Reading for Ladies and Gentlemen of Quality

Dog Days of Summer...

2012-01-28T10:00:00.000-08:00

Homer by Elisha Cooper
Greenwillow, May 2012

From his vantage on the porch, Homer the dog watches his family come and go. Homer doesn't need to join anyone to enjoy life- he doesn't even need to leave the porch. Elisha Cooper's watercolor and pencil illustrations perfectly capture late summer days in a beautiful depiction the simple things that make life worth celebrating.

A sweet, simple picturebook

2012-01-25T10:00:00.000-08:00

Chloe by Peter McCarty
Balzer and Bray, May 2012

Chloe is smack in the middle of her family with ten older siblings and ten younger ones. When her dad brings home anew television, Chloe is not impressed. But bubble wrap and a big brown box? What could be better! This is a simple, sweet story. Peter McCarty's exquisite details are whimsically endearing while his delicate lines and candy-colored palette will attract readers of all ages.

Another bittersweet story from Patricia MacLachlan

2012-01-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

Kindred Souls by Patricia MacLachlan
Katherine Tegen Books, February 2012

Jake knows his grandpa Billy is going to live forever. Billy is a part of the land, and wants to be ever closer to it as he pines for a sod house he grew up in. When Billy falls ill, Jake and his family work to recreate the sod house so that Billy can return to the earth before he dies. As always, Patricia MacLachlan has taken difficult and powerful emotions and forged an important and uplifting novel.

Dark Fairytales

2012-01-20T10:00:00.000-08:00

Lies, Knives, and Girls in Red Dresses by Ron Koertge, illustrated by Andrea Dezso
Candlewick, July 2012

Dark, twisted, strange, and eerie, too often now our fairy tales are anything but this. But Ron Koertge instills his retellings with the fear, danger, and darkness of the originals. His Little Match Girl is a contemporary child, her story gritty and chilling. Hansel and Gretel are not nice children, and have become paranoid after their adventure in the woods. The Princess tells us of life after being bruised by a pea, imagining the marks a simple hand or kiss will leave. Andrea Dezso's intricate paper cut illustrations accompany the stories and capture the unsettling nature of Koertge's text. This frightening book is a Tale Dark and Grimm for adults and teens, and a stunning gift for lovers of fairy tales.

New from Kristin Cashore.....

2012-01-17T10:00:00.000-08:00

Bitterblue by Kristin Cashore
Penguin, May 1, 2012

Kristen Cashore's third book is full of intrigue, conspiracy and secrets. Queen Bitterblue's rule is shadowed by her father's legacy of pain, fear, and torture. Believing the only way to restore her kingdom is to face the past, Bitterblue delves into forgotten histories, stories, and altered memories in her search for answers. The city offers Bitterblue an escape from her advisers and access to new ideas, information, and perhaps even love. Readers who have been waiting for this book will be glad to see beloved characters again, while those new to Cashore's work will have no problem starting with Bitterblue rather than Graceling or Fire. Deliciously thrilling and full of twists and turns (plus a little romance, of course) you'll want to dedicate a day to seeing this story through!

Quirky & Strange

2012-01-14T10:00:00.000-08:00

Cecil the Pet Glacier by Matthea Harvey, illustrated by Giselle Potter
Schwartz & Wade Books, August 14, 2012

Ruby's mother creates tiaras and her father makes strange topiary but Ruby just wants to be normal. While she has her dolls to keep her company, she would like a nice pet, too. On vacation it seems Ruby's wish has come true when a tiny glacier follows her home. But a glacier is not what Ruby had in mind for a pet. The little glacier, named Cecil, is beloved by Ruby's parents, but it will take quite a feat indeed for Cecil to convince Ruby of his place in the family. Giselle Potter's illustrations capture the peculiarities of Ruby's life in this delightfully quirky book for the oddly imaginative reader.

Slick, retro picturebook

2012-01-12T10:00:00.000-08:00

Randy Riley's Really Big Hit by Chris Van Dusen
Candlewick, February 14, 2012

Randy Riley is a genius too wrapped up in his own thoughts to be very good at baseball. When Randy spots a fireball through his telescope he quickly does the math- in 19 days the fireball will crash into Earth! Of course, no one believes him, so it's up to Randy to save the day! Drawing his love of robots and baseball together, Randy conceives of a singular device to save his town. This fast and fun story in verse will have kids begging, "read it again"! The real draw of this book, though, are Van Dusen's illustrations. Slick, retro, and dynamically composed, each illustration pops from the page.

Epistolary Middle Grade Novel

2012-01-07T12:40:00.000-08:00

Same Sun Here
by Silas House and Neela Vaswani
Candlewick, February 2012

Elise was right, this book is brilliant. Though I picked up the book on Elise's suggestion, I was also drawn in by the beautiful cut-paper cover. The silhouettes of both characters allow readers to see themselves on the cover, and the vivid orange is immediately eye-catching. Faced-out, this book will call to be picked-up.

When Meena, an Indian immigrant in NYC's Chinatown, becomes pen-pals with River, a boy in rural Kentucky, it's initially for a school project. Neither imagine how much they'll write or how important having a far-away friend will become. Though it's an eventful year for both of them, the knowledge that there's a supportive friend under the same sun allows them to navigate everything from the trickiest situations to everyday life.

Though both Meena's and River's lives are very different, their small similarities pull them together long enough for them to become friends. Readers, regardless of their geographic location and immediate similarities, will find themselves in the same situation, becoming fast friends with both. Two or three times I paused because a description felt like it was coming from the adult author and not the pre-teen character, but it was not noticeable enough to keep me from racing along to see what would happen next. River's experiences with coal company practices and environmental activism provide a perfect jumping off point for teachers and book groups, as does Meena's status as an immigrant whose family is seeking citizenship. Silas and Neela smoothly weave these issues into the heart of the novel, while the epistolary format provides a perfect reason for the characters to explain aspects of these issues to one another and, by extension, the audience.

Same Sun Here is a beautifully composed and approachable epistolary novel that will pull readers from a variety of backgrounds and leave them feeling like they've found two new best friends.

A second Invisible Inkling!

2011-12-29T12:03:00.000-08:00

Invisible Inkling: Dangerous Pumpkins
by Emily Jenkins, illustrated by Harry Bliss
Balzer + Bray (HarperCollins) August 2012

Jenkins' first Inkling book perfectly melded an interesting creature, a well-meaning family, and the real-life problems of an elementary-schooler with humor and a dash of adventure. Jenkins' second book is just as strong as her first.

It's Halloween and Inkling (the invisible bandapat) is overwhelmed. Pumpkins, his favorite squash of all, are appearing everywhere- including some on the kitchen table. Unfortunately, these pumpkins belong to other people (including Hank's older sister Nadia) and as Hank learns, it's as difficult to keep Inkling from eating pumpkins as it is to get his dad to make one of his specialty icecream flavors. With no one to trick-or-treat with, no Loose Tooth icecream, and a crazed bandapat- not to mention Nadia's yearly scare- Hank is more worried about surviving Halloween than enjoying it. But where there's an invisible bandapat there's bound to be a surprise, and Hank's Halloween turns out much different than he expected.

Recommended for ages 7-10 or readers ready to move on from Flat Stanley or Junie B. Jones, or who like Sara Pennypacker's Clementine

Annotations part 4

2011-12-27T13:11:00.000-08:00

Enchantress from the Stars by Sylvia Engdahl

New York, NY: Firebird (1971).

Elana and her father's team are from a culture with interstellar travel and their job is to ensure that more primitive civilizations are allowed to develop naturally. When they end up on a medieval planet being colonized by a culture with space-travel capabilities, they assist the natives in vanquishing the colonists by posing as Enchanters who know magic. Told from the point of view of all three cultures, Engdahl breaks down fantasy and science-fiction, examining how viewpoint can turn science into magic or vice-versa, bringing readers to question their own notions of genre and convention.

Feed by M.T. Anderson

Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press (2002).

On a futuristic Earth, most people have a constant Feed into their brain. Media, school, and relentless advertising are streamed through this Feed. When teen Titus meets Violet, he's immediately smitten, but becomes revolted and confused when her Feed starts malfunctioning, disabling her entire body and memory. Anderson has created an intriguing technological dystopian future, but his characters fail to bring the questioning of their technological existence to any conclusion.

Annotations part 3

2011-12-24T12:52:00.000-08:00

Sweet Whispers, Brother Rush by Virginia Hamilton

New York, NY: Philomel Books (1982).

Teresa, or Tree for short, takes care of her older, mentally-challenged brother while her mother works. It's not a terrible life, but when the ghost of her uncle, Brother Rush, appears, his ability to show her the past begins to alter how she views the present. The catalyst for Tree's travels back in time is Brother Rush. However, Tree does not always travel bodily, instead viewing events in a detached manner or through the eyes of her younger self. Tree's methods of travel make this teen novel paranormal fiction rather than time-travel fantasy.

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin

New York, NY: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (2009).

Minli and her parents live on Fruitless Mountain, where people are poor and food difficult to grow. The only hunger Minli's father can feed is her desire for stories. Determined to change her family's fortune, Minlin sets out to find the Old Man of the Moon. Along her journey, Minli is told stories by the people she meets, and these stories weave through the narrative. The inset stories in this immersive fantasy are drawn from traditional Chinese tales and Grace Lin's full-color illustrations reference Chinese folk paintings.

The Changeover by Margaret Mahy

New York: Penguin (1984).

When Laura Chat's brother becomes ill, she knows doctors can't help him. The only person who can help her is Sorensen Carlisle, a witch. When it becomes apparent that the only way to save her brother is to “changeover” into a witch, Laura takes the leap. Set in contemporary Australia, this teen fantasy novel depicts witchcraft as a personal strength and sensitivity that is not at odds with a conventional lifestyle. The strength of the novel lies in Mahy's realistic rendering of relationships- both familial and those of budding romance.

Annotations part 2: Teen Novels

2011-12-23T12:38:00.000-08:00

Finnikin of the Rock by Melina Marchetta

Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press (2010).

Ten years ago, the royal family of Lumatere was murdered, the throne seized, and a curse placed over the entire country. While most citizens now roam as exiles, Finnikin, his mentor, and Evanjalin, strong young novice, are intent on bringing Lumaterians back to their land. While this is a high fantasy novel, it is the realistic refugee story embedded in the fantasy that gives the novel its' strength. Disease, hunger, and brutality are all realistically portrayed but in the end, the refugees' desire to cling their customs, language, and land, not just the fantastical aid of magic and swords, is what helps them fulfill their quest.

I want to put stars all over this book; It is absolutely brilliant. Note: recommended for ages 14+ due to content.

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

New York, New York: Penguin (2010).

When Sam realizes that she has died in a car crash, she suddenly wakes up on the morning of the day she died. A pretty, popular girl at a preppy Connecticut high school, Sam lives the last day of her life over and over again, each time taking a different approach. The result is the story of a mean girl coming to the realization of how her and her friends' bullying affected those around them. The only fantastical attribute of this decidedly realistic novel is Sam's ability to relive her last day. Though from a fresh point of view, Before I Fall is so full of brand references that it is unlikely to have staying power.

Un Lun Dun by China Mieville

New York, NY: Del Rey (2007).

Below London lies UnLondon, a place where broken umbrellas become moving Unbrellas and smog is a living being. Deeba and her friend are pulled into UnLondon, and even after seeing the destructive power of the Smog, Deeba vows to help destroy the Smog. With the help of many a strange creature, Deeba sets out on her unprophesized quest. This fantasy of parallel worlds is wildly inventive, with overwhelming descriptions of the strange buildings and creatures of UnLondon. However, even Mieville's creative world cannot hide the thinly-veiled and heavy-handed environmental message.

Annotations part 1

2011-12-22T12:21:00.000-08:00

I've just finished up a class on sci-fi and fantasy in children's literature. For the final, I wrote up a number of annotations. Some of these were for books I'd been planing to read, others were books I selected from a list simply because I had never read them before. There a ten books total, so I'll be dividing them up into four posts and the books will be listed in the order I read them (because why not).

Savvy

Ingrid Law. New York, NY: Penguin (2008).

When Mibs turns thirteen she will discover her Savvy, or magical talent, and she's certain it will be something great. But when her poppa ends up in an accident, all Mibs wants is a Savvy to cure her father- and she'll do anything to get to the hospital where he's held. This road-trip adventure is more than a magical coming-of-age story as Mibs and her companions come to realize that even non-magical people have a Savvy-like talent. With tall-tales and mid-western flavor, Savvy is an American immersive fantasy.

The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of her Own Making

Catherynne M. Valente. New York, NY: Feiwel and Friends (2011).

One day September is whisked away from her normal life in Omaha by the Green Wind, who takes her to Fairyland. With the help of some strange magical creatures, September must find a way to stop the bossy Marquess, who rules Fairyland with an iron fist. September's quest follows the format of a classic hero's journey. While Valente references touchstones of children's portal fantasy in her text, her world and characters are unique creations.

Disappointing Daniel Pinkwater

2011-12-20T12:51:00.000-08:00

Mrs. Noodlekugel by Daniel Pinkwater
Candlewick, April 24, 2012

I expect quite a lot from Daniel Pinkwater's books. Humor, good writing, and a plot of one sort of another. Mrs. Noodlekugel is a fabulous title that had me expecting a humorous and contemporary Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle. Alas, it is not to be. Mrs. Noodlekugel's house is an architectural (but not literal) gingerbread cottage in a garden that is wedged in between skyscrapers. Nick and Maxine are tricked by their parents into finding her, only to be told that she is their new babysitter. The potential is here, as Mrs. Noodlekugel's house contains fairytalesque creatures, from four blind mice, to animated gingerbread creations, to a talking, piano-playing cat. But besides viewing these interesting characters, nothing happens, and readers are given a glance at an interesting world only to be denied an adventure in it.

Sci-Fi Time Travel

2011-12-18T12:47:00.000-08:00

The Klaatu Diskos 1: The Obsidian Blade by Pete Hautman
One day Tucker's father disappears into a waver in the air, and returns a short time later with a strange girl. He won't say where he's been, or offer up a reason why he's lost his faith. Then Tunker's mother starts behaving oddly, and then, one morning, both his parents are gone.

Though the book begins slowly, I think this is due to it's place as the first book in a series, and therefore must set up characters and a world before plunging readers into the mind-bending places the Diskos leads to. Hautman uses the Diskos as portals for time-travel, portals that bring both readers and characters to question concepts of religion, progress, medicine, and history. I'm haunted by this book, continually trying to make the connections between time, space, and characters. Hautman has created an incredibly intricate world, and while only some strands of the story have come together by the end, I have no doubt that his sequels will prove he has spun a masterful web indeed.

Anthology on a Theme

2011-12-16T12:28:00.000-08:00

Explorer: The Mystery Boxes, ed. by Kazu Kibuishi
Amulet, Abrams, March 2012

I love comics collections; you get a short yet complete story arc, the perfect read for a piece of snatched time, and you invariably discover new authors and illustrators whose work you now want to find. Explorer features a compilation of seven stories, each by a different author/illustrator, yet each featuring a mysterious (and often magical) box that serves to tie the stories together. Each story is vastly different from every other one, and set in a completely different place. From Johane Matte and Saymone Phanekham's box in an alien universe-building warehouse to Dave Roman and Raina Telemeier's magical box found in the back of an ordinary closet, Explorer holds something for readers of every genre. A gorgeous graphic compilation for the graphic novel enthusiast or a fabulous introduction for the comics novice, this book is for those who want to explore the medium.

