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(This review first appeared in the June edition of The Edge of the Forest)
Three Shadows
By Cyril Pedrosa
First Second
ISBN: 9781596432390
$15.95
Grades 9 & Up
In Stores
Graphic novels that set out to tackle tough subjects have their work cut out for them. Fair or not, graphic novels often come with the presumption that excitement and fun are contained within. GNs that can tastefully handle heavy emotional content are worth noticing. “Three Shadows” is one such book. Written in response to the death of a friend’s child, Cyril Pedrosa confronts fate and grief with affecting results.
Joachim is an only child living with his mother and father in the countryside. Their life together is a happy one until three mysterious horsemen appear, ominously watching their goings on. Joachim’s mother decides to consult the town exorcist, who foresees a grim future: the horsemen have come for their child and there is nothing that can be done. Upon hearing this news, Joachim’s father takes his son and steals away on a last ditch effort to allude fate. Their travels take them across rough seas and into contact with an old man who offers to solve all their problems for a price. But even that cannot change the inevitable.
French writer and artist Pedrosa honed his skills on Disney’s “Hunchback of Notre Dame” and “Hercules”. This influence is apparent his fluidly exaggerated illustrations. They add to the mood of tension that is tangeble throughout. The heavy subject matter and very “French” depictions of innocent nudity make “Three Shadows” most appropriate for mature readers. A moving graphic novel.
Also reviewed by A Fuse #8 Production, Boing Boing, Panels and Pixels.
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat.
It’s summertime here in Michigan and the bugs are out in full force. Ants, spiders, and mosquitoes invade my house day and night. Your common, run of the mill insects. Oh, if only a Spiny Devil Katydid would come strolling through the living room carpet, looking for its next meal. Or maybe a Hummingbird Hawk Moth could hover through the kitchen, eager for a little nectar. Then I might have something to write in my (nonexistent) “What I Did This Summer” journal. Ah, well - at least I have Animal Planet’s countdown extravaganza, “The Most Extreme Bugs”, to pour over as I go and grab yet another wad of Kleenex to keep my wainscoting ’skeeter free.
In the foreword, an Animal Planet producer confesses an affinity for countdown shows. You’ve seen them on cable - “The 100 Most Unforgettable Terribly Great Power Ballads” and the like. The Animal Planet series on which this book is based operates in this format. A topic is selected, and the countdown to number one begins. “Extreme Bugs” goes for some categories with real kid appeal: the strange looking, the speedy, the deadly, the giant - they strive to max out the high interest meter, and succeed pretty swimmingly.
A book like this would be nothing without some stellar photos. “Extreme Insects” passes the cool picture test with flying colors. They’re plentiful, they’re sharp, they’re close-up. Readers will be pleased with the results.
It has nice photos, but does it have information useful to kids? Indeed. Each bug presented comes with a description that does a not too shabby job of giving the specs. Size, weight, habitat and special information are all there. Not a one stop shop for all your insect information needs, but a solid source to be sure.
So as I continue to wage war with my carpenter ants (yawn), do yourself a favor: get your hands on “Most Extreme Insects” and find out how fascinating bugs can be.
Click here to visit the Nonfiction Monday Roundup at Picture Book of the Day
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat.
Night of the Veggie MonsterI can relate to kids who don’t like their vegetables. I’ve been slow in coming around myself. As a kid, I was known to pull the old switcharoo and hide the veggies in the nearest napkin. “Night of the Veggie Monster” uses humor, inventive illustrations, and descriptive language in an attempt to reach kids who don’t like the green stuff.
The story is told from the perspective of our unnamed protagonist and veggie disliker. Upon receiving his dinner plate containing three peas, his “we’ve been through this before” parents know what to expect. Our hero tries one of the peas and the transformation begins. Wiggly fingers, curled up toes, and watery eyes all lead up to the main event: full fledged veggie monster. The change does not last long however, as the monster eventually swallows said pea, realizing that maybe they’re not as bad as he first thought.
The way the main character deals with the consumption of a solitary pea is something kids will identify with:
As the pea rests in my mouth, my eyes begin to water.
That’s a great line, and one that true veggie haters will relate to. You don’t want to touch the food with your tongue, you don’t want to chew, you just kind of let it rest there in your mouth while you figure out what to do next.
The mixed media illustrations stand out for their originality. McClements creates a world where photographs mingle with simple line drawings. The characters appear to be drawn on brown paper, cut out, and placed in their surroundings. It’s a unique touch.
