What do you think are some of the challenges families face in this blending of traditional and modern practices?

FZ: I am sure many people face this issue in varying degrees and have their own ways of dealing with it. If one is a stickler, I imagine that the battle can be harder to win. Overall, this country makes it easy to continue one's traditions with pride. We have the freedom to celebrate Eid with pomp and circumstance and we have the freedom to light up Divali lamps with equal joy. We can drape a sari, or wear the hijab. Many of us are able to blend the best of traditions. Where it matters, I think, is when changing times cause important lessons to get diluted or lost. When you live in a joint family system and are surrounded by people of different generations, you learn about respect for age quite naturally. You also learn more naturally about sharing and giving. We tend to lose this somehow in a climate of nuclear family units. We somehow tend to get a little self centered. How wonderful would it be if our children gave up their chair to an elder, or held their hand across the room! How marvelous if they would willingly give up a room to a grandparent, without rancor or resentment. Fundamental values are what we need to fight to keep. Other things are easier to let go in the face of change and it doesn’t really matter if your child prefers pizza to roti, Hollywood to Bollywood, and Country Rock to ragas.

KM: Well, certainly for the older generation, it’s about learning a new culture. For the kids, it’s about being open to traditions that they might not be familiar with but know are part of their heritage. It’s also about not dismissing a traditional practice right away because it feels “old fashioned” or not contemporary. So it becomes a matter of having an open attitude, which needs to flow in both directions. For the older generation, there needs to be an openness to understanding that there are different points of view and not one right way of doing things. For the younger generation, they need to be respectful and considerate of older ideas while helping them understand new cultural mores.

This is the first picture book for both of you. When writing and illustrating Hot, Hot Roti, was there any part of the process that surprised you?

FZ: Overall, I am surprised at how quickly everything fell into place, starting with the first idea that gelled in my head during my daily walk around the neighborhood. I remember this vividly. I had an idle eye on the squirrels and chipmunks but my mind was mining for that perfect start and bingo . . . there it was . . . roti! One thing led to the other and the idea of a story within a story started to be more and more appealing. I wanted to capture remembered childhood, and memories of food, grandparents, and storytelling jumped out at me, handing me the perfect plate! This has been such a marvelous learning process, and to watch the final product emerge was much like watching your child grow. You love each phase of growth and hope that you steer, guide, and redirect wisely. And much as you feel frustrated at various times, you persist and you never give up because it is much too important!

KM: I suppose if there was something that surprised me, it was how much I enjoyed doing research on this project. I didn’t have that much familiarity with the subject matter, so I checked out books from the library as well as did research online. I found the Indian culture to be quite interesting. And one cannot overlook going to a restaurant to do some “hands-on” research and partaking of the delicious foods.

The power of food in family relationships is a strong message in Hot, Hot Roti. Is this something that you have seen in your own family dynamics?

FZ: In my family, food is equated with hospitality. When you walk into a home where the dinner table is laden, you can be sure that you are a very welcome guest. That said, there are cooks of varying abilities in the family—passable, middling, and unbeatable. However, regardless of his or her personal culinary ability, each one has prepared and served food with love and gusto. My mother-in-law transmitted her talent and her largess to her daughters, and each one, in turn, is lavish with her hospitality. My mother wrote up an entire recipe book, by hand, so she could pass her gift to her daughters. What a labor of love! My sister whips up mouthwatering dishes and walks me through tricky procedures any time of day or night. As for me, I still worry about pleasing my children when they come to visit, or my guests who come to dinner. So I guess you could say that food features prominently in my family dynamics. Yes, Hot, Hot Roti. is about food, but it is about food that is made with love, regard, and the best of intentions.

KM: My folks came over to the United States when they were in their mid-twenties and I was born here in California. I easily could have been raised on a diet of Korean foods since that is what they are accustomed to and familiar with. But my mother was very good about mixing things up. We would have Korean food and we would have the types of food that all my friends would have as well—hamburgers, spaghetti, hot dogs, etc. I appreciate my mother being mindful of the various cuisines around us and sharing in that. It is also to her that I dedicated this book.

The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye (Ages 4-8)

2011-06-21T22:53:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye

Author: Jane Yolen

Illustrator: Jim LaMarche
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers (May 24, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0375866639
ISBN-13: 978-0375866630

Book description: Tiger Rose's kitten days are long gone and she's grown too tired to stay, so she says her goodbyes to all the creatures and the joys of her natural world—from the scolding blue jay, to the dog and children she shares her home with, to a chipmunk, startled by her gentleness, to her favorite shady patch under a piney bush. In a final vision, Tiger Rose takes one last leap into the blue sky and becomes one with all—the earth, the air, the sun. . . . This is perhaps the most reassuring book on death available for children.

Book review: The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye is a sad tale that may make your child cry, but it is gentle and comforting and will help your child ease into the acceptance of death and give him hope. This book will aid the grieving process greatly. The illustrations are simply beautiful and reflect the peace and joy of a cat that has lived a good, long life. Jim LaMarche may have only owned one mean cat, but he illustrates a cat's essence so well. Jane Yolen shows through her writing not only what joy life brings to a cat, but what joy life is. This is a great book for cat owners, but most especially for any child grieving the loss of a loved one. I have yet to come across a book for children on dying that tops this one.

Pomelo Begins to Grow (Ages 4-8)

2011-06-21T22:35:00.000-07:00

Pomelo Begins to Grow

Author: Ramona Badescu

Illustrator: Benjamin Chaud

Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 48 pages
Publisher: Enchanted Lion Books (September 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1592701116
ISBN-13: 978-1592701117

Book description: What happens as a little one begins to grow? Do parts of the body grow unequally? If the outside grows, does that mean the inside is changing too? Children love it when they begin to grow! But they also have questions and maybe even worry a little too. Pomelo Begins to Grow explores this rich material with playfulness and humor, without undercutting the importance of the questions.

