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Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
Princess Amber
Margaret Wright, author
Kristin Close, illustrator
Xlibris Corporation
1663 South Liberty Drive, Bloomington, IN 47403-5161
www.xlibris.com
9781524519650, $24.19 PB, $4.99 Kindle, 24pp, www.amazon.com
"Princess Amber" is an inspirational, warm, true story about the courage, charm and
determination of a girl born with a terminal illness. Written in narrative verse by her former
teacher, "Princess Amber" presents highlights and triumphs of the short life of a brave, beloved
girl who, with the help of friends and family, overcame life threatening handicaps in order to
achieve her short life's goals and dreams. Princess Amber is a charming individual who enchants
all who meet her. Strong and determined despite many physical obstacles, Amber is determined
to make the most of her opportunities. One of her dreams is to dance upon the stage. This is
described in the following passage: "It is the heart of a true princess, to dance upon the stage,
With lights and music, tutus and ballet shoes but first to amaze, The walking stick (her old
faithful friend) simply had to go, For a princess ballerina works upon her toes. From far and wide
the audience came to see the princess wonder, In the beautiful lights and friend at side it really
made you ponder, Was this a dance or was it a performance of heavenly grandeur, Not a dry eye
or a life untouched by the display of this beautiful dancer." Portraits of Princess Amber and her
friends and family are delicately rendered in pastel crayon illustrations of great tenderness. The
international following of Princess Amber is documented in the Lions Club of Australia plus the
Lions Club of California, which is also named after her. Even the governor general was proud to
be a friend of Amber, inviting her and her friends to the Admiralty House for a special Christmas
party. From her loving parents and family to her friends and teachers and nurses and medical
staff, to the Governor General of Australia, Amber conquered them all with her indomitable heart
and her ability to savor the moment of living. Amber learned of God and Jesus from her friend
Mr. Walsh, and she was especially blessed by the bishop before she passed on to her heavenly
home. The story of "Princess Amber" concludes with these lines: "Princess Amber's story is one
of never ending, She waits in her heavenly home for the time that is pending. When you will
come to join her in her mansion in the sky, She will say 'I love you all, will see you bye and bye.'"
"Princess Amber" is a tribute and a celebration of the amazing life of a girl who knew enough to
always be grateful for the experiences life has to offer. It is a story of great love and
encouragement, telling readers of every age of the importance of love.
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Eight Dolphins of Katrina: A True Tale of Survival
Janet Wyman Coleman, author
Yan Nascimbene, illustrator
Houghton Mifflin Company
215 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003
www.houghtonmifflinbooks.com
9780544932616, $8.99, PB, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Including a photo-illustrated exclusive trainer's scrapbook, "Eight Dolphins of Katrina" is the
amazing story of the survival and rescue of eight dolphins from the Marine Life Oceanarium in
Gulfport, Mississippi after the disastrous strike of Hurricane Katrina, on August 29, 2005. All
eight dolphins, Jackie, Toni, Shelley, Elijah, Kelly, Tamra, Noah, and Jill, were swept out to sea
in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, because they were left behind in the Oceanarium after a
relocation effort saved all the other dolphins by moving them to temporary pools in the area.
There wasn't room or time to move these last eight dolphins. What happened after the tidal wave
crushed the roof of the Oceanarium and washed them out to sea? A team of the dolphins trainers
decided to mount a rescue effort to see if they could find and return the eight dolphins from the
surrounding Gulf waters. These dolphins were tamed in captivity, so they would have forgotten
how to feed themselves in the wild, plus they might have been injured. Overcoming many
obstacles, the trainers set out to sea with a motorboat and a helicopter. Expecting to find only
some of the original eight dolphins, imagine the trainers' joy when they were found by each of the
eight individual dolphins! The following rescue and treatment effort was fascinating, and the
dolphins cooperated fully, in many amazing ways. The story was followed by the media, and a
tired but happy team of trainers settled down to sleep near the eight dolphins after they had been
successfully moved to a new home, a tank at the U. S. Navy base in Gulfport, Mississippi. "Eight
Dolphins of Katrina" is completed by a series of historic stories about other dolphin rescues, in
which the dolphins played the part of the rescuers, and also an eight dolphins scrapbook with
color photos from The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies. "Eight Dolphins of Katrina" is a
fascinating true story about a heroic rescue of eight brave dolphins following the disaster of
Hurricane Katrina.
The Island and the Bear
Louise Greig & Vanya Nastanlieva, author & illustrator
Picture Kelpies
c/o Floris Books
www.florisbooks.co.uk
9781772503682, $11.95, www.discoverkelpies.co.uk
Originally inspired by a true story from the Scottish Hebrides, "The Island and the Bear" is a
poetic tribute to the beautiful nature of a bear who once was really lost on an island in the
Scottish Hebrides. Sensitive, pastel paintings of a gentle brown bear lost on a lonely Atlantic
island underline the simple poetic narrative. The strange story begins and ends with the same
three lines: " Anything can happen anywhere./ Anywhere was an island./ Anything was a bear."
Although the bear is large and strange, inspiring fear in the hearts of the islanders, his nature is
shown as sweet and gentle. The bear is bewildered, lost, and hungry, but he dances on the shores
of the island and becomes one with it. When the bear becomes hungry, he discovers apples and
food that others have left out. The bear gratefully accepts the gifts of food from the islanders,
whether intended or not. Only one small girl sees and understands the lost bear's true nature. She
touches the bear gently and tells him she understands, and that she has found someone who
misses him. The girl helps the bear reunite with two people and a boat who are a part of the bear's
family. When the bear finally is taken away from the island with his friends, a beautiful starry
constellation of a bear is seen in the night sky. "The Island and the Bear" is a true animal fable
that has a message of overcoming fear with love at its core. It is a great gift from an area
celebrated for its isolated, wild, sea -framed beauty, poetry, and music. Also highly
recommended from the same publisher is "Ollie and the Otter, A Scottish Osprey Story
(9781782503699, $11.95)," by Emily Dodd, illustrated by Kirsteen Harris-Jones.
The Math Shelf
Times Tables Fun with Naughty Katie
Lorraine Reed, author
Troubador Publishing Ltd.
www.troubador.co.uk
9781785891670, $9.97 PB, $4.99 Kindle, 64pp, www.amazon.com
Written in funky rhyme, "Times Table Fun with Naughty Katie" is a great method to teach
multiplication tables to kids at home. Filled with black and white photos of the author's
daughters, Katie and Misty, these twelve brief chapters recite in rhyme the multiplication tables
interspersed with fun anecdotes about naught Katie and her sister. Here is an example: " The
three times table with naughty Katie up to tricks: The girls went to the seaside to paddle in the
sea./ Because 1 x 3 is 3/ They splashed each other with jumps and kicks./ Because 2 x 3 is 6./
Then a dirty trick entered Katie's mind!/ Because 3 x 3 is 9/ She pretended that she was drowning
and couldn't save herself./ Because 4 x 3 is 12./ She thrashed around, creating waves which were
bouncing and shifting./ Because 5 x 3 is 15/ A passing boat noticed the panicked scene that Katie
was creating./ Because 6 x 3 is 18/ The captain couldn't shoot a flare because he had an empty
gun./ Because 7 x 3 is 21/ So he jumped into the sea and pulled Katie up to the Kent seashore./
Because 8 x 3 is 24/ This was not the day trip the captain had planned on a peaceful Kent sea
Heaven./ Because 9 x 3 is 27/ He pulled Katie to safety in his smart new suit now soaking, sandy
and dirty./ Because 10 x 3 is 30/ Mum could see the captain crawling up the sand on dirty knees./
because 11 x 3 is 33/ She apologized to the captain for Katie's naughty, dirty tricks./ Because 12
x 3 is 36" The fun of every multiplication table rhyme interspersed with tales of Katie's naughty
tricks keeps students' interest snagged and learning occurs effortlessly and with fun! " Times
Table Fun with Naughty Katie" is a boon to parents, caretakers, and teachers of irrepressible
young students of mathematics and verse!
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Defender of the Realm
Mark Huckerby and Nick Ostler
Scholastic, Inc.
557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012-3999
9780545936668 $17.99 www.scholastic.com
Defender of the Realm tells of Alfie, who is heir to Great Britain and who is slated to become a
terrible king. The problem is: he who is king is privy to a secret and is charged with being not
just a king, but a superhero. Hayley, on the other hand, is an ordinary girl who doesn't believe in
superheroes. Two different lives coalesce in a powerful story recommended for middle grade to
high school readers.
Want
Cindy Pon
Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
9781481489225, $18.99 www.simonandschuster.com/teen
Want tells of Jason, who lives in a world where the rich can buy longer lives and are protected
from the pollution and illnesses which plague those less wealthy. Jason's mother died as a result
of the corruption which as built his world, making him determined to change things; so he enters
the lives of the wealthy on a mission to destroy their favored status from within. The only
problem is that what he learns and who he encounters reveals a more complex problem than he
had imagined. This thought-provoking sci-fi read will find special appeal to audiences interested
in social issues tied into futuristic worlds.