While I have yet to test it out, “Night of the Veggie Monster” is a likely pick for storytime. It’s vivid descriptions are ripe for the interpretin’. A solid picture book selection.
Also reviewed by Pink Me, Kids Lit, Young Readers.
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat.
I Will Surprise My Friend!
By Mo Willems
Hyperion
ISBN: 9781423109624
$8.99
Grades K-2
In Stores
Scaring people is fun. There is really no getting around this fact. Kids know this better than anyone. Mo Willems knows that kids know this better than anyone. And now he’s gone and written a book about it. Fitting right in with previous “Elephant & Piggie” titles, “I Will Surprise My Friend” provides a situation kids will relate to, presented with playfulness, wit, and an ace sense of humor.
The story begins when Gerald (the Elephant) and Piggie come upon a squirrel who is about to surprise his friend. They like the idea so much they decide to give it a try on on each other. They creep up to opposite sides of a big rock and wait to get startled. This setup is ripe for some silliness. Gerald and Piggie both start to wonder where the other one is. They look around the rock at the same time - no one there. They walk around the rock at the same time - nothing. When our heroes finally give up and head out to find each other, they finally get the shock they were hoping for.
The author’s knack for getting inside the head of youngsters and seeing things from their perspective is on display here. From the way Gerald and Piggie immediately want to try something they see to how they end up waiting for the other one to scare them, beginning readers will identify with this title.
Willems continues to get his PHD in emotive minimalist illustration in “I Will Surprise My Friend”. Each page brings expressions and gestures that announce the mood of each character as clear as day. Similar to other titles in this series, the story is told completely through dialog in the form of word balloons. This makes it a good choice for some good ol’ individual reading. And kids will definitely want to read this one - be sure to have a couple copies on hand.
Click here to visit Mo’s blog.
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat.
Rabbit & Squirrel: A Tale of War & PeasJudging someone before you know them is not a spry notion in children’s books. However, in “Rabbit & Squirrel” this well tread path is updated with fresh and entertaining results. Just in time for new audiences to enjoy.
Both Rabbit and Squirrel both tend their gardens and keep to themselves. Located right next next to each other, the pair are unaware that their farms are really part of a larger, human owned tract. When said human goes about harvesting his crops and vegetables go missing, Rabbit and Squirrel begin to accuse each other of the crime. Do they bother to ask? Nope - they got their minds made up. Eventually the real farmer (or is it more of a gardener?) shows up to scare the daylights out of our heroes, forcing them into the woods. The ending fits right in with what seems to be a steam-gathering kids book trend of bucking the conventional. Instead of having the pair slowly gain a respect and friendship with each other, they continue to argue right up until the last page. On the final page of the book, the narrator gives some hopeful words for the future about how the two should come to their senses and begin a new garden together. A well done conclusion.
The digital illustrations are notable for their likeness to the hand-drawn variety. Only after close inspection can you catch glimpses of some computer manipulation. A well imagined book that’s fun to read - I’d say that puts it squarely into quality picture book territory.
Also reviewed by A Fuse #8 Production, A Year of Reading, Shelf Elf, The Well-Read Child, Three Silly Chicks, Seven Impossible Things, Charlotte’s Library,
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat.
Snakehead
By Anthony Horowitz
Philomel Books
ISBN: 9780399241611
$17.99
Grades 6-8
In Stores
I work with students from kindergarten all the way up to 6th grade, and sometimes a particular series falls through the cracks. This is the way it was with Alex Rider. I knew it was there, I knew it was popular, but I just never got around to reading any of the books myself. Until now. I can understand the excitement. Adventure fans will eat up Snakehead, the seventh book in the Alex Rider series.
The story begins with our hero returning from his last mission. In outer space. Yep, suspension of disbelief will serve the reader well for what lies ahead. Alex Rider is a 14-year-old Brit with a special talent for getting out of seemingly impossible situations. Snakehead is full of these tight spots, beginning in Australia and working through Thailand and Indonesia before the final assault on an oil rig in the Timor Sea. Alex is paired up with his godfather, Ash, to go undercover for the Australian government. Their goal? Break up Snakehead, a people smuggling operation with ties to international crime syndicate Scorpia. Twists and turns ensue. Alex’s cover is soon blown and he has to use all his skills (including kickboxing, kayaking, and parachuting, to name a few) to stay alive. But you don’t have to take my word for it ( ™ Reading Rainbow). Check out the book trailer:
A spy thriller that readers will tear into.