New Teen Graphic Novel

2011-12-13T12:13:00.000-08:00

Friends with Boys by Erin Faith Hicks
First Second,February 28, 2012

Everyone feels awkward in high school, but what if the first day of high school is also your first day of public school after being homeschooled your entire life? For Maggie, public school is a frightening prospect, especially when she notices that her three older brothers have their own friends and activities. When Maggie meets Lucy and her brother, suddenly she has friends who aren't family. But there's still the matter of the ghost that's following her and the nasty volleyball team boys. Luckily, Maggie is friends with boys- and her brothers will go to ends of the earth to help her- or at least the graveyard.

With just the first few pages of her book, author/illustrator Erin Faith Hicks welcomed me into a family where I immediately felt at home. Her characters are developed, each with their own unique feel, and Maggie's family members are all linked by some distinct feature. Maggie's emotional journey will resonate with teens from all educational backgrounds and would be wonderful book to give as a gift to graduating middle-schoolers. With dynamic panels, and a host of stellar characters, Friends with Boys is sure to appeal to readers who enjoyed Anya's Ghost. Though Maggie's relationship with her own ghost remains unresolved, I can only hope this indicates further installments to come!

Alexander McCall Smith's book for early readers

2011-11-19T13:44:00.000-08:00

The Great Cake Mystery: Precious Ramotswe's Very First Case

Random House, April 2012

Alexander McCall Smith's first book for children, though set in Africa, is accessible to children from around the world. Precious would like to be a detective, and soon she gets the chance to solve her first case. Someone has been stealing the cake and treats Precious' classmates bring for lunch. While no one has caught the culprit, some of Precious' classmates have accused a plump boy named Poloko of stealing the snacks. But Precious doesn't think Poloko did it, and she doesn't think anyone should be blamed without evidence. Precious develops an ingenious way to catch the thief- and it's not who everyone thought it was! Readers of all ages and backgrounds will delight at the surprising ending.

Iain McIntosh's woodcut illustrations can be found on every page, attracting and holding the attention of children listening to the story. For those reading on their own, the illustrations break up the text into manageable chunks while the sophistication of the design will be enjoyed by adults coming to the book after reading The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency.

William Joyce is Back in Books!

2011-11-18T11:28:00.000-08:00

Nicholas St. North and the Battle of the Nightmare King by William Joyce and Laura Geringer

After a decade away from picturebooks (during which he worked on such movies as Toy Story) William Joyce is back! The Guardians of Childhood is a series that will be comprised of chapter books, picture books, and movies, all on amazing folkloric characters such as the Sandman, the Man in the Moon, Mother Goose and others. Nicholas is an outlaw and one of the greatest swordsmen ever seen. But when Pitch, the king of nightmares, starts sending bad dreams to the children of earth, what side of the battle will Nicholas choose? This epic tale has it all: magic, fights, dreams, heroes, robot-golems, and even yetis. A great read-aloud for ages 5+, and read-alone for kids ages 8-12. –Marika

3 New Comics...

2011-11-16T11:07:00.000-08:00

Tina’s Mouth An Existential Comic Diary

written by Keshini Kashyap, illustrated by Mari Araki

Tina starts her diary for an English project on existentialism, but more importantly, it’s a diary of how existentialism relates to her life. From getting dumped by her best friend, to crushing on a cute skateboarder, Tina’s very real life is related to philosophy through the pages of her diary. A realistic comic of high school, friends, and family both funny and enlightening. Ages 13-18.

Pandemonium

written by Chris Wooding, illustrated by Cassandra Diaz

When I opened my Galley box from Scholastic, the cover of this book caught my eye. The style looked familiar. I checked the illustrator. Cassandra Diaz. I knew a Cassandra Diaz. Then I turned the book over: "Cassandra Diaz is a recent graduate of the Maryland Institute, College of Art." Yes, that Cassandra Diaz! So, part of the reason I am so excited about this book is because this is the first published book to wander acr

oss my desk illustrated by someone I went to college with. While I only saw the first few pages in color, they have me anticipating the finals- Cassandra's palettes are beautiful.

Manga, demons, missing princes, magic, and epic

battles...Pandemonium has them all. Seifer’s greatest accomplishment may be his Skullball prowess, that is until he is taken to the royal palace to impersonate the missing prince. Can Seifer fool the palace staff, the prince’s family, the kingdom’s enemies, and an enormous pet cat? This face-paced and exciting graphic novel combines adventure, humor, and a spark of romance. Ages 10+.

Flight of Angels

conceived and illustrated by Rebecca Guay, written by Holly Black, Bill Willingham, Alisa, Kwitney, Louise Hawes, and Todd Mitchell

When a group of the fair folk find a mysterious angel on the ground, they decide to conduct a tribunal. What follows are a series of frame tales, each written by a different author and exploring the concepts of sin, love, and death. As with all debates of heaven and hell, there is no right answer, and readers from varied spiritual backgrounds will find the text approachable. Each author’s tale fits into place, and Rebecca Guay’s illustrations are stunning. All in all, a lavishly and lusciously illustrated graphic novel for art and fantasy lovers. Ages 14 and up.

Adult YA Crossover

2011-10-08T11:21:00.000-07:00

The Scrapbook of Frankie Pratt by Caroline Preston
Ecco, HarperCollins,

This "novel in pictures" combines text with vintage photographs, advertisements, articles, and illustrations. It's a fun format, likely to appeal to those nostalgic for their own college days as well as current students at womens' colleges. Romance, fashion, and hints of more newsworthy history fill the pages of this colorful "grown-up" journal.

The year is 1920, the place New Hampshire, and Frankie Pratt is voted "Smartest Girl" of her senior class and offered a scholarship to Vassar. As a poor girl constantly observing those of money and influence, Frankie experiences her share of difficulties. However, her determination always comes through, bringing her to Greenwich Village and Paris on her journey to become an author and find love.

For those of us accustomed to selling children's books, an illustrated journal book is nothing new. However, Preston has created something for adults and teens while putting a new twist on the journal-book by collaging rather than drawing her imagery. A fun and fast read, The Scrapbook of Frankie Preston is an enjoyable romp through the flapper age.

If you like Megan Whalen Turner...

2011-10-07T11:15:00.000-07:00

The False Prince
By Jennifer A. Nielsen
Scholastic, April 2012

I've seen many books with blurbs comparing them to Megan Whalen Turner's Thief series, but none ever seem to come close to the mark. But finally, I have found it, a book that contains the slyness, mystery, cunning characters, and ingenious plot that makes me think of Turner's work: Jennifer A. Nielsen's The False Prince.

Sage is an orphan and a thief collected, along with three other boys, to be trained to impersonate a dead prince. Taught swordsmanship, writing, reading, history, and manners, the orphans strive to learn a decades worth of princely arts in mere weeks, all under the guidance of Connor, a nobleman intent to stop civil war. Sage has no desire to commit treason, but whichever boys do not learn to act as Prince Jaron will be killed. The other boys quickly create their own plans, each trying to best the others, and each trying to knife the others in the back. But it seems that Sage, too, has something up his sleeve, something no one has even considered. Layers of schemes, deceit, and treachery abound in this quick-paced novel of intrigue and danger. Luckily, Nielson has promised sequels, though they won't come soon enough!

A Year Without Autumn

2011-09-03T12:31:00.000-07:00

Candlewick, October 11, 2011

Sometimes I wish I could go back in time and hand books to my nine year-old self. From the first chapter of A Year Without Autumn I wished I could do this. It seems that there are relatively few books these days that start with loving, supportive families. Jenni's parents are in-love and expecting their third child, and while her little brother can be annoying, Jenni loves him nevertheless. They are looking forward to being a family of five and enjoying their yearly one-week family vacation. Like every year, Jenni's best friend Autumn will be having vacation the same week, in the same time-share community as Jenni. As is often the case with best friends, Jenni and Autumn are very different. Autumn is out-going, adventurous,and daring- the daughter of artists. Jenni is sensible, intelligent, and cautious...a trait few young protagonists are applauded for.

The first day of vacation, Jenni goes to meet Autumn, taking the old elevator up to her condo when the new one doesn't arrive. But Autumn isn't in her condo, someone else is. Autumn's parents' car is gone, and things look slightly different. When Jenni returns to her parents' condo, she's met with a messy living room, a baby sister, and an overly anxious mother. These are only the beginning of the changes, the biggest of which is that Autumn's little brother is in a coma, thrown from a horse one year ago. This pivotal event has completely altered both families, and wrecked Jenni and Autumn's relationship.

Liz Kessler carefully handles the issues faced by both Jenni and Autumn in their possible future. As Jenni doesn't get mentally older when she time travels, the snippets she sees, though difficult, are entirely age appropriate. In presenting only snippets of Autumn & Jenni's future, Kessler has allowed readers to view the situations through their personal experience, meaning the extent of difficultly will reflect what they are ready to handle.

Emotionally wrenching, slightingly magical, and with a happy ending that fits perfectly, A Year Without Autumn impossible to put down. If my nine year-old self had been handed this, I would have hidden under the covers until I finished reading (despite school in the morning) and then immediately passed the book on to a friend.

A Year Without Autumn is a coming of age story that acknowledges the difficult realities and unexpected joys of growing up and assures readers that despite how things seem, they can always change.

Ages 9-12

A Stellar Team...

2011-09-01T15:40:00.000-07:00

Extra Yarn
by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen
In a cold, dark town, Annabelle discovers a box brightly colored yarn. She knits herself a sweater, but still has yarn left over. So she knits her dog a sweater, her classmates, the people of the town...but there always seems to be extra yarn! Word of the endless yarn spreads, bringing tourists and a greedy archduke to the island. Whatever is the secret of Annabelle's yarn? And when it's stolen, will she ever get it back?

Jon Klassen's stark umber and gray-scale landscapes are slowly, beautifully altered by the variegated colors of Annabelle's yarn. Savvy knitters will notice an hommage to yarn-bombing, while sharp-eyed readers will spot a familiar bear, now sporting a sweater instead of a hat. Klassen's illustrations and Barnett's text seamlessly knit themselves together in true picturebook fashion, crafting what is sure to be a new classic.

A simple new fable from a stellar team that will find a home on high-end coffee tables and toy-strewn floors alike.

More Comics from First Second!

2011-08-31T10:00:00.000-07:00

Nursery Rhyme Comics: 50 Timeless Rhymes from 50 Celebrated Cartoonists!
First Second, October 11, 2011
Ages: 5 through Adult

Take fifty of incredible artists, give them a classic nursery rhyme, and let them run! Lucy Knisley turns the "Old Lady Who Lived in a Shoe" into a Rock & Roll baby sitter whose charges form the band "The Whips." Raina Telgemeier sets "Georgie Porgie" at a birthday party- one that ends with a cupcake fight. Dave Roman depicts a surreal, sci-fi "One, Two, Buckle My Shoe" that is completely different from Patrick McDonnell's sweet "Donkey." Readers will find more than a few comics to adore in this compilation and maybe even discover a new graphic artist to love.

A fabulous introduction to comics format for the young and old alike. I can't wait to see a seven year-old share this with his grandparents.

Dead End in Norvelt

2011-08-30T10:48:00.000-07:00

by Jack Gantos
MacMillian, September 13, 2011
Ages: 10-14
When Jack is grounded for the entire summer, it seems as though life is entirely ruined. His mother will only let him out of the house to help old Miss Volker, who writes the obituaries of original Norvelters and the "This Day in History" column for the local paper. This means no baseball, no rides in the plane his dad is fixing up, and no drive-in movies. But something fishy is going on in Norvelt; there's a surprising number of deaths (even for old ladies), someone is moving the houses to another town, and the Hells Angels have been spotted. History and mystery combine in this funny, sharp, narrative. Jack Gantos himself reads the audio and his Pennsylvania accent transports the listener directly to Norvelt. With it's historical content and perfect wit, Dead End in Norvelt would be a wonderful choice for classrooms and bookclubs, or a surprising and enjoyable read.

Diana Wynne Jones' Last Book

2011-08-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

Earwig and the Witch
by Diana Wynne Jones, Illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky
Greenwillow, Harper, February 2012
Ages 7-11

Earwig loves living at St. Morwald's Home for Children because everyone there does exactly what she wants, even her best friend Custard. So why would she ever want to be adopted and leave? Luckily, Earwig is able to deflect any attempts at adoption- that is until a strange couple comes one visiting day and adopts her. Something must be up. Sure enough, the woman is a witch and the man, well, he has horns and demons do his bidding. Most importantly, they don't do what Earwig wants them to. Well, that's fine with her. Magic can't be too difficult to learn, can it?

Earwig and the Witch has all the staples of a good fantasy- magic, orphans, & a plucky young heroine- but Jones has made something completely new and earwig does not feel just like that girl we've read about a thousand times. Zelinsky's energetic ink illustrations bring the story to life and will help keep the attention of young readers who still need visuals during storytime. Though the story ties up a bit abruptly, this is a much-needed fantasy for the Clementine crowd.

Every You Every Me

2011-08-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

by David Levithan, photographs by Jonathan Farmer
Random House, September 13, 2011

Evan is haunted by his best friend Ariel. Ariel is gone. Her boyfriend has moved on, but Evan cannot- especially when someone begins planting photos of her. But who could have taken these photos? Is Ariel haunting Evan? Evan knew she was sick. He knew, that day in the clearing, that getting help was the right thing to do, yet he can't forgive himself for not stopping her. And he will not move on, especially when there's someone who knows things about Ariel that he doesn't.

Farmer's photos are included in the book, the reader coming across them as Evan does. They're arresting images that pull the characters into the real world, giving them more emotional power and heightening the mystery. Yet again, Levithan has created flawed yet beautiful characters who reach out from the pages and pull you in.

Why We Broke Up

2011-08-26T13:43:00.000-07:00

By Daniel Handler and Maira Kalman

Little Brown Hachette, December 27th, 2011

Min has broken up with Ed Slaterton, and is writing him a letter chronicling their relationship and all the reasons she's breaking up with him. Min loves old films, her best friend, and coffee. According to Ed, Min was "arty" and "different." But despite Ed's role as captain of the basketball team and his popularity, Min thought she loved him. That's over now and to prove it to herself and her friends she's put together all the items, tokens, and objects she accumulated during the brief relationship. The box, and the letter, are Min's goodbye present for Ed.

Each chapter begins with an illustration of an item in the box, followed by the chapter of the relationship associated with it. A concept that could just as easily have been executed by David Levithan, Why We Broke up is a surprise from Handler. However, geeky film details and sincere teenage love- and ex-love- stories will find fans. What better way to get over your high school relationship than reading Min's story and adding your own?

Age range: 14-18 (note that there is consensual sex).

How do you choose what books to read and what books to buy?

2011-08-25T16:35:00.000-07:00

I received an email a few weeks ago asking this question, and quickly found myself composing an answer. So, if you find yourself wishing to know, here goes.