The Whizbang Machine: Tunney's Curse
Danielle A. Vann
Waldorf Publishing
2140 Hall Johnson Road 102-345, Grapevine, TX 76051
9781945174544 $14.95 www.WaldorfPublishing.com
The Whizbang Machine: Tunney's Curse is Book 2 in The Whizbang Machine series, and opens
with a bang that's like entering a story mid-highlight and wondering what transpired before its
crescendo. But one of the pleasures of Tunney's Curse is that it doesn't leave newcomers hanging
for long, after inviting them in with such a captivating opener, and thus the narrator, who
experiences her world falling around her and her initial perceptions of well-being failing, brings
newcomers and old fans from middle school to advanced teens along for a rollicking, swift ride
that grasps action firmly and doesn't let go. Curses, family secrets, a girl who clings to life after
disaster, and a danger that rages out of control, affecting families, destinations, and a detective's
investigation, all blend into a story line that is fraught with a power struggle over a machine that
can change the world. The result is another powerful story that builds from the first without
alienating new readers: highly recommended for fantasy enthusiasts looking for the added
attractors of a complex mystery, a supernatural curse, and a family's involvement in saving a
sleepy town.
Tales of the Mer Family Onyx
Susan I. Weinstein
Pelekinesis
112 Harvard Avenue, #65, Claremont, CA 91711
www.pelekinesis.com
9781938349546, $21.95, PB, 160pp, www.amazon.com
"Tales of the Mer Family Onyx: Mermaid Stories on Land and Under the Sea" by Susan I.
Weinstein is an 'all in the family' novel for young readers about Neptune, his wife, Glendora, and
their pair of Mer twins: the teenagers Emerald and Sapphire, the tweens Rainbow and Bowrain,
baby Ruby and Neptune's daughter of the race of mini-mermaids, Pinky. "Tales of the Mer
Family Onyx" begins with Glendora's introduction of her family and Neptune's challenge to his
children. In the process, the Mer Children escape their father's shadow and make themselves
proud. Original, entertaining, and thoroughly 'kid friendly' from beginning to end, "Tales of the
Mer Family Onyx" is unreservedly recommended, especially for family, school, and community
library General Fiction collections for young readers. It should be noted that "Tales of the Mer
Family Onyx" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.95).
The Board Book Shelf
Hickory, Dickory, Dock
Illustrated by Genine Delahaye
Tiger Tales
PO Box 70, Iron Ridge, WI 53035
www.tigertalesbooks.com
9781680105254 $9.99 amazon.com
Hickory, Dickory, Dock and Other Favorite Nursery Rhymes is a board book of beloved rhymes,
sayings, and songs, illustrated with charming animal characters. The stiff pasteboard pages are
easy for little hands to turn, and the classic rhymes include "If You're Happy and You Know It",
"I'm a Little Teapot", "Red Sky At Night", "Rock-A-Bye, Baby" and many more. Highly
recommended, especially for baby showers and bedtime tuck-ins.
Bathtime for Little Rabbit
Jorg Muhle
Gecko Press
www.geckopress.com
9781776571376, $9.99, Board Book, 20pp, www.amazon.com
"Who enjoys having their ears washed? Little Rabbit doesn't like the idea, but it turns out to be
not so bad after all. But he does need our help. When the dryer breaks, we have to blow his ears
dry. Wfffff! Again! Now wrap him in the towel and bathtime is over. Squeaky clean, Little
Rabbit! "Bathtime for Little Rabbit" is a sequel to author/illustrated Jorg Muhle's board book
"Tickle My Ears" (9781776570768, $9.99) and is another perfectly simple interactive board
book that invites children ages 2 to 4 to take charge of bathtime: turn on the shower, cover Little
Rabbit's eyes, wipe the water off his nose, and rub him dry. A simple and thoroughly 'kid
friendly' delight, "Bathtime for Little Rabbit" is an especially recommended selection for family,
preschool, and community library board book collections.
Simon and Schuster
c/o Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
Two 'When Your' board books written by Susanna Leonard Hill and illustrated by Daniel
Wiseman are highly recommended picks for youngsters and present the dilemmas of different
animals in fun silly stories that parents will find perfect for read-aloud laughter. When Your
Elephant Has the Sniffles (9781481495042, $7.99) advises how to make a sick elephant feel
better and surveys the possible repercussions from failure. Prop him up with pillows, bring him
things to make him feel better - but above all, do not let him sneeze! When Your Lion Needs a
Bath (9781481495028, $7.99) advises young readers about how to handle a smelly lion.
Surprisingly, it involves being a bit sneaky, because lions are cats - and they hate water. A fun
story evolves, perfect for both young readers and their read-aloud parents.
The ABC Shelf
F is for Florida
Written by kids, for kids
WestWinds Press
c/o Graphic Arts Books
PO Box 3225, Durango, CO 81302-3225
www.graphicartsbooks.com
9781513260495 $14.95 amazon.com
F is for Florida is an ABC picturebook written by children, for children. Kids in the Boys & Girls
Clubs of Central Florida composed F is for Florida about their favorite symbols of their home
state. Full-color photographs illustrate every page and turn of phrase, such as "E is for Everglades
- By boat, kayak, or canoe, exploring these waters is fun to do" and "N is for Nesting Turtle -
Hatchlings are born up on the beach, then down to the ocean they must reach". A delightful read-
aloud book perfect for parents and children to share, F is for Florida is highly recommended.
The Picturebook Shelf
A Truck Named Tony
M. Jane Hawkins, author
David Barrow, illustrator
Doodle and Peck Publishing
PO Box 852105, Yukon, OK 730845
www.doodleandpeck.com
9780997235180, $19.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Tony the truck longs to go outside because every day on the showroom floor he watches other
cars and trucks drive by. He wishes he could have the fun, too, like the purpose truck with the
huge tires, shiny bumper with a winch, and yellow, flashing lights. She can go over bumpy roads,
up hills and down valleys, and through tall grass. Finally Tony is taken outside for test drives, but
each driver returns him to the showroom. Tony is so disappointed, but Mikey the sports car
assures Tony his turn will come. Soon a family with a young boy buys Tony and he gets to do a
lot of fun things with them such as going out camping and being in a parade. But as time passes,
Tony gets old and rusty. His dream of going over bumpy roads, up hills and down valleys, and
through tall grass is fading. Then the boy grows up and gives Tony a fresh coat of paint and a
tune up. the young driver then takes Tony over bumpy roads and through tall grass -- making
Tony's dream come true! Colorfully illustrated by David Barrow, "A Truck Named Tony" is an
original and utterly charming picture book story by M. Jane Hawkins that will prove to be an
enduringly popular and appreciated addition to family, elementary school, and community library
collections for young readers. It should be noted that "A Truck Named Tony" is also available in
a paperback edition (9780998930206, $9.99).
Daddy Played the Blues
Michael Garland
Tilbury House, Publishers
12 Starr Street, Thomaston, ME 04861
www.tilburyhouse.com
9780884485889, $17.95, HC, 48pp, www.amazon.com
Packing themselves into an old jalopy along side Daddy, Uncle Vern, and Mama in the front seat
and Cassie and her two brothers in the back, the family joined the Great Migration from the
impoverished Deep South to Chicago, where there was work to be had in the stockyards. Across
the kids' laps lay Daddy's prized possession, a six-string guitar. Daddy worked hard to put food
on the table, but what he really loved was playing the blues. Deftly written and superbly
illustrated by Michael Garland, "Daddy Played the Blues" is an evocative picture book tale of the
African-American odyssey in search of a better life is also a homage to the uniquely American
music that developed from African music and American spirituals, work songs, and folk ballads.
Of special note is Garland own personal story of how he first heard and fell in love with blues
music, beginning a lifelong fandom. Featuring portraits and thumbnail biographies of great blues
musicians and landmark songs complete this tribute to the great American music and the
yearnings that produced it, "Daddy Played the Blues" will prove to be an original and
entertaining read for children ages 6 to 10, making it unreservedly recommended for family,
elementary school, and community library picture book collections for young readers.
Marvin and the Giant Bubble
Karin McCay, author
Vova Kirichenko, illustrator
Waldorf Publishing
2140 Hall Johnson Road 102-345, Grapevine, TX 76051
www.waldorfpublishing.com
9781945176203, $14.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
"Marvin and the Giant Bubble", the collaborative effort of author Karin McCay and illustrator
Vova Kirichenko, is the first volume of their 'Magic Mommy' series. "Marvin and the Magic
Bubble" will leave kids ages 4 to 8 giggling out loud over a backyard adventure that gets wildly
out of control and concludes with a whimsical twist at the end that gives Mommy the ultimate
edge! A thoroughly entertaining read from beginning to end, "Marvin and the Giant Bubble" is an
especially recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and
community library picture book collections.
Fresh Starts For Our Animal Friends
Aviva Hermelin
Mazo Publishers
PO Box 10474, Jacksonville, FL 32247
www.mazopublishers.com
9781946124104, $18.95, HC, 54pp, www.amazon.com
Written and illustrated by Aviva Hermelin, "Fresh Starts For Our Animal Friends" is a picture
book story of the lovable Grizzbear family who joins Giveret Deer, the McDucks, MoMo and
LuLu Fox and their animal friends to create heartwarming stories with a message. At the end of
each chapter comprising "Fresh Starts For Our Animal Friends", there are questions to initiate
conversation with children, focused on the importance of living a life based on positive values
and good character traits. Whether parents and teachers read these stories aloud or a child who is
already a reader is enjoying "Fresh Starts For Our Animal Friends" on their own, this
unreservedly recommended and unique picture book will create an ideal atmosphere to introduce
themes and concepts for personal growth and development. While an especially recommended
addition to family, elementary school and community library picture book collections, it should
be noted for parents that "Fresh Starts For Our Animal Friends" is also available in a paperback
edition (9781946124098, $12.95).