Also reviewed by Breeni Books.
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat.
Excerpts from the never-published “What to Expect When You’re Expecting A Genius”:
If you want your child to be not just smart, but genius level intelligent, it starts in the womb. Eat right, and talk to your unborn child. Avoid products labeled “Baby Einstein”
And that’s exactly what Mrs. Brains did. Although this is the third “Baby Brains” book, Simon James starts out with a refresher of how Baby Brains got to be so smart. Being the first “Brains” I had read, I appreciated the recap. Not only did Mrs. Brains eat the right food, but she also played foreign language tapes. It worked.
The first few months and years can be crucial for the development of you child’s intellect. Encourage and support their interests and hobbies.
Not a problem. Baby Brains has so many intellectual pastimes, it begins to worry the Mister and Missus. The little one is spelling, conducting chemistry experiments, and inventing things like a self-rocking cradle.
Remember to take care of yourself. There will be some sleepless nights, but do your best to get rest - parenting a MENSA baby is tiring work!
Baby Brains soon realizes that his parents are worn out. To solve the problem, he invents RoboMom, a domestic robot who takes over all of the Brains housework - even tending to the baby.
Nothing is more important than one-on-one time with your child. This interaction is vital for developing a genius.
After taking over all the parental duties, RoboMom begins to feel the strain and starts doing some odd things. Sorry RoboMom, but nuts and bolts in engine oil is not a healthy breakfast to serve. Then the robot really starts breaking down. When it mistakes Baby Brains for laundry and hangs him out on the clothsline, it reminds both child and parents that there’s no substitute for spending time together and being a normal family.
Click here to listen to an interview with “Robomom” author/illustrator Simon James at Just One More Book!!
Also reviewed by Book Buds Kidlit Reviews, Just One More Book!!, Provo City Library.
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat.
Pierre In LoveIf you flip to the back of “Pierre in Love”, you’ll find that the subject headings say a lot:
1. Love–Fiction.
2. Honesty–Fiction.
3. Fishers–Fiction.
Yes, Sara Pennypacker’s story is definitely about all of these things. However, throwing all rules and regs about subject headings out the window, I think they should have added the following:
4. Old School Mixup–Fiction.
Similar to every episode of “Three’s Company”, this story is based around a miscommunication - let me explain. Pierre (a shabby-looking fisherman rat), finds himself too “bloopy and love-swoggled” to speak to his love, a ballet dancing rabbit named Catherine. Instead, he places a new gift on her doorstep each night. When they finally come face to face one evening, an unusually dapper-looking Pierre spills his guts. But Catherine denys him, explaining that she is in love with someone else, someone much more shabby in appearance. Now who could that someone else be?
5. Rarities for a Children’s Book–Fiction.
Picture book love stories for are a tricky thing to pull off successfully. In “Pierre”, Pennypacker (of “Clementine” fame) and illustrator Petra Mathers successfully capture the feeling of being a nervous wreck when faced with unrequited love.
This title recently won an SCBWI Golden Kite award for picture book text. I can’t argue with that - the pace, description, and dialog are all succinct and vivid. After learning that Catherine is in love with someone else…
Pierre staggered. The news socked him hard, like an anchor to the chest.
“Well,” he said, struggling to smile, “I’m glad to know you are happy.”
The illustrations, done in watercolor, do a good job of mixing the two dimensional with the three. They have an unusual quality of looking simple and very detailed at the same time - a nice combo for the intended audience.
Go ahead and pick this one up. While you’re reading, I’ll be lobbying the H.W. Wilson Company to add my new subject headings to the list.
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat
The Qwikpick Adventure SocietyIn my youth, I’ve done my fair share of hanging around public places. A friend and I used to be regulars at the local Kmart plaza, eating Nutty Bars and perusing the car care section to debate which chamois was “probably most absorbent”. These are the things that happen growing up in a small town. “The Qwikpick Adventure Society” exposes these seemingly mundane life experiences as the occasionally life changing times they can be. All nicely wrapped up into a story about seeing a mythical “poop fountain”.
Yep, the above info is indeed correct. I can’t say that I’ve ever really read anything like this book. The back cover contains what appears to be a handwritten checklist titled “My list of possible things to do over the Christmas break”. Number four on the list? “See the fountain of poop”. Unexpected. Even though I can’t say I would ever really be interested in such an endeavor, it’s fair to say my interest was piqued.