Book review: This book is a funny look at growing up from one who is growing up. The illustrations make you giggle and want to turn the page to see what Pomelo will do next. While rated for ages 4-8, 6 and Up will get more from it existentially than 4 and 5 year olds who will be quite pleased with the humorous illustrations. Grown-ups will chuckle and enjoy this one, too.

A New Name for Worthless: A Hero is Born (Ages 6-10)

2011-06-21T22:29:00.000-07:00

+ + + + A New Name for Worthless: A Hero is Born

Author/Illustrator: Rocky Shepheard

Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Crescent Renewal Resource; First edition (January 3, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0984289747
ISBN-13: 978-0984289745

Book description: Worthless is a chained dog who has never lived inside the house. He suffers through cold winters and hot summers only with the help of his two friends Otto and Sly Fox. His friends plot to free him and they set off on an adventure to look for a new life somewhere where there are no chains. They search for days in snow and ice until they find a place on the edge of a pond to hunker down for the winter. But fate intervenes and presents an opportunity for Worthless to finally prove to himself that he is worthy of love and a good home. Will Worthless have the courage to face his fears and become the dog he has always wanted to be?

Book review: This one brought tears to my eyes. Rocky Shepheard plainly states the plight of a neglected, chained dog giving voice to such canines and raising awareness in young readers all without being preachy. The friendship between dog, otter and fox are uplifting and provide hope. The rich, expressive illustrations speak for these animals and stir real compassion for Worthless and inspire humane treatment for all dogs. The ending is touching and something readers will hope for every dog. Ages 6-10 will enjoy this.

Book Giveaway - Two more days to enter drawing!

2011-06-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

Win a copy of Horatio Humble Beats The Big "D"!

Send an email with the words "Contest - Horatio" in the subject line to BiblioReads@gmail.com. Drawing to be held on June 22, 2011.

Reads all the details.

Dude: Fun With Dude and Betty (Ages 4-8, All ages)

2011-06-15T16:13:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + Dude: Fun With Dude and Betty

Author: Lisa Pliscou

Illustrator: Tom Dunne
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins (May 3, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0061756903
ISBN-13: 978-0061756900

Book description (from the back cover): Whoa! Dude! Learning to read surf-speak has never been so easy, or so much fun! It's like totally radical! (If you need a little extra help, check out the non-bogus glossary at the back of the book.) For beach boys and surfer girls of all ages.

Book review: A most excellent and fun book for the summer! Remember Dick and Jane? Dude is a most awesome spoof! You'll love the way Lisa Pliscou interjects righteous surf-speak and Tom Dunne incorporates a bodacious, modern, Californian touch updating and adding humor to the old beginning reader. Kids ages 4-8 will need a little help sounding out some of the surfer lingo, and naturally the spoof will go over their heads, but little surfers especially won't mind that at all. Big surfers and the Dick and Jane trained will love to have a copy on their coffee table.

The Thinking Girl's Treasury of Real Princesses (Series) (Ages 9-12)

2011-06-14T17:52:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + Hatshepsut of Egypt

Author: Shirin Yim Bridges

Illustrator: Albert Nguyen

Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 24 pages
Publisher: Goosebottom Books; 1ST edition (October 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0984509801
ISBN-13: 978-0984509805

Book description: Bringing to life the story of a woman who boldly declared herself pharaoh, this book tells of Hatshepsut, who lived in ancient Egypt. When explorers first chipped a hole through a wall and shined a light into Tutankhamun's tomb, everything it touched glinted with gold and gleamed with silver. The boy-king so surrounded by this treasure would become one of the most famous names in history. But the less-famous princess Hatshepsut had accumulated much of the wealth that was buried in the tomb. Answering such questions as How did she make Egypt so rich? and How did she come to be buried, like Tutankhamun, in the Valley of the Kings?, this book also has sections on the clothes Hatshepsut wore, the foods she ate, and why she is remembered today.

+ + + + + Artemisia of Caria

Author: Shirin Yim Bridges

Illustrator: Albert Nguyen

Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 24 pages
Publisher: Goosebottom Books; 1ST edition (October 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 098450981X
ISBN-13: 978-0984509812

Book description: The real and remarkable princess Artemisia lived thousands of years ago in the world of the ancient Greeks. Women were expected to obey their husbands in all matters, play no part in public life, and stay inside the house. This highly illustrated book details how Artemisia grew up to be an exception in ancient Greece—becoming not only a sailor and a ship’s captain but also a famous admiral. In addition to her story, this book has sections on the clothes Artemisia wore, the foods she ate, and why she is remembered today.

+ + + + + Sorghaghtani of Mongolia

Author: Shirin Yim Bridges

Illustrator: Albert Nguyen

Reading level: Ages 9-12

Hardcover: 24 pages

Publisher: Goosebottom Books; 1ST edition (October 1, 2010)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0984509828

ISBN-13: 978-0984509829

Book description: On the windswept steppes of Mongolia in the 13th century, a princess was given the chance to rule, and her story is outlined in this book. Sorghaghtani took lands that were ruined by war and made them wealthy again, brought mutual respect and cooperation to a downtrodden and distrustful people, and, in a battle of wits that was like a giant chess game, won the imperial throne for her sons, which gave them the largest empire in the world. Sections on the clothes she wore, the foods she ate, and why she is remembered today are included.