I have cultivated people whose opinions I respect, who I think know my taste and can be relied upon to recomend books I will truly enjoy. Buying books, I've come to recognize certain publishers and imprints that have lists I feel are very strong. After buying and reading several strong lists from Candlewick, I'll read anything published by them- even a YA novel on angels (which I really enjoyed, but never would have picked up on my own). Recently, I've been picking my way through my local library's graphic novel shelf, pulling anything published by First Second. Last winter, in the course of two weeks, I read three books by First Second, looked at their author/illustrator roster, and fell in love. Publisher reps recommend and hand me more books than I can ever hope to read. Some are announced as "the big book of the season," some are by authors I love, and others are virtual unknowns, handed to me by reps, read over lunches, truly enjoyed, and eventually hand sold in the store. Talking with people at a children's literature conference recently, I emphasized the importance of recognizing the merit of a book even if I didn't enjoy it. I can recommend and sell books I don't like if I think they have literary merit and there is an audience for them. In grad school, I think this is the main difference between people who have only read children's books for enjoyment in the past and those who work closely in the field- we who work in the field can personally detest a book, but realize it's importance or it's selling power. For the others, this is something that must be cultivated.

The Night Circus

2011-08-13T08:09:00.000-07:00

by Erin Morgenstern

Released September 13th

The Night Circus arrives and departs suddenly, its white and black tents springing up at random. And it is only open at night. Inside each tent is a marvelous wonder in black an white- fortune tellers, acrobats, illusionists, gardens of ice, and rooms of cloud. The only splashes of color are those who attend the circus, for one night reveling in it’s miraculous illusions. But there is more to the circus than one might think. The circus is a challenger’s ring, the place where two students must magically battle, each trying to outdo the other, each forced to prove that their teacher is the more powerful magician. Morgenstern’s beautiful descriptions will leave you feeling as if you’ve walked through a fantastic dreamworld in this original fantasy. Also a great Teen crossover.

Witches and fairy stories

2011-08-12T15:29:00.000-07:00

Chime by Franny Billingsley

In a town that burns witches, Briony has a secret: she’s a witch. She caused her stepmother’s death, her twin sister’s injury, and the flooding and burning of her family’s library. When a young man comes to stay with her family, he makes her desperately wish that she were an ordinary girl, an ordinary girl who can love and cry. But as Briony tells us in the first line of her story, “I’ve confessed to everything and I’d like to be hanged. Now, if you please.” This dark, romantic mystery reveals the strength of belief in a tale readers of Holly Black will swallow.

His Fair Assassin: Grave Mercy

2011-08-10T13:58:00.000-07:00

by R.L. LaFever
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, April 3rd, 2012
I grew up reading Tamora Pierce, whose books had the right mix of strong heroines, fights, magic, betrayal, romance, and gods. R.L. LaFever may follow in Pierce's footsteps, but Grave Mercy holds its own special magic. Ismae is a strong, beautiful heroine, and one of Death's daughters. Acting as an assassin, or one of Death's handmaidens, she delivers vengeance upon those marked for the grave. As her work brings her closer to a young Duchess and her family, Ismae begins to learn more about herself, and the devious plotting of kings and courtiers. A romance full of intrigue, poison, and ultimately finding one's way, His Fair Assassin will be a trilogy welcome to YA shelves.

Readers who swallowed Kristen Cashore's novels will find something new to love with His Fair Assassin.

Summer break graphic novel

2011-07-05T09:07:00.000-07:00

Bad Island
by Doug Tennapel
Scholastic, August 2011
Reese is forced to go on a summer vacation boating trip with his family, even though his friends' parents let them stay home alone. But a boring vacation turns into something entirely different when the family's boat is ship wreaked on a strange island. The island's only inhabitants seem to be strange creatures intent on harming the family. With no way of escaping, Reese and his family are in for one hell of a vacation- and maybe it's better that they're together.

Tennapel's artwork has a funky style and the imaginative creatures of the island are strange and unique. Reese's story is paired with flashbacks to another time and place, on a planet far from Earth. Here, large creature house smaller ones who have the ability to control them. Astute readers will draw the two stories together, piecing together the true nature of the Bad Island in this fast-paced and compelling read.

I stayed up all night reading for a very good reason

2011-07-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

and I haven't done that in quite a while.

Ready Player One
by Ernest Cline
Crown, Random House, August 16th, 2011
It's the year 2044 and the real world is such a mess that people prefer to live in the OASIS, a virtual universe where almost anything is possible. Created by Halliday, the most brilliant game designer and 80s enthusiast, OASIS is the ultimate virtual existance where people exist as avatars any science-fiction or fantasy based concept is possible. When Halliday died, he left the ultimate easter egg in OASIS- his entire fortune and the rights to OASIS. Wade, like millions of others around the world, has spent the past five years searching for the easter egg, as has the IOI, a corrupt company intent on finding the egg for itself. Halliday was a man obsessed, and only one of a like mind will be able to unlock his secrets. Luckily, Wade has spent his life studying all things Halliday, and might just have a breath of a chance.

This fast-paced novel is a fun read and impossible to put down. Just as the line between real and virtual is blurred for Wade, readers will forget what is real and what constructed, falling completely into Wade's experience. Ready Player One is the complete book experience with thoughtful questions, epic battles, powerful enemies, personal journeys, and maybe even true love. Part of a complete breakfast, it's also chock-full of 80s references and trivia, sci-fi, fantasy, and video-game geekery. So grab a bag of corn chips, put on your favorite 8-track, and prepare yourself for an epic experience.

Though an adult book, I think it would be appropriate for teens ages 16 and up.

What toys do when you're not looking

2011-07-01T11:47:00.000-07:00

Toys Come Home
by Emily Jenkins, illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky
Schwartz & Wade, Random House, September 13th, 2011
What toys do when your back is turned is an age-old question asked by children. Author Emily Jenkins invites readers to view their playthings from the toys' vantage. A companion to Toys Go Out and Toy Dance Party, Toys Come Home is the beginning of StingRay's story from the day she is given as a day-of-birth gift. Her quest to find friends, save other toys, and learn why toys exist will delight young readers. Each chapter stands alone as a short story, and is accompanied by a detailed pencil illustration by Cadecott Medal-winner Paul Zelinsky. Filled with adventure and complemented by illustrations, Toys Come Home is sure to be a favorite bedtime read aloud- for both children and their toys.

Two brilliant books to make you cry

2011-06-30T10:57:00.000-07:00

I read both A Monster Calls and Pearl Verses the World this past weekend- there was a lot of crying involved. The sort of crying where you persist in reading because the prose calls to you, yet you find it difficult to read the tear-blurred text. I feel both A Monster Calls and Pearl Verses the World are strong texts (I keep thinking about A Monster Calls, both the story and illustrations won't leave my head) but now I'm off to read something funny.

A Monster Calls
by Patrick Ness, inspired by Siobhan Dowd, illustrated by Jim Kay
Candlewick, September 27th, 2011
Jim Kay's Dark, deep, and haunting cover immediately captivated my attention and promised a dark tale. The darkness of the tale comes from Conor's current regards for the worlds. His mother has cancer and the treatments don't seem to be working, his former best friend told everyone that his mother is sick, and his grandmother seems intent on coming round to help his mum. But the worst are the nightmares. Then, at 12:07 one night, a monster shows up. This monster is not the one from his dream, rather an ancient storyteller who wants the terrifying truth from Conor. Jim Kay's illustrations of the monster capture the dark shadows of just after midnight and the sketchy smears of a not dreaming, not waking experience. His textures, splatters, and lines make visible the emotional turmoil Conor experiences, splashing it onto the page. Though I sobbed through the hour and a half it took me to finish this novel, I persisted in reading through my tears, desperately needing to know what would unfold, and wanting to submerge myself in Patrick Ness' glorious prose.

Pearl Versus the World
by Sally Murphy, illustrated by Heather Potter
Candlewick, August 23rd, 2011
This is what you give the child who is too old for the explanatory picture books on death or would like some beautiful poetry. Told in unrhymed verse, Pearl Verses the World is the story of a young girl who is watching her grandmother slowly die. Living with her mother and her grandmother for her entire life, Pearl's household is three people, and two people will not be the same. Pearl writes because "A poem comes //when it is needed// and writes itself// in the way it needs//to get it's point across." Through her writing, Pearl learns that two will be okay, and that the world is not against her. Poems, Pearl learns, are a way to process, and they sometimes bring the sweet surprise of friends.

Sally Murphy strikes that perfect balance between what to say and what to suggest. Her expert handling of the text and Peal's emotions is reminiscent of Patricia MacLachlan's stunning work. Pearl Verses the World is a little gem that should be waiting on bookshelves for that someone who needs it.

With a "Snow Queen" twist...

2011-06-29T13:42:00.000-07:00

Breadcrumbs
by Anne Ursu
HarperCollins, September 27th, 2011

Sometimes, you need a nice, satisfying stand alone novel. Breadcrumbs is just that. The first half of the book is the story of new schools, old friends, and changes. Hazel's best friend Jack has been growing distant from her, trying to balance his time between her and his male friends from school. Hazel is trying to fit in a new school where everything is different. She's frustrated, confused, and wants things to be the way they were. Ursu is kind to all her characters, as there is a reason for everyone's choices, feelings, and desires. Her handling of the subject matter is reminiscent of Stead's When You Reach Me, and Ursu is deserving of the comparison. When Jack stops speaking to Hazel altogether and then disappears, Hazel is the only one who realizes that something is truly wrong. Hazel heads off to the snowy woods after Jack, seeking the snow queen and her best friend in a fantastical adventure inspired by Hans Christian Anderson's "The Snow Queen."

A new book from Patricia MacLachlan

2011-06-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

Waiting for the Magic
by Patricia MacLachlan, illustrated by Amy June Bates
Simon & Schuster, September 13th, 2011

Patricia MacLachlan uses each world carefully, never giving the reader more or less than they need, always keeping the delicate balance between what to state and what to suggest. In Waiting for the Magic, this precision allows the magic of MacLachlan's story to unfurl slowly and believably. When Willam's father leaves, his mother, seeking to fill the hole of William's father's absence, adopts four dogs and one cat. William's younger sister Elinor talks to the animals and they seem to understand one another as if by magic. But the only ones who know magic are "the young, the old, the brave, the honest, and the joyful." If William is brave enough to accept his new family, will he, too, experience the magic Elinor does? MacLachlan's heartwarming story combines a simple, realistic story with just a pinch of magic....and a pinch is all it needs.

Mythology, horses, and a hint of magic

2011-06-12T13:31:00.000-07:00

The Scorpio Races
Scholastic, October, 2011
Maggie Stiefvater's newest young adult novel, The Scorpio Races, is lyrically written and features just a hint of fantasy. Stiefvater's heroine, Puck Connolly, lives on an island where the sea is very much alive, a place where the capaill uisce,or horses of the sea, walk on land. These horses, though blood thirsty and fey, are faster than any normal horse. Each year at the Scorpio Races men ride the capaill uisce at the edge of the ocean in a reckless and bloody race. Sean, the best rider with the fastest capaill uisce, has won the race for the past handful of years, but has his own reasons for entering this year. Puck, in an attempt to keep her brother on the island and her family in their house, enters, though she has only a pony to ride. Though the two know little of one another, both are children of the island, who love the sea, the land, and the horses. Sean and Puck each hope to win more than money in the races, but while many die in the Scorpio races, there can only be one winner.
Light fantasy and romance combine in this strong coming of age novel, slightly reminiscent of Robin McKinley's Blue Sword.

A middle grade gem from Lauren Oliver

2011-06-10T12:27:00.000-07:00

Liesl & Po
by Lauren Oliver, illustrated by Kei Acedera
HarperCollins, October, 2011
I was immediately captivated by the cover of Liesl and Po. This was a magical book, a new fairy tale, a story with both great darkness and wondrous possibility. And then I started reading...and Oliver's text was exactly what the cover promised.

The story begins in a world without sunshine. Liesl is locked in the attic by her stepmother and her father is recently deceased. Po and Bundle are dark ghosts who are attracted to Liesl's drawings and Will is an orphaned alchemist's apprentice who is attracted to her face at the attic window. When Will accidentally loses the alchemist's most powerful potion, accidentally switching it with the ashes of Liesl's deceased father, he is forced to run away. Soon after, Liesl sets out with Po and Bundle to bury the box she believes holds her father's ashes. While escaping a host of strange adults- characters who might have escaped from a Roald Dahl novel- Liesl and Will meet one another, their story threads weaving together effortlessly. But what will become of the most powerful magic in the world? And how can Liesl and Will ever escape the powerful and murderous adults following them?

Oliver takes the classic fairy tale ghosts, orphans, and evil stepmothers, and crafts a heart wrenching yet humorous tale that is completely original. Kei Acedera's drawings supplement the gorgeous text of this stunning stand-alone novel.

2011-06-09T11:36:00.000-07:00

Around the World
by Matt Phelan
Candlewick, October 11, 2011
Many local teachers have been using graphic novelizations of classic stories in their classrooms. Phelan's Around the World, though fiction, is grounded in historical fact and quotes from primary sources, proving an exciting base for history lessons or a path to the exploration of non-fiction. Phelan's book presents three famous individuals who each circumnavigated in the world in his or own way: Thomas Steves by bicycle, Nellie Bly by ship and rail, and Joshua Slocum by sail boat. The pacing and speed of each journey are captured by the graphic novel lay-out, which serves to combine writing, image, maps, and other materials, each adding a layer to the reader's understanding of the journey. Sprightly line drawings and colorful washes capture the emotion and drive of each character, bringing a rush of thrilling speed to each adventure.

Ah ha! (Or one of those fabulous picturebooks)

2011-06-08T11:27:00.000-07:00

I Want My Hat Back
by Jon Klassen
Candlewick, September 27, 2011
Dark, sorrowful and funny. Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus flavored with a squeeze of Edward Gorey. Lemony Snicket finds a morose friend. All these tag lines ran through my head as I read I Want My Hat Back. I've been a fan of Jon Klassen's work since I first grabbed an ARC of The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place for the cover. Now, it's exciting to finally see an entire book by Jon.

Bear has lost his little red hat. He ventures through the forest, inquiring if anyone may have seen it. All the animals simply say that they haven't- except a rabbit wearing a hat, who suspiciously continues to insist that he has not seen any red hats. When a deer stops to ask Bear what his hat looks like, Bear comes to the startling realization that he's seen his hat. Until now, the backgrounds have been the creamy color of the page. But at this climax, Bear is depicted against a vivid red page, his emotion clearly evident. But how will Bear retrieve his hat? All I can say is this snarky ending is not to be missed and will have both adults and children laughing. I Want My Hat Back is a wonderful read aloud- especially for those enterprising individuals who will create a distinct voice for each and every character.

If you like aliens, try these angels

2011-06-05T09:10:00.000-07:00

Angel Burn
L.A. Weatherly
Just between us, I'm not really interested in picking up any book that has an angel in it. But Candlewick has such a good record, that I figured I'd give Angel Burn a try-- I couldn't put it down. Weatherly's angels aren't good, sweet, or angelic. Rather, they're predatory, hungry creatures, more like aliens than classic angels, who suck life-force from humans and leave them sick, dying, and in complete awe of angelic beauty. Add one half-angel girl and an angel-killing boy for a thrilling romantic adventure, the first of a series. If you're a science-fiction or fantasy fan, pick this up.

The Chronicles of Harris Burdick

2011-06-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

October 25th, 2011
by Sherman Alexie, M.T. Anderson, Kate DiCamillo, Cory Doctorow, Jules Feiffer, Stephen King, Tabitha King, Lois Lowry, Gregory Maguire, Walter Dean Myers, Linda Sue Park, Louis Sachar, Jon Scieszka, Lemony Snicket (introduction), and Chris Van Allsburg.