The story is told through the perspective of Lyle Hertzog. The book itself is a sort of notebook - part typed (on Lyle’s typewriter) and part handwritten. Lyle and his two friends, Marilla Anderson and Dave Raskin, all live in the trailer park located behind the Qwikpick gas station. Since Lyle’s folks work there, Qwikpick becomes a hangout. When the three realize they don’t have plans for Christmas day, they are determined to make the most of it - set out on a true adventure. When Marilla suggests a trip to the Crickenburg Wastewater Treatment Plant, they decide it’s a plan. FYI: They get more than bargained for.
It’s tough to judge the appeal or readability of a book for other people. What I do know is this: I started this up and finished it in one sitting, which is not the way I usually work. As you might expect from comments above, this story wasn’t without some gross out moments. A portion of readers will be genuinely repulsed during the climax of the tale, ensuring that yet another group of kids will be dying to read it. The entertaining mix of first-person story, notes, and the occasional photograph combined to create that oh so elusive element that often sells a book to readers: voice. In fact, this one would probably be good for class use to teach that concept (that is, if the teacher is cool with the whole poop fountain thing). A book that notices how adventure can come from unusual sources, “The Qwikpick Adventure Society” is a solid fiction selection.
Also reviewed by: A Fuse #8 Production, A Chair, A Fireplace & A Tea Cozy, Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast.
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat.
Read more about “Qwikpick Adventure Society” in the Roanoke Times.
Big and Little
By John Stadler
Robin Corey Books
ISBN 9780375841750
$9.99
Grades PreK-1
In Stores
“Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!“
Ronald Reagan June 12, 1987
Berlin
When I hear this quote I can’t help but agree with the Gipper’s impassioned plea for children’s book authors to tear down the literary “fourth wall“, and allow characters to speak directly to readers. “Big and Little” succeeds at drawing in readers by making them the audience. An entertaining flap book that will work well individually or with groups of listeners.
The premise is this: Elephant jumps into a small container of water. That’s it. The first time you’ve seen this reenacted? Me either. The circus ringmaster (a mouse) pours a glass of H20, sets it on the table, and speaks directly to the reader (there is no other audience shown) about what’s happening. The buildup is exciting. Things get more and more urgent until the time comes for everyone to find out if Ellie can actually dive into that glass. The twist ending will catch readers off guard and adds a nice finishing touch.
You ever read a book aloud to kids and have the punchline/exciting result ruined because the next picture shows what happens? Kids are already laughing/shocked/grossed out before you can read it. The only alternative is to read the book with the pictures facing you and turn it over when you get to the punchline, which is no fun. “Big and Little” is set up so that will not be a problem. Take a look:
(click to enlarge)
Each two page spread contains a flap that the reader must flip over to continue the story. If you’re a regular reader you may know how I feel about gimmickry (click here to read my review of “Gallop! A Scanimation Picture Book”). But that’s just plain inventive, friends, and it adds suspense to the story. A solid choice for storytime.
Also reviewed by: Jen Robinson’s Book Page, Young Readers, Shelf Space, A Year of Reading.
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat
(photos of “Big and Little” © 2007 by John Stadler)
Year of the Rat
By Grace Lin
Little, Brown
9780316114264
$14.99
Grades 3-5
In Stores
I read the book that preceded “Year of the Rat”, “Year of the Dog”, toward the end of Aught 7 and was nothing but pleased. The book was not so much a story as a collection of events in the life of a grade school kid. At that age, school, family, and friends is about all there is. The characters were undeniably real. The semi-autobiographical protagonist made for some great examinations of Asian/American cultural differences that youngsters could understand. Well, Grace Lin continues the theme in “Year of the Rat” with similarly successful results. A book that doesn’t wow as much as it satisfies. Or maybe I should put it this way: “Year of the Rat” just walks the walk, no talk necessary.
Pacy is a couple years older than last time and the Year of the Rat is about to begin. This particular year is destined to bring change, and it certainly comes through. Pacy’s best friend Melody is moving, and our heroine is crushed. Her life plan, to be an author and illustrator, is also brought into question when Pacy learns that it is considered a “cold door” profession (see: bound to leave you broke as a joke). She begins to second guess herself. Pshhhhhhhheeeeeewwwwwww - Crash! That’s the sound of change, my friends. These worries make for an unexpectedly stressful year. But there are some other changes in store for Pacy. The internal kind that allow her to see her year in a new light.
