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Kids Picture Book Review – Have You Seen My Blankie?
Ages 2-5, Juvenile Fiction
HAVE YOU SEEN MY BLANKIE?
Written by Lucy Rowland
Illustrated by Paula Metcalf
(Nosy Crow; $16.99, Ages 2-5)
Princess Alice always takes her soft, warm and snuggly blankie to bed until one day it goes missing in Have You Seen My Blankie? The picture book, told in rhyme, is written by speech and language therapist Lucy Rowland, with colorful full-page illustrations by Paula Metcalf.
The book opens to Princess Alice's bedroom with purple walls, a large canopy bed and more toys than most kids would know what to do with. But the toys aren't as important to Alice as her white and orange blankie she is shown cuddling on her bed. "This blankie was so cuddly! So soft and warm and snuggly!"
HAVE YOU SEEN MY BLANKIE?. Text copyright © 2019 by Lucy Rowland. Illustrations copyright © 2019 by Paula Metcalf. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.
"But one day … it went missing!" Metcalf shows Princess Alice searching under her bed, the piano, the couch pillows, and even inside the toilet (she stands on a stool for this drawing!) Each illustration shows her princess crown on top of her head which I found adorable. Princess Alice hurries to the palace door and asks her brother, who is upside down swinging on a tree (but his crown doesn't slip), "Do you have my blankie, Jack?" Jack explains that after he used her beloved blankie as a curtain, a giant took it from him and wouldn't give it back! Rowland offers some laugh out loud brother sister dialogue kids will love.
Princess Alice's search begins as she tracks down Giant Jim who says, "Yes, I had your blankie but I used it as a hankie." Each illustration depicts beautiful detail of the scene. We know Giant Jim is a chef by the apron he is wearing, and the rolling pin in his hand. His outdoor table is set for tea, and his smile shows the reader he is a nice giant.
Page by page Princess Alice continues her search for her beloved blankie. "But then she saw her blankie with a dragon who looked cranky." Alice felt a little scared. "That's my blankie she declared."
Alice has an idea and works with the dragon to find him a replacement, so he will return her blankie. The detailed drawings and fun rhymes, take the listener into an imaginary world of magical kingdoms, giants and snuggly teddy bears. Princess Alice shows love and compassion for the dragon who took her blankie. Knowing how important it is to sleep with something soft and warm, she wipes away his tears. strokes his head, and promises she will find something that's just right.
This sweet story teaches children about kindness and compassion, even for someone who may have caused them harm. They'll be happy when two unlikely characters become friends: " … inside a royal palace lives a young princess named Alice. And now there is a dragon who will often come to stay!" Have You Seen My Blankie? is a comforting bedtime story for any child who, while still needing a security blanket or stuffed animal to cuddle, will feel reassured to learn that even a big dragon needs a snuggle at bedtime.
Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder
Read another picture book review by Ronda here.
Children's Christmas Books Roundup 2019
Ages 2-5, Ages 3-6, Ages 4-7, Ages 5-7, Ages 8 and up, American Robins, Animals - Birds, Children's Book Reviews, Christmas, Christmas Tree, Holidays & Celebrations, Juvenile Fiction, Santa stories
CHRISTMAS BOOKS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Celebrate the Holiday with Art, Stories, Poems, Songs, and Recipes
By The Metropolitan Museum of Art
(Abrams BYR; $24.99, Ages 8 and up)
New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art's Christmas Is Coming! Celebrate the Holidays with Art, Stories, Poems, Songs, and Recipes is a book that families will enjoy throughout the holiday season. The stories feature something for everyone: two biblical excerpts and ten tales including a Sherlock Holmes adventure, a selection from Little Women, "The Elves and the Shoemaker" by the Brothers Grimm, and Moore's lyrical "'Twas the Night Before Christmas." While this book is marketed to kids eight and up, younger ones will enjoy being read these stories while snuggling on a parent or grandparent's lap.
If singing is your thing, you'll find the music and lyrics to ten popular Christmas songs from kid-pleasing "Jingle Bells" and "Up on the Housetop," to favorites such as "The First Noel" and "Silent Night." To accompany all this festivity, try your hand at one of the six recipes, several from chefs at the Met's classic restaurant, The Dining Room. Since I'm making English Toffee for holiday gifts, I'm interested in how this recipe's addition of honey adds something new.
The stories, songs, and recipes are accompanied by full-color images serving as an introduction to art of great renown. This lovely book will make a treasured keepsake for your family or a thoughtful gift for someone special.
The Little Fir Tree
By Hans Christian Andersen
Illustrated by Christopher Corr
(Frances Lincoln Children's Books; $17.99, Ages 4-7)
In this version of The Little Fir Tree, an original story by Hans Christian Andersen is given new life in vibrant colors and a modern feel. Kids will relate to how the charming young tree wishes to be "big and tall like the other trees." When lumberjacks cut it down, the fir soon finds itself adorned and admired as a family's Christmas tree. After the holidays, splendor removed, the fir resides in the shed remembering its journey. However, a barren tree is not the end—from a buried pinecone, a new tree grows beginning the cycle once again.
Christopher Corr's colorful folk art-inspired images refresh this familiar story. Exciting neon colors and stylized illustrations are sure to please kids. Each page has a lot going on, allowing kids to explore the story beyond the words. This beautifully updated edition of a heartfelt classic tale pleases both kids and adults.
Little Robin's Christmas
By Jan Fearnley
Jan Fearnley's Little Robin's Christmas will warm your heart. One week before Christmas, Little Robin sets out seven vests but, as those days come to pass, he comes across animals shivering in the cold. Without pause, he gives away his vests. On Christmas Eve, alone, far from home, and very cold, Little Robin gets a surprise from the big man himself.
This story shows how kind acts make you feel good and are sometimes reciprocated—important elements for kids as they learn about sharing. Fearnley's words and images mesh seamlessly. Some pictures bring me back again and again: the squirrel asleep wearing a yellow vest, the rabbit posed with a blue vest on his ears, and Little Robin hugging a mouse between sprigs of red berries in the snow. The icy feel of the book emanates from cool blue tones and white. However, colors liven up the pages, echoing how Little Robin brings joy to those he meets in his travels.
Santa's Secret
By Denise Brennan-Nelson
Illustrated by Deborah Melmon
(Sleeping Bear Press; $16.99, Ages 5-7)
Santa's Secret delights with its funny rhyme that takes you through a day with a girl on a quest to discover all she can about Santa—especially which one is real. I remember this question myself; kids come across Santas in many places and soon realize they seem to be different people. I like how Denise Brennan-Nelson's story tackles this puzzling subject with humor and finesse. After all, the holidays are about believing.
Deborah Melmon's art realistically sets the scenes with the girl's quizzical looks and Grandma's whispered secrets. The art is perfectly bright and hopeful. Spend some time reading the girl's notes because they add another layer to the story. Apparently my daughter's been right when insisting we leave out a carrot with Santa's milk and cookies!
How to Trick a Christmas Elf
By Sue Fliess
Illustrated by Simona Sanfilippo
(Sky Pony Press; $16.99, Ages 3-6)
Sue Fliess charms us again with How to Trick a Christmas Elf. Since kids want to know whether they've been noted as naughty or nice, knowing how to distract an elf to take a quick peek at the list is surely handy. This rhyming read-aloud tale shows what happens when you build an elf-sized sleigh. With elves very much a part of Christmas lore, this book offers a fresh take on modern elves who hang out in our homes. We're left with the important message that we should give from our hearts. Afterward is a brief history of Christmas elves and instructions on how to build your own elf sleigh—such a clever idea to incorporate into the holiday festivities.