The Secret of Black Rock
Joe Todd-Stanton
Flying Eye Books
c/o Nobrow Ltd.
www.flyingeyebooks.com
9781911171256, $16.95, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Erin is a young girl who loves to lie on the jetty, looking for the weirdest fish in the sea -- the
weirder, the better! And she knows the best ones must be further out, where her mum won't let
her go. Out there in the deepest sea lies the Black Rock: a huge, dark and spiky mass that is said
to destroy any boats that come near it! Can Erin uncover the truth behind this mysterious legend?
An original, deftly crafted, and superbly illustrated picture book story for children ages 3 to 7,
"The Secret of Black Rock" is very highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool,
elementary school, and community library collections.
Lovely
Jess Hong
Creston Books
PO Box 9369, Berkeley, CA 94709
www.crestonbooks.co
9781939547378, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Big, small, curly, straight, loud, quiet, smooth, wrinkly. Lovely explores a world of differences
that all add up to the same thing: we are all lovely! That is the central message of
author/illustrator Jess Hong's charmingly thoughtful and unfailingly entertaining picture book
story for children ages 4 to 8. "Lovely" will prove to be an enduringly popular choice and is very
highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community
library collections.
The Chalk Rainbow
Deborah Kelly, author
Gwynneth Jones, illustrator
EK Books
c/o Exisle Publishing
www.exislepublishing.com.au
9781925335453, $17.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Zane is different to other kids. He has his own made-up language. He likes to line things up. And
he is frightened of things that don't seem to bother other people -- like the color black. His father
gets frustrated and angry with Zane. His mother tries hard to explain things to him. But nothing
seems to work. Zane just scrunches himself up into a ball and screams. Things are looking pretty
bleak for Zane and his family; that is, until Zane's big sister starts to draw a chalk rainbow at the
top of the front steps. a deftly crafted picture book story by Deborah Kelly that is charmingly
illustrated by Gwynneth Jones, "The Chalk Rainbow" explores difference and diversity through a
family living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It's also a story of unconditional love, of
trust and of learning to look at the world through the eyes of others. The story is told by Zane's
older sister in a way that young children ages 4 to 7 can easily relate to. The ending is uplifting as
all members of the family learn to look at things differently and find a way to move forward
together. While very highly recommended for family, preschool, elementary school, and
community library collections, it should be noted by parents that "The Chalk Rainbow" is also
available in a digital book format ($4.99).
Sally Loves Horses!
Jody Mackey
Champ Youth Inc.
www.champyouth.com
9780692646991, $19.95, HC, 60pp, www.amazon.com
Sally is passionate about horses. She is charming, energetic, ever so determined. Dreaming of
competing in a barrel race at the rodeo with her friends, Sally dedicates herself to horses and
riding. As the story unfolds in the pages of "Sally Loves Horses", young readers ages 8 to 12 will
be treated to valuable lessons about following your dreams. Especially young girls who will be
encouraged to get up, start moving and to seek out sports or activities that they love and enjoy.
Ably written and illustrated by Jody Mackey, "Sally Loves Horses" is a heart-warming, inspiring
picture book story that is unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and
community library picture book collections for young readers.
How It Feels to Be a Boat
James Kwan
Houghton Mifflin Company
215 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003
www.houghtonmifflinbooks.com
9780544715332, $16.99, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Sometimes being a boat is full of adventures and it's nothing but smooth sailing on the high seas,
but sometimes arguing passengers can take you off course. When you run aground, will their
teamwork give you the strength to make it through? Offbeat and imaginative, author and
illustrator James Kwan gives us a glimpse of what it's like to not only be a boat, but what it is to
be human in both gentle and rough waters in "How It Feels to Be a Boat". Perfect for life's
transitions, "How It Feels to Be a Boat" tackles taking on change and indecision with grace,
humor, and heart. It's a reassuring reminder to stay the course through all kinds of stormy
weather. Ahoy, ahoy! An ideal choice for children ages 4 to 7, "How It Feels to Be a Boat" is an
especially recommended addition to family, preschool, elementary school, and community library
picture book collections.
The Curiosity Cabinet
Ian Wallace
Groundwood Books
c/o House of Anansi Press
110 Spadina Ave., Suite 801, Toronto, ON, Canada, M5V 2K4
www.groundwoodbooks.com
www.houseofanansi.com
9781554989225, $19.95, HC, 36pp, www.amazon.com
Ian Wallace is one of Canada's best-known children's book creators. In "The Curiosity Cabinet"
he invites young readers ages 5 to 9 to look inside his cabinet of curiosities, which contains
treasures from his decades of traveling the country from sea to sea to sea, sharing stories with
young readers. His cabinet of curiosities is an eclectic and personal collection that nonetheless
represents and appreciates Canada's rich and varied land. Each double-page illustration shows a
shelf in the cabinet dedicated to a province or territory with the gifts or special memories Ian has
from that place ranging from tamarack geese made by Cree artists in northern Ontario, to a
fishing-stage facade from Newfoundland, to the giant redwoods in Cathedral Grove on
Vancouver Island, and much more. Always experimenting with new techniques, Ian has
illustrated the entire book in delicate graphite pencil, achieving stunning light and shadow. This
is a beautiful and unusual contribution to Canada's 150th birthday is very highly recommended
for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.
Waltz of the Snowflakes
Elly MacKay
Running Press
c/o Perseus Book Group
250 W. 57th St., Suite 1500, New York, NY 10107
www.runningpress.com
9780762453382, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
It is a cold and rainy evening when Gran gives her granddaughter something special: tickets to
the ballet. Her granddaughter is reluctant to go. The weather is terrible and they have to wear
fancy, uncomfortable clothes. But as the curtains rise on The Nutcracker, the girl's eyes light up
as she's introduced to the magic of the theater. The bright costumes, the intricate dances, the
magical music, and a new friend all combine to captivate the girl and to bring color to an
otherwise dreary evening. "Waltz of the Snowflakes" is children's picture book author and
illustrator Elly MacKay at her finest, mixing her acclaimed paper-cut artwork with vibrant colors
in this whimsical, dreamlike, and inspiring wordless picture book. A must-have for any ballet and
theater-obsessed young reader ages 4 to 8, "Waltz of the Snowflakes" is the picture book to be
shared during the holidays or any time of year when the world outside needs a little bit of color
and vibrancy. While very highly recommended, especially for family, daycare center, preschool,
elementary school, and community library picture book collections, it should be noted that
"Waltz of the Snowflakes" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Found Dogs
Erica Sirotich
Dial Books
c/o Penguin Group USA
345 Hudson Street, 15th floor, New York, NY 10014
http://us.penguingroup.com
9780399186417, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
A picture book specifically written and illustrated by Erica Sirotich for babies and toddlers from
ages 2 to 5, "Found Dogs" will delight them as they count up each wriggly, wraggly rescue pup
and then count back down as each doggie is adopted. A bright, bouncy rhyme, jubilant art, and
scads of adorable dogs will have wee ones giggling for more, "Found Dogs" will prove to be an
enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and
community library picture book collections.
Elephant Wind
Heather L. Beal, author
Jubayda Sagor, illustrator
Train 4 Safety Press
9780998791203, $10.99, PB, www.train4safety.com
9780998791241, $18.99, HC, 28pp, www.amazon.com
"Elephant Wind" is a creatively illustrated juvenile story that is designed to teach children (ages
three to eight) what to do if a tornado happens. One important aspect of "Elephant Wind" is that
it presents the information in a cheery, colorful, nonthreatening format which is appealing and
engaging to children. A childcare class of child-animals, including Lily and Niko Rabbit, arrives
with their owl teacher, Ms. Mandy on a bus to attend a science fair. A warning siren sounds and
the children are asked to follow Ms. Mandy to a tornado shelter. Calmly on their way to the
tornado shelter, Ms. Mandy explains what a tornado looks like: a strong, twisty, funnel-shaped
cloud. When the young animals do not understand, she explains the tornado shape is like an
elephant trunk reaching from the sky to the ground. Further explanations and descriptions of
tornado sounds follow, and Ms. Mandy explains the importance of immediately going
somewhere safe, like a basement, when they hear a tornado warning. To help the children
remember their safety tornado instructions, Ms. Mandy sings a song to them: "Elephant wind
coming round, Get to the basement or below ground. Cover your head and before you know, It
will blow over and you can go." Soon the school principal ( a wolf) appeared to tell the children
the tornado was gone. Although no one was hurt, a neighbor's house was damaged. The animal
children began to think of ways they could help the neighbors whose house was damaged to feel
better, making treats, and cards, and telling them that they cared. "Elephant Wind" ends with
tornado-related questions and activities from Lily and Niko Rabbit. "Elephant Wind" is a fine
instruction manual for young children on proper tornado safety procedures, taught in a clear and
nonthreatening way.
It's Only the Wind
Mindy Dwyer, author/illustrator
WestWinds Press
c/o Graphic Arts Books
P.O. Box 3225, Durango, CO 81302
www.graphicartsbooks.com
9781513260747, $22.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
"It's Only the Wind" is an unusual bedtime story that deals with children's fears and queries about
the different, haunting sounds made by the wind. Filled with swirling puffs of blue and magical
sweeping, musical wind- word sounds, this children's wind story lullaby enchants and fascinates,
while it follows flights of fancy inspired by the wind. The award winning author seems to
combine color, artistry, poetry, and music in these pages. A mother tries to answer her two
children's questions about the sounds made by the wind, gently persuading them to go to sleep.