+ + + + + Qutlugh Terkan Khatun of Kirman

Author: Shirin Yim Bridges

Illustrator: Albert Nguyen

Reading level: Ages 9-12

Hardcover: 24 pages

Publisher: Goosebottom Books; 1ST edition (October 1, 2010)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 9780984509836

ISBN-13: 978-0984509836

Book description: In what could be a tale from The Arabian Nights, this book tells the story of a girl who grew up in 13th-century Persia to be so desirable that she was kidnapped several times for her beauty. Qutlugh Terkan Khatun found refuge at last in the arms of a prince, who married her and made her a princess. With him she ruled a nation, and the people asked her to continue as their sovereign after the prince's death. Her wisdom brought the people a golden age of peace and prosperity, and she is known, above all, for her kindness and compassion. Sections on the clothes Qutlugh Terkan Khatun wore, the foods she ate, and why she is remembered today are included.

+ + + + + Isabella of Castile

Author: Shirin Yim Bridges

Illustrator: Albert Nguyen

Reading level: Ages 9-12

Hardcover: 24 pages

Publisher: Goosebottom Books; 1ST edition (October 1, 2010)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0984509844

ISBN-13: 978-0984509843

Book description: In a twist on the classic fairy tale, a princess in 15th-century Spain refused to wait to be rescued by a prince and instead chose one for herself. Even then, she would not marry him until they’d reached an agreement that was revolutionary for her time—their marriage was an equal partnership captured in the motto “To stand as high, as high to stand, Isabella and Ferdinand.” This book tells Isabella of Castile’s story with sections on the clothes she wore, the foods she ate, and why she is remembered today. Without her, both Spain and the United States would not exist in their current forms.

+ + + + + Nur Jahan of India

Author: Shirin Yim Bridges

Illustrator: Albert Nguyen

Reading level: Ages 9-12

Hardcover: 24 pages

Publisher: Goosebottom Books; 1ST edition (October 1, 2010)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0984509852

ISBN-13: 978-0984509850

Book description: From the deepest heart of the Moghul palace, her face hidden by veils, Nur Jahan came to rule all of Mogul India. This book tells the story of how she introduced efficiencies, encouraged trade, and made possible a great flowering of the arts. She broke none of her society’s rules yet hunted tigers, rode elephants to war, commanded a nation from behind a curtain, and did many other things that girls were not expected to do. Sections on the clothes Nur Jahan wore, the foods she ate, and why she is remembered today are also included.

Book (Series) Review: I was a little hesitant to pick up this series because it's called The Thinking Girl's Treasury of Real Princesses. While "thinking girl" might signal that this is not just pink princess fluff, it can sometimes signal that it will be dull, boring and tedious--yes all three (some books can get that bad) and I expected this especially when I read the titles of the books in this series. So you can imagine how thrilled I was to discover this is NOT the case with this collection of princess tales!

To begin with each book starts with a section titled: She was called what?! that helps the reader pronounce not only the name of the princess but of other people, places and/or things in the book. That right there boosts the reader's confidence and interest. Next it describes the life and times for each princess comparing them to today's world, illustrating how particularly gifted and unique each princess was for her era. Finally, we read what type of clothes each princess wore and the foods she ate. These layers, make each princess' story an experience, and often adventure, that girls will relate to. I think this is a fine series that not only entertains but educates and what's really fantastic is that all these princesses are real.

Charlotte and the State of North Carolina: Cool Stuff Every Kid Should Know (Arcadia Kids) (Ages 6-10, 9-12)

2011-06-14T16:04:00.000-07:00

+ + + + Charlotte, North Carolina: Cool Stuff Every Kid Should Know
Author: Kate Boehme Jerome
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 48 pages
Publisher: Arcadia Publishing (May 2, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 143960097X
ISBN-13: 978-1439600979

Book description: DO YOU KNOW… HOW a 17-pound rock helped make the Charlotte area famous in the early 1800s? (Hint: It was a very expensive doorstop!) WHAT historic event took place in Charlotte on June 19, 1949? (Hint: It led to a Hall of Fame!) Find these answers and more in Cool Stuff Every Kid Should Know™ --an interesting little book about a very special place on the planet!

Arcadia Kids is a new series of fun, colorful, easy-to-read books for children ages 7-11 featuring attention-grabbing cover art, inviting conversational style content, and vivid full-color images of landmarks and geography.

Other cities and states covered include:
Raleigh, North Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Richmond, Virginia
San Antonio, Texas
Austin, Texas
Rochester, New York
Savannah, Georgia
Jacksonville, Florida
Columbus, Ohio
Chicago, Illinois
Boston, Massachusetts

Book review: I stand by my first review of this series. Arcadia publishing has put out a great series with vivid photography, facts and trivia laid out like a National Geographic Kids book making Cool Stuff Every Kid Should Know very competitive and worthwhile. The only bummer is the duplication of the second half of the book for same state information. For example, San Antonio, Texas and Austin, Texas have the exact same last half of the book. This is a drawback if you want to buy the series for a child, but in a group setting--like a classroom or library--the benefits would be outstanding since multiple children would benefit from the duplications. Otherwise, you can be selective about the cities you choose and discover that you have an excellent resource and souvenir for that city and state.

Horatio Humble Beats The Big "D" (Ages 6-10)

2011-06-13T00:05:00.000-07:00

World of Ink Tours

in conjunction with

BiblioReads.com present...

+ + + Horatio Humble Beats The Big "D"

Author: Margot Finke

Illustrator: Ellen Gurak

Reading level: Ages 6-10

Paperback: 16 pages

Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc (November 2, 2010)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1616331011

ISBN-13: 978-1616331016

Book description: When Horatio has difficulty reading, his parents meet with the teacher to discover why. Horatio hears the words Dyslexia and Special Ed. "No way! Kids will think I'm dumb." But he does go and with amazing results.