I’ve got to say, the book is a pleasure to read. Simple black and white illustrations scattered about to shed light on the text. Girls from a variety of cultural backgrounds will identify with the struggles of making friends and fitting in. An easy one to recommend.
Swindle
By Gordon Korman
Scholastic Press
ISBN 9780439903448
$16.99
Grades 4-6
In Stores March 2008
Can we get a few more copies please?
I work as library media specialist in a school district with four elementary buildings. Right now two of the schools are holding their annual book fair and “Swindle” is the most sought after item … other than the pencils with fuzzy dog toppers (cringe). It helps that “Swindle” was featured prominently in a video we show students hyping up some of the books that will be on sale. I have to say that the hype was warranted. This heist story is sure to catch on with a wide range of readers, including that hardest to reach segment of the reading population: boys.
Griffin is a guy to likes to think things through. He has a plan for everything and can always count on his best friend Ben to help him execute his grand ideas. One such idea leads to the discovery of an old Babe Ruth baseball card. When the boys take the card to their local memorabilia fanatic (S. Wendell Palomino, henceforth known as “Swindle”), the collector dupes Griffin and buys the card for cheap. When it comes to light that the card could be worth millions, Griffin assembles a team to get the card back. There’s Pitch, the climber; Logan, thespian; Melissa, computer pro; and Savannah, animal control. Everyone needs to play their role to perfection - Swindle is obsessed with keeping his prized possession secure. Do they pull the job without a hitch? Not even close. But what fun is it if things go as planned?
I was wondering how this one was going to end, in fact I was racing to find out. Griffin and his crew commit a crime - you can’t really just say “and then they got away. The End”. So how does the author wrap up the story and leave the reader satisfied while dealing with the serious nature of the offense? Mr. Korman does an admirable job. Our heroes don’t get off the hook, but they aren’t really left on the hook either. It didn’t disappoint.
So let’s see: kids being sneaky + the chance to be rich + sticking it to a greedy adult. Yep, by my calculations we have genuine reluctant reader gold on our hands. Now if I could just scare up a few more copies for kids on the book fair waiting list…
Duck
By Randy Cecil
Candlewick Press
ISBN 9780763630720
$15.99
Grades K-2
In Stores
If I had to sum up my carnival experiences in just one word, it would be “really not that good”. Not only am I not what you would call a “math person”, I am also not good at fair rides. Don’t even ask about my Gravitron experience in 4th grade. One ride I can handle is the merry-go-round. Or as it is known in “Duck”, the carousel. Potatoes, Po-tah-tos. Any way you look at it, Randy Cecil’s tale of a carousel fowl that dreams of flying is worthy of being given away as a dunk tank prize any day.
Duck would love to fly, but there is something getting in her way. Wood carvings are not usually created for successful takeoffs and landings. But dream she does until one day a wayward duckling wanders onto the scene. Duck and Duckling become fast friends, but the time soon comes for the youngster to re-join his family. Duck sets out to make the reunion a reality and is a bit too successful: duckling takes off without looking back. Now our heroine is 0 for 2: no friend, no flight. But Duckling doesn’t forget his pal, and he has an idea about how to make her dream come true.
Cecil’s oil illustrations are a great match for this touching story. I don’t like to throw that word around, but touching it is. “Duck” gives me more joy than a trip to the county fair.
Not a Stick
By Antoinette Portis
HarperCollins
9780061123252
$12.99
Grades Pre-K-1
In Stores
I used to pretend all sorts of stuff when I was little. Fortress out of Construx, plastic bag as parachute, all the standard stuff. I distinctly remember trying out that last one with a leap off the top of the swing set. Needless to say, I didn’t give that a second attempt. Imagination was a big part of my life. With “Not a Stick”, Antoinette Portis follows the pro-imagination blueprint of 2006’s “Not a Box”, creating a worthy follow up.
The book kinda goes like this: an off-camera narrator mentions something about the stick our protagonist (a pig) is holding. When you flip the page, you can see a blue outline of what the little pig sees. With the help of a little imagination the stick turns into a bucking bronco, a fishing pole, and even a paintbrush. Simple? Yes. Effective? You betcha.
“Not a Stick” fills the shoes of its predecessor by sticking to its guns - taking the ordinary and turning it into something special.
