Burn, written by Alma Fullerton. Dancing Cat, Cormorant, 2010. $12.95 ages 10 and up

"Lucky
I overhear doctors saying
I'm lucky.
Other than my hand,
I'm not burned,
but inside me
Everything
Is so
hot."


I got the news recently that burn has been nominated for CLA Book of the Year! What glorious and well-deserved news that is. It was one of the books that we read this winter for the CCBC Best Books for Kids and Teens junior fiction jury and we all loved it. I have read it twice now (I rarely have time to do that) and it lost none of its impact the second time around. I have a clearer picture of Casey and the pressures she is facing, the conflicts that result from events beyond her control and the resulting grief she feels for her loss.

Bravo Alma Fullerton!

When Casey was young and her mother went on a music tour, Casey always went with her. Now, she is married again and has a new daughter. The pull of her music has not subsided despite her dramatically changed circumstances; and one day, she can't ignore it any longer. She makes the decision to leave the family and try her hand at a new album.

Casey, at eleven, is left to keep things normal at home. No one calms Ginny in the same way that their mother can; but, Casey does all in her power to keep her autistic sister's world orderly and without upsets. John, her stepfather, can barely control his own grief, using his restaurant as the excuse for not being home and alcohol to dull the pain. Casey trusts that her mother will soon be home. When she doesn't Casey takes action. To let her know how much she is needed, Casey lights fires in hopes that the smoke signals will reach her mother and warn her that things with the family are not good.

As her anxiety grows, Casey finds herself less able to hide behind the many household chores and the continual care for a demanding autistic sister that she undertakes in an effort to prove herself worthy. She is so real and vivid, painted with wondrous words and aching for our support and understanding. Ginny is defined by her autism; but the author pens her obsessive behaviors with sympathy and often with humor. Casey's mother is caught in a trap of her own making and cannot face the prospect of living the rest of her life without her music. The stepfather John sees his role as providing for the girls, working hard at his restaurant and thus, avoiding the uncomfortable responsibilities of fatherhood.

Using free verse as her paintbrush Alma Fullerton gifts us with these unforgettable characters and a story that will resonate with all who read it. Original and heartwarming, this is a book that should be shared or read with all middle and high school students.

Dust Devil, written by Anne Isaacs and illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky. schwartz & wade, Random House. 2010. $20.00 ages 6 and up

"When the dust storm reached
Angel's ranch, the wind shrieked
like a thousand trumpets playing
out of tune. The barn began to
shake, the ground to quake, the
windows to break, the animals to
wake, and everyone's ears to ache!"


My gosh! It's been sixteen years since I first met Swamp Angel and I have missed her! She was a wonderful character then and remains so. This is another tall tale with luscious writing and artwork...what a tremendous collaboration! Anne Isaacs clearly has a way with words and Paul Zelinsky uses oil paints on a variety of woods to bring Angelica Longrider back to glorious life.

Angelica is a wonder of a woman, caring and kind, huge and hemmed-in by the borders of Tennessee. She needs open spaces and settles on Montana to provide them. Once settled, she sets about making the place her own, taming a dust storm into the spirited steed she has always dreamed of riding. When Backward Bart and his band of worthless hooligans terrorize and rob her neighbors, Swamp Angel sets out to show them who's boss. Dust Devil is the ace up her sleeve in her quest to tame their wild ways.

It's a story about a young girl with a big heart, and a penchant for doing the right thing:

"Pretty soon all her neighbors wanted a mountain. So Angel grabbed an armful and planted mountains one by one on the prairie. "That's a beaut", she'd say proudly every time she set one down. And to this day, every stand-alone peak in Montana is called a butte."

It's a story about a stunning stallion with a need to be tamed:

"And there, in the middle of the whirlwind, was a giant horse, bucking and wheeling and neighing like fury! Every time he struck his hooves together, bolts of lightning shot out."

It's a story about a scheming gang of miserable men whose leader is 'half rattlesnake, half badger, and half mad hornet'.

The young woman and her handsome horse set themselves on a journey to capture the Flying Desperadoes and bring them back to Billings and the 'single-starred, double-barred, triple-guard jail'. Turns out she is just the woman for the job!

Yes, it's funny; and the humor of the words is matched page by page by the humor created in the detailed, brightly colored artwork. The two work perfectly to create a most entertaining readaloud for one, or for a classroom full of captivated listeners. It's a keeper!

Masters of Disaster, written by Gary Paulsen. Random House, 2010. ages 8 and up

""I am proposing," Henry continued,
reading carefully from his notes, "that
we Undertake and Implement a Series
of Daring Experiences and Grand
Adventures the likes of which the
history of Western Civilization has
never seen, at least not from twelve-
year-olds in suburban Cleveland.""