This bold edge-to-edge art by Simona Sanfilippo captures your attention. The lively greens, reds, and yellows add to the excitement of elvish shenanigans. I love the closing image of a happy antlered kitty pulling the elf sleigh as Elliott departs for another year.
Reviewed by Christine Van Zandt (www.ChristineVanZandt.com), Write for Success (www.Write-for-Success.com), @ChristineVZ and @WFSediting, Christine@Write-for-Success.com
Read another roundup of 2019 holiday books here.
Additional Recommended Reads for 2019:
The Tree That's Meant to Be
By Yuval Zommer
Dear Santa: For Everyone Who Believes in the Magic of Christmas
By Susanna Leonard Hill
Illustrated by John Joseph
Best New Picture Books for Grandparents Day 2019
Ages 2-5, Children's Book Reviews, Death & Dying, Emotions & Feelings, Family & Relationships, Family ties, Grandparent - grandfather, Grandparent - Grandmother, Grandparents Day, Holidays & Celebrations, Juvenile Fiction, Loss, Love, Multicultural stories, Multigenerational, Resilience, Social Situations - Death & Dying
CELEBRATING GRANDPARENTS DAY 2019
∼A ROUNDUP∼
GRANDPA'S TOP THREES
Written by Wendy Meddour
Illustrated by Daniel Egnéus
(Candlewick Press; $16.99, Ages 2-5)
This charming picture book hit all the right notes with me. The cleverness of the prose and the gorgeous watercolor illustrations that were rendered digitally work together to make Grandpa's Top Threes an easy-to-read and share, gentle approach to grief (in this case the grandpa's) and the loss of a grandparent.
Henry is frustrated by his grandpa's seemingly ignoring him, but his mom tells him to give it time. Parent and caregivers will immediately understand why. When Mom suggests Henry ask his grandpa "if he'd like a sandwich," Henry puts the perfect spin on the question and engages his grandfather. "Grandpa, what are your top three sandwiches?" As Henry succeeds at getting his grandfather out of himself by continuing to ask for Grandpa's Top Three, the two return to their loving relationship that existed before Henry's grandmother's death. The beautiful ending will tug at your heartstrings in the best possible way.
GRANDPA'S STORIES
Written by Joseph Coelho
Illustrated by Allison Colpoys
(Abrams BYR; $16.99, Ages 4-8)
★Starred Reviews – Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, Shelf Awareness
This moving story is meaningful in so many ways. It's at once a book that will help youngsters discuss and process the loss of a beloved grandparent as well as a beautiful and poetic tribute to the grandparent grandchild relationship.
The picture book aptly unfolds in seasons where the young main character compares her grandpa to things in the world as varied as springtime, deep space, dreams and stories. "If all the world were springtime, I would replant my grandpa's birthdays so that he would never get old." Her other wishes convey to readers that this bright little girl knows her grandfather is ill and while the loss may come as no surprise, the overwhelming feelings of grief will. But thankfully she has special memories from Grandpa and a new journal handmade by him in which she can "write and draw" to express her sadness along with the worlds of love she shared with her grandfather.
Despite the subject of losing a beloved grandparent, the cheerful illustrations rich with expression help this picture book focus on happy times the grandfather and granddaughter have spent together. The terrific takeaway definitely comes from the subtitle, A Book of Remembering, which Grandpa's Stories does perfectly.
MY GRANDMA AND ME
Written by Mina Javaherbin
Illustrated by Lindsey Yankey
I had a smile on my face the entire time I was reading My Grandma and Me. While I never had this close relationship with my grandmother, I enjoyed reading about Javaherbin's deep abiding love for hers. This picture book, autobiographical and irresistible, takes readers to Iran where the author's grandmother lived with her family. "When she cooked, I cooked. When she prayed, I prayed like her, too." Mina's grandmother welcomed her sweet shadow.
Like me, I'm sure you'll fly through the pages and read again and again about how young Mina adored her grandmother and spent as much time with her as possible whether at home, next door at her friend Annette's house or at the mosque. As Mina grows, so does her love and respect for her grandmother who was obviously a wonderful role model for the young girl.
What will also resonate with readers, in addition to the lovely recollections, are the simple moments of grandma and grandchild quality time. In the beginning of the book Yankey shows little Mina lying on her grandmother's back during namaz, early morning prayer time. From that moment on the love between grandchild and grandparent emanates from every page during playtime, Ramadan and social visits. This enchanting celebration of the bond between generations is a rewarding and recommended read.
Reviews by Ronna Mandel
Other new recommended reads for Grandparents Day
Our Favorite Day by Joowon Oh – a not-to-miss debut about special time together that will leave your heart full. It's pure happiness in your hands.
Looking for Yesterday by Alison Jay – this charming picture book about looking forward is a STEMish story with breathtaking illustrations you'll want to look at over and over again and a grandparent grandson relationship that's full of wisdom and wit.
You can also find a previous Grandparents Day book review here.
Two New Joyful Picture Books – Stardust and The Whole Wide World and Me
Ages 2-5, Children's Book Reviews, Concepts, Concepts - Weather, Family & Relationships, Family - Siblings, Family ties, Grandparent - grandfather, Juvenile Fiction, Multigenerational, Seasons, Shapes
A flower in a field. 🌸
A star in the sky. ✨
Simple things seen and sensed
through the eyes of a child
help them find and define their place in the universe
in two beautiful new picture books
from Candlewick Press and Nosy Crow.
Written by Jeanne Willis
Illustrated by Briony May Smith
STARDUST features a thoughtful young girl who tries and tries to shine as brightly as her talented older sister. She cannot knit as well, find a missing ring first, or design the best outfit for the costume competition. When she seeks solace under the starry night sky, her grandfather joins her for a quiet chat. Once there was nothing, he tells her, but after a BANG and a series of twinkles, stars were born. Willis sends the duo off on an imaginary journey to explore the subsequent creation of planets, moons, seas, trees and even, sisters!
STARDUST. Text copyright © 2018 by Jeanne Willis. Illustrations copyright © 2018 by Briony May Smith. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.
Smith's richly colored illustrations will carry young readers into the fantastical realm to introduce the Big Bang and how all is created from stardust. The tender relationship between the girl and her grandfather is light and sweet but never heavy-handed, leading to a delightful conclusion that reaches decades into the girl's future.
The book jacket is generously speckled with silver stars and a shiny title, a bright and cheerful exterior feature that highlights and compliments this book's encouraging message about being true to yourself.
THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD AND ME
Written and illustrated by Toni Yuly
(Candlewick; $15.99, Ages 2-5)
A tiny red ladybug has captured a girl's attention on the cover of Toni Yuly's THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD AND ME. Open the book, and the ladybug creeps up a single blade of green grass. Suddenly a bright yellow flower dominates the page, as if from the bug's perspective. Two boots arrive on scene, signaling the girl's arrival and her tender exploration of the natural wonders that surround her.
THE WHOLD WIDE WORLD AND ME. Copyright © 2019 by Toni Yuly. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.
The simple lyrical text is placed sparingly on the page, pacing the story with a gentle, slow unfurling from land to sea, sky and mountain.