Book review: Horatio Humble Beats The Big "D" provides an opening for discussion with your child about dyslexia. While readers age 9-12 will handle the text and the nuances of Horatio's reaction to dyslexia well, the book is suitable for younger ages and ages 6-10 will easily grasp the general story. Told in rhyme, Horatio touches upon what it's like to have dyslexia, what that means and what might be done to help. This book can break the ice with a child who is struggling and perhaps worried about being made fun of, giving parents the perfect opportunity to talk with their kiddos. Most helpful to parents are the facts and resources given at the back of the book.

Follow along and visit the next stop on Margo Finke's blog tour with World of Ink.

Also: Write a comment on any participating blog during Margot's June Book Tour, and win a FREE COPY of a fun time-travel story written especially for kids.

NOTE: One copy per person. Please leave your e-mail. (Safe sample: mfinke<@>frontier.com )

To enter a drawing for a copy of Horatio Humble Beats The Big "D" see Biblio Read's book giveaway page for details! Drawing will be held June 17, 2011.

Winner selected for a copy of Lily Hates Goodbyes!

2011-06-12T22:27:00.000-07:00

Congratulations!

Amy, you were selected in the June 10 drawing.

Check your email!

Rooster's Revenge (Ages 4-8)

2011-06-07T00:45:00.000-07:00

+ + + + Rooster's Revenge
Author/Illustrator: Beatrice Rodriguez
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Enchanted Lion Books (September 13, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1592701124
ISBN-13: 978-1592701124

Book description: A seafaring adventure! A storm! Giant turtles! Glowing slugs! A tale of excitement and surprise, Rooster's Revenge, which follows both the acclaimed 2010 book The Chicken Thief and Fox and Hen Together (recently published) is sure to delight!

Together with Bear and Rabbit, the disappointed Rooster is making his way home over the sea when a terrific storm hits. After running aground in the storm, the trio finds themselves in a strange cave. Rooster notices a mysterious glowing ball. What kind of a ball is it? Will it lead them to safety or to more trouble? And will the friends ever find their way home?

Book review: These books grow on you! I think I love each consecutive book more. Another wordless tale by Beatrice Rodriquez that is full of sadness, humor and love as we journey with Rooster and his friends through the pages. I can't think of a series that will engage the young reader more and encourage reading other picture books as well. You can read this story over and over again with your little one and discover a new narrative each time.

Birds of A Feather (Ages 9-12)

2011-06-07T00:30:00.000-07:00

+ + + Birds of A Feather

Author: Jane Yolen

Photographer: Jason Stemple
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Wordsong (April 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1590788303
ISBN-13: 978-1590788301

Book description: Flying solo, dining with a sidekick, or parading with their fellow feathered friends, birds offer endless fascination for those of us patient or lucky enough to catch a glimpse. Fortunately, award-winning writer Jane Yolen and photographer Jason Stemple once again give readers the chance to observe a brand-new flock of these creatures closely in expertly rendered poetry and photographs. Each poem and picture combination beautifully and thoughtfully captures both bird and a moment of time. Brief facts about each bird, reviewed by an ornithologist, are included.

Book review: This is a visual treat that will inspire young poets and encourage their interest in the craft. I can just imagine a day of homeschooling where, after we read this book, we craft our own poems and pictures of birds in our area. It would tie nicely in with a science project on local birds...and perhaps the history of the national and state birds. Am I giving you ideas? Jane Yolen and Jason Stemple make a great team and they make poetry fun.

Multiply and Divide with Sticks and Steps (Ages 6-10)

2011-06-07T00:05:00.000-07:00

+ + + + / + + + + + Multiply and Divide with Sticks and Steps

Author: Maureen Steams, B.A., M.S.

Illustrator: Janice Phelps Williams
Paperback: 96 pages
Publisher: Enrichment Books; first edition (January 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0972690859
ISBN-13: 978-0972690850

Book description: Math concepts can seem very abstract, but in just a short time, literally in just 5 minutes, students can learn how to multiply. This book concretely shows what multiplication is, instead of just having students memorize the times tables. It gives step-by-step instructions as well as sample problems showing how the process works. A natural flow occurs throughout the book as concepts get more difficult. Also included are easy ways to divide, find least common multiples, and square roots. This simple, hands-on method will help students achieve a better understanding of mathematics and boost self-confidence as well. Students will become so proficient they will be able to teach Sticks and Steps to others who struggle with multiplication and division. Multiply and Divide with Sticks® and Steps is easy to learn, easy to teach, and so logical, it's easy to remember. An essential resource for parents and educators to carry with them in their bag of tricks.

Book review: This system is hands down perfect for kids who really need to visualize multiplication and division and just aren't getting it. Multiply and Divide with Sticks and Steps can aid memorization by the simple repetitive process of touch-counting the answers, but that is an aside. Children don't need to memorize or have memorized multiplication facts in order to find the answer with this method. So if they come to recognize multiplication facts through this process and then come up against a problem they need help with, simply reverting back to this method will help them get the right answer.

The rules are simple, straight forward and step by step it makes sense. The best thing is that my second grader saw the book, picked it up out of curiosity and within a few minutes figured out how to multiply according to the first few pages. That's awesome!

The only reason I didn't rate this book as outstanding only (+ + + + +) is because I wonder at the inconvenience of drawing sticks and steps on math pages or on separate sheets of paper to solve problems. That could be frustrating to some kids and that would be a disadvantage. But otherwise this is a great aid for kiddos as young as six and for older children who are just_not_getting it.

Spotlight Interview with Jerilyn Marler

2011-06-06T00:05:00.000-07:00

Lily Hates Goodbyes - An Interview with Jerilyn Marler

by Lisa Barker

Hi, Jerilyn. Thank you for taking the time to share your book, Lily Hates Goodbyes. Before we begin, please tell us a bit about yourself and your passion for writing stories that help heal children's hearts.