And so, Henry's plan is introduced to his two best friends, Riley and Reed. There appears to be nothing for normal twelve-year-old boys to do in this town and so they must make a plan to change their lives for the better, and maybe change history and attract some girls at the same time. Why else would they set out on such a ridiculously hilarious series of adventures?

Each has a part to play in the implementation of the 'daring experiences', and those parts are played according to their personalities:

"Henry smiled through the rest of his classes, daydreaming about campfires, and lean-tos made of sticks and leaves and dried mud. Reed went to the restroom twelve times and wondered: Could you possibly get frostbite in  May? Riley spent the afternoon free period in the library researching native nuts and berries that were safe to eat and brushing up on his recognition of poison oak and poison ivy."

Henry is the idea man, Reed is the dupe and the 'doer' of the deed and Riley is the chronicler of all that happens. They begin with a bike, a steep roof, a diving board, and a spring-loaded pool cover...oh, and something to tape Reed's hands to the handlebars. Despite his reluctance, it is Reed who climbs aboard and makes the attempt to set the record for somersaults on a bike. How he ends up covered in used diapers is left to Gary Paulsen's witty and hilarious descriptive writing. While some would be deterred by the lingering smell of baby poo, Reed is eager to move on the next escapade!

They certainly aren't as boring as they once were, and Reed is alive. That's all good! On they go to camping in the woods, dumpster diving, boneyards and a rodeo. They make all the right preparations and are perpetually surprised when things go wrong. Who knew about the wild animal escapees, or the chemical power of garbage, or electric fences that spawn stampedes?

Nothing thwarts them. They remain true to their characters, while providing us with slapstick hilarity, and also having fun and getting really messy doing it. How Henry lures them into the nonsense that he does can only be explained by boys who willingly let themselves be led into mischief and mayhem. They are a team, and together they will, or won't, enter the record books for non-boring adventures and experiences.

"Call 9-11-1!" My sides are aching!

Dona Flor, written by Pat Mora and illustrated by Raul Colon. Random House, 2005. $8.99 ages 5 and up

"Whatever she planted grew so
fast, you could hear the roots
spreading at night. Her neighbors
used the sunflowers as bright
yellow umbrellas. She gave the
school band her hollyhocks to
use as trumpets. The music
smelled like spring."



The first of two posts today about a women larger than life.

Pat Mora has created an original tall tale of Dona Flor, who could be related to Swamp Angel (Dutton, 1994). She lives in the mountains of the American Southwest and was much loved by her mother, who taught Flor life lessons that would sustain her throughout her life. Listening to her mother's songs, she grew just as her mother's plants grew...larger and larger and larger still. Her differences (her size and her ability to speak to every living thing) are initially cause for ridicule; but children and their parents soon discover her warmth and supportive manner. She is a blessing to her community.

So, when a wild cat's constant roar leads people to flee in fear and stay in their homes to avoid confrontation and harm, it is Dona Flor to whom they turn for help. True to her nature, she searches for and finds the puma that is terrorizing her village. She discovers his secret power and is moved to provide companionship and love to the 'pumito'.

After a tiring trek to find the source of the noise and calm it, Dona Flor takes a much-needed and deserved break:

"Flor liked a fresh bed, so she reached up and filled her arms with clouds smelling of flowery breezes. She shaped the clouds into a soft, deep bed and into hills of puffy pillows. "Mmmm," said Flor as she snuggled in the clouds."

A sweet and satisfying end to an award-winning tale!

Pat Mora sprinkles her story with Spanish words, which are so appreciated in classrooms where second language learners love a connection to their culture. There is much to be admired in the lovely, lively language and the mixed media artwork of Raul Colon. He gives true perspective to Flor's enormity, often filling frames and even allowing for her head to be only partially seen. The gentle quality of the story itself is perfectly matched by the warmth of the colors and textures so lovingly produced here.

Dazzling Women Designers, written by Jill Bryant. Second Story Press, 2010. $10.95 ages 9 and up

"The ten women you will
meet in this book are world-
famous for their outstanding
achievements. These designers
have earned their fame through
their imagination, daring, hard
work, determination, and
admirable strength of character.
They are all people who think
outside the box."

This is another of those books that teaches me something I didn't know I needed, or wanted, to know. Isn't that the best thing about finding books that pique our interest and inspire? Here are women from all over the world who have a need to try new and imaginative forms of expression. Some are living, some are not. Some are famous around the world, some are known to a smaller audience. Each is a beacon to those who follow; they share their ideas and inspiration and offer a promise that hard work and vision are worth pursuing.
They live in all parts of the world and have found success in very distinct areas of design: robotics, landscape, architecture, textiles, fashion, graphic design, creating furniture and making plans for urban areas. Their stories are told with reverence and clarity. This is the sixteenth book in this series, and it is a shining example for the depth and range of women who make our world a better and more beautiful place.