Very very rarely, I will swoon over a book. Swoon-worthy books must not just be well-written, they have to be beautifully packed, or have exquisite illustration, mostly, all three. Four stories into The Chronicles of Harris Burdick I was already swooning. Mind you, this is the ARC, too, not the gorgeous hardcover that will be the best holiday gift when it hits shelves.

What strikes me as I read- one story at a time, with space between each to savor- is the inventiveness of the writers. Van Allsburg's illustrations are surrealistically magical drawings, but they are snap shots. The ability to see the past, future, and alternative presents hinted at in these illustrations is an amazing imaginative feat.

Strangely enough, they now have my mind turning to Lev Grossman's The Magicians. There is a kinship here, I think. Both loved, enjoyed, and familiar, yet strange, surreal delights. Not matter how many times one sees a Van Allsburg drawing or reads a Lev Grossman novel, they will be strange and mysterious, even if you feel, as I do, that you somehow know them, even during the first reading.

From a darkly humorous story by Jon Scieszka to the fearful hint of magical oddness in Stephen King's, The Chroicles of Harris Burdick will leave readers spellbound. Adults who remember writing their own Harris Burdick stories and readers ages 10 and up will enjoy the strange magic of the tales. In a collection featuring such incredible authors as this, it will be difficult to choose a favorite.

Manga Man

2011-06-03T14:25:00.000-07:00

Mangaman by Barry Lyga
I'm not a fan of Manga, though I do enjoy graphic novels. My favorite parts were the more metafictive elements- being hurt by motion lines, having thoughts actually appear over Mangaman's head, and moment between frames. While I didn't find the actual story very interesting, or feel that there was enough character development, I think the book is very strong conceptually. Teen manga lovers will enjoy the comics-geeks-only humor. With its exploration of eastern versus western storytelling techniques the book also has a place in classrooms, perhaps as a visual example of portions of Scott McCloud's Understanding Comics.

Fall Picture Books from Random House

2011-06-02T14:17:00.000-07:00

An Annoying ABC
by Barbara Bottner
illustrated by Michael Emberley
There are so many ABC books that you have to do something unique and interesting if you want any attention. Bottner and Emberley have succeeded, creating an energetic and engaging alphabet. Each quirky, individual child in Miss Mabel's class, has a name beginning with a different letter of the alphabet (excepting "M" for Miss Mabel herself). All is well in Miss Mabel's class until Adelaide annoys a classmate, and havoc runs though the alphabet, each child doing something to set off the alphabetical next child. Constant movement runs through Emberley's illustrations with the next annoying act foreshadowed in each. Though Bottner's text is sweet, Emberley gives it a true story, one that will have kids gasping and giggling.

Into the Outdoors
by Susan Gal
A family departs on a camping trip, heading out on a hike once their camp site is set up. Simple text is accompanied by retro illustrations, creating a poetic journey for the family. Woodland creatures follow the family, intrigued by their adventure. Gal's lovely illustrations bring the bright patterns of the family into the soft, natural textures of the forest, capturing the hazy atmosphere of mountain views and the varying landscape elements of the forest.

Neville
by Norton Juster
illustrated by G. Brian Karas
When a boy moves to a new neighborhood he is certain that everything is going to be horrible. The worst part? No friends. When his mother tells him to go for a walk, whatever will he do? With no one to play with and no one to talk to, the boy begins calling for Neville. Soon, other kids have heard him and begin calling as well. Before you know it, the entire neighborhood is out calling for Neville- whoever Neville is. Norton Juster has done it again-- Neville is a unique text with a brilliant ending.

Ollie the Purple Elephant
by Jarrett J. Krosoczka
Jarrett's Lunch Lady series and Punk Farm books have established him as a humorous writer/illustrator. But Ollie the Purple Elephant breaks new ground, and proves that Jarrett is just as adept at classical drama as silly tales. Ollie is on top of the world when he is adopted by the McLaughlin family. But their cat Ginger doesn't like Ollie, and neither does Mr. Puddlebottom, who can't stand the sound of McLaughlin dance parties-- especially when there's an elephant involved. Together, Mr. Puddlebottom and Ginger conspire to get rd of Ollie, leaving the McLaughlins heartbroken . Will Ollie ever return home? With vibrant, colorful, illustrations popping off the page, Ollie is sure to become a new classic. Now, when can I order my purple elephant plush?

From the creator of Hugo Cabret....

2011-05-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

comes pure and utter brilliance.
Wonderstruck
by Brian Selznick
Scholastic, September 13, 2011 (Pre-order from your favorite indie. Really, these will fly.)

Selznick expertly weaves together two stories, one told in pictures, and other in words. Ben's textual story begins in 1977, in Minnesota. An orphan living with his relatives, Ben collects interesting objects in a special box and dreams of wolves. Rose lives in New Jersey in 1927. She collects articles about actress Lillian Mayhew and crafts paper buildings. Lillian is deaf and takes joy in silent films, Ben is deaf in one ear and teased by his cousin.

Right from the beginning there are connections between the two. A drawing of a lightning bolt strikes through both stories, hitting Ben's textual story and Rose's visual one. A sign proclaiming "New York" breaks in as both characters, decades apart, enter the overwhelming city, both deaf it to its sounds, but not its striking visuals and pushing people. Selznick continually draws Rose and Ben together, their lives overlapping and passing--separated only by time. And then, at the height of Ben's adventure, he breaks from the written narrative into the drawn one in a stunning portrait, and the stories finally merge.

Like Rose and Ben, readers are pulled into a purely visual world, a story created exclusively through written and drawn imagery. Selznick's detailed illustrations possess secrets, references, and odes to visual and Deaf culture. Wonderstruck is not a book that should simply be read, rather poured over, considered, discussed, and shared.

A true masterpiece that will have readers, jumping, crying, signing, cheering, and writing, in an attempt to express the wonder that has stuck them.

Summer Board Books

2011-05-15T10:00:00.000-07:00

Hello, Friends! Puddle Jumping & Let’s Play House by Emma Quay and Anna Walker
This new four book series stars Panda, Owl, and Sheep as they go puddle jumping, play house, eat icecream, and go to sleep. The three friends are each different, but they all love one another and their sweet adventures are the perfect length for a board book.

SWING! Like a Monkey & WIGGLE! Like an Octopus
by Harriet Ziefert & Simms Taback
Learn some animals and some verbs with these brightly colored books. Simms Taback is the master of board books and his two newest will have little ones scurrying and prancing while you read.

At the Beach
by Salina Yoon
Shovels, pails, umbrellas...all sorts of objects a baby at the beach should have words for are included in this book. Each page includes a cut-out, so with a page turn a ball becomes a pail or an umbrella becomes a fish. A bright, bold, boardbook with fun, sparkly pieces on each page.

Time to read again

2011-05-14T13:18:00.000-07:00

The semester is done and I finally have time to dig into the cascading piles of books again. Here are a few quick blurbs to tide you over....

Ladder to the Moon
by Maya Soetoro-Ng, illustrated by Yuyi Morales
One night Suhaila’s grandmother Annie appears on a golden ladder outside her window. Together they take a magical journey to the moon where Suhaila learns about people around the world. Annie and Suhaila give help to those in need, and love to all they see. Yuyi Morales’ rich illustrations bring life to this meaningful tale.

Marty McGuire
by Kate Messner, illustrated by Brian Floca
Marty Maguire is a spunky heroine who would much rather play Jane Goodall, explorer, than dancing princesses. When Marty is cast as the princess in her class play, she know there must be a mistake. But frogs, princess gowns, good friends, and improvisation come together in surprising ways and maybe Marty can be an intrepid explorer and a princess after all.

Patrick in A Teddy Bear’s Picnic & other stories
By Geoffrey Hayes
Toon Books are leveled beginning readers that use a comic book format. Comics, like true picturebooks, rely on both words and pictures in tandem to tell a story, allowing strength in one to foster comprehension in the other. Beginning readers will bond with Patrick, a little bear who knows that life is much too interesting for naps. Patrick’s adventures, run-ins with the frightening Big Bear, and family life are similar to the experiences of many children, yet hold many delightfully silly moments. Geoffrey Hayes packs Patrick with four stories- call the last three a sweet reward for making it all the way through the first one!

Horton Halfpott or the Fiendish Mystery of Smugwick Manor
by Tom Angleburger
Written by the author of The Strange Case of Origami Yoda, this new mystery is certain to bring laughs. Smugwick Manor is in an uproar when M’Lady Luggertuck decides to change her morning routine. Then the priceless Lump jewel goes missing- along with M’Lady Luggertuck’s best wig– pirates are sighted in the neighborhood, and a most ridiculous detective comes to town. It’s up to Horton Halfpott, the insignificant kitchen boy, to discover the truth when no one else can in this zany mystery.

World Without Fish
by Mark Kurlansky
illustrated by Frank Stockton
History, science and comics combine to give a glimpse of what the world might be like without fish, and the startling impact it would have on other organisms including ourselves. With suggestions and projections, World Without Fish is a startling look into the oceans and how they connect to our lives. Ages 10+.

Don't forget my favorite book for the summer, out May 24th...

Beauty Queens by Libba Bray
What happens when Teen Dream beauty queens, corrupt dictators, a powerful corporation, and sexy pirates all end up on a so-called deserted island? A hysterical adventure filled with romance, survival stories, product placement, and pitch-perfect satire. A brilliant summer read perfect for book groups.

The Penderwicks

2011-04-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

The Penderwicks at Point Mouette
by Jeanne Birdsall
Knopf, May 10th, 2011

In 2005 the Penderwicks appeared in many lives, the four Penderwick sisters, Rosalind, Skye, Jane, and Batty, becoming close friends to many readers. In the third installment of Jeanne Birdsall’s beloved series, The Penderwicks at Point Mouette, Skye, Jane, and Batty are off to Maine for a summer vacation with their aunt. This means Skye is the OAP (or oldest available Penderwick) a role of terrifying responsibility. Luckily, her good friend Jeffery is around to help her. Jane thinks she's in love with a skateboarding boy, Batty insists she's musical, and her aunt has sprained her ankle- Skye has her hands full. But with the temptation of a piano next-door (not to mention a musician to teach him) will Jeffery be enough help? And why does the neighbor look so familiar? Through all this, Skye must try and remember the most important direction from Rosalind: Don't let Batty explode.

This rollicking adventure will delight readers. From a hint of romance, to soccer, writing, campfire rituals, music, and long-lost relations, The Penderwicks holds something for everyone. It's a delightful summer book for intrepid summer travelers, budding writers, or covert late-night reading with a flashlight.

Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick

2011-04-15T15:41:00.000-07:00

by Joe Schreiber
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, October 24th, 2011

In the midst of piles of school work, having forgotten my lunchtime reading at home, I decided I needed a fast-paced book that promised humor. Schreiber's novel just happened to arrive, as if some sneaking spy knew I was a prime target for the book.

I was immediately intrigued by the admissions essay prompts at the beginning of each chapter. Soon, I began trying to connect them to each chapter, wondering what an admissions representative might find in this first-person narrative- it's easy to see how being shot, being witness to murder, and learning your family's darkest secrets (all in one night) might lend themselves to an enticing (if barely believable) college essay. But I'm getting ahead of myself here.

Perry Stormaire had not intended to go to prom, being more concerned with his first NYC band gig and getting off of Columbia's wait-list. But when Gobi- the Lithuanian foreign exchange student- asks him to escort her to prom, his parent's don't give him a choice. He soon finds himself in a rented tux escorting the ugliest girl to prom in his dad's jaguar car. But two hours into the evening Perry is in the middle of NYC witnessing murders and accompanied by the most gorgeous foreign assassin he could have dreamed of. This fast-paced adventure was impossible to put down. Perry is a believable, multi-dimensional character, not unrealistically heroic in terrifying situations yet able to issue constant demands for the safety of his family and knowledge of what the hell is going on. While I'm glad this isn't the first in the series, and therefore can't say "I can't wait for the next one," I'd still like a hint of what Joe Schreiber will write next.

Zita the Spacegirl

2011-04-13T15:53:00.000-07:00

Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke
First Second

One day while Zita and her friend Joseph are walking, they come across a small crater. Inside is a strange device, and Zita, being an adventurous button-pusher, hits it. A vortex opens and something reaches out to grab Joseph. Luckily, Zita is a good friend, so she hits the button again and disappears into the vortex after Joseph, only to land in an alien world. What follows are the adventures of Zita as she tries to find Joseph and return to Earth- before an asteroid destroys the planet she’s on, that is.

Though characterization can sometimes suffer in plot-driven graphic novels, Ben Hatke has managed to create a number of multi-faceted, dimensional characters. The Piper, who initially helps Zita, is not good or bad, rather self-protecting. Zita, too, isn’t without her flaws. Though she is brave, she is also stubborn and impulsive, yet stilling caring enough to draw helpful misfits to her.

We find a resolution at the end, but I can’t help but wish the next installment of Zita’s fabulous adventures were waiting on a shelf for me today. Middle grade readers, especially those who love Bone will fall in love with Zita the Spacegirl. Me? I'm happy to see a strong young female on character join the graphic novel shelf.

Check out the first few pages.

Huxley & Backall

2011-04-12T12:59:00.000-07:00

The Crows of Pearblossom written by Aldous Huxley, illustrated by Sophie Blackall

This is the only children’s story ever written by Huxley (author of Brave New World). The story is one of two crows, who live in a tree at Pearblossom. Below them, in a hole at the bottom of the tree, lives a Rattlesnake. Every morning Mrs. Crow lays an egg and goes grocery shopping and every day, when she returns, her egg is gone. That is, until one day when Mrs. Crow returns and finds the rattlesnake eating her egg! Something simply must be done, and so Mr. Crow seeks Old Man Owl’s advice, and together they hatch a plan. I adore Sophia Blackall’s illustrations. Her hints of red, green , and aqua bring vibrancy to the browns and grays of nature.

An intriguing illustrated book for children and adults.

The Book with a Hole

2011-04-11T12:53:00.000-07:00

The Book with a Hole By Herve Tullet

As the title suggests, this book does in fact have a hole. When you open the book, there’s a nice circle right in the middle of the page, perfect for sticking your head in or your arm through. The book is printed in black and white and instructions on each page encourage the reader to act with the image. One page, in which the hole is someone’s open mouth, tells you to try to make teeth with your fingers. Another, in which the hole is the opening of a magician’s hat, asks “What will you make appear or disappear?”

This interactive book is wonderful for kids who can't stand to sit still quietly and need constant attention to stay engaged. Also a great diversion on long trips.

In an old house in Paris, covered with vines....

2011-04-10T12:42:00.000-07:00

Madeline at the White House by John Bemelmans Marciano, Penguin

In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines, lived twelve little girls in two straight lines. So begins Ludwig Bemelman’s famous stories. But now, these twelve little girls in two straight lines have headed to the White house to have a good time. Bemelman’s grandson, John Bemelmans Marciano has taken up the ink brush and rhyme to continue the beloved Madeline adventures his grandfather began. This new Madeline adventure is based on correspondence Marciano’s grandfather shared with Jacqueline Kennedy.