I’m so delighted by this opportunity, Lisa. Thank you!

I’ve been a writer and editor since 1979 with a focus on technical material. During all that time it never occurred to me to write a children’s book despite my life-long passion for helping kids. When I wrote “Lily Hates Goodbyes” for Lily, my granddaughter, I still didn’t think of it as writing a children’s book. I was trying to create a tool that would help her. I wrote the text and chose personal photos to accompany the text. Then I decided to design it in Microsoft Word and lay it out like a book. I remember thinking, “Well look at that! I wrote a children’s book.” My focus was exclusively Lily so at that point it was a book for an audience of one. Once I saw how much the book helped Lily, I wanted to make it available to other children. The next phase of my career took shape around the objective of helping children through stories. I’ve felt from the beginning of this journey that writing “Lily Hates Goodbyes” is the most important work I have ever done.

What was going on in your granddaughter Lily's life that inspired you to write Lily Hates Goodbyes?

Lily’s Daddy (Scott, my son) is a Navy officer. In late 2009/early 2010, when Lily was three years old, the family was stationed in Everett, Washington for Scott’s first ship assignment. He was away for weeks at a time for training as the ship prepared for an upcoming long deployment. Lily was swamped by grief and sadness with every departure. She became increasingly angry and belligerent and had trouble falling asleep. When her mom or I tried to talk with Lily about what she was going through, she’d run from the room or hide under a table or cover her head with a blanket. Lily was deeply troubled. I ached to help her. I thought that perhaps having a third person to talk about—someone going through the same experiences Lily was going through—would help. So Book Lily was born.

How did the book affect your granddaughter?

It wasn’t an instant panacea. My family was gathered together in April 2010 at my sister’s home to celebrate Lily’s fourth birthday. Her Daddy was away. I planned to read “Lily Hates Goodbyes” to Lily for the first time that night as I tucked her into bed. Lily was looking forward to seeing/hearing “her book.” My sister, who had seen the book, suggested that I read it aloud to the group. I didn’t know how the book would affect Lily and I worried that she might feel overwhelmed. I gave her the choice: hear it privately with me later or hear it now with everyone. She opted for now and settled down at my feet expectantly.

I showed her the cover—a photo of Lily looking very sad—and said the title, “Lily Hates Goodbyes.”

Lily sat up straight and said loudly, “No I don’t!” She looked ready to bolt from the room.

I said, “I mean Book Lily. She really hates goodbyes.”

Lily said, “OOOoooohhhh. Okay.” And she settled back down.

At the end, everyone in the room had tears in their eyes and there were a few sobs. Everyone except Lily. She wanted to look at the pictures again, but she didn’t appear to be affected by the story. That night at bedtime she didn’t want to hear it again. The next night, however, she wanted it three times in a row. The following night she asked for it again and then asked me to sing it to her.

With each reading she’d talk about different aspects of the book. One night she paid more attention to the sadness. Another time she focused on the stubbornness. She related Book Lily’s emotions and responses to her own. We talked about ways that she felt connected to her Daddy.

The tension and anger began to subside. Before the book, Lily wouldn’t even talk about her Daddy’s return. After the book she enjoyed acting out how she and her Daddy would greet each other. She’d run and jump into my arms or her Mommy’s arms and hug tightly. And when Scott came home from each time away, they’d enact the greeting. Scott would yell, “Lily!” And Lily would yell, “Daddy!” and she’d leap for his waiting arms.

This is key: the book helped Lily develop a vocabulary for her experience. Some of the vocabulary was straight from the book. Some of it developed because the book gave us an opening to talk about other things. Children have a fundamental need to be heard. Now Lily could express how she felt. She was heard.

What impact is the book making on other children whose parents are in the military or otherwise absent due to work? What's been the response of readers?

One of my greatest pleasures is hearing from parents how much the book means to their children. Boys and girls relate to Lily. They totally get what she’s going through. The illustrations are bright and vivid and engaging. But I think that the greatest benefit of the book is the joyful reunion. Kids don’t get tired of anticipating how wonderful it will be when Daddy or Mommy gets home again. They love the happy hello ending. A mom told me this week that “Lily Hates Goodbyes” is the go-to book for her children at bedtime. Their Daddy is heading out soon on another deployment. They ask him to read it to them nightly. The kids talk about their “Lily moments.” I absolutely love that. I get emails from parents saying, “This is exactly what I needed!” One mom wrote that her two kids have asked for the book to be read so often that the 2 year old is now “reading” it to the 5 year old. It’s helping kids feel comforted. That was my goal. I’m beyond thrilled about it.

What advice do you have for parents in helping their children deal with separation? What are signs of a child struggling?

Think about the intense emotions you experience when your loved one is on deployment—sadness, anger, despair, among others. When we are under that kind of stress, we get short tempered, irritable, frustrated. Now imagine you’re a child feeling those emotions. It’s overwhelming. Your child might become clingier, more dependent. Or perhaps your child will push you away, as Lily did with her Mommy and me. Sleeping and eating patterns may change. As the adult, it’s your job to help your child navigate this frightening experience. You can do it. Expect changes. Observe them calmly. Ask how you can help, ask what the child needs. Despite your child’s behavior, be steadfast in your loving presence. Always be your child’s safe haven.

When faced with such pain, children often regress, behaving as they did when they were younger. This is natural and not a reason for punishment. Be patient and calm. Allow your child to cry and don’t hurry it. Crying is a necessary catharsis and it takes whatever time it takes. Some children will need to cry frequently until they’ve work through the worst of it. Other children might not cry much at all. Don’t ever punish or belittle a child for feeling a particular way. Feelings simply are. Find ways to help your child express emotions in a safe, constructive way.