There are ten chapters, as there are ten women. The chapters are short and comfortable for readers, and offer a condensed version of the accomplishments of its subjects. They are also planned chronologically beginning with Eileen Gray who was born in 1878 and who achieved fame as an architect and designer of furniture which found its way into private collections. In fact:

"She pioneered built-in shelves, hidden cupboards, multi-purpose furniture, and reversible and extendable designs."

Moving forward in time we meet the other women chosen for their much admired contributions to world design, ending with Cynthia Breazeal, a  robotics specialist whose most notable work to date is Leonardo...a robot that is 'part toy, part machine, part creature who can smile, talk and recognize familiar faces'.

The photographs, sidebars and quotes add interest. Such a diverse group of women they are; and we become more familiar with their many successes and the women themselves as they worked in their chosen field. The back matter is in keeping with other books in this much appreciated series, letting readers know the source of the information shared and where they can find out more about each included designer, as well as providing acknowlegements and photo credits.

Anticipating a career in design? Here is inspiration!

Folly, written by Marthe Jocelyn. Tundra, 2010. $22.99 ages 13 and up

"My choice was finally this:
Go to the workhouse, taking
you with me, where death was
likely... Or forsake you,
my precious boy, at the
Foundling Hospital, where
you might be raised up not
knowing how your mother tried,
 nor how she loved you enough
to say goodbye."


I read Coram Boy (Egmont) by Jamila Gavin years ago; and yet, I remember vividly many of the characters and most of the scenes. It had a tremendous impact on me, as a reader and a person. It lead me to learn as much as I could learn about Thomas Coram and the foundling home that he established in the eighteenth century, when he saw the deplorable conditions that newborn babies faced when their mothers had no way to care for them.

This novel is set in the mid to late nineteenth century, more than one hundred years after The Foundling Hospital opened. By then all pregnant mothers who had no means of support were interviewed by staff and had to make a promise never to make that same mistake again. Their children were placed with a foster family until six, and then came back to an institution until they were ready to learn a trade.

Told by two characters in differing voices, we learn much about their life and times. Mary tells her story in first person, making it compelling and poignant. The voice provides for her readers an immediacy and connection to 'you',  since that is the focus of her story. James' story begins when he leaves his foster family and it is told in third person. It is a powerful and readable tale.

The cast of characters provides a clear and devastating picture of life in Victorian times, and the chasm that existed between the privileged and the poor. The workhouse or life on the streets were the options for those who did not find a place in the Foundling Hospital, where they were told that they must prove themselves good and kind, honest and amenable to the demands of their benefactors.

Mary is a strong and sympathetic character, whose life is bereft of much kindness and love. When her lover is called away to Afghanistan, and she finds herself pregnant, that life goes from bad to worse. All that James has known is coming to an end at age six, as he leaves the Peeveys, and he is frightened of life beyond his known confines. Mrs. Peevey is also distraught over the loss, but is told by her husband they cannot keep James...money is tight. They cannot afford another child, and they need to take a new baby in to help with finances.

As you read watch carefully the penned dates and be aware of the voices changing. It is an inspired telling that has a very personal connection for Marthe Jocelyn. Be sure to read her 'Foreword'! Her story is as poignant and heartbreaking as what happens to Mary and James, kindred spirits with definitive spunk!

Yoko's Show and Tell, written and illustrated by Rosemary Wells. Hyperion, H B Fenn, 2011. $18.99 ages 4 and up

"In school, Mrs. Jenkins
asked, "Do you have a
show-and-tell surprise for
us today, Yoko?'
Yoko could not answer.
Yoko could not do her
singing or drawing,.
She could not eat lunch."



It's so good to spend time with Yoko again. If you have been following her exploits this will be your fourth meeting. As you know Yoko is a Japanese-American kitten and she is school-age. It is at school (and on the bus) that her stories generally happen. This time her grandparents send her a special gift from Japan to help her celebrate Girls' Day (March 3). Miki is an antique doll and a family heirloom and thus, much loved in Yoko's family. Yoko would like to take Miki to school to share her story with her classmates at Show-and-Tell, but Mama is adamant that Miki not leave the family home.

Yoko will not be deterred:

"But Yoko was too excited about Girls' Day.
'Everyone in my class will love you!' she said to Miki.
'I will bring you right home, and Mama will never know!'"

You can hear the groans and the 'uh-ohs!', can't you?