The adventure begins with the President’s daughter, Candle, named for one wild curl that sticks up like a flame. Poor little Candle is sad and lonely. With the arrival of Madeline and the other girls, everyone has a grand time at the annual White House Easter Celebration. But yellow-haired Candle is still sad because she’s never seen any of Washington’s amazing sights. Madeline has a few tricks in her suitcase, and she and Candle are soon whisked off on a magical tour of Washington’s sights, illustrated in a stunning sequence of full-color illustrations. Marciano has created a wonderful new adventure stylistically identical to the classic Madeline books.

Like Ivy & Bean and Clementine?

2011-04-09T12:06:00.000-07:00

Like Pickle Juice on a Cookie
by Julie Sternberg illustrated by Matthew Cordell
Amulet (Abrams)

It's the summer before third grade when Elinor receives terrible news, news worse than pickle juice on cookies. Bibi, the best babysitter in the world is moving away. Elinor doesn't want to do anything fun without Bibi, because fun things remind her of Bibi. But soon her parents have found a new sitter, Natalie. And while Natalie is not Bibi, maybe that will be okay. This sweet book is shorter than it seems and Cordell's fun illustrations bring whimsy and life to the page. Great for lovers of Ivy and Bean and Clementine. Hopefully, we'll see a whole Elinor series in the future...

Anya's Ghost

2011-04-08T12:01:00.000-07:00

Anya’s Ghost by Vera Brosgol

First Second, June 6th, 2011

Anya's Ghost is a wonderful coming of age graphic novel. The twists and the turns of the story pulled me in for a one-sitting read. Anya's experiences of frustration, both because of her immigrant background and the usual difficulties of not fitting in at school, are accessible to all YA readers- for who hasn't felt alienated at one point or another? However, the layer of Anya's familial background adds depth to the story. Each twist and turn of the story is adeptly foreshadowed, creating a richly spooky story that will have readers frantically turning pages (unless, like me, you have to stop and remark about how beautifully composed certain panels are).

Fox & Hen Together, an after-they-fall-in-love story

2011-04-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Fox & Hen Together by Beatrice Rodriguez

This wordless picturebook continues the story Rodriguez began in The Chicken Thief. Hen cradles her egg in the first illustration, while fox remarks on the empty refrigerator. Hen entrusts her egg to Fox and goes out fishing for some food. But she gets more than she bargained for when an enormous bird catches the fish she’s just caught- pulling Hen away on a dangerous adventure. The colors of each illustration set an immediate mood for the scene while the simple ink lines composing Rodriguez’s characters are capable of wondrous expressions.

This is a rip-roaring adventure- though you’ll have to do all the roaring yourself- with a fun little twist of an ending. Who knew a hen-fox baby would look so cute? Children will oooh and ahh over Hen’s adventures while adults will find themselves transfixed as well. As the story ends
with a birth, it would also make a quirky baby shower gift for new parents.

The Queen of France

2011-03-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

The Queen of France by Tim Wadham, illustrated by Kady MacDonald Denton, Candlewick

One day Rose wakes up feeling royal. She layers costume pieces and jewelry until, volia! The Queen of France is up and about. Throughout the day Rose changes between herself and the Queen of France, her delightful parents taking it all in stride. But when the Queen of France tells Rose’s mother that she would like to trade places with Rose, Rose’s mother tells her that she will miss Rose “Infinity times infinity.”

The Queen of France is a simple story that probably occurs in many households everyday, yet it retains a feeling of magic. Denton’s ink and watercolor illustrations capture the expressiveness of an energetic child. The simplicity of a pointed toe or uplifted finger reveals Rose’s (or as the case may be, the Queen of France’s) every opinion.

The best book with glitter on the cover.

"More Mo Willems!" demanded the Pigeon. The Alligator agreed.

2011-03-11T11:01:00.000-08:00

Hooray for Amanda and her Alligator!
by Mo Willems
HarperCollins, May 2011
Reading Amanda and her Alligator, I could not help but be reminded of Maurice Sendak, particularly his nutshell library (alligators all around floated through my head). Yet Willems crates a story all his own. Told in chapters like a beginning reader, we learn of Alligator's life: his delights, his worries, and his terrific discoveries. He's a sweet and lovable character- even if he is only worth seven cents. Willems' story will have kids laughing as usual in this delightful book- a next step for readers of Elephant and Piggie.

Holly Black's White Cat

2011-03-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

Cassel killed his best friend, though he doesn’t know how. His family members are able to magically curse people with the touch of a finger, instantly changing memories or emotions. But Cassel has shown no sign of the ability to curse. His mother is a con artist. His brothers are mobsters. All Cassel wants is to go to school.

Holly Black’s White Cat, the first book in the curse workers series, is a complex modern fantasy full of dark deeds and strange creatures. When a white cat enters Cassel’s life and starts to take control of his dreams, Cassel begins to doubt his own memories. Maybe he is a curse worker. Maybe he didn’t kill his best friend. Maybe he, himself, is cursed. And maybe his deeds are even worse than those perpetrated by his brothers. As Cassel uncovers secrets and curses, he realizes the only way to learn the truth is to engineer a con even his family will fall for. From politics to murder to the possibilities of romance, Holly Black crafts of web of mystery and danger in this dark teen novel.

*This book is now available in paperback. If you listen to WHMP (in the Pioneer Valley) you may hear me talking about this book.

Gut reaction to Okay for Now

2011-03-10T07:08:00.000-08:00

Okay for Now by Gary Schmidt will be released by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt on April 5th, 2011. It follows Doug's life during the Vietnam war. Doug's oldest brother is in the army, his next oldest brother is a bully, and his father is the biggest bully of them all. When Doug's family moves to the Catskills, he seeks refuge in the library where he discovers a book of Audubon's birds. Though he protests that he is no artist, Doug itches to start drawing. Between Audubon's book and a delivery job for the local deli, Doug manages to have a life - an escape- from his family and it becomes his mission to retrieve the missing Audubon pages that the city has been selling off.

So I started Gary Schmidt's Okay for Now yesterday and finished it this morning. And it blew me away. Each aspect of the story was beautifully woven into the rest. Audubon's birds were incredibly effective at pulling together the story- effective due to the emotional descriptions paired with brief formal analysis (composition, balance, etc). I'm always interested to see how writers depict the visual arts; often they get it staggeringly wrong, but Schmidt manages to explain principals of design that can later be translated and expanded upon by Doug to explain other events in his life.

For the first half of the book I was a little worried that there would be too much depressing realism for me to deal with (the world has enough terrible things happening in it for me to constantly be reading about fictional ones as well) but I was intrigued by Mrs. Windermere (the eccentric playwright to who Doug delivers groceries) and honestly, I needed to know about the birds. Would the book be whole again? (Though I must say, having Doug create one of the pages was pretty obvious from early on.)

I like books with, if not a happy ending, at least a settled one. I love that Schmidt left the book so open-ended. Yes, he resolved aspects of Doug's life that need closure, but he also ended with hope tempered by the reality that sometimes, no matter what you want, things don't always turn out the way you want them. And no, I'm not giving you more information about the ending- I wouldn't want to ruin it for you, now would I?

THE Book of THE Summer. (Don't let the cover or title discourage you)

2011-03-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

Beauty Queens
by Libba Bray
Scholastic, May 24th, 2011

So I didn't get to read Beauty Queens as quickly as I wanted, making the fatal mistake of letting someone else know what I was reading. Thrilled by the first page (a brief message from the corporation) I began reading the book aloud to my boyfriend, thinking I'd stop at the first chapter and continue reading to myself. The problem was, he wouldn't let me stop reading. So we've now spent two weekends taking turns reading aloud and have finished the book. My new dare is for someone to read the message from the corporation and then put the book down and walk away; I don't think it can be done. I also think the possible audience for Libba's novel goes beyond teens and adult women- I intend to purchase a copy as a 21st birthday present to my brother and my boyfriend (background in neuroscience- he won't pick up fiction on his own) has already told me to bring home a first edition for him. Basically, Beauty Queens is the book of the summer for teens plus- regardless of their gender.

I enjoyed Going Bovine, but Beauty Queens is a tighter book, the satire more finely honed and it doesn't lag near the end the way Going Bovine does. The social satire and blunt look at stereotypes makes this a strong choice for bookclubs. From Shanti and Nicole discussing how they are each others' competition because "you have to have one candidate of color in the top ten," to being a transsexual, to trying to bring down the competition from the inside, to pressures from parents and repressed feelings of sexuality, Beauty Queens covers quite the spectrum of topics facing teens today. But what really sets Beauty Queens apart from any other book trying to explore these issues is the humor and social satire Libba expertly employs. Any mention of the Corporation is hysterical, yet also terrifyingly realistic (reminding me of Jasper Fforde's Goliath Corporation: for all you'll ever need. Ever.*). Issues, tempered by humor, combine with action-paced sequences and a dollop of all varieties of romance to create a summer blockbuster of a book.**

*And what do you hand someone after you'd got them wowed by Beauty Queens? Good Omens, Douglas Adams, or Jasper Fforde.
**I've no doubts that this will be a movie (released by the corporation, complete with subliminal messages urging the audience to purchase popcorn and clothing from Ladybird's clothing line).

2011-03-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

We recently received copies of Eric Rohmann's 2003 Caldecott Award-winning My Friend Rabbit in board book format and I absolutely love it! Because the story is largely told through the illustrations, a young child can begin to piece together events even without a parent's help. The variation in line expresses texture and movement, helping children to begin to understand basic visual concepts. As the book continues, the visual language actually gets quite complex, with instances of simultaneous succession and the use of motion lines. For the very young, simultaneous succession (the depiction of a character in multiple poses in one frame) can be confusing, but I think Rohmann's usage of it and motion lines are wonderful in a boardbook, especially as he builds up to them. If a child sees such devices from a young age, he or she will learn how to read them more quickly. On a more basic level, the bold lines and bright colors will attract even infants who are beginning to pick out shapes and colors. From basic visual concepts to more complex storytelling devices, My Friend Rabbit is a book that grows with a child, providing an enjoyable story and visual education elements for a number of developmental stages.

Things to get excited about from RandomHouse Kids

2011-03-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

A Ball For Daisy
by Chris Raschka
Schwartz & Wade Books, Random House Kids: May 10, 2011
Chris Raschka is able to express a motion or emotion with just a wiggle of a line. His dynamic characters are capable of holding an entire story- even on a blank page. Raschka's newest book, A Ball for Daisy, does away with words entirely, allowing the pictures to deliver the full story. Daisy the dog loves her red ball, she cuddles up against it on the couch and chases it about. But what will Daisy do when another dog pops her ball? Bright colors, ecstatic lines, and a dynamic framing sequence makes A Ball for Daisy a strong wordless picturebook children will delight in "reading" to themselves.
Edwin Speaks Up
by April Stevens illustrated by Sophie Blackwell
Schwartz & Wade Books, Random House Kids:
I'll admit it, I have to pick up every Sophie Blackwell book I see. Her combination of pencil and watercolor is soft, yet her colors are strong, her quirky and odd with fun details. The candy palette of Edwin Speaks Up is a mix of bright funky colors and softer shades that brings flair to her 50s inspired costumes and cars. The story, written by April Stevens, follows an absent-minded mother and her brood of children as they trek to the supermarket. The children, all but little Edwin, roll and tumble, wrestling about, while the mother forgets one thing after another- and no one listens to little Edwin's babble. But astute young readers will quickly decipher Edwin's messages, bringing laughter with each line.

If Rocks Could Sing: A Discovered Alphabet
by Leslie McGuirk
Tricycle Press, Random House Kids: May 24th, 2011
I'm often surprised at how literal some young children an be. If Rocks Could Sing: A Discovered Alphabet, will challenge these children, asking them to see subjects in seemingly abstract rocks. If the alphabet rocks were spotted on the beach, some might pass them by, but Leslie McGurik places them with text, and their purpose is immediately apparent. Other found rocks, which she uses in the illustrations for each letter, might be overlooked if not for the props and text McGuirk uses to hint at their role. Some children see subjects in rocks, leaves, and clouds already- If a Rock Could Sing will validate their creativity. For less visual children, If Rocks Could Sing will encourage them to really look at the abstract, and challenge their preconceptions.

Everything I Need to Know Before I'm Five
by Valorie Fisher
Schwartz & Wade Books, Random House: July 26th, 2011
Brightly colored, quirky illustrations made from small toys fill the pages of Valorie Fisher's Everything I Need to Know Before I'm Five. From numbers (six penguins totting purses), to opposites (little cleaning ladies on a big ladybug), to shapes, colors, seasons, and the alphabet, Fisher packs all the board book basics into one eye-catching gem.

Two books in brief

2011-03-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

Follow Me
by Tricia Tusa
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, April 2011
Tusa's abstract text transports readers, bringing them on a colorful poetic journey. Her soft colors and cloudy textures create a sweet dreamy atmosphere that makes me want to lounge in a hammock under a tree while I languidly flip through the book time and time again.

Daphne's Diary of Daily Disasters: The Name Game!
by Marissa Moss
Simon & Schuster, July 2011
I grew up on Marissa Moss' Amelia books so I was excited to find Daphne's Diary of Daily Disasters in a box of ARCs. Not only that, but the bright, eye-catching colors, flocking, and colored pages make it a special book, one to carry around and read in public. With the recent Diary of a Wimpy Kid buzz, I think some people have forgotten that doodle diary books are not a new thing. It's wonderful to see new books by Moss. Her ability to combine humor with actual problems kids face makes for a good read. That, and who can say no to such a fabulous cover?

Four Fun Picturebooks

2011-03-05T10:00:00.000-08:00

Animals Home Alone
by Loes Riphagen
Seven Footer Kids, Publisher Group West
One day, a little girl and her father go out, leaving fifteen animals alone in the house. In the wordless story that follows, the animals get up to all sorts of things. The book opens with images of all the animals and closes with the results of the animals' actions. These final images are paired with questions asking readers what happened to the animals over the course of the story. These questions are a good place to start, but careful readers will pick up many more adventures than the questions reveal.

Cloudette
by Tom Lichtenheld
Henry Holt
Cloudette is only a little cloud, which can be fun when it comes to hide-and-go-seek or watching fireworks, but when the big clouds make storms, Cloudette feels left out. After one particvularly big storm Cloudette finds herself in a new place, a place that once had a pond. And it is here that Cloudette learns how to make a storm. A story about finding one's place and learning new things, Cloudette is also great for tired parents. Side notes and comments hidden in the illustrations will hold the attention of both parents and children.

Manners Mash-Up: A Goofy Guide to Good Behavior
by Leuyen Pham, Lynn Munsinger, Joe Berger, Judy Schachner, Adam Rex, Peter H. Reynolds, Tao Nyeu, Bob Shea, Kevin Sherry, Henry Cole, Sophie Backall, Dan Santat, Frank Morrison, Tedd Arnold
Penguin
Reading through the long list of author/illustrator contributors, I'm sure you've gotten an idea of the sorts of fun that await you inside. Yes, I just said fun in regards to a book about manners; this is no ordinary guide to etiquette. Each spread is illustrated by a different contributor and takes on manners for different occasions, including party manners, doctor's office manners, supermarket non-no's, etc. Children will laugh uproariously at the horrid behavior of the characters. Some of my favorite pages include Tao Nyeu's "Please don't pick in public" and Judy Schachner's "Party manners". Great fun for the all ages, from the rudest person you ever did see to the absolute angel.