How can children stay connected with their parent throughout deployment?

Use these ideas as a springboard to your own creative solutions. The more personal you make them, the more meaningful they will be. No matter how silly an idea, if your child suggests a way to connect, pursue it. Honor that creativity.

Share meaningful objects such as stuffed animals that can be the subject of photos from faraway places. Read about Lily the Hippo on my blog.
A special piece of jewelry can be an ever-present touchstone. Learn about Lily’s memory pendant on my blog.
Follow the away parent’s location on a big map.
Stickers on a calendar help make concrete the passage of time.
Collecting mementos in a special box reminds the child that a day will come when the away parent will look at the treasures.
Participate in the United through Reading military program. Scott recorded six books for Lily.
Before deployment, take lots of video of the child and the deploying parent interacting, having fun, making each other laugh. Watch them frequently.
Help your child send email to the away parent. Lily would type long strings of characters and then want me to sound out what she’d written. It always made us laugh. Then she would tell me what it meant and I would type the translation below. I always typed exactly what she said, even if it was nonsense. It was her messages. Daddy loved these messages and Lily was so proud that she had done the writing.
Lily drew comfort from believing that she and her Daddy were looking at the moon at the same time.

Do you have plans to write more about Lily and the issues she deals with during deployment?

The next book is about the difficulties of reintegrating as a family and the disruption of having to move frequently. It’s the topic I’m asked for most often as a follow-up. I plan to write a series of books, but not all of them about somber subjects. I also want to write fun, lighthearted Lily books.

What is your greatest hope for Lily Hates Goodbyes?

At the back of the book is a page of suggestions for parents to get the most out of the book. I hope that parents embrace the opportunity to use it as a tool for healing. Children don’t have to be military kids to relate to Lily. As a child I read the Boxcar Children stories. I didn’t have to live in a boxcar to enjoy the adventures. My book will help any young child who has to say goodbye to a loved one for about a billion days. My fervent hope is that “Lily Hates Goodbyes” will bring comfort and reassurance to all young children who have to live with the pain of separation.

How can people purchase a copy of the book?

“Lily Hates Goodbyes” is available on Amazon.com for $6.95. It’s also at select (and fabulous!) retail locations in Washington and Oregon. You can see a list of locations on my book website.

Is there anything more you'd like to share with readers?

I’d like to offer a word of caution. Don’t focus so hard on the deployment end date that you live in suspended animation. The single most important gift you give your child is your undivided attention. Give it wholeheartedly. Give it often. Find reasons to laugh with your child—deep belly laughs—every day. Make up silly games. Be present and in the moment whenever you can. You and your child can experience joy daily even as you look forward to happy hellos.

To win a copy of Lily Hates Goodbyes in the June 10 drawing, please see our Book Giveaway page.

Best Word Book Ever (Ages 0-4, 4-8)

2011-06-05T00:13:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + Best Word Book Ever

Author/Illustrator: Richard Scarry

Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Hardcover: 92 pages
Publisher: Goldencraft (September 1980)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0307655105
ISBN-13: 978-0307655103

Book description: It all begins with the alphabet. But when it's Richard Scarry's Best Word Book Ever, it doesn't end there. From home, to school, covering everyday objects and broad concepts, young readers will be engrossed as they look at the oversized pages and identify all of their favorite things: toy, trains, cars and occupations and much more. From a tiny dot on the "Little Things" page, to one whale on the the "Numbers" page, this classic favorite contains almost everything in a little one's world.

Book review: Happy birthday, Richard Scarry! Was there ever anything better than a Richard Scarry book? Every child waited for a turn and a chance to be alone with one of his books and pore over the pages. Even as an adult, I still get drawn in by the illustrations. Here's to one of the very best author/illustrators children have been blessed with.

Book Giveaway - Lily Hates Goodbyes - Drawing June 10, 2011

2011-06-03T21:29:00.000-07:00

Win a copy of Lily Hates Goodbyes!

Send an email with the words "Contest - Lily" in the subject line to BiblioReads@gmail.com. Drawing to be held on June 10, 2011.

+ + + + + Lily Hates Goodbyes

Author: Jerilyn Marler

Illustrator: Nathan Stoltenberg
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace (March 8, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 146096070X
ISBN-13: 978-1460960707

Book description (from Amazon.com): Sometimes Lily has to say goodbye to her Daddy for about a billion days. She feels a swirl of unhappy emotions that can be scary. And she aches to feel connected to her Daddy during his long deployments. Join Lily as she learns how to cope with her emotions and to be happy in her daily life while she looks forward to joyfully saying hello when Daddy gets home.

"Lily Hates Goodbyes" is helpful for any child who suffers separations from a loved one. The charming illustrations will draw your child's interest immediately. Children appreciate the affirmation that scary emotions are normal and that they don't last forever. Parents appreciate the opportunity talk with their children about the scary emotions in a safe, non-volatile way. The author's suggestions at the back of the book provide guidance on how to use the book to help children understand and cope with what they're going through.

A note from the author (from Amazon.com): I wrote this story for my four-year-old granddaughter who was reeling from the pain of her Daddy's time away in the Navy. She was deep in denial about the scary feelings, yet her behavior clearly showed that she was in turmoil. She would run from the room instead of talk about feelings. So I wrote the book to give us a "third person" to talk about. Book Lily was mad. Book Lily was sad. Suddenly it wasn't so scary for Real Lily to talk about those feelings. She asked me to read the book to her over and over. She even wanted me to sing it to her. The result is what I hoped for: Lily's more at ease with her emotions, knows what she can do when she feels them, knows that it's safe to say whatever she feels, knows that her Mommy will be there steadfastly and lovingly by her side through it all, and that there is a joyful reunion coming with her Daddy. I fervently hope that this book will help your child through the long, difficult separations, too. Book website: http://www.lilyhatesgoodbyes.com

Book review: This is an outstanding story! Jerilyn Marler so perfectly captures a child's feelings when a parent is deployed that children will immediately relate and feel validated. This is also a great book for helping your child begin to express her feelings in safe and productive ways. I was very impressed with the natural and simple way Jerilyn Marler tells this story. She could have spoken down to children or over their heads, but instead she is right on the mark with this one. You will love it. Best of all, you will appreciate it so much.