Yuly's captivating illustrations are a combination of ink, charcoal pencil, torn tissue, cut paper and digital collage. The colors are bold and textured, beautifully conveying the gritty beach, crisp blades of grass, and fuzzy cotton dandelion seeds. "I am a small part of it all," proclaims the young naturalist, joyously exploring and connecting with the world around her. Readers will be duly inspired to get outdoors and join the fun.
★Starred Review – Kirkus Reviews
Reviewed by Cathy Ballou Mealey
Where obtained: I reviewed either an advanced reader's copy from the publisher or a library edition and received no other compensation. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Our Favorite Kids' Christmas Books Part Three
Ages 0-5, Ages 2-5, Ages 2-6, Ages 4-8, Christmas, Christmas Traditions, Christmas Tree, Holidays & Celebrations, Juvenile Fiction
NEW CHRISTMAS BOOKS FOR CHILDREN 2018
– A ROUNDUP –
A UNICORN NAMED SPARKLE'S FIRST CHRISTMAS
Written and illustrated by Amy Young
(Farrar, Straus and Giroux BYR; $16.99, Ages 2-6)
A Unicorn Named Sparkle's First Christmas, Amy Young's third book in this funny series, doesn't disappoint. Cutie pie Sparkle continues to delight readers with silly antics offset by his true friendship with the little girl who loves him.
Lucy—perhaps like someone you know—believes the best thing about Christmas is "Lots and lots of PRESENTS!" And, of course, who better to give great presents than your BFF? However, even with Lucy's insistent reminders, Sparkle doesn't quite grasp the concept. It is, after all, his first Christmas.
Young's illustrations capture the exciting buildup of holiday madness (cookies, ice skating, the mall) and, of course, a crazy-messy wonderful house. If you enjoy playful underscored by heartfelt friendship, this book's for you.
LITTLE CHRISTMAS TREE
Written and illustrated by Jessica Courtney-Tickle
(Big Picture Press; $15.99, Ages 2-5)
★Starred Review – Publisher's Weekly
This beautiful, extra-large, 12-page board book's sparkling art invites readers to journey into wintery landscapes. Each scene has several lift-the-flap opportunities for little hands to discover hidden wonders.
Written in rhyme, the story takes the reader through a day in the forest. First, the little Christmas tree awakens to find the woods have turned from green to white. Creatures explore until the sky clouds over and snowflakes fall once more.
Jessica Courtney-Tickle's digital illustrations in Little Christmas Tree convey the best of snowy weather. Brightly colored berries and animals contrast well with the forest's earth tones. Silver foil accents add a lovely effect. Young readers will delight in revisiting these tranquil sceneries.
MERRY CHRISTMAS, LITTLE ELLIOT
Written and illustrated by Mike Curato
(Henry Holt BYR; $17.99, Ages 4-8)
Merry Christmas, Little Elliot is a lovely addition to the seasonal standards with its fresh look at a familiar theme. You may know Little Elliot (an elephant with pastel spots) from previous books. In this holiday adventure, Elliot isn't excited because he doesn't have Christmas spirit.
So he sets off with Mouse to try and find this elusive thing. None of the typical wonders (The Nutcracker ballet, a spectacular tree, or sledding) incite Elliot until a mysterious envelope leads the two friends to discover what this time of year truly means.
Mike Curato's classic art enhances and amplifies the story line. The beautiful book has an old-fashioned feel with a timeless message. Santa tells Elliot that he can't give him the Christmas spirit, "You have to find that yourself."
Be sure to look under the picture book's dust jacket for a clever alternate cover image.
The above three books were reviewed by Christine Van Zandt
Writer, editor, and owner of Write for Success www.Write-for-Success.com
@WFSediting, Christine@Write-for-Success.com
MERRY CHRISTMAS, LITTLE POOKIE
Written and illustrated by Sandra Boynton
(Little Simon; $5.99, Ages 0-5)
I'll be honest. Pookie can do no wrong by me. Sandra Boynton is a personal fave so I'm biased when it comes to her books as anyone who follows me on Twitter knows.
On Christmas Eve, little Pookie pig is ready for a walk in the snow with Mama. When noses get frozen, it's time to head inside because "There are garlands to make and lights to turn on and cookies to bake." Family and friends will soon be arriving and Christmas songs will be sung. Boynton's 18-page rhyming board board is festive and endearing and features all the trademark cuteness that make this a wonderful addition to the beloved go-to series. With eight books available, there's definitely a great selection to keep your youngest ones entertained. And now, with Merry Christmas, Little Pookie in the mix, children can easily spend all year with Little Pookie!
THE BROKEN ORNAMENT
Written and illustrated by Tony DiTerlizzi
(Simon & Schuster Books; $17.99, Ages 4-8)
Be careful what you wish for is what I kept thinking as I read The Broken Ornament, a touching picture book about empathy, thoughtfulness and self-reliance. As the story opens "Jack wanted this to be the best Christmas ever." When that means adding more ornaments on the tree, Jack's mother warns him about the one he intends to hang. It shatters and his mom hastily retreats upstairs followed by his dad with a box of tissues. Clearly that ornament was meaningful to his mom. It's only when a fairy named Tinsel emerges from the ornament shards that Jack gets the over-the-top Christmas experience he longed for. But something was missing. Was there a way to replace the broken ornament? Tinsel helps Jack learn the story behind the ornament's importance and explains that only Jack has the power to come up with a solution. Once Jack puts his mind to it, he figures out a beautiful way to show his remorse over his action that, while not bringing back the old ornament, helps everyone have a joyful Christmas after all. Sometimes there's magic in the small things. I absolutely loved DiTerlizzi's spread of Tinsel's magical creatures (Santa, elves, snowmen, reindeer, nutcrackers) gathered in the snow outside the living room window looking in at the happy family. Santa's got a spotlight on him as he holds a glowing Tinsel in his hand. Young readers will be thrilled to witness the positive outcome along with the Christmas cast of characters. Buy local and treat yourself to this beautiful book to share with your family this holiday season.
The above two books were reviewed by Ronna Mandel
Please click here for Part One of our 2018 Christmas Books Roundup.
Please click here for Part Two of our 2018 Christmas Books Roundup.
Here Comes Hanukkah! A Children's Book Roundup Part 2
Ages 2-5, Ages 3-5, Children's Book Reviews, Hanukkah, Holidays & Celebrations, Holidays & Festivals - Jewish Holidays, Juvenile Fiction
BEST NEW CHILDREN'S BOOKS ROUNDUP PART 2
D IS FOR DREIDEL: A Hanukkah Alphabet
Written and illustrated by Greg Paprocki
A BabyLit Book
(Gibbs-Smith; $9.99, Ages 2-5)
NOTE: Today it's on sale for $5.00 on their website.
Let your little learners thumb through all 32 pages of this colorful board book with its retro cartoonish feel while you gently introduce all the different Hanukkah related things included. While this is not the first primer in the series from Paprocki (there's S is for Santa, L is for Love and B is for Boo), I'm glad Gibbs-Smith decided it was important to add this title. And expect two more soon (E is for Easter and R is for Ramadan) which can be pre-ordered now. I honestly wondered at first how the author/illustrator would find appropriate words for each letter, but surprising he did including Y is for yontiff (Yiddish for holiday). Saying "Gut yontiff" is how my parents and grandparents greeted fellow Jews at holidays throughout the year. From alphabet to zaide, I found so many of the illustrations beautiful and welcoming with their jewel tones and cheerful settings. J is for jelly doughnut is another particular fave but truly there are many so you'll just have to see for yourself. Then, perhaps you, too, will be as eXcited as I was to read the book.