On the Road & Busy Boats
by Susan Steggall
Frances Lincoln
These two books are perfect for the car, truck, or boat enthusiast in your life. Sparse text illustrated by intricate cut and ripped paper collage allows children to find larger stories in the illustrations. They'll love pointing out details in the background or identifying the names of the many vehicles whose names they know. On the Road is a light paperback, easy to tuck into a backpack for a car journey, while Busy Boats would be a wonderful gift for children headed to the shore.

Summer Middle Grade Books

2011-03-05T07:38:00.000-08:00

Junonia by Kevin Henkes
HarperCollins, June 1st, 2011
Every year Alice and family go to Florida for vacation, living in a cottage and spending time with other families who vacation at the same spot every year. This year it is Alice's tenth birthday-a very important number- and she has high hopes for the week until she learns that her usual playmates can't come and new poeple are arriving. Mallory, a younger girl, arrives with Alice's favorite adult, Kate. Mallory is shy, angry, and sad in turns and Kate's attention is usurped by her needs. Though Alice would like to help Mallory and show her the wonders of the beach, she finds Mallory difficult to deal with. Despite this, Alice is sustained by her hope of finding a junonia, a very rare shell, but the odds don't look good, and as the week progresses, neither does the vacation. Ten is a special number-will Alice's birthday live up to her hopes?

Early Middle Grade readers will empathize with Alice, feeling her disappointment and jubilation while desperately wishing for a junonia to wash ashore. As emotional as the sea, this summer book is wonderful for readers of Ivy and Bean and Clementine.

Kevin Henkes is known for his picturebooks, including Kitten's Full Moon, a Caldecott Medal winner, and he received a Newbery Honor for Olive's Ocean. Snippets of his illustrations can be seen in the small ink drawings that head each chapter, and the dynamic yet intimate cover design.

Invisible Inkling written by Emily Jenkins with illustrations by Harry Bliss
HarperCollins, May 1st, 2011
Hank's parents' own an ice-cream shop in the shape of a large pumpkin, which is pretty cool since it means Hank gets sprinkles in his lunch everyday. And when Inkling, an invisible bandapat with a need for squash, runs into his life, things get interesting. But Hank's life isn't as pretty as an ice cream sundae (with a cherry on top). Bruno Gillicut is a lunch-stealing bully who demands sprinkles everyday. Luckily, Inkling has some ideas of how to deal with bullies- as long if there's some squash (and maybe a slice or two of pizza) in it for him.

Readers will laugh aloud at Inkling's antics while worrying what to do about Hank's very really bully problem. But don't worry- there's a happy ending! Wonderful for readers of Sarah Pennypacker and those making the transition between beginning readers and middle grade books.

From the illustrator of The Quiet Book

2011-03-04T15:58:00.000-08:00

The LOUD Book!
Written by Deborah Underwood illustrated by Renata Liwska
April 2011
I loved The Quiet Book with it's small format and sweet characters. Upon hearing there would be a LOUD book from the same duo, I wondered if it would be as successful. Liwska's muted colors and soft, round characters seemed innately quiet. While The LOUD Book isn't bright-shapes-and-sharp-angles loud, it is toddler-roaring-like-a-bear loud. Liwska's characters are still soft and sweet, but her compositions are chaotic with characters expressing strong surprise. It is these aspects that bring LOUD to life, making a sweet companion to The Quiet Book.

Red Wagon by Renata Liwska
Penguin Renata Liwska is the illustrator of the best-selling The Quiet Book. In Red Wagon, a little fox named Lucy takes her brand-new red to market. Even though this sounds a lot like chores, Lucy sets out. Along the way, the red wagon becomes all sorts of things as Lucy and her friends pretend. As it turns out, doing chores can feel a lot like playing after all! Lucy's imaginings build as the story continues, until the red wagon is illustrated as the rocket ship or truck of Lucy's imaginings. The cute critters of The Quiet Book are just as charming in Red Wagon; be prepared for them to become frequent storytime visitors!

Some books are like candy

2011-02-01T08:51:00.000-08:00

Never Sit Down in a Hoopskirt and Other Things I Learned in Southern Belle Hell

By Crickett Rumley

Egmont, June 14^th, 2011

I must admit that I generally avoid books set in the South or books about pageantry of any sort. But this title had me from the get-go, at least the “Never Sit Down in a Hoopskirt” bit. And the book was genuinely enjoyable in a mindless, quick-read sort of way (and everyone needs one of those now and then). There are the requisite dead/ineffectual parents, the mean rich girl, the dreamy rich boy, and that girl who has been kicked out of more schools than you can count. Oh, and the drinking and partying that seems to be in every high school book (though I cannot recall any of this in actual high school, though that could be because I was the bookish one). Despite this, the book is genuinely fun and redeeming. Each girl experiences true change over the course of the book, and I don’t mean in just the makeover way. A great beach read or something to snag after your last exam and savor on the porch with a southern sweet tea.

Page by Paige

2011-01-04T10:53:00.000-08:00

Page by Paige
by Laura Lee Gulledge
Amulet, May 2011

Before you read this review, I just want you to know what my biases are. I went to art school and hold a BFA in illustration with minors in art history and creative writing (the path Gulledge's character Paige might take, though she most definitely would be an SVA or New School kid). I want you to know this because I've observed more than my fair share of angsty art school stuff, personal comics, and feelings of isolation due to artistic difference. These sorts of things either get snuffed out in the first semester of freshman year (all it takes is the first crit to bash your ego into the ground), or the individual leaves. Because of this, I found the graphic novel annoying. Paige seems too wrapped up in her artwork, and because the book is a graphic novel, it feels that the illustrator is taking herself too seriously. Many of the images are overly dramatic (specifically the one where Paige is sewing her mouth shut), yet even outgoing characters like Jules don't exhibit much outward emotion. And talk about angst-ridden (that being said, teenagers certainly like their angst).

While Page by Paige doesn't resonate with me, I feel it will find an adoring audience of teenagers: indie-music lovers, the "arty" or sensitive kids, and anyone who feels like they don't belong (which is every teenager). The quick pace and varied framing make the book a quick read. Readers will empathize with Paige, seeing their friends, their romance, and their difficult parental relationships. The message of the book is evident, but not didactic and nicely woven into the narrative.

Shelf-talker for the book: When Paige Turner (her parents are writers) moves from Virginia to Brooklyn, she feels lost and alone. Her first companion in this new place is her sketchbook. It is through her relationship with her sketchbook, and the drawings, doodles, and messes she makes, that she comes to learn about herself. With the support of her new friends (and boyfriend) Paige begins to define her identity and her home, while learning how to support her friends in turn.

Shaun Tan Collection!

2010-12-30T16:13:00.000-08:00

Lost and Found
by Shaun Tan
Scholastic, April 2011
Lost and Found is one of the most beautiful books I've ever seen. The reproductions are incredible, I found myself stroking some of the pages as if I might feel the texture of the paint. Each page is a marvel, with spaces that would be "empty" in other books containing layers of texture or related print. Shaun Tan's Arrival astonished me, but I've always found it difficult to get a hold of his other books in the United States. Now, there is no excuse. I have spent hours pouring over this book, dipping into a page or story, or reading from beginning to end, and I intend to spend many more hours marveling at the splendid work.

Each story has a weight to it, at once melancholic and fantastic, uplifting in its hidden details. The story of the rabbits is a dark, sad tale, based on our own history. The Red Tree more uplifting, finding magic in the world. The stories are deep, and the illustrations do them justice, extending and expanding them in unsuspected ways.

This is a books that needs to live on a table, not a shelf. Out where people can pick it up and become amazed by stories and images that will stay with them for weeks afterward.

Adult/YA

2010-12-30T09:41:00.000-08:00

The Lover's Dictionary
by David Levithan
Farrar, Straus, Giroux
January 4th, 2011

A novel in dictionary entries that range from a word to a few pages. Some of the words are what you might expect, others are surprising. The story (and there is an overarching narrative) is not arranged chronologically, but alphabetically, as a dictionary would be. Due to this, I thought I'd be able to dip into it, but instead I couldn't put it down. I had to see how the pieces would fit together; I got lost in the moments. Love stories are easily overdone, but I found this story sweet (though that could be due to the teen books I usually read). Then again, sometimes a quietly sweet book is wonderful. The only regret I have is not reading it when other people were around- then I could have read passages aloud- and some of them beg for this. Buy this book before Valentine's day, and bookmark passages as you read (or annotate) and then present it as a gift.

I read some reviews of the book on ipage before I began. Some say the story is of a heterosexual couple, one of a homosexual couple. I tried figuring it out as I read, but I found I didn't care, it worked in my head either way, and eventually I just went with those images. But I still wonder what David was thinking when he wrote it.

Fun Books for Winter Break

2010-12-29T12:11:00.000-08:00

It’s still winter break, so why not pick up something fun? Here are five books guaranteed to bring some fun to your vacation.

Lunch Lady and the Bake Sale Bandit

By Jarrett J. Krosoczka

The fifth book in the best-selling Lunch Lady series is now out! Lunch Lady’s school is having a bake sale to raise money for a field trip. But before anyone can buy a tasty treat, someone steals all the goodies! There are a few people in the school who dislike bake sales, and it’s up to the Breakfast Bunch kids and Lunch Lady to discover who really stole the goodies. A wonderful addition to the Lunch Lady series, complete with an appearance by Buszilla!

Sock Monkey & Friends

9 different fun-to-make sock animal projects

by Samantha Fisher and Cary Lane

Sock monkeys are cute and easy to make, but how many people have actually made one? This kit includes directions and the materials you’ll need to make a sock monkey. Once you see how easy and fun it is, you’ll be off, rounding up all the pairless socks in your house. Besides, who can resist a sock squirrel, alligator, or owl!

Kid Made Modern

By Todd Oldham

This has got to be the coolest kid’s craft book I’ve seen. Forget the “kid’s” part, I’m ready to make these things for my apartment and myself. Using easy-to-find materials, Kid Made Modern gives easy directions for creating crafts inspired by mid-century modern design. Beautiful photographs accompany each project and each section is introduced by a profile of a mid-century designer.

The Cleaner Plate Club

More Than 100 Recipes for Real Food Your Kids Will Love

By Beth Bader and Ali Benjamin

This colorful cookbook is great for kids or adults. The introduction profiles different ingredients, as well as shopping strategies and information on nutrition and food in the United States. Other sections include how to cook seasonally, how to convert recipes for your slow-cooker, and why to shop at farmers’ markets. Fun, colorful illustrations and photos accompany these sections. The recipes include such delicious dishes as Pumpkin-White Cheddar Soup, Carrot-Quinoa “Biryani”, and Pumpkin Gnocchi. An informative cookbook for children, parents…just about anyone, really!

Papertoy Monsters

50 Cool Papertoys You Can Make Yourself!

By Castleforte and 24 papertoy designers from around the world

Silly, fun, wacky, gross, and sometimes utterly ridiculous monsters fill the pages of this book. The colors are bright, the directions are simple, and there’s no cutting involved! Each papertoy punches out of the page and is accompanied by directions for creating your wacky 3-D monster. Blank templates are provided at the back of the book so that you can create your own monsters.

Happy vacation!

Like Pickle Juice on a Cookie

2010-12-22T14:13:00.001-08:00

Like Pickle Juice on a Cookie
by Julie Sternberg illustrated by Matthew Cordell
Amulet (Abrams) March 2011

It's the summer before third grade when Elinor receives terrible news, news worse than pickle juice on cookies. Bibi, the best babysitter in the world is moving away. Elinor doesn't want to do anything fun without Bibi, because fun things remind her of Bibi. But soon her parents have found a new sitter, Natalie. And while Natalie is not Bibi, maybe that will be okay.

This sweet book is shorter than it seems and Cordell's fun illustrations bring whimsy and life to the page. Great for lovers of Ivy and Bean and Clementine. Hopefully, we'll see a whole Elinor series in the future...

Delirium

2010-12-16T19:07:00.000-08:00

Wow. Just, wow. I'm absolutely stunned by the ending of Lauren Oliver's Delerium, which I finished not 5 minutes ago. Romeo and Juliet has never been a favorite of mine, due to death by miscommunication. But death because of sacrifice is completely different. Sometimes I feel that teen romances are taken too far, there is often a sense that this is the one, the perfect partner, despite the fact that the protagonist is but sixteen. Here, I don't feel any of that. Having your ability to feel (love, hate, everything inbetween) cut off at eighteen means young romance is the only thing that's even possible, let alone probable.

In Lena's world, a person undergoes an operation at eighteen, effectively curing them of love. For if one doesn't love, there is no pain or loss, and everyone will be happy. Lena counts the days until she'll receive the cure and everything will be good and right. She'll be matched with her husband and together they'll live a safe, predictable life. But then Lena the perfect citizen, the good girl, finds someone to love. And things will never be the same.

The world Oliver has created is so real. Her reliance on everyday objects, places and activities grounds the dystopian environment and cements the connection between the reader and Lena. The one scene that truly clinched my love of this book was when Lena went to the cell in which her mother had been held, and saw one word carved over and over into the walls, a word that was both her downfall and her savior. As Lena walked the halls to the cell, smelling the refuse and mold, I felt snatches of V for Vendetta run through my mind. At other points I couldn't help but think of Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale. From teen romance, best friends, high school, and illegal parties to a totalitarian government, Oliver seamlessly weaves a classic tale of love with the danger and despair of a dystopia.

It'll be out from HarperCollins in February.

Picturebooks about Winter

2010-12-03T12:01:00.000-08:00

There are Christmas books galore, Hanukkah books, books for every possible religious holiday. But what about the books that celebrate winter? Here in Massachusetts we are lucky enough to get real snow in the winter. Snow perfect for skiing, sledding, snow-shoeing, throwing, and building. Winter is my favorite season and I like nothing better than going out to play in the snow. But for those of you less inclined to go outside, here are some winter picturebooks to enjoy with a nice cup of hot cocoa.

Learning to Ski with Mr. Magee

By Chris Van Dusen

Chronicle Books

Mr. Magee and his dog Dee set out one winter day. Mr. Magee doesn’t know how to ski, but he climbs up the hill and sets out to give it a try. But Mr. Magee isn’t good at steering or stopping yet, so what’s he to do when he runs into a moose and a ravine?

Van Dusen’s illustrations are bright, colorful, and dynamic. He has an astounding ability to capture the light of winter and the myriad of colors reflecting in snow. A perfectly delightful book for skiers or those for whom skiing is a terrifying activity. Ages 4-7.

In My Forest

By Sara Gillingham & Lorena Siminovich

Chronicle Books

This sweet boardbook features a finger puppet deer as a part of the picturebook. Babies will enjoy the bright colors, die-cut book, and finger puppet. The collage illustrations are lovely and the message perfect for a book read before bed.

Counting on Snow

By Maxwell Newhouse

Tundra Books

As we count arctic animals, snow begins to fall on the tundra. Thicker and faster it falls until the animals are almost obscured. This is a quiet book, dark but beautiful. Each scene portrays the vastness of the tundra and there is a sense of beautiful space in each illustration. Ages 2-4.

Snow

A Caldecott Honor Book

By Uri Shulevitz

Farrar Straus Giroux

It is a gray day, but a boy sees a few snowflakes in the sky. The adults dismiss the snow and the radio denies the weather but a boy and his dog go out to celebrate. This is a beautiful celebration of the magical qualities of snow. While the book begins gray and dark, the snowstorm changes the scene, leaving bright white and sky blue in its wake.