When the children cry, "Mama! The wind is pounding!" she answers, "She's just working hard,
rolling big waves onto rocks to make sand for the beaches. Night-night, little ones." The beautiful
text is decoratively woven into the swirling illustrations of the blowing wind. The mother's calm
answers to her children's questions seems to both calm and feed their curiosity about the wind.
For a true multi sensory treat, parents and children will love dipping into "It's Only the Wind" for
a good night story on a blustery night. It is further enhanced by a final page of fascinating facts
about wind.
Pancakes for Dinner!
Phillip D. Cortez, author/illustrator
Waldorf Publishing
2140 Hall-Johnson Road, #102-345, Grapevine, Texas 76051
www.WaldorfPublishing.com
9781945174209, $12.95, PB, 32pp, www.amazon.com
"Pancakes for Dinner!" is a lavishly color illustrated, narrative paean in praise of pancakes, in
epic style! Every possible permutation and combination of pancake delicacies are featured, plus
every possible reason for eating them! Kids will love the large pancake portraits with little boxes
of verse: "Add chocolate chips, or berries of blue; Mix in some bananas, It's all up to you! Eat
them till you're full (and you start to wobble); But what will you have for breakfast? That's
easy.... WAFFLES!" Young readers will delight in the subject, laugh at the pictures, and ask for
pancakes for dinner, breakfast, and lunch - or just to celebrate!
Tigger and Jasper's New Home
Cheryl Gillespie, author
Michael LeBlanc, illustrator
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
www.createspace.com
www.thecreativejuices.ca
9780995005617, $6.49 PB, $2.99 Kindle, 24pp, www.amazon.com
"Tigger and Jasper's New Home" is a gentle story about the loving adoption of two kittens by a
special musician and teacher. Introducing young readers to an awareness of blindness, "Tigger
and Jasper's New Home" presents delicate, spunky pastel portraits of two kittens, one orange and
one gray, born on a farm near Douglastown, New Brunswick. One day the farmer took the kittens
to their new home with a loving lady who made music and taught piano students. The kittens had
funny adventures in their new home, tangling yarn balls, getting hidden in the closet, falling into
the bathtub water, and getting shut in the refrigerator. Each time the kittens got lost or hidden,
Christie, their owner, found them by hearing their plaintive mews. After a day of fun and play,
the kittens settled quietly on Christie's lap to snuggle and purr. One of the kittens came to a
realization, which he communicated to his sibling: "I think I understand why Christie is so very
unique,....Her eyes don't work,.... she can't see." He patted Christie's pale blue eyes with his
velvet paws. From then on, the kittens knew that they would look after Christie and she would
take care of them. This loving, true story of reciprocal love between felines and a human tells
young readers much about ways of perceiving others in the world around us. "Tigger and Jasper's
New Home" ends with a lullaby, which can be sung to humans as well as kittens.
Brobot Bedtime
Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen
Abrams
c/o Abrams/Amulet
115 West 18th Street, New York, NY 10011
9781419722905 $16.95 www.abramsyoungreaders.com
Brobot Bedtime is illustrated by Scott Campbell and tells of the Brobots, who have had a long
day and who need to recharge. Buzz and Crash fall asleep instantly, but Beep's got issues ...
actually, a series of them. Can the right button be pressed to get him to calm down? A fun story
evolves, perfect for a different, zany form of bedtime story especially recommended for kids who
love robots.
Splotch
Gianna Marino
Penguin Books
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
345 Hudson Street, 15th floor, New York, NY 10014
9780451469571 $17.99 www.penguin.com/youngreaders
Gianna Marino's Splotch will reach ages 4-6 with its wistful story of how a little boy loses his pet
goldfish. He's sure the fish has been fish-napped, but his wiser mother knows something he
doesn't. There's a new Splotch in the bowl the next day - but the savvy boy knows it's not the real
one. What happened? A gentle story of loss ensues.
Pig the Pug
Aaron Blabey
Scholastic Inc.
557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012-3999
9781338112450 $14.99 www.scholastic.com
Pig the Pug tells of a pug dog who is just plain greedy and selfish, and who earns the reputation -
and the name - of being a pig. He's never nice to those he lives with, he never wants to share his
toys or food - he's just plain mean. And the concept of sharing drives him crazy. What happens
next offers kids a strong lesson on friendship, sharing, and caring alike in a whimsical, fun
story.
McElderry/Atheneum/Simon & Schuster
c/o Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
Four new picture books provide young readers with a fun set of original, unique stories perfect
for leisure reading pursuit. Aaron Reynolds' Sea Monkey & Bob (9781481406765, $17.99) is
illustrated by Debbie Ridpath Ohi and tells of Bob the puffer fish and his best friend Sea
Monkey, who have a big problem. Sea Monkey is afraid of sinking - but Bob is afraid he'll float
to the surface instead of swimming. Heavy things sink and light things float, right? These
concepts and the idea of problem-solving together make for a fun, easy story with big/ colorful
fish drawings that's hard to put down. Meet Rob Sanders' Rodzilla (9781481457798, $17.99),
illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat who brings to larger-than-life size the story of a
mighty toddler who considers a city his playpen and who romps up chaos for his parents.
Narrated in news report form, this provides a hilarious parent's-eye perspective on the matter of
handling a rambunctious toddler. Candace Fleming and Eric Rohmann's Bulldozer Helps Out
(9781481458948, $17.99) tells of a little bulldozer charged with taking care of kittens, and
provides a sequel to Bulldozer's Big Day, which both compliments the prior book by adding a
new adventure and requires no prior familiarity in order to stand nicely on its own. Here Little
Bulldozer wants to help, but the bigger trucks say he's too small. A special dilemma is posed
when a batch of kittens come to his attention in this gentle tale. Benjamin Strouse and Jennifer
Phelan's Hey, Boy (9781481471015, $15.99) tells of a boy and a dog who always dream of
shared adventures. Boy meets dog, brings him home, and fun is anticipated until the boy gets hurt
and his mother deems him too young to have a pet. What happens when Boy loses his beloved
friend? A gentle tale evolves, perfect for kids who love animals and dream of a pet of their
own.
Tundra Books
350 Front Street West, Suite 1400, Toronto, ON, Canada M5V 3B6
www.penguinrandomhouse.ca
Three new picture books provide refreshingly different stories that parents and kids will find
attractive and fun. Chihiro Takeuchi's Can You Find My Robot's Arm? (9781101919033,
$16.99) presents the author's cut-paper art and story of a robot who awakens to find he's missing
his arm. He searches everywhere; but it's nowhere. What's a one-armed robot to do? And what
kind of device can serve as a robot arm replacement? A whimsical tale receives black and white
cut-paper embellishment. Linda Bailey and Kass Reich's Carson Crosses Canada
(9781101918838, $16.99) tells of Annie and her dog Carson who live in British Columbia, and
who are crossing Canada via car to visit her sister, Elsie, in Newfoundland. As the two tour the
provinces, young readers receive a story with geographic roots and will learn about Canadian's
different environments and cultures in the course of a vivid journey. Kyo Maclear's The Fog
(9781770494923, $16.99) pairs drawings by Kenard Pak with the engaging tale of a bird who is a
human-watcher in Icyland. His hobby is thwarted by fog, one day, which spreads everywhere and
hampers his interests. What's a human-watching bird to do when nature takes its course? These
are fun picture books recommended for young leisure readers.
Disney Hyperion
125 West End Avenue, New York, NY 10023
www.disneybooks.com
Four new arrivals from Disney are highly recommended picks for picture book readers seeking
original, fun fiction. Ryan T. Higgins' Be Quiet! (9781484731628, $17.99) provides the story of
Rupert, who has two friends who are chatterboxes, in opposition to his goal of developing a
visual, wordless picture book. How can he craft a wordless book if they won't stop talking? A fun
dilemma evolves which young talkers will especially appreciate. Mike Wu's Ellie in Concert
(9781484712382, $16.99) tells of too much nose at the zoo, which is keeping poor Lucy the
giraffe from sleeping. Can Ellie Elephant turn the noise into something Lucy can sleep with?
Nothing seems to work: how can Ellie help Lucy get some peace and quiet? It takes an
innovative solution in this tale of adversity and problem-solving. Deborah Underwood's Super
Saurus Saves Kindergarten (9781423175681, $16.99) is illustrated with bright, fun cartoon-like
drawings by Ned Young and tells of Arnold, a "Super Saurus" who faces an evil genius disguised
as a kindergarten teacher. Super Saurus can't be kept down by either evil or kindergarten - but his
efforts to avoid the inevitable keep failing. What's a dinosaur superhero to do? Kids will
appreciate the whimsical story which is packed with color and action scenes. Anica Mrose Rissi's
The Teacher's Pet (9781484743645, $17.99) tells of Mr. Stricter, who always wanted a pet, and
who gets one for his science classroom which doesn't seem quite like the other tadpoles in the lot.
Fun drawings by Zachariah Ohora contribute to a story which takes the "teacher's pet" notion
quite literally and builds a zany story around it. All are excellent choices picture book readers
will relish.