MEET THE LATKES
Written and illustrated by Alan Silberberg
(Viking BYR; $17.99, Ages 3-5)
Meet the Latkes by Alan Silberberg makes for an enjoyable read if parents seek something a bit less traditional and more whimsical to share this Hanukkah (or Chanukah!). Silberberg, an award-winning cartoonist and children's TV creator, is both author and illustrator of this debut picture book.
The main characters in the story are Lucy Latke, her grandpa and her dog Applesauce. The humor comes into play when Grandpa tells Lucy his version of Chanukah or Hanukkah as is explained early on since the holiday can be spelled multiple ways. But these are the two most common. I suppose you could say Meet the Latkes is funny from the get go because we're listening to latkes as opposed to people and that's probably enough to get little ones giggling.
Rather than stick to the standard story of the heroic Maccabees, headed by Judah, who fought to keep the Jewish people safe from a brutal King Antiochus, Grandpa recounts the tale of the Mega-Bees. Their nemesis was a group of "Outer space spuds." All the while Grandpa is telling his story, Applesauce is trying to explain the real version and growing increasingly frustrated.
Most young Jewish children know the Hanukkah story but it bears repeating annually. I never tire of reading new spins on an old tale and Silberberg has definitely done that. Children who aren't Jewish or have never learned the story will find Silberberg's way of conveying this historic tale most entertaining, especially if different voices are used for Grandpa and Applesauce.
In Grandpa's version, the evil tater tyrants ultimately get whipped into mash that, when mixed up with "EGG and ONION and a pinch of flour," becomes what we know as latkes! Of course Applesauce goes on to explain the true tale which includes the miracle of the Maccabees' discovery of a tiny amount of oil left "to light the holy menorah." What should have been enough for one day lasted eight which is why we light candles for eight nights. My favorite part of Meet the Latkes is the teenage brother who always says "I don't care!" and remains cloistered in his room until finally emerging near the end, making that just one more miracle to celebrate and one that may resonate with many families. In fact, I laughed upon discovering teen Lex Latke's promotional blurb on the book's back cover. "You want to know THE TRUE STORY OF HANUKKAH? Don't ask me—read this book!" I agree.
LIGHT THE MENORAH! A HANUKKAH HANDBOOK
Written by Jacqueline Jules
Illustrated by Kristina Swarner
(Kar-Ben Publishing; $18.99 Hardcover, $8.99 Paperback, Ages 4-10)
After so many years of celebrating Hanukkah, I thought there was nothing more to learn about the holiday but I was wrong. Jacqueline Jules has written an engaging picture book that I could easily see using with my grown-up family every year.
There's an introduction, blessings, thoughtful verse to accompany each of the eight nights candle lighting along with a moving reflection to read silently, aloud or discuss together as a family. The second half of Light The Menorah! features four pages devoted to the Hanukkah story for which there are two versions, something I had never known. There's the historical version and the rabbinic tradition which is the one I've always told about the oil from the damaged Temple lasting eight nights. The historic version says that since the Maccabees "couldn't take a week to observe Sukkot properly, … they celebrated for eight days during the rededication of the Temple."
The remaining pages answer common questions such as when does Hanukkah occur, where is it celebrated and more. I was delighted to read the section where Jules explains the role women played in the Hanukkah story. No one will be disappointed to see instructions for playing the dreidel game, latkes and jelly donut recipes in addition to easy crafts.
Swarner's lovely watercolor illustrations dress up the text and are well paired on every page or spread. I was drawn to the book by the title and cover art and am glad I didn't miss a single thing both Jules and Swarner had to share. This one's a keeper and would make a wonderful gift to families just beginning to celebrate the Festival of Lights.
– Reviewed by Ronna Mandel
For more Hanukkah book ideas, click here.
How to Grow a Dinosaur – An Interview with Author Jill Esbaum
Ages 2-5, Author Interview, Children's Book Reviews, Dinosaurs, Family - New Baby, Family - Siblings, Humorous Stories, Juvenile Fiction
HOW TO GROW A DINOSAUR
Written by Jill Esbaum and illustrated by Mike Boldt
(Dial Books for Young Readers; $17.99; Ages 2-5)
If you're looking for a gift for a child who is about to become an older sibling, look no further than Jill Esbaum's hilarious and practical guide to big siblinghood, HOW TO GROW A DINOSAUR with artwork by Mike Boldt. Here's a description from Penguin Random House:
Good news: Your mom's hatching a baby! Bad news: Babies take their sweet time. And when the baby finally hatches? He's too little to play! He mostly screeches, eats, burps, sleeps, and poops. He doesn't even know he's a dinosaur! That's where you come in. You can teach the baby just about everything–from peek-a-boo to roaring to table manners to bedtime. Growing a dinosaur is a big job, but you're perfect for it. Why? Because one thing your baby brother wants more than anything . . . is to be just like you.
INTERVIEW: I was lucky enough to sit down for a chat (via Facebook Messenger) with Jill to talk about the book, finding time to write, and the perks of being a kidlit author.
Colleen Paeff: I love the way HOW TO GROW A DINOSAUR is playful and funny, but it's also a legitimate how-to guide for older siblings. Did the manuscript start out that way or did it evolve over time?
Jill Esbaum: Thanks, Colleen! That evolved over time. I wrote it to be a simple, entertaining book, but it sort of took on a life of its own. My editor grabbed onto the possibilities right away.
CP: Did you send it to your agent first or did it go straight to your editor?
JE: I sent it to my agent, Tricia Lawrence. I had my Dial editor, Jessica Dandino Garrison, in mind, though, and asked Tricia to send it to her first. It seemed like the kind of goofy humor she might like.
CP: So, you had worked with this editor before?
JE: Yes. We had worked together on both I HATCHED and I AM COW, HEAR ME MOO!
CP: Is it easier to work on something with an editor you've worked with before?
JE: Definitely, because you (sorta) know what might work for her/him and what probably
won't.
Interior spread by Mike Boldt from How to Grow a Dinosaur by Jill Esbaum, Dial BYR ©2018
CP: How long was the process from first draft to publication for HOW TO GROW A DINOSAUR?
JE: I sent it to Tricia in May of 2015, and by October we had an offer. The process didn't really start until March, when the contract was finally buttoned up. So March, 2016, to January, 2018. Not bad.
CP: Is that faster than usual? Or is that normal for you?
JE: That was about the same as my other recent books. I once waited nearly 5 years, though, so 2 years felt like lightning speed. My last 5 (or so) books have all been about 2 to 2 and a half years from sale to publication.
CP: Wow. That seems fast!
JE: Still seems fast to me, too. My earlier books were mostly 3-year books.
CP: I'm curious about the ratio of stories you write to stories you sell. Do you have many manuscripts in the proverbial "drawer" or do you sell most of what you write?
JE: That's hard to say right now. My agent has 6-7 picture book manuscripts that started to make the rounds last year. Considering my entire career, though, I suppose I sell…50% of what I write? That's probably just because I refuse to give up on some that deserve the drawer. I can't help tinkering with rejected stories in hopes of making them irresistible the next time out. That persistence has often paid off for me. An offer came in last month for a picture book that had been rejected 7-8 times since I wrote it in 2014.
CP: Do you usually work on one project at a time or several?
JE: Several. Right now, I have a chapter book, 3 picture book manuscripts, and a nonfiction project all front and center on my computer desktop.