The Death of The Good Wizard (Ages 9-12)

2011-06-03T21:17:00.000-07:00

+ + + The Death of The Good Wizard
Authors: Wim Coleman & Pat Perrin
Paperback
Publisher: Chiron Books
ISBN-10: 1935178040
ISBN-13: 978-1935178040

Book description: In the first books, The Taker and The Keeper, middle-schoolers Gregory Guest and Yolanda Torres have no intention of becoming heroes overnight. But as the only kids in Bainesboro who see that the world has gone horribly wrong, what choice do they have?

Aided by their eccentric science teacher and Gregory’s trusty red monocle, Gregory and Yolanda travel into the King Arthur legend to save today’s “real” world from a legendary threat. As they ally themselves with the magician Merlin and his young apprentice to thwart the sorceress Morgan le Fay’s machinations, these reluctant heroes must set whole worlds right again.

Book 2 in the Red Monocle series, The Death of The Good Wizard, takes Gregory and Yolanda into a legendary world of magicians, knights, and one persistent dragon.

Book review: A fascinating tale with elements of Camelot woven into a modern mix of science fiction and fantasy. Going to a parallel universe through a wormhole, Gregory and Yolanda meet up with Merlin, the Lady in the Lake, a mischievous dragon who is more than he seems and other characters in a quest to safeguard the continuity of the story of Camelot.

This is an interesting read that will have kids imagining what it would be like to find themselves in a similar situation, where Camelot is portrayed in one instance as a golden age, while at the same time exploring the real-world origins of the legend in a much more dismal 6th century Britain.

This book is one that will appeal to tweens because of the fantastical elements, and may even learn a thing or two about how legends come to be. Those who love parallel universe scenarios should enjoy reading The Death of The Good Wizard. - Review by S.B.

Welcome to Beeky Airlines & Real Bears Eat Takeout (Ages 6-10, 9-12)

2011-06-02T21:06:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + Welcome to Beeky Airlines
Author / Illustrator: Seth Campos
Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Mubby Books; 1st edition (April 7, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982541716
ISBN-13: 978-0982541715

Book description: Welcome to Beeky Airlines introduces "Carl and Ben...and Beeky," a comic strip about an 11-year-old all-American boy who's not crazy about school; a not-so-wild, naive yet entrepreneurial bear who has his own coffee stand (BenBucks); and a clever, inventive bird.

In this comic collection you'll read strips about Carl driving himself to school and turning in a stick-people creative writing report. Ben, the domesticated bear, attempts to hibernate and gets scared in the wild. And Beeky builds a homemade airplane made of boxes and flies the group out of the Grand Canyon and back home to Onion Hill.

Welcome to Beeky Airlines is for readers of ALL ages who want light-hearted, wholesome fun and humor produced by the fresh imagination of a youth author.

+ + + + + Real Bears Eat Takeout
Author / Illustrator: Seth Campos
Paperback: 104 pages
Publisher: Mubby Books; 1st edition (May 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-0982541708

Book description: In this second Carl Ben...and Beeky comic strip collection, Carl runs for class president dressed as Elvis and still craves the latest, wildest Gord-Eatos flavors. Ben continues to help Carl with homework and also takes on new jobs (mall Santa Claus and farmer). Beeky has no shortage of inventions and introduces the revolutionary conversation piece that every kid desires.

Review: The day I received these two books in the mail, my boys (ages 8 and 14) were with me. "Do you guys want to review some comic--" SNATCH! They snatched them right out of my hands. Immediately, I heard laughs. That's always a good sign.

For the next four days all I heard was laughter and the reading of whatever strip had caused the outburst, followed by "Mom, read this!" "Mom, listen to this!" Mom, look at this!" The best strips were unintelligible because of all the gut laughter while trying to read it to me.

Finally, I got a turn. If you want to read something fun for the sake of fun, read the Carl, Ben...and Beeky collections. Seth Campos makes humor look easy. That ought to tell you how good these books are because being funny is a gift that not everyone has. Seth has a natural sense of timing and wit, and his set-ups resonate with children. Even adults will get a kick out of the series appreciating the sophistication (intelligent, but not sarcastic, and all G-rated) as much as the slapstick and silliness and plain old good-natured fun.

The fourteen year old's assessment: 1) It's FUNNY. 2) It's unique. There's no other comic strip out there like it with a boy, a bear with a coffee stand and a smart aleck bird. 3) It works! 4) It's awesome.

The eight year, who loves comics and is homeschooled, was impressed that Seth is also homeschooled and started Carl, Ben...and Beeky when he was eight. Seth is now an immeasurable role model in our home and my youngest son votes 10 out of 5 + for these books.

Both boys are really excited about these books and so am I. Two thumbs up all around! We want to read more from Seth Campos.