Tiger Tales
PO Box 70, Iron Ridge, WI 53035
www.tigertalesbooks.com
Suzanne Chiew's That's What Friends Are For (9781680100402, $16.99) is illustrated by
Caroline Pedler and tells of Badger, Hedgehog, and friends who are busy enjoying a fun hot day
when disaster strikes in the form of a water shortage. The stream they love and rely on is drying
up - what can they do? Good reading skills or parental read-aloud assistance will enhance this
beautifully illustrated story of friends in action as they problem-solve and support one another.
Becky Davies's The Three Little Pugs and the Big, Bad Cat (9781680100433, $16.99) is
illustrated by Caroline Attia and pairs fun pug dog photos with illustrations as it tells of three
pugs who live with their mother in a kennel in the woods. It's time for them to leave home - but
can each little pug build a house well enough to keep out the nasty cat? A different take on the
Three Little Pigs story will have kids and adults rolling in laughter.
The Graphic Novel Shelf
Secret Coders: Robots & Repeats
Gene Luen Yang and Mike Holmes
First Second
175 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10010
www.firstsecondbooks.com
9781626726062 $10.99 amazon.com
Part of an educational, black-and-white graphic novel adventure series designed to encourage
young people to learn more about computer science, Secret Coders: Robots & Repeats follows
the kids as they get to the bottom of a corrupt chemistry class that uses students to make
dangerous green soda pop! Basic computer science concepts, such as nested repeats and binary
numbers, are woven seamlessly into this thrilling action-adventure, written by talented storyteller
and computer science teacher Gene Luen Yang. Secred Coders: Robots & Repeats is a choice
pick for grade school and public library children's collections. Also highly recommended are the
previous titles in the "Secret Coders" series, "Secret Coders" (9781626720756), "Secret Coders:
Secrets & Sequences" (9781626720770), "Secret Coders: Paths & Portals" (9781626720763),
and "Secret Coders: Potions & Parameters" (9781626726079).
Duck Avenger: New Adventures
Alesandro Sisti, et al.
IDW Publishing
2765 Truxton Road, San Diego, CA 92106
www.idwpublishing.com
9781631408649, $24.99, PB, 208pp, www.amazon.com
A cartoon character created in 1934 at Walt Disney Productions, Donald Duck continues to be an
enduringly popular and entertaining character whose comic book exploits are followed by
millions of children around the world. Now there is a graphic novel feature Donald in his masked
super hero persona as the Duck Avenger in Disney's Duck Avenger: New Adventures. When
Donald's wealth uncle Scrooge McDuck buys mysterious, ultra-hi-tech Ducklair Tower, he
commandeers his nephew into being the janitor/guard for the as yet unoccupied building. Then
Donald, while in his Duck Avenger garb, is accidentally swept into a forgotten floor encounters
an amazing AI that becomes his ally and helps him in battle with space aliens, as well as a
seemingly super-powered crook from the future. Also involved is a crooked reporter (Angus
Fangus), a dashing space-refugee, (Xadhoom), and a mysterious beauty (Lyla Lee). While written
specifically for young readers ages 8 to 12, "Duck Adventure: New Adventures" will have
immense appeal for Donald Duck fans of all ages from 8 to 88! This superbly written and
illustrated volume of Donald Duck adventures is very highly recommended for school and
community library graphic novel collections. For personal reading lists it should be noted that
"Duck Avenger: New Adventures" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle,
$11.99).
The Chilly Adventures of Mr. Small
Jo Ann Adinolfi, author/illustrator
Creston Books
PO Box 9369, Berkeley, CA 94709
www.crestonbooks.co
9781939547354, $9.99, PB, 32pp, www.amazon.com
"The Chilly Adventures of Mr. Small" is a small but mighty fun-packed graphic novel about a
sort of hamster anti-hero, who battles freezing cold in creative ways to keep his dust bunny
friends warm and cozy. Discovering that his tiny home is threatened by cold, Mr. Small arms
himself with miniature wraps and ventures forth to discover the climate control center, skillfully
turning it up to HOT. However, it is still cold in his home, could it be because of an open
window and tiny white fluffy things like snowflakes blowing in? Mr. Small actually has a
fascinating conversation with a snowflake, who is named chilly, it turns out. Mr. Small and his
dust bunny friends are invited by Chilly to meet more snowflakes outside the window. Throwing
on extra warm hats, the friends fly forth on fortunate balloon air power from Mr. Small's pocket.
Mr. Small loves the look of the snow piles of flakes, but he discovers they are colder than they
look. There are too many snowflakes to name, but Mr. Small tries to be polite as Chilly
introduces him. Because Mr. Small can't fly, float, or swim, the friends decide he will travel on
candy cane skis, and along with his dust bunny friends. Mr. Small is an awesome skier until he
crashes into Frosty, the Snowman, and knocks out his eyes of coal. Mr. Small and Chilly make
Frosty a pet out of snow, a hamster which names Fluffy. Next Mr. Small and friends engage in a
fun snowball fight and ends rolling downhill in a big monster snowball. His next adventure
involves skating on thin ice in the pond, falling through, and being rescued by Chilly the
snowflake, Howl, the wind, and Spark, the fire. The friends share toasted marshmallows in
ingenious ways, and soon it is time for Mr. Small to go home. A squirrel taxi, wearing a
checkered scarf, delivers Mr. Small to his window of his house. There Mr. Small is greeted by
his dust bunny friends and the cat, and treated to a cup of hot cocoa and a cozy bedtime nap. But
wait, is there one more winter adventure left for Mr. Small? A tiny trip to an outdoor outhouse
(for hamsters) reminds readers that even hot cups of cocoa may have their down side on cold
winter nights. The dialogue and comic pictures of Mr. Small and friends are adorable, comic,
erudite, and sweet. Kids and grown ups alike will clamor for more adventures of Mr. Small. This
graphic novel will encourage reluctant readers to read, read, and read some more.
Mermin Book 5: Making Waves
Joey Weiser
Oni Press
http://onipress.tumblr.com/ask
9781620103944 $19.99 www.onipress.com
Mermin Book 5: Making Waves provides a full color graphic novel adventure/fantasy story about
the battle between Mer and Atlantis. Mermin stands by his father and people, but doesn't want to
fight. His friends are trying to help the cause without bloodshed. But can anything prevent the
great Mer forces from attack; much less a Mer child? A fun story will especially involve graphic
novel readers of all ages with a fantasy that is hard to put down.
The Multimedia Shelf
Henny & Benny Bunyan and the Maple Syrup Adventure: Northwoods Kids Book One
Kitty Donohoe, author
Lori Taylor, illustrator
Gypsie Bird Press
PO Box 3070, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106
www.gypsiebird.com
9780997046007, $14.95, PB, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Henny and Benny reportedly first appeared in a one page story in Kitty Donohoe's collection of
Michigan songs and stories, "Bunyan and Banjoe's." Henny and Benny are kid brothers, distantly
related to legendary lumberjack Paul Bunyan. Benny is the older sensible brother who does his
chores and remembers his lunch money. Henny is the dreamer and inventor younger brother, who
sometimes loses track of the details of life. Winner of the Moonbeam Children's Book Award,
"Henny & Benny Bunyan and the Maple Syrup Adventure" combines all the fun elements of a
kid-centered tall tale with the fantastic shenanigans of Yoopers, or denizens of the Far North.
Henny wants to win the Pineville Flapjack Contest to get the first prize of the Whoopie Howdy!
Super Supreme Sled, complete with compass, CD player, 2-way radio, and G.P.S., plus a mug
holder for hot cocoa. Young readers will love following Henny's comical efforts to mix up a
gigantic blueberry flapjack to cook in his step-uncle Paul Bunyan's enormous griddle. What will
happen when a cocoa smear hides part of the flapjack recipe he is trying to whip together in
vastly larger quantities? Simultaneously, another springtime Northwoods event appears to be
going haywire. The maple trees had so much sap and it was so warm, that it was turning into
maple syrup as it dripped from the trees, making an enormous maple syrup river! Will the people
at the Winter-Go-Away-It's-Time -For-Spring Spree and Flapjack Contest be flooded and washed
away, or will Henny's huge, overpuffed blueberry pancake be part of a fantastic solution! Only
Henny and Benny can cope with this exciting near disaster, and with a great combined
cooperative effort directed and inspired by Henny, the river of maple syrup meets the huge puffy
flapjack and gets soaked up. Best of all, after Henny gets declared a hero, everyone received
forks from the Mayor and proceeded to eat every bite of the prize winning flapjack soaked in the
river of maple syrup. Did Henny win the First Prize of the Whoopie Howdy Super Supreme
Sled? And if so, was that enough for him? What adventures will Henny and Benny have next?
Topping off the tall tale are illustrated instructions for making maple syrup plus a great CD of
five frolicking, rollicking songs by Kitty Donohoe about life in the Northwoods. "Henny &
Benny Bunyan and the Maple Syrup Adventure" is delightfully illustrated with comic, colorful
portraits of the young heroes in action, making this prizewinning series title a sure bet for
sequels.
The Audiobook Shelf
Good Wives
Louisa May Alcott, author
Read by Liza Ross
Naxos of America, Inc.