CP: Are you someone who writes every day or do you have a more flexible schedule? And how do you squeeze it in around farm work, grandchildren, school visits, and teaching a summer writing workshop?!
JE: I don't feel like I've been doing a very good job of it lately, honestly. Working on that. But I can't always make writing my priority. Family comes first, always. One thing that has also been squeezing out writing time lately is handling the business side of being published. I don't love it, and it's a huge time suck. Long, leisurely days of "Hmm, what should I work on first?" are VERY few and far between, these days.
CP: But it seems like you're so prolific!
JE: I don't feel that way. I always feel like I should be writing more. For instance, I wrote a quick draft of a new picture book and sent it to my online critique group about 10 days ago. They've all weighed in, and I'm chomping at the bit to start tweaking. But I haven't yet been able to make the time. Part of that is because I have a new book out and am doing my best to promote it, including my first-ever launch party this next weekend. Partly it's because the flu sidelined a grandson's babysitter, so I stepped in there. Grammy duty is one of the best parts of my life!
CP: Is hanging out with your grandkids a big source of inspiration for you?
JE: It is! And I hadn't really expected that. My fingers are tightly crossed for a project going to its final yes/no meeting next month that springs entirely from a moment I experienced while babysitting my granddaughter. Crazy.
CP: I know you write both fiction and nonfiction. Do you have a soft spot for one over the other?
JE: I suppose I have a soft spot for fiction, but only because that comes entirely from my own imagination, and it's a blast to see that come to life. I love writing nonfiction, too, because all the information I need is easily available to me, and all I have to do is figure out a way to make it engaging for kiddos.
CP: Let's get back to HOW TO GROW A DINOSAUR. I love the parts in the story where the text is vague, but the illustrations show something alarming, or moving, or downright hilarious. Did your manuscript go to the illustrator with art notes or was that all him?
JE: I did include brief art notes here and there. But much of it was left for the illustrator's imagination. I don't think I had an art note for the page in which the baby dino is teething on the cat. And that turned out to be one of my favorite illustrations.
CP: Yes! I love that one. And I love the one where the big brother roars and scares the baby. They both look so sad.
JE: I feel very fortunate that both Jessica and the illustrator, Mike Boldt, understood what I was trying to do.
CP: Do you have a favorite unexpected detail?
JE: My favorited unexpected detail is that Mike inserted picture books here and there with titles that are plays on books of his or mine. There's I Don't Want To Be a Stegosaurus (from his book with Dev Petty, I Don't Want To Be a Frog); I Hatched; and I Am T. Rex, Hear Me Roar! (from my I Am Cow, Hear Me Moo!) Too funny. Illustrators are brilliant.
CP: Yes! I love those, too. And I love how all the illustrations in the books are dinosaurs. It's so clever. Did you see any artwork while it was in process or did you have to wait until it was complete?
JE: I did get to see the black and white sketches. It was obvious even then that this one would be special.
CP: Do you sometimes feel a sense of trepidation when you give up your manuscript to an illustrator?
JE: No, I never feel that way. I'm always excited to see what they bring to the story. Seeing their sketches feels like unwrapping a gift.
CP: What's next for you?
JE: I have a couple of nonfiction books coming out in March. Picture book-wise, two projects are in the pipeline that I can't yet talk about. And my fingers are tightly crossed for a third. Meanwhile, I'll be writing whenever I can squeeze it in. Enough of that, and projects eventually get finished.
CP: What do you wish you'd known when you first started writing for children?
JE: I don't think there's anything I can say I wish I'd known. Getting to this point in my career has been one long, slow learning process, of course. But I can't wish I'd had shortcuts, because everything that's happened has made me a stronger writer.
CP: That's good to know!
JE: The BEST thing that's happened in the past 20 years: If anybody had told me, early on, that in 20 years I'd have this many amazing and talented author/illustrator friends all over the globe I would have thought that person was nuts. I mean, I live in Iowa; how would I meet them? Ha. Enter the internet. And SCBWI conferences and literature festivals. Meeting so many terrific book people has been one of the highlights of my life.
CP: It's definitely one of the perks of this business. Thanks so much for doing this, Jill!
JE: Thanks, Colleen! I enjoyed it.
Interview by Colleen Paeff
Thanksgiving Books for Children
Ages 0-3, Ages 1-3, Ages 2-5, Ages 6-9, Board Books - Interactive Books, Children's Book Reviews, Family - Siblings, History, Holidays & Celebrations, Juvenile Fiction, Thanksgiving, United States
A THANKSGIVING BOOKS ROUNDUP
Here's a selection of our 2017 faves
For little ones to gobble up!
Llama Llama Gives Thanks
An Anna Dewdney Book
Illustrated by J. T. Morrow
(Penguin Young Readers; $5.99, Ages 0-3)
In just under 60 words on 14 sturdy pages, Llama Llama Gives Thanks, based on the characters created by Anna Dewdney, perfectly and joyfully conveys what the holiday is all about — celebrating together with friends and family, trying new foods and giving thanks not just on Thanksgiving but throughout the year. A message worth remembering and easy to understand when shared by Dewdney's beloved characters.
Otis Gives Thanks
Written and Illustrated by Loren Long
(Philomel; $8.99, Ages 0-3)
Otis Gives Thanks, a 30 page board book, is certain to appeal to old Otis fans and bring new ones on board. Long's popular tractor is grateful for so many things on the farm where he lives and works. Whether he's hopping over hay or settling down to sleep, Otis is always thankful for playful moments, hard work and friends. This beautiful book radiates warmth with its stunning artwork of muted hues and feeling of a bygone era. Every page is a tribute to the heartland where our food is grown and a caring community including farmers love the land and the country, just like Otis does. www.otisthetractor.com
Where is Baby's Turkey?
Written and illustrated by Karen Katz
This sweet interactive board book invites young readers to help Baby find his cuddly turkey. By lifting assorted flaps and searching behind seasonal flowers, a gate, a basket, the fridge, in the kitchen and behind the door, Baby is introduced to a colorful variety of Thanksgiving items until his plush toy turkey is found. With just the right amount of flaps to entertain and engage, Where is Baby's Turkey makes an ideal gift this holiday season for those just learning what Thanksgiving is all about.
The Ugly Pumpkin
Written and illustrated by Dave Horowitz
(Nancy Paulsen Books; $7.99, Ages 2-5)
Move over duckling, here comes The Ugly Pumpkin! Horowitz's hit, The Ugly Pumpkin is now in board book format with its humorous illustrations and rhyming first person text. Ideal for both Halloween and Thanksgiving, this tale is about a distinctly shaped pumpkin who is frequently mocked, never gets picked and is left to wander on his own to find someplace where he'll be accepted and belong. The mood picks up when he discovers "a garden that was overrun with squash. I noticed something very odd and then thought, O my gosh …" This little pumpkin was a happy little pumpkin when he learns he's really a squash! And for him, that was definitely something to be thankful for! Horowtiz's whimsical illustrations add another layer of zaniness to a funny story that easily engages kids since it's impossible not to empathize with the long, thin orange narrator.