Find this book at your public library with WorldCat
Velma Gratch and the Way Cool Butterfly
By Alan Madison
Illustrated by Kevin Hawkes
Schwartz and Wade Books
ISBN: 9780375835971
$16.99
Grades K-2
In Stores
This review previously appeared in the January edition of children’s lit journal The Edge of the Forest.
Most younger siblings will tell you: an older brother or sister can be a hard act to follow. It never fails – big bro or sis make all the right choices, get the best grades, and generally make it impossible for anyone to top them. “Velma Gratch and the Way Cool Butterfly” tells the story of this familiar family struggle with honesty and humor.
Velma is the youngest of three Gratch sisters, and is desperate to make her mark. The accomplishments of Fiona and Frieda read like a how-to guide for hogging the spotlight: you’ve got your good singers, good athletes, and good spellers. Velma feels the pressure and starts looking for attention in all the wrong ways. But it is her love of science and, specifically, butterflies that allow Velma to make a name for herself.
Readers with older siblings will identify with Velma’s emotions as she finds her own course. A butterfly lifecycle tie-in adds another dimension, making the story useful for teaching as well.“Velma Gratch” should have no problem standing out.
Big Chickens Fly the Coop
By Leslie Helakoski
Illustrated By Henry Cole
Dutton Children’s Books
ISBN 9780525479154
$15.99
Grades K-2
In Stores
No group of people on earth enjoy a sequel as much as kids. Sometimes it seems like if you slap a “2″ at the end of a book or movie, youngsters take that to mean “times 2″. Twice as cool, twice as funny, twice as good. Kids go into a part deux boldly: familiar with the content and hopeful for the best. Adults, on the other hand, can be fearful of sequels, afraid that it may not live up to the original. I’m guilty of this as well. Heck, I’ve even been scared to listen to side B of an album, thinking that it was going to be a letdown. A sad thing indeed. So when I saw that there was a new “Big Chickens” book hitting the shelves, I tried to prepare myself like a kid, and not as an adult. The result? Good feelings and a discovery that I should look on the bright side more often.
Similar to it’s predecessor, “Big Chickens”, “Big Chickens Fly the Coop” is about overcoming fears. Last time out, the chickens were forced into their situation by a wolf who scared them out of their coop. This time, perhaps feeling a bit more brave, the chickens choose to go out on a limb. They want to see the farmhouse. Problem is, they don’t exactly know what the farmhouse looks like. They know it has a roof, they know it has a chimney, they know it has windows, but that’s about it. Each time out, they confuse the farmhouse with something else and end up getting scared back to the coop. The chickens are determined to best their anxiety, however, and head out for one last attempt at the promised land.
Henry Cole’s vivid illustrations fit well with the comedic tone, completing the requirements for a solid read-aloud. Rumor has it that there’s a third “Big Chickens” on the way. I’ll be looking forward to it, just like my students.
Trout Are Made of Trees“Trout are made of trees.”
“Wait, trout are made of trees?”
That was my approximate reaction to reading the title of this book for the first time. Then I considered the statement. Hmm, sounds kind of “circle of lifey”. Well let it be known: this book has no problem at all with Elton John’s soundtrack work. A great non-fiction picture book that combines the food chain, life cycles, and ecology into a package that works for students in the “Lower Elementary” grades.
The story uses basic yet expressive text to describe the action while we follow friends on a camping trip observing the food web firsthand. As the title suggests, it all starts with the trees:
“In fall, trees let go of leaves, which swirl and twirl, and slip into streams.”
From there, the process goes a little something like this: leaves get eaten up by bacteria; bacteria gets eaten by “shredders”(which are small insects); shredders are devoured by “predators” (larger insects like dragonflies); and finally we come to the aforementioned trout. The trout snap up the predators and are on their merry way. Each turn of the page reveals the next step in the food chain. But it doesn’t end there. The last page of the book shows how humans are involved, allowing the reader to consider the big picture.
Mixed media collage is used for the book’s illustrations, with stunning results. The illustrator even manages to pull off the hatching of trout eggs with flying colors. Add some back of the book information on the life cycle of the trout and tips on how to be an earth-saving “stream hero”, and you’ve got yourself one solid entry into the non-fiction picture book arena.