1810 Columbia Avenue, Suite 28, Franklin, TN 37064
9781781980774 $22.98 www.naxosaudiobooks.com
Good Wives is an abridged audiobook rendition of Louisa May Alcott's timeless classic, and the
direct sequel to "Little Women". Continuing where "Little Women" concluded, Good Wives
traces the lives of its resolute female protagonists. Meg marries John; Jo must resolve her own
romantic dilemma; Amy ventures to Europe; and Beth suffers from an increasingly debilitating
illness. Intelligently written, and superbly performed by award-winning audiobook reader Liza
Ross, Good Wives is a literary treasure that will appeal to listeners of all ages, and is highly
recommended especially for public and school library audiobook collections. 3 CDs, 3 hours 10
min 6 sec.
The Music CD Shelf
Gustafer Yellowgold's Brighter Side
Morgan Taylor
Apple Eye Productions
$12.99 gustaferyellowgold.com
Gustafer Yellowgold's Brighter Side is a charming children's music album about a friendly alien
who grew up in the Sun and now makes his home in Minnesota. Unlike previous albums in the
series, Brighter Side is a music-only release (instead of a mix of songs and storytelling),
consisting half of "Earth Songs" and half of "Sun Songs". The lyrics are upbeat, engaging, and at
times wistful. A delight for all ages, Gustafer Yellowgold's Brighter Side is an excellent choice
for family listening and public library children's music collections, highly recommended. The
tracks are "Brighter Side", "Ride a Line O'Stars", "Lucky Day", "Meet Me By the Fun", "Hot
Nights", "Window", "Ellen Lemon", "Baconstein", "The Carvery", "King of the Sun", "I Love the
Night", and bonus track "I Love the Night".
Rufus the Unicorn and Other Upside-Down Fairytale Songs
Auntie Kayte
Privately Published
AuntieKayte.com
$14.97 CD / $9.99 download cdbaby.com
Auntie Kayte presents Rufus the Unicorn and Other Upside-Down Fairytale Songs is a charming,
family-friendly music CD with a twist on classic fables. The songs feature intelligent princesses,
hardworking cowboys, pirates with kinfolk, and a unicorn who has to work out his own identity.
Lyrics are provided with physical CDs, or available to download on the AuntieKayte.com
website. Rufus the Unicorn is just plain fun family listening, highly recommended for both personal and public library children's music collections! The tracks
are "Get Up, It's Morning!", "The Right Side of the Bed", "The Cowboy Song", "The Cowgirl
Song", "I'm a Little Teapot", "Sunshine in My Pocket", "Pirates Are People Too", "I'm Sorry", "A
Princess Can Be Smart", "Rufus the Unicorn", "Blow Away the Rain", "Blow Away the Rain
(Round)", "Giggly You and Me", and "Good Old Words".
Life on a Trampoline
Randy & Dave
Song Wizard Records
songwizard.com/randyanddave
$14.98 CD / $9.99 download cdbaby.com
Award-winning duo Randy & Dave present Life on a Trampoline, an original children's music
CD filled with clever, sassy, jubilant, and just plain silly songs. A booklet with lyrics and chord
charts is included with the physical CD. Creative and whimsical lyrics distinguish Life on a
Trampoline, and make it a choice pick for family car trips or public library children's music
collections. The tracks are "Enjoy It While You Can" (2:43), "Last Time I Was Here" (2:43),
"Semolina" (2:57), "That Thing" (2:48), "Squadoosh" (3:56), "Not About" (3:07), "Life on a
Trampoline" (2:59), "A Weird Thing Happened" (3:39), "So What If I Do?" (3:41), "Betty
Mumbles" (4:21), "Happy to Help" (2:29), and "We Don't Share" (3:02).
The Folktale/Fairytale Shelf
Akilak's Adventure
Deborah Kigjugalik Webster, author
Charlene Chua, illustrator
Inhabit Media, Inc. / Iqaluit
www.inhabitmedia.com
9781772271232, $10.95, PB, 32pp, www.amazon.com
"Akilak's Adventure" is a beautiful Inuit story about the courage of a young girl who must make a
long journey alone to bring food for her injured grandmother. Akilak was an orphaned girl who
lived alone in an isolated Arctic area with her grandmother. When Akilak's grandmother injured
her ankle, she had to stay home and rest while Akilak made the long journey to her uncle's camp
to get food. When Akilak felt fearful about her ability to walk so far and find her way safely, her
grandmother said, "Yes, granddaughter, you will walk a great distance, but keep in mind, your
destination is not running away, it will be reached eventually." Along the way, Akilak met a
friendly caribou who spoke kindly to her and offered to accompany her on her journey. Akilak
accepted the caribou's offer gladly, although he was a stranger to her. On the long trip, the wise
Caribou listened to Akilak's chatter about fears of the journey, and stories her grandmother had
told her about people turning into animals and animals turning into people. The Caribou listens
to Akilak's different wishes to become like a fish, a wolf, or a goose so she could make her
journey more quickly and easily using their special gifts of swimming, flying, and running. The
wise Caribou asked Akilak if she really would rather be an animal than a person, and Akilak
answered slowly, after consideration: "Animals are my companions, and they understand me, but
as much as I would like to turn into an animal and be with many others, I am grateful to be a
person so I can be with my grandmother." Soon it neared dark, and Akilak began to see that she
was near her uncle's camp. The Caribou thanked her for her stories and took his leave, saying,
"Your destination did not run away; you will reach it soon." it was just as her Grandmother had
said. The Caribou helped Akilak to understand that her long journey was more than a fearful
challenge, it was an exciting adventure! "Akilak's Adventure" is charmingly illustrated with
expressive faces both human and animal, and blended flows of animal images from nature in
soft, earth-linked hues of the Arctic tundra in summer. "Akilak's Adventure" will appeal to
children of all ages with its underlying message of having faith in your destination and enjoying
the adventures of life on the way.
The Multicultural Shelf
If You Were Me and Lived in... Cuba: A Child's Introduction to Culture Around the World
Carole P. Roman, author
Kelsea Wierenga, illustrator
Chelshire, Inc.
www.caroleproman.com
9781545100769, $11.99 PB, $2.99 Kindle, 26 pages
9781947118881, $22.99, HC, 34pp, www.amazon.com
"If You Were Me and Lived in..... Cuba" is the latest addition to the award winning child's
Introduction to Culture Around the World series by Carole P. Roman. Beginning with a small
map of the island nation of Cuba and a world map with Cuba's position indicated, the story
addresses young readers by describing daily life of a child in Havana, Cuba. Common names for
Cuban girls and boys such as Zamira, Aymee, or Ernesto, Jose, or Luis are suggested. Colorful
illustrations highlight scenes familiar to Cubans such as markets, schools, and old buildings such
as the Castillo del Morro, an old Spanish fort built in the 17th century. Festivals, beaches,
favorite foods, sports, and popular sayings are all explained. Completed with a glossary and the
signature illustration of a circle of children from many nations holding hands surrounding the
earth, "If You Were Me and Lived in......Cuba" is a fantastic addition to this popular and
successful juvenile world culture introductory series.
The Fiction Shelf
Mount St. Helens 1980: Fiery Eruption
Gare Thompson
Barron's
250 Wireless Boulevard, Hauppauge, NY 11788
www.barronseduc.com
9781438009728 $7.99 amazon.com
Part of the "Great Escapes" series of historical fiction novels in which young people must work
together to escape deadly natural or man-made situations, Mount St. Helens 1980: Fiery Eruption
follows young Alex and Wendy amidst a devastating volcanic eruption. Like all novels in the
series, Mount St. Helens 1980 seamlessly weaves real-life historical figures into its action-
adventure narrative. An enthralling adventure from cover to cover, Mount St. Helens 1980: Fiery
Eruption is a choice pick for grade school and public library children's collections. Also
forthcoming is another title in the "Great Escapes" series, "Underground Railroad 1854: Perilous
Journey" (9781438009735, $7.99).
The Bonaventure Adventures
Rachelle Delaney
Penguin Canada
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
345 Hudson Street, 15th floor, New York, NY 10014
9780143198505 $16.99 www.penguinrandomhouse.ca
The Bonaventure Adventures tells of Seb, who attends the Bonaventure Circus School in
Montreal when children around the world are trained to be performers. He expects something
different than he gets when he discovers the prestigious school is suffering, and his mission
becomes more than training as he embarks on an adventure that moves beyond the usual
scenarios of boarding school experience and delves into a mystery with a circus backdrop. Teens
will find it an involving, different read.
The Eyes of the Enemy
Robert Black
Royal Fireworks Press
First Avenue, PO Box 399, Unionville, NY 10988
www.rfwp.com
9780898242654, $9.99, PB, 224pp, www.amazon.com
It is 1944, and the war between the United States and Japan is raging across the Pacific ocean.
Back in Nebraska, Kathy Syverson has been having some very unusual dreams. She sees her
brother Danny in a foreign land, living as a Marine. But Kathy doesn't just see him; she is there.
In "The Eyes of the Enemy", young readers will join Kathy as her life in America is disturbed by
vivid glimpses into her brother's struggle overseas. Through these dreams she is afforded a
unique perspective on those living on both sides of the front line. An original, deftly crafted,
inherently absorbing and thoroughly entertaining read for children ages 11 to 15, "The Eyes of
the Enemy" by Robert Black is unreservedly recommended for personal reading lists, as well as
school and community library Historical Fiction collections for young readers.