This quiet book celebrates the magical qualities of snow and the wonder it can bring. Ages 4-8.

Liked Lunch Lady? Try this.

2010-12-01T08:47:00.000-08:00

Super Amoeba No. 1: Squish

By Jennifer L. Holm & Matthew Holm

Random House, May 24th, 2011

Let me just start off by saying my favorite graphic novel series for the 2^nd-3^rd grade crowd is Lunch Lady- hands down. But what do you give the kids who have exhausted that series? Squish is a great option, especially for teachers. Setting: a world much like our own, where kids read comic books, dream of being super heroes, and there’s always a class bully. The Catch: this world is populated entirely by amoebas. That’s right, our protagonist is a single-celled organism. The opening pages introduce amoebas, giving basic scientific facts that the narrator warns, “You’ll be tested on this someday so you’d better be paying attention.” And, most kids will be tested on this someday. So, fun graphic novel with a side dish of biology facts, what’s not to like? Arrows throughout the book contain snarky narrator comments for some additional humor.

Grimm & Grimmer

2010-11-24T11:25:00.000-08:00

A Tale Dark and Grimm by Adam Gidwitz

This story doesn’t start with Hansel and Gretel, but it is about them. And, as the narrator will warn you, this is a dark an bloody tale not suited for young children, but closer to the original stories than any silly kiddie movies might be. Gidwitz strings a number of Grimm’s stories together, each featuring Hansel and Gretel. Despite the darkness and the blood, this is a fun book, the narrator’s warnings adding humor to the tale. I love remixed fairy tales, but instead of changing the setting or reversing gender roles (as one usually sees) Gidwitz has found a successful new way to retell the tales.

A fabulous combination of humor and tragedy, A Tale Dark and Grimm is precisely what it says it is. Ages 9 and up. –Marika

2 Spring Picturebooks

2010-11-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

Wiener Wolf by Jeff Crosby

Wiener dog leads a good but boring life with Granny. When he discovers the wild life of the wolves on television, he sets out to experience the great outdoors. With just the removal of his sweater, Wiener Dog becomes Wiener Wolf! And life is great with the wolves, until Wiener Dog realizes just what wolves eat; maybe life with Granny isn’t so bad after all.

The illustrations are wonderful. Crosby’s pacing of the story and dramatic reveals (such as the transformation into Wiener Wolf) are perfectly planned for rip-roaring laughter. Readers of all ages will cheer for Wiener Dog, enjoying the quirky characterization Crosby has crafted. So put a sweater on your pooch, wrap someone’s tail around your legs, and prepare yourself for a great adventure.

Blackout by John Rocco

When the city experiences a blackout, one family, and eventually the entire neighborhood, learns the importance of unplugging and participating. From seeing the stars to having a party on the street with the entire neighborhood, Blackout celebrates friends and family. And one family learns that you don’t need a blackout to enjoy time together.

John Rocco tells his story in a comic-panel format. His illustrations, and even the font, reference Sendak’s In the Night Kitchen, though his style and medium have their own flair.

Luka and the Fire of Life

2010-11-16T07:30:00.000-08:00

It's out today!

What is?

Look:

Luka and the Fire of Life When Luka’s father falls into a deep sleep, Luka must venture into the world of magic, and steal the fire of life, in order to save his father. Luka’s adventure takes the form of a video game, complete with saving points, as he travels through a land populated by gods, goddesses, and characters from his father’s stories. A companion book to Haroun and the Sea of Stories, Luka is a celebration of story telling, filled with classic characters and fun word-play. Age 9 & up.

Spring books from Scholastic

2010-11-11T14:06:00.001-08:00

Where's Walrus
by Stephen Savage
February 2011
Tired of the zoo and looking for something new, walrus heads out into the city. In each spread he hides somewhere new, trying to elude the zookeeper out to bring him back. With a delightful surprise ending, children will be able to tell different stories about the illustrations each time they read it. Savage tells his wordless story through clear, graphic illustrations that will delight even the youngest child while design-conscious adults may wish to pick up a copy for their coffee table.
Hippo and Rabbit: 3 Short Tales
by Jeff Mack
February 2011
Three sweet stories about a new duo who are sure to become a fast favorite. Hippo is silly and bumbling, his friend Rabbit quick and ready. But together they are a great team and the best of friends. The cartoony illustrations in an eye-catching palette are sure to appeal to youngsters. Hopefully this is just the first in a series starring Hippo and Rabbit. While Frog and Toad are forever, this generation may have found a new team.

WAMC Book Picks

2010-11-02T18:38:00.000-07:00

Listen to Emily Crowe and myself talking about books on WAMC's Round Table.

Books I mention:
Knuffle Bunny Free by Mo Willems
Odious Ogre by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
Zora and Me by Victoria Bond and T.R. Simon
Dust City by Robert Paul Weston
Shadow by Suzy Lee
Zombies vs. Unicorns edited by Holly Black and Justine Larbalestier

It's very strange to listen to yourself.

Winter & Spring HarperCollins Children's Books

2010-10-09T14:44:00.000-07:00

HarperCollins Children’s books
Clink
Written by Kelly DiPucchio
Illustrated by Matthew Myers
April 5th, 2011
In the Robot Shoppe, there are robots who can do all sorts of amazing things. But poor old Clink can only make burnt toast and play crackly old music. Clink tries to do the things the other robots do, but he only causes trouble. One day a boy comes to the shop, and he’s not interested in all the fancy new robots. Is this Clink’s chance to have a home?

Though a relatively conventional story, Myer’s illustrations are zany and fun. His characters, especially the robots, are fun and quirky with classic feel reminiscent of William Joyce’s work. With dynamic compositions and bright colors, this book is sure to appeal to robot lovers of all shapes and sizes.

Dear Tabby
By Carolyn Crimi
Illustrated by David Roberts
February 8th, 2011
Tabby is an alley cat, but with the help of a typewriter he’s also an advice columnist. Over the course of the book he hears from another cat, a parrot, a hamster, a skunk, a groundhog, an ex-circus bear, and a dog. Through letters and newspaper articles we trace the lives of these animals and how, over time, they eventually find happiness- including Tabby himself.

This wordy picturebook is perfect for those in early grade school to read to themselves. Readers will find themselves trying to figure out and patch together each animal’s story, something made especially fun by inserts of newspaper advertisements, posters, etc. Roberts’ illustrations are fun and balance the text well; I especially love his full-page spread of the runaway circus bear on her tricycle.

Bedtime for Bear
By Brett Helquist
December 21st, 2010
Bear is just settling into bed for a nice long hibernation, when his friends come to beg him to play outside. Knowing he should be beginning his hibernation, bear tries to sleep instead. But the sound of his friends playing is just too enticing so he sets out for one last day of snowy fun.

Helquist is an incredible illustrator and his illustrations are what make this book. Special attention is paid to the movement of bear and his two raccoon friends. The palette changes from oranges to blues as the sun sets and the colors of the sky are reflected in the snow. Delightfully expressive characters and beautiful illustrations make this a wonderful holiday gift for any young child. Ages 2-4.

New Picturebooks on the Shelves

2010-10-09T12:00:00.000-07:00

The 3 Little Dassies
by Jan Brett
Penguin Young Readers Group
This retelling of the three little pigs has an African twist. Instead of three little pigs setting off, three little dassies, cute furry creatures who live in Namibia, set out to find a cooler, less-crowded place free of eagles. But the place to which they move is within the territory of an eagle, who would love a tasty dassie (or three) for his chicks. The story unfolds as you might think, excepting the addition of an agama lizard, who rescues the dassies of the straw and stick houses.

The illustrations, as always, are exquisitely detailed. Jan Brett is a master at using frames to expand upon her story. On some pages the frames show impending danger as the eagle heads out to find some food. On others, we see the rescue taking place while the larger illustration is concerned with the dassie of the stone house. Brett's vivid colors and intricate patterns make this book, like her others, a glorious work worthy of the hours children will spend pouring over it.

Shadow
by Suzy Lee
Chronicle Books
From the creator of the award-winning Wave comes a stunning new book. In Shadow, Lee utilizes the gutter to create two worlds- the real one and that of shadows. Using the objects she finds around her, a little girl creates worlds and characters with the shadows she casts. But as her creations become more intricate, the shadows begin to take on a life of their own.

This book is practically wordless and incredibly designed. I wonder at the stories children might weave about each page as each shadow scene presents opportunities to explore what the little girl might be pretending. Lee's use of the gutter is ingenious; here is a book that embraces its form. If there's one book I'll buy for myself this fall, it'll be Suzy Lee's Shadow.

13 Words
by Lemony Snicket
Illustrated by Maira Kalman
HarperCollins
On the inside flap of the dust jacket 13 words are listed. There are words you might expect in a picturebook, like bird, dog, hat, and baby, and some absolutely splendiferous words like despondent, haberdashery, panache, and mezzo-soprano. And here's the thing, children love large interesting words, especially when they sound a little funny. Snicket's humor is, as always, spot on. As I read this at my desk I was giggling so much a coworker decided to come investigate. I ended up reading the book aloud, the two of us laughing with each turn of the page. Customers came over and we ended up with a small, impromptu storytime. What better recommendation is there?

Maira Kalman, who you may recognize from her work for New Yorker magazine, creates vibrant, quirky illustrations. Her gouache paintings are luscious with bright, sunny colors. Her work, with its references to art history and whatever happens to catch her fancy, is a perfect match for Snicket's writing; I'd love to see more from this bizarrely fabulous pairing.

Flora's Very Windy Day
by Jeanne Birdsall
illustrated by Matt Phelan
Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
From the author of the Penderwicks series comes a picturebook perfect for a blustery fall day. One windy fall day Flora and her brother go outside to play. Flora has super-special heavy-duty red boots that keep her from flying away, but her little brother Crispin doesn't have super-special boots and is so small he gets blown away by the wind. What will Flora do?

Birdsall's story explores the complex relationship older children have with their younger siblings. As Flora realizes, younger siblings may be annoying, but that doesn't mean you should give them up.
Three Little Kittens
by Jerry Pinkney
Dial Books for Young Readers, Penguin
Though the cover is a little too cutesy for me, Pinkey's retelling is a wonderful rendition of the classic rhyme. He begins his story on the endpapers, where we see the three kittens longing to go outside. The illustrations are beautifully composed and young children will have no trouble following the story even without knowing the words. An added bonus, music for the text is provided on the inside of the dust jacket, so a musical storytime may be had by all.

I was lucky enough to get the chance to hear Pinkney talk about this book. Each page turn, each rotation of viewpoint, is carefully considered and as someone studying the picturebook, it was interesting to hear Pinkney talk about his choices, and changes, during the creation of the book.

Dick and Jane and Vampires

2010-10-08T14:29:00.000-07:00

Dick and Jane and Vampires
Written by Laura Marchesani, Illustrated by Tommy Hunt
Grosset & Dunlap, Penguin Young Readers

Let’s face it, there have been a lot of zombie & vampire mash-ups, more than I’d like to deal with as a matter of fact. But sifting through the jumble you occasionally find a good one. Dick and Jane and Vampires is one of these. We always knew Dick and Jane were a little frightening, so why not throw a vampire into the mix? Told with classic Dick and Jane syntax and featuring the blond-haired children you may remember (I’m a little young for that) Dick and Jane and Vampires is a perfect early reader for you and your child. After all, having a bat in your house really is a terrifying idea (rabies, etc) and one really should look out for strangers (especially those with pointed teeth) so why not frighten your child with the very real possibilities he or she faces?

2011 Picturebooks!

2010-10-06T11:21:00.001-07:00

Blue Chameleon
by Emily Gravett
Simon & Schuster, March 8th
Poor chameleon feels blue and goes looking for a friend. But though he can change his color to look like a snail or a sock or a rock, none of these are willing to be his friend. Who can he find who will appreciate him for being a chameleon? This simple book is wonderful for very young children. Simple words on each page indicate the pattern or color of the chameleon and the object he mimics. But being a copycat is not a good way to make friends and, as chameleon learns, the best way to find a friend is to be your colorful self. 1 year plus, this book would make a wonderful baby gift- hopefully we’ll see it in board book form in the future.

Say Hello to Zorro!

By Carter Goodrich

Simon & Schuster, March 22

Mister Bud is a dog, and he leads the good dog’s life. He has his own things and his own schedule, and life is good. But one day a little pug named Zorro shows up. The two are grumpy until they realize they share the same schedule. And guess what? You can be louder and more persistent when there are two.

Goodrich’s illustrations capture the exuberance of the characters. Though the watercolor paintings are soft and light, the colors have a wonderful warmth and richness. The expressions of the dogs are hysterical and children will delight in their battles and companionship, seeing a similarity to their own relationships with their siblings.

The Secret River

By Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, illustrated by Leo & Diane Dillon

Simon & Schuster

January 4^th, 2011

A Leo & Diane Dillon cover will make me pick up a book and, if it’s a picturebook, take it home before I even open it. The Secret River is beautiful story with the feeling of a folk tale. When hard times come to the forest and Calpurnia’s father can’t catch fish to sell, Calpurnia sets out with her dog to catch fish and help her father. Following her nose, she finds the secret river, bursting with fish.With hard work, determination, and belief in the extraordinary, Calpurnia brings softer times to the forest and reaches the understanding that sometimes the answers are in your own mind.The Dillons’ illustrations bring depth to the story, expanding the text and showing the magic and imagination present in Calpurnia’s world.

Luka & the Fire of Life & Haroun & the Sea of Stories

2010-08-27T18:00:00.000-07:00

Haroun & the Sea of Stories
Luka & the Fire of Life
[Random House, September 16th, 2010]
by Salman Rushdie

Have you ever had a child ask you why? The ubiquitous why, followed by your fumbling to come up with an answer that, if it is buried in your mind, is too complicated to explain? Rushdie gives you an answer: the P2C2E (problem, or process, too difficult to explain) perfect to use in the rush of life, when most of the objects around you are too complicated for you to understand, let alone explain.

If you’re an adult and have browsed the Rushdie selection at your local bookseller or library you may have seen Haroun and the Sea of Stories, though my experience tells me the odds are not that good. What you most definitely have not seen is a Rushdie in the children’s section and I think we ought to change that.

Haroun and the Sea of Stories is loved by both children and adults. It is very much a nonsense adventure, reminiscent of The Phantom Tollbooth and full of Carroll-esque wordplay. P2C2Es, iffing and butting, glumfish, these words beg to be read aloud, told over nights to intent yet gigging children, and yet no audio version is available, meaning the story must be personally experienced in the act of reading aloud. Containing such marvels as the Ocean of the Streams of Story, Wishwater presented by a genie, and a city in Perpetual Night, Haroun is a marvelous story full of beautiful embroideries. But Haroun is also an allegory, and adults familiar with Rushdie’s personal story will see aspects of his life played out by the Shah of Blah.

Luka and the Fire of Life, written for Rushdie’s second child, is an adventure for the Shah of Blah’s second child. Again, we follow a classic journey into lands of the unknown and through a series of trials our protagonist comes of age. Like Haroun, Luka is aided throughout the book by an afflicted version of his father, in this case his father’s death, Nobodaddy. But unlike Haroun, this book resonates more strongly for children than adults, having references to current culture and following the form of a video game.