Also Reviewed By: Charlotte’s Library
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat
I have to be honest, I wasn’t sure about this one. The cover, the blurb on the inside - it made me suspicious. I know that Patricia MacLachlan is a children’s lit legend for a reason (you’ve heard of “Sarah, Plain and Tall” possibly?), but I still had reservations. Now, I’m not a fan of the whole “boy changes lives in a small town that seems to be lost in some idyllic yesteryear” - type story. I’m not naming names, I’m just sayin’ that those types of tales aren’t usually my cup of tea. I suspected that’s what this one was. Sappy, corny, call it what you will. But I was wrong. With “Edward’s Eyes” those labels don’t stick. An emotional story well-executed.
The perspective of this tale is not provided by Edward, but rather by his older brother Jake. He’s a protective older sibling, and has always known his little brother to be unique. He’s more carefree, friendly, and wise than Jake will ever be. But Edward’s most unique feature has to be his eyes. Edward’s eyes can see a baseball better anyone in his clan, and he has the batting record to prove it: he’s never stuck out. The boys are part of a big family, all the better for backyard games. When a new addition is made to the family, Edward is ready to take the child under his wing just like Jake did for him. But, just like a knuckleball, you never know where life is going to go. The unexpected sometimes happens.
MacLachlan has written a heartbreaking and sweet story that will stick with readers even after the reading is done. A quality fiction selection.
Also Reviewed By: A Year of Reading, Kidsreads.
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat
Lawn Boy
By Gary Paulsen
Wendy Lamb Books
ISBN 9780385746861
$12.99
Grades 4-7
In Stores
My first real summer job was working at a fudge shop in Northern Michigan. I scooped some ice cream, rolled some waffle cones, earned minimum wage and was thrilled. The unnamed narrator in “Lawn Boy” happens upon a similarly ordinary summer gig: mowing lawns. The whirlwind of events that follow in Gary Paulsen’s latest probably make Lawn Boy wish he could be carefree and elbow deep in some butter pecan.
The story begins as our hero inherits a riding lawn mower from his grandmother - pretty unassuming stuff, right? A neighbor inquires about the cost of getting his lawn cut, and that is how it all begins. There is a lot of business to be had. Before he knows it, lawn boy is hiring employees and investing his money with the help of a neighbor/hippy/stockbroker named Arnold. Soon thereafter Prizefighter Joey Pow enters the mix, and things really start to get interesting. Mo’ money, mo’ problems. When the dust settles, Lawn Boy realizes that his summer job was a valuable experience in more ways than one.
This title wears the “fast, entertaining read” badge proudly. Paulsen keeps the action moving while introducing youngsters to some basic financial principles. Where I’m from (London, circa 1910), this is also called the “spoonful of sugar technique”. A quality fiction selection. Readers should enjoy this almost as much as a double waffle cone.
Also Reviewed By: Kids Lit.
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By Charise Mericle Harper
Alfred A. Knopf
ISBN 9780375840715
$16.99
Grades K-2
In Stores
A book about feelings, well done, is a goldmine for teachers, parents, and students. In my opinion, here’s what “well done” means:
- The story stands on its own, and the lesson isn’t forced. If things are forced, you start getting into “And now on a very special episode of…”-territory. You know, like when your favorite sitcom all of a sudden gets serious? Readers need to be drawn into the story first, before they are clobbered over the head with the message.
- The approach is fresh. If you’re going to be telling a story about feelings, it’s gotta be inventive.
- It’s something youngsters can relate to. The feelings presented in the book should be emotions that kids have dealt with before.
Well, lets look at a summary of “When Randolph Turned Rotten”, to see if it boasts the qualities listed above:
Randolph (a beaver) and his best friend Ivy (a goose) live together in a big city high-rise. The two are inseparable. When Ivy receives an invitation to an “all girl birthday sleepover” and Randolph does not, a mix of feelings overtakes him.
“And that’s when Randolph’s insides changed from very-best-friend insides to horrible, rotten, awful, and icky insides.”
The beaver does his best to ruin things for Ivy, offering to help pack so he can sabotage the trip (a bag full of logs have a tendency to do that). But Randolph’s efforts backfire, and he wonders if Ivy will ever be his friend again.
A story that stands firmly on two legs? Check.
A fresh approach? Yep.
Something young readers can relate to? Affirmative.
“When Randolph Turned Rotten” is well done indeed. Some great comic moments and wonderful acrylic illustrations sweeten the pot. Call up your 49er friends - gold has been struck.
Also Reviewed By: Jen Robinson’s Book Page, Donna’s Dish, Book Buds Kidlit Reviews,
Find this book at your local library with WorldCat.