Indiana Bamboo
Meira Rosenberg
Iris Press
c/o The Iris Publishing Group
969 Oak Ridge Turnpike, # 328, Oak Ridge, TN 37830
http://www.irisbooks.com
9781604542455, $12.00, PB, www.amazon.com
Two days before Indiana Bamboo's eleventh birthday, Paradise Pets, her favorite store in the
small town of River Creek, is robbed. All the animals are missing, from her beloved Maurice the
Brown Bear to Princess Penelope, the puppy she's been coveting, and Indiana is on the case! She
teams up with her best friend, Jamie, and her new friend, Tom, to search for clues. The kids
tangle with the petnappers all over town, but all is nearly lost when Indiana suspects that Tom is
a no-good double-crosser who's in cahoots with the bad guys. Just when things couldn't get
worse, Indiana overhears the petnappers at Stefano Stefano's Ice Cream Parlor plotting to make
the animals disappear forever. There's no time to lose, but how can Indiana foil their evil plan
and rescue the animals before it's too late? All the more impressive when considering that
"Indiana Bamboo" is author Meira Rosenberg's debut as a novelist. An impressively well written
and unfailingly entertaining read from beginning to end, "Indiana Bamboo" is especially
recommended for young readers ages 9 to 11, and will prove to be an enduringly popular addition
to both elementary school and community library General Fiction collections.
The Lion's Paw
Carlos Torres
Talking Donkey Press
c/o All About Kids Publishing
PO Box 159, Gilroy, CA 95021
www.allaboutkidspub.com
9780996375672, $11.95, PB, 170pp, www.amazon.com
"The Lion's Paw" by Carols Torres is the story of twelve-year-old Keela, an African boy who
aspires to be like Zun, the ultimate warrior-hunter, village leader and holder of the lion's paw.
Kella's journey to become a warrior-hunter is a difficult one, filled with emotion and danger.
Against all odds Keela finally overcomes a daunting series of tests, trials, and difficulties, only to
find that his admiration for the lion's paw dims as he learns about what's really important. All the
more impressive considering that this is Carols Toress debut as an author,"The Lion's Paw" is an
original and deftly crafted novel that will prove to be and enduringly popular and appreciated
addition to elementary school and community library General Fiction collections for young
readers ages 8 to 12.
A Babysitter's Guide to Monster Hunting
Joe Ballarini
Katherine Tegen Books
c/o HarperCollins Children's Books
10 East 53rd Street, New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollinschildrens.com
9780062437839, $13.99, HC, 352pp, www.amazon.com
When middle schooler Kelly Ferguson's Halloween plans switch from party-going to babysitting,
she thinks the scariest part of her night will be the death of her social life. But then Baby Jacob
gets kidnapped by the Boogeyman's minions and Kelly learns there's a whole lot more to
childcare than free snacks and Netflix. Like chasing shadow monsters, drop-kicking Toadies, and
mastering monster-fighting moves like the Naptime Headlock and Playground Punch. Now, with
the help of an ancient handbook and a secret society of butt-kicking babysitters, Kelly sets out to
destroy the Boogeyman before he brings Jacob's nightmares to life. But when the monsters' trail
leads to her school's big Halloween bash, Kelly will have to prove she can save the world --
without totally embarrassing herself in front of her friends. Packed with black-and-white
illustrations and insider secrets from the world of monster hunting, "A Babysitter's Guide to
Monster Hunting" is full of tricks, treats, and terrifying twists! Especially recommended for
young readers ages 8-12, "A Babysitter's Guide to Monster Hunting" will prove to be a truly
riveting read from cover to cover. While highly recommended and certain to be an enduringly
popular addition to both school and community library collections, it should be noted for
personal reading lists that "A Babysitter's Guide to Monster Hunting" is also available in a digital
book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Jelly Bean Summer
Joyce Magnin
Sourcebooks Inc.
1935 Brookdale Road, #139, Naperville, IL 60563
www.sourcebooks.com
9781492646723, $16.99, HC, 272pp, www.amazon.com
Joyce is desperate to get out of the room she shares with her older sister. All she wants is some
peace and quiet, not the kind that fills the space left by her missing brother and tastes like
butterscotch gone sour, the kind where you can breathe deep and see the stars. So she moves to
the roof. Up there it's nothing but blue sky. Blue sky and....another roof dweller? Joyce soon
discovers she's not the only one who's been driven to rooftop living. With the help of a pair of
binoculars, a sketch pad, and a pen, Joyce makes an unexpected friend and sets in motion a
summer she'll never forget. "Jelly Bean Summer" is a thoroughly delightful and entertaining read
that is especially recommended for children ages 8 to 12. An original and deftly crafted novel
from beginning to end, "Jelly Bean Summer" will prove to be an enduringly popular addition for
both school and community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that
"Jelly Bean Summer" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Tales of Mr. Snuggywhiskers: The Spring Tales
C. F. Crawford, author
L. H. Crawford, illustrator
Lauco Press
9780997642216, $11.00, PB, 168pp, www.amazon.com
Hallie and Cory are determined to figure out Mr. Snuggywhiskers's connection to their family,
but adventures keep getting in the way. Slowly they unravel the mysterious past of Mr.
Snuggywhiskers, the dapper, well-spoken mouse who lives in the tallest tree in their backyard.
They are confronted with surprises along the way, from meeting a leprechaun to finding out that
mice really can surf! Ideal for homeschooling and early grade school students with advanced
reading levels, "Tales of Mr. Snuggywhiskers: The Spring Tales" is te third volume in the
award-winning 'Tales of Mr. Snuggywhiskers' series. A wonderfully entertaining read from
beginning to end, "Tales of Mr. Snuggywhiskers: The Spring Tales" is an especially
recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library fiction collections
for young readers ages 5 to 11.
Music Time
Gwendolyn Hooks, author
Shirley Ng-Benitez, illustrator
Lee & Low Books
95 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016
www.leeandlow.com
9781620143438, $14.95 HC, $5.95 PB, 32pp, www.amazon.com
"Music Time" is a chapter book from the Dive Into Reading! series which encourages literary
skills with entertaining, illustrated stories about kids set in racially diverse neighborhoods.
Illustrated with active, cheery water color paintings of Henry and his friends exploring freeze
dancing, being a rock star, and having a quiet dance party with just Henry and his mom. Henry
wants to be a rock star drummer, but his drumming is very loud and his mother requests him to
play his drums quietly. Henry finds a compromise, offering to play his drum outside with his
friends instead. While Henry drums, Lily, Mei, Pablo, and Padma dance silly, funny dances until
the drumming stops, then they must freeze. Everyone has a fun time until time to go home for
dinner. Home with his mom after dinner, Henry finds quiet pastimes such as drawing a picture.
His mom decides she is through with work, and asks henry if he would like to play with her.
They decide to turn on some music and dance silly dances, having music fun until it is bedtime.
"Music Time" ends with a suggested related activity, a craft of making a drum out of an oatmeal
box or coffee container. Kids who are early emergent, emergent, early fluent, or fluent readers
can enjoy sharpening their reading skills with color coded headings on the Dive Into Reading!
book series for young readers.
Disney Hyperion
125 West End Avenue, New York, NY 10023
www.disneyhyperionbooks.com
www.hyperionteens.com
J.C. Geiger's Wildman (9781484749579 $17.99) tells what happens when a scholarship winner
and success-oriented student's car breaks down in a small town where he is a stranger. One
wouldn't think a successful student would be interested in re-inventing his image; but when he
faces suspicion and is deemed 'Wildman', he suddenly discovers a new persona which leads him
to change his set course in life. A powerful coming-of-age story offers a different perspective on
success, failure, and uncharted territories. Margaret Dilloway's Momotaro: Xander and the
Dream Thief (9781484724880, $16.99) offers the sequel to Xander and the Lost Island of
Monsters and tells of a biracial boy who abuses his Momotaro powers and loses his family's
dreams in the process. He goes from feeling powerful with the recent knowledge of his special
abilities to realizing that they can be used to adversely affect everything he loves in this powerful
sequel that stands well on its own for newcomers.
The Environmental Shelf
Dark Matters
Joan Marie Galat
Red Deer Press
c/o Fitzhenry & Whiteside Limited
195 Allstate Parkway, Markham, Ontario, Canada, L3R 4T8
www.reddeerpress.com
9780889955158, $19.95, HC, 72pp, www.amazon.com
Told through the eyes of thirteen year old girl named Joan who loves the outdoors, "Dark
Matters: Nature's Reaction to Light Pollution" will introduce young readers ages 8 - 10 to the
fragile wonders that are covered by our increasingly threatened nighttime skies. "Dark Matters is
packed full from cover to cover with fascinating and unexpected facts and illustrations, and even
provides tips and suggestions on how young people in the third and fourth grade can help reduce
light pollution in their communities in the concluding chapter called 'What You Can Do' --
because to the ecological systems of nature, dark matters. Impressively 'kid friendly' in tone,
commentary, organization and presentation, "Dark Matters: Nature's Reaction to Light Pollution"
is very highly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library Nature & The
Environment collections and supplemental studies reading lists.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Finding Mighty
Sheela Chari
Amulet
c/o Abrams
115 West 18th Street, New York, NY 10011
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
9781419722967, $16.95, HC, 320pp, www.amazon.com
Along the train lines north of New York City, twelve-year-old neighbors Myla and Peter search
for the link between Myla's necklace and the disappearance of Peter's brother, Randall. Thrown
into a world of parkour, graffiti, and diamond-smuggling, Myla and Peter encounter a band of
thugs who are after the same thing as Randall. Can Myla and Peter find Randall before it's too
late, and their shared family secrets threaten to destroy them all? Drawing on urban art forms and
local history, "Finding Mighty" is a deftly crafted mystery by accomplished author Sheela Chari
that explores the nature of art and the unbreakable bonds of family. An absorbing and
entertaining read from cover to cover, "Finding Mighty" is especially recommended for
elementary school and community library Mystery/Suspense collections for young readers. For
personal reading lists it should be noted that "Finding Mighty" is also available in a digital book
format ($9.15).