Rettie and the Ragamuffin Parade
Written by Trinka Hakes Noble
Illustrated by David C. Gardner
If you've ever visited New York's Tenement Museum, this historical fiction picture book will surely resonate with you. But even if you haven't, from the very first page you'll be transported back to the Lower East Side in November of 1918. Americans were overseas fighting and at home an influenza pandemic swept across the country making thousands of children, rich and poor, orphans. The disease did not discriminate. In the two-room tenement of nine year old Loretta Stanowski, or "Rettie" as she was known, looked after her consumptive mother and three younger siblings. Her father was a soldier somewhere abroad. So, to earn money to support the family during her mother's illness, Rettie cleaned rags. She also longed for the upcoming Ragamuffin Parade which many now say was the precursor to Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. But would the city call off the event since so many people were ill and public gatherings had been stopped to prevent the influenza from spreading? During the Ragamuffin Parade, wealthy people would line the streets and give pennies to the raggedy clothed children who asked, "Have ya anything for Thanksgiving?" There would also be a scramble at busy street corners were pennies were tossed in the air and kids would scramble to collect as many as possible, hence the name. The parade would provide a much needed opportunity to bring in extra money. Putting food in the mouths of her family was Rettie's top priority as was staying healthy so when her tenement building's manager came down with the flu and was quarantined, an opportunity for Rettie to earn more money presented itself. This moving story is a well-written and engaging resource for anyone interested in daily life in early 20th century New York, although these scenes likely played out in cities across America. As the war came to end on November 11, 1918, President Woodrow Wilson declared November 28 a day of Thanksgiving. To this day we gather together as Americans to share a meal and reflect on our many reasons to be thankful. Between Noble's well-researched story and Gardner's evocative illustrations, Rettie and the Ragamuffin Parade is a treat. The spirited young Rettie is an inspiring main character and her devotion to her family shines through on every page. An author's note at the end provides more details for young readers as does an archival photo circa 1910 of the ragamuffins. Despite having grown up in New York, I'd never heard of this parade and appreciate Noble's successful efforts at capturing the time, place and people struggling daily on the Lower East Side.
Reviewed by Ronna Mandel
Children's Books for Mother's Day 2017
Ages 0-4, Ages 1-3, Ages 2-5, Ages 3-5, Ages 4-8, Animal Families, Animals - Baby Animals, Animals - Leopards, Animals - Orangutan, Animals - Pandas, Board Books - Interactive Books, Children's Book Reviews, Elephants, Emotions & Feelings, Family - Siblings, Gift Book, Gift Books, Holidays & Celebrations, Holidays & Festivals - Mother's Day, Juvenile Fiction, Juvenile Fiction - Family Juvenile Fiction - Animals, Love, Mother & Children Relationship, Mother's Day, Parent - Child, Patience, Rainforest animals
BEST CHILDREN'S BOOKS FOR MOTHER'S DAY
Mama's Kisses
Written by Kate McMullan
Illustrated by Tao Nyeu
(Dial BYR; $16.99, Ages 3-5)
With starred reviews from both Publishers Weekly and Booklist, Mama's Kisses is sure to be an in-demand picture book for many Mother's Days to come. McMullan has written a sweet ode to the unwavering devotion and patience of moms, in this case, rainforest moms. The moon is on the rise and four mommy animals are on the lookout for their young ones, a baby panda, elephant, orangutan and leopard. As bedtime beckons, the babies engage in a playful game of hide-and-seek that seems so successful until all at once, when the moms are ready, their hiding place is uncovered. But being found means getting kisses, smooches, and hugs galore until tired eyes can no longer remain open. Dreamland is drawing nigh so the baby animals go to sleep soon followed by their tired moms, always close at hand. Conveyed in uncomplicated rhyme and calming rhythm, Mama's Kisses is a gentle bedtime tale perfect for pre-schoolers. Nyeu's artwork fills all corners of most every page and, though using only oranges, yellows and blues, she manages to create a subtle softness, warmth and calming mood with just these few well chosen hues.
Written by Diane Adams
Illustrated by Claire Keane
(Chronicle Books; $15.99, Ages 3-5)
Whether it's for Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, Graduation or simply just because, Love is by Diane Adams will make a great gift. Love is a girl and her duckling. Looking after the fuzzy little creature is not unlike a mother caring for her child which is why Love is works on many levels. It's a story about loving and nurturing something that is dear to you, as well as being about the responsibility involved in such a privilege. "Love is holding something fragile, tiny wings and downy head. Love is noisy midnight feedings, shoebox right beside the bed." The little girl must also accept that her duckling is growing. She will soon need to allow her pet to move on, fend for itself, find a new home and start a family all its own, all the while knowing that the love she has shared will not be forgotten. This 32 page picture book is a delightful read aloud story with well-paced rhyme and evocative illustrations that, coupled with the meaningful verse, will tug at your heartstrings.
How To Raise a Mom
Written by Jean Reagan
Illustrated by Lee Wildish
(Alfred A. Knopf BYR; $17.99, Ages 4-8)
Another winner from the creators of the How To picture book series, How to Raise a Mom will totally charm moms, dads and kids alike.
"Raising a happy, healthy mom is fun … and important! Are you ready for some tips?" The sibling narrators take readers through their mother's typical day as part of their instruction guide, and clearly based on the wonderful rearing and love they're getting from her. After kisses to awaken her, and giving her choices for the day's outfit, the kids take her to the supermarket and the playground to name a few places while also leaving quiet time for her to get some work done. It's fantastic to be treated again to Wildish's whimsical illustrations like those found in the other How To books, full of humorous not-to-miss touches and amusing expressions in every spread. Kids will especially get a kick out of the dog and cat Wildish includes in many scenes. The children also cover playtime, mealtime and finish up the full day with stories and snuggles. I loved how they occasionally mimic just what Mom always says to them such as "Thank you so much, Sweat Pea, for being so patient," or "Remember to be a good sharer!" There is so much to enjoy in this picture book tribute celebrating moms everywhere.
More recommended children's books for Mother's Day:
Written and illustrated by Emma Dodd
When I Carried You in My Belly
Written by Thrity Umriar
Illustrated by Ziyue Chen
(Running Press Kids; $16.99, Ages 4-8)
I Love My Mommy
by Sebastien Braun
(Harper Collins; $7.99, Ages 0-4)
Mommy Snuggles
by Anne Gutman and Georg Hallensleben
(Chronicle Books; $5.99, Ages 1-3)
Best New Easter Board Books for Children – A Roundup
Ages 2-5, Ages 3-5, Ages 4-8, American Robins, Animals, Animals - Birds, Animals - Birds, Animals - Bunny Rabbits, Animals - Rabbits, Board Books - Interactive Books, Children's Book Reviews, Emotions & Feelings, Farm Animals - Rabbits, Holidays & Festivals - Easter, Holidays & Festivals - Easter, Juvenile Fiction, Juvenile Fiction - Nature & the Natural World, Kindness, Legends, Tucker
If you know any little ones already thinking
about Easter egg hunts and
baskets full of chocolate candy,
this roundup of new Easter board books
IS FOR YOU!
Tucker Digs Easter!
Written and illustrated by Leslie McGuirk
(Candlewick Press; $7.99, Ages 2-5)
Everyone's favorite, Tucker, is back in Tucker Digs Easter! This adorable white dog is excited about the arrival of spring "when there's lots of soft dirt for digging!" In fact, he's such a pro at digging all kinds of holes to hide his bones and toys that it's no surprise when the Easter Bunny recruits him to help dig holes for the big Easter egg hunt. But what happens after the pair dig and hide so well that the children cannot find any eggs? Then it's Tucker to the rescue to dig, dig, dig again to find those well hidden eggs and bring smiles to all the children's faces. This 28 page board book is a great way to make new Tucker fans while getting youngsters excited about the upcoming holiday.