Venom
By Marilyn Singer
Darby Creek Publishing
ISBN 9781581960433
$19.95
Grades 5-8
In Stores
I can see the pitch for this book now…
(Author walks into a room. Sitting at a desk in a large leather office chair sits a skeptical publisher)
Publisher: An entire book about things that have venom? Sorry, but I don’t think you’ve got the makings of book here.
Author: There are more venomous animals than most people realize, I think.
Publisher: (Slightly Annoyed) Right, snakes. Look, we have enough snake books at the moment. If you don’t mind, I’m very busy now-
Author: Wait! There are more. There’s snakes, sure, but there’s also spiders and frogs and -
Publisher: Okay, so there are three animals. Still, it seems like a stretch.
Author: And bees, and salamanders, and -
Publisher: Hmm. I guess I never thought of those other ones.
Author: And ants, and scorpions, and -
Publisher: Alright! I was wrong. It seems that there are a ton of animals that kids find fascinating, that also happen to be deadly. You got me. Tell me more.
Author: Here’s what I’m thinking: tons of quality information, plenty of color photos of the venomous animals in action, and a healthy dollop of weird/crazy sidebar stories to grab readers’ attention. What do you think?
Publisher: Yes, Yes, it’s genius! Those pesky reluctant readers will love it for the exotic animals, exciting pictures, and crazy facts. Teachers will love it for the high quality information. I think that we’ve got a hit on our hands! A quality non-fiction selection if I’ve ever seen one.
Author: (Polishing fingernails on shirt) You’re welcome.
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Helen Keller: Her Life in Pictures
By George Sullivan
Scholastic
ISBN 9780439918152
$17.99
Grades 3-6
In Stores
In my eyes, most biographies fall into one of two camps. There are biographies (such as the recent and outstanding Satchel Paige: Striking Out Jim Crow) that seek to tackle their subject from a unique angle. This is a technique that I am all in favor of - inventiveness is a good thing, yes? Then you have your biographies that set out to plainly and tastefully bring forth the extraordinary accomplishments of a person. In my opinion, this style can be just as difficult to pull off successfully. “Helen Keller: Her Life in Pictures” falls into the latter category. A richly visual work about a woman who triumphed despite being robbed of her hearing and sight.
The story of Helen Keller’s life is well known. Born in 1880 in Alabama, Keller lost her sense of sight and hearing as a two year old. With the help of her teacher, Annie Sullivan, Helen learned to communicate with others. In the words of the author,
“Helen Keller holds a special place among American heroes. No one else is quite like her. She could not hear. She could not see. When she spoke, she could barely be understood. Yet she learned to live and express her thoughts and feelings in a world of sight and sound.”
The book is subtitled “Her Life in Pictures” for very good reason. Nearly every page contains a photograph that provides additional insight into Keller’s life. The accompanying words are straightforward, allowing access to a wide range of readers. Well done all around. A quality nonfiction selection.
Also Reviewed By: propernoun dot net, 4IQREAD, Sarah Miller: Reading, Writing, Musing…
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Robot Dreams
by Sara Varon
First Second
$16.95
ISBN 978-1596431089
Ages 8 and up
In Stores
For me, a book like Robot Dreams is just begging to be read. When our new book order came in last week, there it was in the stacks, quietly making itself known. Call me a sucker for the decidedly doodle-esque cover art, but I was ready to give this one a once-over. I picked it up, I sat back, I opened it up … wait a minute - where are the words?! I then recalled the author’s previous work and it all started to make sense. But, being down with all forms of literacy, the wordless format did not sway me from my mission of digesting this volume in one big gulp. I “read” on.
I’m pretty happy I did. The story begins with Dog purchasing and assembling Robot. The two become fast friends, bonding over videos checked out from the local library (who says DVDs don’t belong?).
It is their fateful summer trip to the beach, however, that sets the story in motion. Unaware of his being made of metal, Robot follows Dog into the surf - with rusty results. Robot seizes up. With no way to carry him, Dog heads home alone. Over the course of the fall, winter, and spring Dog is repeatedly rebuffed in his attempts to retrieve his friend. On the beach Robot has dreams of what will happen to him (and his friendship with Dog) in the meantime. As robot is slowly disassembled for parts by various passersby, the reader is left wondering if the two will ever be reunited.
Dog and Robot do cross paths again, but not in the way you would expect. The, shall we say “circular”, ending may leave some readers unsatisfied. For me however, it was an appropriate way to wrap up this rewarding and surprisingly mature story of friendship.