The World of Magic is a world of Luka’s father, Rashid Khalifa’s, creation. It is the stories he has told that populate this world, from characters of Egyptian mythology to Doctor Who. As such, Luka recognizes aspects of it and is able to navigate it based on his interactions with his father. But no child knows all the secrets of his parents and Luka faces the unknown as well (otherwise it wouldn’t be an adventure).

At the same time, this is very much Luka’s adventure. A child of the twenty-first century, video games are a part of Luka’s life. His adventure takes the form of a video game with literal levels for each stage of the hero’s journey. Lives can be accumulated and are tracked in a counter at the edge of Luka’s vision. Additionally, there are saving points at the ends of levels, and, like a video game, saving allows one to return to the same point upon obliteration. While this format may be awkward for some adults, I think it will resonate with middle grade readers, for whom such a structure is commonplace.

Yet the old myths and stories are utilized by Rushdie as well. The one strong female character in the World of Magic is a young woman named Soraya, the same name as Rashid’s wife and Luka’s mother. Being the most important woman in the lives of both Rashid and Luka, she naturally is the woman in Rashid’s world. In a classic nod to Oedipus, Luka is not only in awe of this woman, but slightly attracted to her as well. This nod to Greek tragedy may well pass over the heads of middle readers while jumping out at adults. It is this duality, this melding of both old and new tales, that allows Rushdie’s work to resonate with both adults and children. However, I wonder at the choice to publish this novel as an adult book.

Unlike Haroun, which can be read on many levels, Luka and the Fire of Life doesn’t push as far. There is less word play, less struggle between good versus bad and the eventual discovery of grey, things that are associated with classic crossover stories. Luka’s initial curse, and the resulting counter-curse, are a classic way to begin a story and his companions, Dog the bear and Bear the dog, are the sort of things you know you’ve read before. But when Luka enters the World of Magic, his experiences, and the video-game format of them, feel more easily accessible to middle-grade readers than adults. This may also be attributed to the number of references thrown together in the World of Magic and the segmentation the levels bring to them; giving the book a slightly episodic feel that doesn’t follow as smooth an arc as Haroun.

Like many books primarily classified as middle-grade, Harry Potter and A Series of Unfortunate Events coming immediately to mind, Luka and the Fire of Life is also an enjoyable read for adults. But now that adults are getting more used to venturing into the children’s department for their novels, Luka and the Fire of Life may find a more comfortable home in the middle-grade section. After all, who can resist “the World of Magic” with “Elephant Birds, and Respecto-Rats, and a real, honest-to-goodness Flying Carpet, and then there was the little matter of becoming a Fire Thief” (ARC, pg 216).

Enola Holmes

2010-08-21T08:31:00.001-07:00

Have I seriously neglected to mention Enola Holmes? Dear me, how utterly dreadful to have kept such wonders from you.

Last summer I went through a phase in which I listened to Sherlock Holmes as I worked. BBC radio dramas, the stories read aloud with and without supporting casts....if the library had it I grabbed it. When I exhausted my library's selection, I ventured into the middle grade section, hoping to catch up on middle grade novels published during my college years. I ran across an Enola Holmes mystery and was back the next day to grab all the audios they had. Katherine Kellgren reads for the audio versions and her voice is perfect- and that's not a word I generally like to use. The novels are written in the first person- we see the world through Enola's eyes. Kellgren's talents are wonderful and her voice as Enola's is captivating.

Enola Holmes (series)
by Nancy Springer
Enola Holmes is the younger sister of that most famous of detectives. Her name backwards is alone, which is important if you're the sort of person who believes in fate or destiny. When her mother mysteriously disappears, Mycroft and Sherlock descend upon the country house. Refusing to be sent to finishing school by Mycroft, Enola disguises herself and runs away to London where she solves her own cases while also managing to evade her brothers. Enola is a strong, intelligent character with sly sleuthing skills to rival Sherlock’s. A fast-paced period-perfect series of adventures. 12 & up.

Patricia Polacco

2010-08-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

The Junkyard Wonders
by Patricia Polacco
Penguin

Polacco books tend to make me cry. And once I've gotten over the story itself, I'm hit with a wave of amazement at the number and breath of books Polacco has created. Her ability to handle issues, cultural differences, and difficult events in the format of a picture book is frankly astonishing- and something few people can accomplish so beautifully.

Polacco's newest book is no exception. The story follows children in the "junkyard" classroom, those who are different in various ways. But as their teacher, Mrs. Peterson, tells them, they are junkyard wonders, for it is from these different children that the true geniuses will come. It is through the eyes of young Trisha that we experience the trials and miraculous inventions of Mrs. Peterson's class. Polacco's illustrations combine the detail of photographs with the color and movement of life, bringing vitality to every page.

This personal account was made even more wonderful by the delightful note on the last page of the book, in which Polacco relates the futures of her fellow junk yard wonders. It is a story so perfect and wonderful it could only be found in real life. And I'll leave it as a delightful surprise for you as well.

Mo Willems

2010-08-21T07:55:00.001-07:00

The final book in Mo Willems' Caldecott Honor-Winning Knuffle Bunny series is coming out in September. I'm currently in the process of planning an event for the book release and am very excited about the third book; I think it is a fitting ending to the series.

For those of you who don’t know who Mo Willems is, you may wish to inquire of a four-year-old “Why can’t the pigeon drive the bus?” Or perhaps ask him, “What exactly is a Knuffle Bunny?” It will be rather surprising if you are not answered with elaborate explanations or lots of giggling. But for those of you without a four-year-old in the vicinity, the answer will be a little longer.

Mo Willems is a writer, illustrator and cartoonist currently living in Northampton, Massachusetts. He began his career as a writer and animator for Sesame Street, where he was awarded 6 Emmy Awards for his writing. He went on to work on shows for both Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network and it was during this time that he began creating children’s books.

In 2004 Willems’ Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus won a Caldecott Honor. In this silly book, a bus driver asks the reader to watch his bus for a little while, with one important instruction, not to let the pigeon drive the bus. The rest of the book is taken up by pigeon, who wheedles and begs and cries and rages- like any human three-year-old- to be allowed to drive the bus.

Willems’ first Caldecott Honor was followed by two others, one for Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale in 2005, and the other for Knuffle Bunny, Too in 2008. This delightful series stars Trixie and her stuffed Knuffle Bunny, who she can’t live without. The highly-anticipated last book in this Caldecott Honor-winning trilogy, Knuffle Bunny Free: An Unexpected Diversion will be released September 28^th.

More recently, Willems wrote City Dog, Country Frog, which was illustrated by Zen Shorts creator Jon Muth, and which has spent two months on the New York Times Children’s Bestseller list. Willems continues to create cartoons with Weston Woods Studios and his animated version of Knuffle Bunny won Best Film in 2008 at the New York International Children’s Film Festival.

Knuffle Bunny Free: An Unexpected Diversion

Trixie and her parents (and Knuffle Bunny, of course) get on an airplane to visit Trixie’s Oma and Opa in Holland. But upon arriving at her grandparent’s house, Trixie realizes that Knuffle Bunny hasn’t arrived with them! A frantic phone call to the airline reveals that Knuffle Bunny was left on the airplane, now bound for China (which is very far away indeed). Trixie feels terrible, but when a dream about Knuffle Bunny meeting other children makes her feel better, she begins to realize that perhaps she’s growing-up. And then, on the plane back to the United States, a crying baby and a startling surprise in her seat pocket cause her to make an important decision.

Willems’ Knuffle Bunny trilogy celebrates the bond between child and stuffed animal with humor and respect. It’s a bond many so many children have shared, one that goes beyond toy to playmate, companion, and confidante. While the end of a series is always difficult, this one ends with the possibility of future adventures for Knuffle Bunny and delightful possibilities for Trixie’s own future, ones that will have adults tearing-up as they read aloud.

A crime-fighting Lunch Lady

2010-08-21T07:47:00.000-07:00

Lunch Lady and the Summer Camp Shakedown

By Jarrett J. Krosoczka

Knopf

Everyone has wondered what lunch ladies do in their spare time. The answer? Fight crime! Lunch Lady has already brought down cyborg substitutes and the League of (evil) Librarians (with the help of the Breakfast Bunch Kids).

It’s summer time and Lunch Lady is looking forward to a relaxing vacation job at summer camp. But when the legendary Swamp Monster starts terrorizing the camp, she’ll have to break out her super-hero skills. Armed with fish-stick nunchucks, lunch tray laptops, and s’more throwing stars, Lunch Lady is out to save the day in her fourth graphic adventure.
Grade 1 & up.

David Wiesner

2010-08-09T15:13:00.000-07:00

Art and Max
by David Wiesner
Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
I love Wiesner's work. Tuesday is one of my top three pictures books of all time (I say top three because actually ordering such a thing is impossible). The incredible detail of his illustrations creates such miraculous magical realism. The preview I've seen of Art and Max (coming this fall) is no exception. The atmosphere, breathtaking detail, and bizarre story is all you could possibly want. This is not a book I can review or blurb- it must be seen.

Good and bad

2010-08-09T14:46:00.000-07:00

Not a Scary Story About Big Scary Things
by C.K. Williams & Gabi Swiatkowska
Harcourt
In the woods there lives a big scary monster that likes nothing better than to scare little children. But what happens when a boy walking through the forest doesn't believe in the terrifying monster?

I love this story. The dialogue between the boy and the monster, the scary descriptions of how the monster may look...it's all wonderfully fun. I am not, however, a fan of the illustrations. There's a stiffness, a trying-too-hard-to-be-messy quality to them. While I can understand the desire to leave the actual monster up to the imagination of the reader, I find the varried depictions of both monster and setting inconsistent. Rather than giving the book a more universal feel, these inconsistencies break up the story and make me apt to forget them altogether and focus on my own imaginings. Additionally, the boy character, the only unchanging character in the book, is an old-fashioned depiction, a sort of old European children's book illustration with styling like that of a doll. I feel this depiction will only alienate viewers from the character, especially children today. So, fabulous text for a classic story, read it and forget the rest of the package.

Perfectly Sinister

2010-08-09T14:05:00.000-07:00

Dillweed's Revenge: A Deadly Does of Magic
written by Florence Parry Heide with Roxanne Heide Pierce, David Fisher Parry, and Jeanne McReynolds Parry
illustrated by Carson Ellis
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
I was immediately drawn to this book, being a fan of Carson Ellis' illustrations-think Decemberists' posters and the covers of The Mysterious Benedict Society series. The story is dark and strange, complete with nasty adults and a series of coffins that immediately gets one thinking about Edward Gorey. Which, it turns out, is exactly where one's mind should go, as Edward Gorey illustrated Heide's Treehorn series in the 1970s.

Dillweed and his strange pet, Skorped, are forced to do the servant's work when Dillweed's parents are away having fun, which is often. It's a miserable existence, but at least they have each other. That is until Perfidia, the maid, decides to get rid of Skorped.

This is a dark adventure that will be enjoyed by strange children, followed by terrible teens, and laughed at by absurd adults.

Some Fall Picture Books

2010-08-06T14:51:00.000-07:00

Piggy Pie Po
by Don & Audrey Wood
Harcourt Children's Books, September
This Fall, from the creators of The Napping House, Piggies, King Bidgood's in the Bathtub, and my personal favorite, Heckedy Peg, comes a silly new story of an adorable pig named Piggy Pie Po. Piggy Pie Po likes many things and he is a very accomplished little pig- the only thing he can't do is tie his shoes. Piggy Pie Po loves to eat. He eats his way through a table-full of food, until he makes a terrible mistake, eating a red-hot chili pepper!
The colorful pictures, are, as always, delightful. Very young children will enjoy the rhyming text and speedy pace of the story. Though Piggy Pie Po will be released in Hardcover in September, it would make a delightful board book. Great for the 2-4 crowd, Piggy Pie Po would also make a wonderful baby shower gift.*

*I know there are a lot of people intent on purchasing only classics for baby showers. But the fact is, many people already have the classics, especially if this isn't a first child. So why not pick a new book by award-winning author/illustrators of classics?
Diary of a Baby Wombat
written by Jackie French
illustrated by Bruce Whatley
It's not often I love books for being cute, but baby wombat, is, well, cute. And who has he discovered to be his new friend? A human baby. Meanwhile, mum wombat is trying to find a bigger hole for her and baby to sleep in, and baby wombat, while trying to be helpful, is only causing trouble as usual. Will mum find them a bigger hole? And will baby wombat help her?

The interactions between the human baby and baby wombat are sweet while the mum and baby wombat interactions are classically fun (especially for parents). Just looking at a sequence of mum and baby sleeping will win you over.
The Boy in the Garden
by Allen Say
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, October
Allen Say is an undisputed master of both story and illustration. His books are quiet and strong, using few words to tell deep and complex stories that always leave me feeling a bit melancholic. It is important when approaching The Boy in the Garden, to make sure you read "The Story That Mom Read to Jiro: the Grateful Crane," on the first page for this legend is the basis for the story and not one common in the United States.
Pocket Full of Posies: A Treasury of Nursery Rhymes
illustrated by Salley Mavor
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, September
I tend to be ambivalent when it comes to nursery rhymes; there have been so many collections and so many illustrators, and, for me, they were never as good as a story. But Salley Mavor's illustrations are incredible. Using beads, felt, thread, wood, and other natural found objects Mavor has crafted a soft, warm, and infinitely charming world. Every tiny piece of clothing (to give you a sense of scale, acorn tops are hats) is embroidered with textures or patterns. The most difficult part of executing a three-dimensional illustration is the lighting and photography, and the reproductions here are beautiful. The texture is soft and visible, but not overly emphasized or overwhelming. Objects have a soft shadow to give depth, and the colors retain their earth to jewel tones. While I wouldn't ordinarily think of purchasing a book of nursery rhymes for myself, Mavor's illustrations are something I want to revisit often.

What Happened on Fox Street

2010-08-05T18:34:00.001-07:00

You may remember my post on Springstubb's upcoming What Happened on Fox Street. Well, I rewrote it for Publisher's Weekly!

How to Live Safely in a Science Fictional Universe

2010-08-02T12:03:00.000-07:00

by Charles Yu
Pantheon, September
A novel about a man coming to terms with his father and his place in the world while travelling in (or avoiding, as the case may be) time. Part Neal Stephenson, part Dave Eggers, with a dash of Douglas Adams.

Charles Yu's father invented time travel before disappearing, his mother lives in a loop of time in which she makes dinner over and over again, and Charles, a time machine repair guy, spends his life existing out of time, searching for the time/space to which his father disappeared. From explanations of tenses as a basis for time travel to job opportunities in the Death Star's accounts receivable, How to Live Safely in a Science Fictional Universe covers the spectrum of science fiction today.

Back to school

2010-08-02T11:41:00.000-07:00

It has officially started. That time of year when parents and grandparents come searching for the going-to-school books. Surprisingly enough, I've found a wonderful picture book which works for this occasion and as fun read aloud.

A Pirate’s Guide to First Grade
Written by James Preller
Illustrated by Greg Ruth
There are many books with the theme of going to school, but only one has a pirate’s approval. Using only terms and language fit for true pirates, this book will have even the most reluctant children excited for school, even if they insist on speaking like pirates for the rest of the day. This book is great to read aloud and would be a perfect way to win over an elementary teacher’s incoming students….