The Easter Egg
Written and illustrated by Jan Brett
(G.P. Putnam's Sons; $8.99, Ages 3-5)
Do you love Jan Brett? Then you'll be delighted The Easter Egg is now available in board book format with a gorgeous foldout spread adding to this book's appeal. Hoppi is going to decorate his "first-ever Easter egg!" and he wants it to be extra special. Searching for ideas, Hoppi visits various friends for inspiration. Everyone is so helpful and eager to assist him, offering super suggestions and samples. But everything looks so hard to do. It's only when Hoppi spots a fallen blue robin's egg that he realizes what he must do. After caring for the egg and eventually befriending the baby robin, Hoppi's good deed is rewarded by the Easter Bunny in the most satisfying way. As always, Brett's artwork is a treat to behold. Easter-themed borders surround each sturdy page and pictures of Hoppi's rabbit friends busy creating their egg masterpieces hug the sides. Be sure also to point out to children all the robin activity woven into each border at the top of almost every page because that's a whole other story in itself!
The Story of The Easter Bunny
Written by Katherine Tegen
Illustrated by Sally Anne Lambert
(Harper Festival; $7.99, Ages 4–8)
Now a charming 32 page board book, The Story of The Easter Bunny transports readers to what appears to be a quaint English village filled with thatch roofed cottages and cobblestone streets. It's here that ",,, a round old couple were making Easter eggs." As they dutifully toiled away, their little rabbit watched. He watched until he learned their tasks by heart so that one day, when the round old couple overslept, the little rabbit knew just what he had to do. The tables turned and now the round old couple were helping their little rabbit until one day they were simply too old to continue. Afraid that the village children would find him out, the little rabbit moved to "… a shadow-filled wood nearby." There, with help from his friends, he carried on the tradition he had learned so well and to this day the Easter Bunny continues to spread cheer by delivering his baskets to children everywhere. Sharing this store requires carefully studying the stunning spreads so as not to miss a single detail Lambert's included. I think some yummy chocolate should be required to accompany very reading!
Goodnight, Numbers by Danica McKellar
Ages 2-5, Children's Book Reviews, Education & Reference, Juvenile Fiction, Math & Counting
GOODNIGHT, NUMBERS
Written by Danica McKellar
Illustrated by Alicia Padrón
(Crown Books for Young Readers; $16.99, Ages 2-5)
Math lover, author and mom of five, Lucy Ravitch, recently read Goodnight, Numbers with her family and today shares her thoughts on best-selling author, Danica McKellar's latest book. Remember to also check out Lucy's website, Kids Math Teacher, here.
McKellar's newest book (it came out last week), provides a fun, hands-on approach to counting. This nod to Goodnight, Moon offers up multiple bedtime opportunities for your kids to count up to ten and learn their individual numbers. Each page presents the number both in written form, and numerically giving little ones the perfect way to practice tracing with their fingers.
Now find out more about Goodnight, Numbers in Lucy's enlightening video, then read on.
As you go through the spreads and explore the scenes with your kids, they'll discover several groupings of items. If not, point them out. Some are easy to spot while others can be more difficult. In fact, that's actually a great way to keep slightly older kids interested. My four- and five-year-old kids enjoyed looking through Padrón's illustrations to see if they could find ALL the grouped items. Did your kids notice the three sofa cushions in the video? As you saw in the video, I do suggest this book for children ages 0-6, but only if you really want to introduce numbers early. Otherwise it is ideal for ages 2+. It would be such a super idea for Crown Books for Young Readers to make Goodnight, Numbers into a board book that would be durable enough to withstand the hours of engagement this book will surely have over its lifetime. Pick up a copy at your local independent bookstore today. Happy counting!
Reviewed by Lucy Ravitch
Danica McKellar's Math Books
Danica McKellar's Math Website
Alicia Padrón's Website
Travel to Great Britain – Kidlit Roundup
Ages 2-5, Ages 6-10, Children's Book Reviews, Children's Books > Social Situations > Family Life > New Experiences, City & Town Life, Education & Reference, Great Britain, Juvenile Fiction, Lifestyles (City Life), People & Places, Travel
TRAVEL TO ENGLAND & SCOTLAND
A Picture Book Roundup
Maisy Goes to London
Written and illustrated by Lucy Cousins
(Candlewick Press; $15.99; ages 2-5)
An English Year: Twelve Months in the Life of England's Kids
A Scottish Year: Twelve Months in the Life of Scotland's Kids
Written by Tania McCartney and illustrated by Tina Snerling
(EK Books; $17.99; ages 6-10)
Travels through England and Scotland
I was raised in England, so I'm partial to books about the British Isles. Luckily, there are so many of them! We begin with Lucy Cousins' Maisy Goes to London, which is a perfect introduction to the fabulous city for children ages three to seven. Maisy and her friends are sightseeing in one of the most exciting cities in the world, and there's so much to see and do! They climb the lions in Trafalgar Square and see Nelson's Column. Right across the street is the National Gallery, home to "so many amazing paintings. Maisy likes the sunflowers best." Of course, no trip to London is complete without seeing Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben. With stops at a park and the Tower of London—"Cyril and Charley love the Beefeater's colorful uniform"—Maisy and company cover a lot of the most recognizable sites. As always, Lucy Cousins' delightful artwork and easy-to-understand word choice hit the mark for younger readers.
For a broader look at modern England, older readers can check out An English Year: Twelve Months in the Life of England's Kids written by Tania McCartney and illustrated by Tina Snerling. Five children, Victoria, Aman, Tandi, George, and Ameli, are our guides to festivals, games, traditions, sites, animals, and foods from different parts of England. Each month has a double page spread and is filled with delightful pictures that depict the text. Each spread features about 12 facts for the month. The books is chock full of information! I personally loved seeing the hot, roasted chestnuts in a paper bag for January and the Punch and Judy puppet show for June. The references to lesser-known facets of living, such as "we gobble Jaffa Cakes and Jammie Dodgers" (June) and BBC's Children in Need fundraiser (November), add to the sense of discovery. Details such as these, in addition to the more mainstream items like Stonehenge and Royal Ascot, go a long way in creating a real sense of life in England.
McCartney and Snerling have also created the series' companion book, A Scottish Year: Twelve Months in the Life of Scotland's Kids. In similar fashion to the England book, Scotland's heritage is presented via five children—Rashida, Sophie, Dominik, Isla, and James. We learn that on Twelfth Night, people "take down our Christmas Tree to avoid bad luck" (January) and that "Tartan Day celebrates everything good about Scotland" (April). We're introduced to blaeberry picking (July) and "redding the house, to bring in a fresh new year" (December). The use of Scottish vernacular (for example, dreich, meaning dull, depressing, dreary weather) and inclusion of celebrations (the Braemar Gathering and the Royal Highland Show) produce a vivid feel for the pride that the Scottish feel for their country.
Readers may realize that more context or detail is needed to explain some of the information in the books. For example, English Year states, "At birthday parties, we play lots of games. Dad tries to give us The Bumps!" We did this when I was a child, so let me explain. The Bumps is when the birthday child is lifted by the arms and legs, and his/her bottom is bumped on the ground the number of years he/she is turning. It's fun. Scottish Year mentions that in November "we put on our coats and play conkers outdoors." I have fond memories of playing conkers with my classmates. A conker is a horse chestnut with a shoelace strung through it. Children then aim and hit their conkers at each other's. Whichever conker outlasts the other, wins. Even though some research may be needed if a reader wants to dig deeper, the basic information doesn't distract from the charm of the books.