The Autism Shelf
Jessica Kingsley Publishers, Inc.
400 Market Street, Suite 400, Philadelphia, PA 19106
www.jkp.com
Two fictional stories for young picture book readers successfully impart facts about learning
disabilities as Asperger's as they provide characters and situations youngsters can relate to. While
adult interaction for discussion purposes will enhance the educational attraction of these books,
kids with good reading skills in grades 2-4 will find them enlightening. James Dillon's Okay
Kevin: A Story to Help Children Discover How Everyone Learns Differently (9781785927324,
$17.95) tells of a boy who never feels comfortable at school. While he's expressive and energetic
at home, at school he feels unsafe, until a teacher's assignment helps him realize that he, too, can
be successful. Kids ages 5-8 receive a lesson in self-esteem and special abilities. Kathy
Hoopmann's Lisa and the Lacemaker (9781785920288, $18.95) is illustrated by Mike Medaglia
and uses the graphic novel format (in full color) to tell of Lisa, who discovers a hidden door in a
back yard and who uncovers the legend of a Lacemaker. Aunt Hannah has her own secret as well,
which is tied into this legend and a growing mystery that leads directly into a better
understanding of her own Asperger Syndrome. Kids will learn much about the syndrome and its
very real impact as they absorb a mystery filled with colorful picture panels.
The Bilingual Shelf
Todos a Comer! A Mexican Food Alphabet Book
Dr. Ma. Alma Gonzalez Perez
Del Alma Publications, LLC
www.delalmapublications.com
9780982242223 $7.99 amazon.com
Todos a Comer! A Mexican Food Alphabet Book is a bilingual, softcover English/Spanish
alphabet book featuring traditional Mexican cuisine (in mouth-watering, full-color photography!)
for each letter of the alphabet. "Uu is for uvas. Grapes are used to prepare salads and desserts. In
the Hispanic culture, it is a custom to eat twelve grapes to welcome the new year. Does your
family have this custom?" A picture glossary of Mexican cooking utensils rounds out this
delightful ABC book, ideal for reading aloud and sharing with young children.
The Activity Shelf
Junk Drawer Engineering
Bobby Mercer
Chicago Review Press
814 North Franklin Street, Chicago, IL 60610
www.chicagoreviewpress.com
9781613737163 $14.99 pbk / $9.97 Kindle amazon.com
Junk Drawer Engineering is filled cover to cover with simple science projects that kids ages 9
and up can try using inexpensive materials most likely stuffed in a "junk drawer" at home. Black-
and-white photographs on virtually every page illustrate projects like building an aluminum foil
boat that can hold a maximum cargo load (of pennies), or crafting a homemade roller coaster
from pipe wrap. Recommendations for adapting each project for children of different ages and
skill levels round out this educational and entertaining repository! Highly recommended.
The LGBT Studies Shelf
When You Look Out the Window
Gayle E. Pitman, author
Christopher Lyles, illustrator
Magination Press
c/o American Psychological Association
750 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242
www.maginationpress.com
9781433827365, $15.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Deftly written by Gayle E. Pitman and charmingly illustrated by Christopher Lyles, "When You
Look Out the Window" is a picture book about Phyllis Lyon and Del Martin, one of San
Francisco's most well-known and politically active lesbian couples. In this story, Phyllis and Del
point out landmarks through the city that can be seen out their window. The "Reader's Note"
describes how Phyllis and Del left their mark on each of these sites. A unique and entertaining
way to introduce children ages 4 to 8 to untold stories in history while also being a clever tribute
to two notable women, "When You Look Out the Window" is unreservedly recommended for
family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book
collections.
The Geography Shelf
National Geographic Kids United States Atlas, fifth edition
National Geographic Press
101 West 104th Street, Suite 8, New York, NY 10025
www.nationalgeographic.com
9781426328312 $12.99 amazon.com
Now in its fifth edition, National Geographic Kids United States Atlas devotes a two-page spread
to each state, with a map on the right and a wealth of fun facts on the left. (US Territories are also
briefly covered). An accessible educational resource featuring full-color maps and photographs,
as well as a glossary and place name index, National Geographic Kids United States Atlas is a
choice pick for both grade school and public library children's geography collections. Highly
recommended! "Wisconsin leads the country in cheese production and is the second largest
producer of milk and butter. Other farmers grow crops ranging from corn and soybeans to
potatoes and cranberries. Northern Wisconsin is sparsely populated but heavily forested and is
the source of paper and paper products produced by the state."
The Holocaust Studies Shelf
My Sister's Eyes
Joan Arnay Halperin
JMA Press
PO Box 212, Hillsdale, NJ 07642
www.mysisterseyes.com
9780692844892, $19.95, PB, 94pp, www.amazon.com
"My Sister's Eyes: A Family Chronicle of Rescue and Loss During World War II" by Joan Arnay
Halperin tells the story of the Polish-Jewish Krakowiak family beginning with their prosperous
pre-war life in Poland and Belgium, then suffering the Nazi onslaught and their perilous flight to
freedom. Of special note is the reporting of the moral heroism of the Portuguese Consul in
Bordeaux and then the family's ultimate escape from the holocaust inferno of war and their
journey to America. Profusely illustrated and specifically written for young readers, "My Sister's
Eyes" is an impressive testament to the human spirit and with it's underlying message of 'Never
Forget. Unique, exceptional, informative, emotionally moving, "My Sister's Eyes"' is very highly
recommended for family, school and community library Holocaust Studies collections for
children.
Books in Series
Mapping in the Modern World series
Crabtree Publishing Company
350 Fifth Avenue, 59th Floor, New York, NY 10118
www.crabtreebooks.com
Six new books in the 'Mapping in the Modern World' series from the Crabtree Publishing
Company provides insights on modern maps and how they are created and used, providing a
blend of map history with support for state Stands for Geography for grades 5 and 6 and C3
Framework for Social Studies-Geography. Included in this series are Tim Cooke's The Changing
Face of Maps (9780778732211, $27.60 HC, $8.95 PB), introducing maps, their uses, and a
history of mapmaking; his Mapping Human Activity (9780778732228, $27.60 HC, $8.95 PB),
which shows how maps reflect and predict human activity; Enzo George's Mental maps and
Mapping the Mind (9780778732372, $27.60 HC, $8.95 PB), about the personalities of map
makers and how people make maps; Charlie Samuels' Mapping the Physical World
(9780778732365, $27.60 HC, $8.95 PB), about satellite technology and how it relates to
mapping; James Bow's Mapping the Future (9780778732389, $27.60 HC, $8.95 PB), about how
GPS has changed mapmaking and enhanced various activities that use maps to make decisions,
and his Mapping in a Digital World (9780778732235, $27.60 HC, $8.95 PB), which considers
digital data and how it relates to mapping peoples, places, and various systems. All are highly
recommended picks for any elementary-level collection.
Immigrant Experiences series
The Child's World, Inc.
1980 Lookout Drive, Mankato, MN 56003
www.childsworld.com
9781503822849, $159.60, Library Binding, 8 Volume Set; $28.50 each
Aside from Native Americans, the United States is a nation of immigrants and the descendants of
immigrants. Now The Child's World has published a new eight volume series showcasing the
immigrant experience of people from eight different countries. Each individual volume in this
simply outstanding series combines primary source information (quotes, letters, diaries, new
stories) into a narrative text enhanced with compelling images and informative infographics.
Each volume also features 'fast facts', critical-thinking questions, a phonetic glossary, an index, a
timeline of key events, and a listing of sources for further research. Specifically intended for
fourth grade students, this series is comprised of: Italian Immigrants; Japanese Immigrants: In
Their Shoes; Irish Immigrants: In Their Shoes; Vietnamese Immigrants: In Their Shoes; Mexican
Immigrants: In Their Shoes; German Immigrants: In Their Shoes; Somali Immigrants: In Their
Shoes; Cuban Immigrants: In Their Shoes.
Go, Popplio!
Adapted by Maria S. Barbo
Scholastic, Inc.
557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012-3999
www.scholastic.com
9781338148664 $3.99 amazon.com
Part of an ongoing series of easy reader books based on the Pokemon cartoon (which is in turn
based on an enormously popular video game series) Go, Popplio! tells a story about Pokemon
trainer Ash, his friend Lana, and Lana's exuberant, balloon-creating pokemon Popplio (a
pokemon from the games "Pokemon Sun" and "Pokemon Moon", who resembles a small,
cheerful blue seal). But when Team Rocket tries to kidnap pokemon, it's up to Popplio to save
the day! Illustrated with full-color images from the original cartoon throughout, Go, Popplio! is a
level 2 reader, featuring more vocabulary words and longer sentences, and is ideal for encouraging
young people grades 1-2 to develop their reading skills.
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
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