Sunday, February 24, 2013

Another stellar picturebook

 
Jemmy Button

Jemmy Button by Jennifer Uman & Valerio Vidali
Jemmy Button is based on the actual life of a man of the same name who was taken from his home to be educated in Western culture and society. A collaboration between Uman and Vidali, the book provides the chance to observe the world through someone else's eyes. The book's stunning illustrations are colorful and graphic, and the collaborators turn what could be a history lesson into a compelling story for children and adults.

Friday, February 22, 2013

Matilda & Hans by Yokococo


Matilda and Hans 
Matilda is a perfectly good child. Hans is a total terror. These two couldn't be more different. When Hans releases all the animals from the zoo, Matilda does what any good citizen would and turns him in. How did Matilda know who did this deed? When Hans pulls off his mask, all will be revealed! Delightful fun from beginning to surprising end, kids will be clamoring for you to "read it again!"

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

More Bink & Gollie!


Bink & Gollie: Best Friends Forever

Bink & Gollie Best Friends Forever
Before you open this book you must find someone to read it aloud to, or find a young reader to read it to you. Why? As Bink & Gollie know, laughter is better with a friend. Bink and Gollie are back in their third book. Though they may not always see things eye to eye (I mean, Bink is a great deal shorter than Gollie) they always realize being friends is the most important thing in the world-- even more important than pancakes or princesses. Tony Fucile's lively illustrations expand upon the text, adding humor and energy. I hope DiCamillo, McGhee, and Fucile continue the series; every book has been pitch-perfect!

Saturday, February 16, 2013

FArTHER by Grahame Baker-Smith



FArTHER 

This moving picture book spans three generations of men, all visited by the the dream of flight. Each generation is joined by their common dream and the emotional release that flight brings. FArTHER is about fathers, but it's also about going farther geographically, emotionally, and intellectually. Sorrowful yet joyful, FArTHER will have readers soaring on changing currents of emotion until they land, uplifted and inspired. (You may wish to take a handkerchief along for the flight.)

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

More beautiful illustrations from Stephen Savage


Polar Bear Morning

Polar Bear Morning by Lauren Thompson, illustrated by Stephen Savage
The companion to Polar Bear Night, Polar Bear Morning finds the little cub out exploring her world. The day holds much in store: other creatures, activities, and even a new friend. Savage's illustrations feature bold shapes and surprising palettes that set an immediate mood for each spread. Even infants will be drawn to the simple forms and playful colors. Simple text and illustrations combine to create a beautiful book that would make a great baby shower gift.

Monday, February 11, 2013

Great! Fun!


Exclamation Mark

Exclamation Mark Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld
Exclamation Mark is not like the periods. But what will happen when a question mark comes along? It turns out, sometimes, you to need to exclaim things. Like "This is an amazing book!" Or "Teachers will love Exclamation Mark!" Silly, smart, and even educational, it's sure to have people exclaiming, "Wow! Read this!"

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Good Fun

The Adventures of Superhero Girl 
 
Adventures of Superhero Girl by Faith Erin Hicks
Remember when you had a terrible day at school and you'd spent the hours before dinner reading Calvin and Hobbes to feel a bit better? (What do I mean remember, this totally still happens.) Anyway, now that the time between work and dinner is much shorter, just a few pages of the Adventures of Superhero Girl are what you need. It's good, smart, fun and watching Faith's interpretation of a 20-something superhero with money and dating issues makes your own issues look a bit more manageable. Added bonus? Readers who've loved Zita the Spacegirl will have Superhero Girl waiting when they become teenagers!