The artwork is adorable. Each book's characters show features of life at home, school, play, festivals, and so on. Illustrations introduce the months. In Scottish Year, March has a rain cloud hovering over it and rain sprinkling from the M, and September has leaves swirling around it. The text incorporates different colors and line shapes. For example, the text weaves around illustrations, some words are colored, some letters have their circles filled in, and some are in different sizes. The visuals, including the endpages, are appealing and encourage readers to follow the text.
Each book ends with a list of counties/regions and a map of the country filled with fun facts. I had no clue that Scotland has over 790 islands! I did know, however, that England consumes more tea per person than anywhere else in the world. Tea is such a large part of the culture. I appreciated the multicultural aspect that reflects the reality of these countries today. It begins with the inclusion of the children's characters from Pakistan, India, Jamaica, and Poland, as well as England and Scotland, of course. While plenty of traditional aspects are presented, so are the more contemporary contributions from the various "introduced cultures" that have become a part of the fabric of England and Scotland. For example, in English Year, we learn that "Holi is the Spring Festival of Colours. We cover each other in coloured paint" and that "Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. No more fasting!" To ensure authenticity, the books have been produced in consultation with native English and Scottish advisors, school teachers, and school children.
If you aren't traveling to the British Isles this year, or even if you are, these three books are a wonderful introduction to London, England, and Scotland.
Reviewed by Rita Zobayan
A Math and Counting Books Roundup
Ages 2-5, Ages 3-5, Ages 3-6, Bathtime, Children's Book Reviews, Circus & circus animals, Concepts - Counting, Humorous Stories, Juvenile Fiction, Math & Counting
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LITTLE KIDS OCEAN COUNTING,
TEN PIGS, & MICE MISCHIEF
Have fun counting and doing simple math with your children …
National Geographic Little Kids Ocean Counting
Written by Janet Lawler
Photos by Brian Skerry
(National Geographic; $16.95, Ages 2-5)
If your young kids are into aquariums and learning about sea life then don't miss this counting book. The beautiful underwater nature photographs match perfectly with the simple yet informative text. There is a little "Did you know?" section on each page with an interesting fact. Basic counting from 1-10 is so enjoyable with this book, plus in the back matter there's a counting up and counting down page to review the numbers and the respective quantities with children.
by Derek Anderson
(Orchard Books/Scholastic; $16.99, Ages 3-5)
This humorous bath adventure from Little Quack illustrator Derek Anderson, will have your kids cracking up! One cute little pig is taking a bath with his rubber ducky when others start to barge into the tub. The text has great rhythm and the illustrations are both cute and extremely funny! I would highly recommend this book for young kids and I know the adults reading it will also find it amusing. You have to find out how the original bathing pig gets the tub all to himself again.
Mice Mischief: Math Facts in Action
Written by Caroline Stills
Illustrated by Judith Rossell
(Holiday House; $16.95, Ages 3-6)
Mice get into a lot of interesting and impressive mischief in this book! Mice Mischief offers a refreshing take on learning the different amounts that make 10. For example, as they get ready in the morning "8 mice cook. 2 mice juggle. 8+2=10." It's an engaging way to count and add with your little ones. The adorable illustrations complement the spare text perfectly. I hope they make a board book version since I think this book would be great for babies all the way up age 6.
Peppa Pig and the Day at the Museum by Candlewick Press
Ages 2-5, Animals - Pigs, Children's Book Reviews, Children's Books > Science, Children's Books > Social Situations > Family Life > New Experiences, Juvenile Fiction, Movie or Television tie-in, People & Places, Peppa Pig, Picture Book Series, Series Characters, STEM
PEPPA PIG AND THE DAY AT THE MUSEUM
(Candlewick Press; $12.99, Ages 2-5 )
I haven't yet met a 2-5 year old who doesn't know Peppa Pig. She's becoming as popular here as she is in the U.K. and it's no surprise. The show, which airs on Nick Jr., is its number one program for this age group, reaching over 30 million viewers every week!
Come along and join Peppa Pig and her younger brother George on their first trip to a museum with their parents. This museum is full of terrific treasures including gowns, crowns and even a royal throne that once belonged to Kings and Queens. Peppa pictures herself as a Queen, but George would much prefer checking out the "dine-saw."
George sees a big dinosaur.
"Don't worry," says Daddy.
"Those are just dinosaur bones."
They may just be bones, but they are VERY BIG.
The dinos on display provide fodder for George to imagine himself as a dinosaur, finally bigger than his sister. It also gets everyone's tummies growling meaning time for a café cake break.
PEPPA PIG AND THE DAY AT THE MUSEUM. © Astley Baker Davies Ltd/Entertainment One Uk Ltd 2003. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.
After a snack it's onto the space exhibit where the Pig family bumps into George's elephant pal Edmond, an outer space afficionado. It's time to take a pretend trip to the Moon including some serious lunar bouncing. Why?
"There's less gravity!" yells Edmond.
Typically the Peppa Pig series of stories are brief, light-hearted introductions to the various activities, some new and some old, that fill a pre-schooler's life. Here it's an outing to a museum where sharing a good time with the family can be as much fun as learning about all the wonderful objects they've seen, or in Dad's case, the snacks he's eaten!
You can find out more about the Peppa Pig books by clicking on the links below and by visiting www.peppapig.com
B is for Bear: A Natural Alphabet by Hannah Viano
Ages 2-5, Alphabet Book, Children's Book Reviews, Flora & Fauna, Juvenile Nonfiction, Nature & the Natural World
B IS FOR BEAR: A NATURAL ALPHABET
Written and illustrated by Hannah Viano
(Little Bigfoot/Sasquatch Books; $16.99, Ages 2-5)
Hannah Viano dedicates her new alphabet book to "…all of those who let children run a little wild, climbing trees and splashing in puddles. It is worth all the laundry and lost mittens." It is a delightful sentiment for a book that will inspire a strong appreciation for the natural world in readers both young and old.
Interior artwork from B is for Bear: A Natural Alphabet by Hannah Viano, Little Bigfoot/Sasquatch Books, ©2015.
The illustrations in B is for Bear are perfectly stunning. Although they appear to be woodcuts at first glance, the process is even more interesting. Viano uses a graceful papercutting technique, carving thick outlines from black paper with an X-ACTO knife. She then adds soft pastel colors digitally in a rich range from gold to olive to amethyst. The look is at once classic and contemporary, as the bold lines capture the energy and motion inherent in her natural subject matter.
The alphabet letters, upper and lowercase, are suspended at the top of each page, punched in a white font onto the thick black border around each illustration. The natural keywords that she selects range nicely from animals (J for Jackrabbit) to natural objects (P for Pebble). Below the bottom border Viano provides clear but poetic descriptions as well as a few additional fascinating facts. For example, from L for Lightning Bug, "Call them fireflies or lightning bugs or Lampyridae. They fill a summer night with magical lights."
Viano adeptly shows natural objects of all sizes, from massive mountains and soaring waves to tiny dandelion puffs and Queen Anne's lace florets. The variety keeps the A to Z alphabet format interesting and surprising, with a fair mix of unusual versus familiar subjects for children. The book as an object itself is lovely, with sturdy proportions perfect for small hands. The pages are printed on thick, smooth, semi-matte paper that lends a sophisticated, organic feel.
B is for Bear, and for book, beautiful and breathtaking!
Where Obtained: I reviewed a copy of B IS FOR BEAR from the publisher and received no other compensation. The opinions expressed here are my own.