When This Is Over, I Will Go To School, And I Will Learn To Read (Ages 4-8)

2011-06-02T12:22:00.000-07:00

+ + + + When This is Over, I Will Go To School, And I Will Learn to Read

Author: Pamela Sisman Bitterman

Illustrations by: The Maseno North Sunrise Nursery School Children of Kenya

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 4147 KB

Publisher: eBookIt.com (May 31, 2011)

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services

Language: English

ASIN: B0053TRBGE

Book description: No one knows the story of Kenya better than the children who live it. I had the opportunity to travel to this country and become immersed with the families there. The result is a1500-word nonfiction picture book titled, "When This Is Over, I Will Go To School, And I Will Learn To Read": A Story of Hope and Friendship for One Young Kenyan Orphan. This true story of one little boy is told in his own words. While there are many books about Africa on the market, none are told from a child's point of view like this one.

The children from the village created the book's illustrations. I asked these students to draw what represented family, love, happiness, sadness, fear and hope for them. I have powerful photographs of the children, the school, the village and the countryside, the hospital, the mobile clinic and orphan program. It is this truth that is certain to nudge the hearts and minds of parents, teachers and children everywhere. - Pamela Sisman Bitterman

Book review: A touching and dramatic story that will captivate children and adults. What I like best about When This Is Over, I Will Go To School, And I Will Learn To Read is the immediacy and the connection children will readily make with the child telling this story. Told in a matter-of-fact way, the story draws the reader into the life of a a young Kenyan boy, submerging the reader in his personal experiences, his family and language. This book is an opportunity for educators to introduce the daily life and living conditions of poor children in Africa, sparking interest and compassion that can lead to action in the children who are tomorrow's leaders.

Please see the book trailer for When This Is Over, I Will Go To School, And I Will Learn To Read.

Book Giveaway - Drawing June 1, 2011- Winner!

2011-06-01T23:28:00.000-07:00

This month we were able to draw two names.

Barbara is the winner of the autographed copy and Katherine will receive the other, un-autographed, as runner-up. Please check your email, ladies.

Congratulations!

Payshapes and The Bear (Ages 9-12, 12-Up)

2011-05-31T21:16:00.000-07:00

+ + + / + + + + Payshapes and The Bear

Author: Lucina Kathmann

Paperback: 148 pages
Publisher: ChironBooks (February 10, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935178059
ISBN-13: 978-1935178057

Book description: Somewhere in Latin America, a man named Payshapes (Péxeps in Spanish) lives in the deep forest. He and his best friend Bear (who is a bear) have many lighthearted adventures with a recurring cast of characters including a few dragons. Written for children, Payshapes and the Bear is a story that appeals to all ages. A delightful bilingual (English/Spanish) collection of stories with unique illustrations by Fabián Nanni.

Book review: Inventive! And completely novel. These little stories impress and take the reader on a new journey each time. I especially like that the Spanish and English translations are side by side - great practice for both the more advanced Spanish and English speakers. The stories are funny and interesting and keep you turning the page. However, don't leave it for the children to read, adults will enjoy these as well, such as when Payshapes doubts his own existence or contemplates whether or not bees have blue blood. Clever, silly, witty and surprisingly unique.

World of Ink Tours & Biblio Reads present The Brothers Foot (Ages 2-5)

2011-05-27T00:05:00.000-07:00

World of Ink Tours in conjunction with BiblioReads.com present...

The Brothers Foot

by Steve Cormey

Illustrated by Ronda Eden

+ + + / + + + + The Brothers Foot

Author: Steve Cormey

Illustrator: Ronda Eden

Paperback: 56 pages

Publisher: AuthorHouse (March 31, 2009)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 9781438942698

ISBN-13: 978-1438942698

ASIN: 1438942699

Book description: Come sing, dance and play with three rambunctious little rabbits in their happy little briar patch, because.... "that's where rabbits love to play!" They have peculiar names and play peculiar games and always, always together. You'll have a great time singing along to their own special song and you'll learn how powerful one little song can be when something scary, something no rabbit had ever seen before, comes right into their precious little briar patch. So hop along and have some fun with The Brothers Foot.

Book review: The quirky illustrations make this homey little book come to life, as all good illustrations must, but add the music and watch the DVD and you will be sold and singing The Foot-Foot Song in no time. I only wish the DVD were longer because little ones will enjoy it so much. Plan to replay it and have your child read and sing along many times. I give the book + + + and the DVD + + + +.

Nerd Camp (Ages 9-12)

2011-05-26T21:48:00.000-07:00

+ + + + + Nerd Camp

Author: Elissa Brent Weissman

Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 272 pages
Publisher: Atheneum (April 26, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 144241703X
ISBN-13: 978-1442417038

Book description: Ten-year-old Gabe has just been accepted to the Summer Center for Gifted Enrichment. That means he’ll be spending six weeks at sleep-away camp writing poetry and perfecting logic proofs. S.C.G.E. has been a summer home to some legendary middle-school smarty-pants (and future Jeopardy! contestants), but it has a reputation for being, well, a Nerd Camp. S.C.G.E = Smart Camp for Geeks and Eggheads.

But, is Gabe really a geek? He’s never thought about it much, but that was before he met Zack, his hip, LA-cool, soon-to-be step-brother. Now, Gabe is worried that Zack will think he’s a nerd, not only a nerd, but JUST a nerd. A wild summer at camp—complete with a midnight canoe ride to “Dead Man’s Island”—makes Gabe realize that Zack may not be the brother he'd always dreamed of, but that doesn't mean they can't be friends.

Book review: A funny book! Gabe is a nerd kids can look up to, respect and emulate! Kids who are self-conscious about their intelligence and love for learning will appreciate Gabe's angst and revel in his ultimate coolness.

I found a lot of nostalgia there as a former nerd who is still a bit of a nerd. In fact, Nerd Camp was so well written and true to the characters that I felt author Elissa Brent Weissman really knew from personal experience what she was writing about and I had to look her up...and she IS a confessed nerd!

I can't think of a better book to celebrate smart kids. Your bookworm will really love this. - Review by S.B.

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