A bad experience on the bus to school leaves Miki in tatters and Yoko must confess her deception. A trip to the doll hospital has the desired effect. When Obaasan and Ojiisan arrive to visit, Miki impresses with her new kimono and fresh face. Obaasan admires her unscratched beauty and Yoko shines with pride. In the meantime, the Franks are paying for their mischief in Yoko's front yard:

""Who is that outside, scrubbing the steps, raking all the peach blossoms, and pulling up the weeds?"" asked Ojiisan." 

We know who! It is the price paid for their thoughtless behavior. 



Kid love to hear Yoko's stories. The smaller sized books are designed to fit perfectly into little hands and they tell of typical events from the lives of many young children. They are gently told, with framed and boldly colored artwork in mixed media which add depth and interest.

If this is your first meeting, be sure to check for Yoko's other stories, too.

Happy Girls' Day to Yoko and her many friends. Miki is sure to find a place of importance at the doll festival as parents wish their daughters 'good health and happiness'.

It's Not Fair, written by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld. Harper, 2008. $19.99 ages 3 and up

"Why can't I have
curly locks?
Why can't I have
my own box?
Why now, chicken
pox?
It's not fair."


Was there ever 'fairness' in a child's world? I'm sure that you can remember times from your own childhood when things were decidedly 'not fair'! Why doesn't he have to study for the test? Why can she say it's OK for everyone to come to our house on Saturday without asking you first? Why can't we have a TV? Why do we have to come in now? Just get us going and we could write our own book.

That is exactly what this book is likely to do for its intended audience. When they read it they are sure to realize that they are not alone in the world. We all can remember a time when fairness was not the operative word,  and sometimes we even harbor resentment for it. If you are a parent, you have heard the lament on innumerable occasions. If you are a teacher, you might stop counting at 'too many'complaints in one day. If you spend time with kids (big and little), it is going to be part of your daily 'grind'.

It starts with kids and their everyday life...cookies, pets, appearance, bedtime...the list seems endless. Then, Amy Rosenthal moves on to furniture, animals, insects and aliens. Everybody's got a complaint about something...even fairy tale characters and the planets. Can you just imagine the fun of using this book as a catalyst for partner writing?

Now add the comical artwork that Tom Lichtenfeld creates so adeptly and you've got an even more appealing book to share. It's filled with expressive humor, a persistent refrain, and the lilt of rhyming text. 'It's not fair' that Amy Rosenthal had the idea to write about a common and oft heard rant and did something about it, and 'it's not fair' that Tom Lichtenheld has the talent to draw such perfect accompaniments to her sage and humorous text!

It's not fair.

Thank You!

Wow! It's been a year and four months since I started my blog and I am delighted that it has had almost 5000 visitors! Thanks so much to everyone who checks it out to see what I've been reading and want to share with you and others.

Keep a book by your bed and a story in your heart.

Sally

Interrupting Chicken, written and illustrated by David Ezra Stein. Candlewick Press, Random House, 2010. $19.00 ages 3 and up

"Once there was a little
red chicken who put her
Papa to bed. She read
him a hundred stories. She
even gave him warm milk,
but nothing worked: he
stayed awake all - "


Oh boy, I can't wait to read this book to a good friend's class this week. I am going over to spend an hour with them on Wednesday and have been picking some of my favorite new books to share. Luckily, this one arrived in the mail today and it will certainly be in my book bag. I know they will love it! It is such a brilliant combination of story and art, of familiar and new (with a twist), and it offers a chance for its reader to use voice, inflection and a sense of fun in sharing it.

It's bedtime and it is obvious that Papa and his little one have shared this experience on any number of occasions. As they settle for a story Papa has some advice to offer about interruptions. It seems the little red chicken has a bad habit. But, Papa is willing to try the storytelling one more time. He begins with Hansel and Gretel, their hunger and their discovery of the candy house and the old woman who lives in it. Before you can say Jack Flash, his chick ushers a loud warning to the siblings about the old woman's real identity:

"out jumped a little red chicken, and she said, "DON'T GO IN! SHE'S A WITCH!" So Hansel and Gretel didn't. THE END!"

You know where we are going right??? Papa admonishes, the little one apologizes and makes a new promise, and on they go to the next story. It happens again and then again....each time eliciting the same wise counsel and a repeated assurance of compliance. It is not to be. Too soon the book concludes and the little red chicken is no closer to sleep than she was when she crawled into bed. Papa offers an acceptable solution, and off we go again! This final story does its job and soon both storytellers are sound asleep.

As happens with the best books, a winning blend of text and art will enthrall and entertain. Clues to the family's life are evident...a double page spread showing toys, books and other tell-tale signs of an indulged youngster in the house. There are books at every turn, a nearby stool for the reader to sit on while sharing bedtime stories, and much love shown between parent and child. The bright mixed media colors, the humorous expressions of the characters in the stories being read and the child-like writing and drawings in 'Chikn's' book are sure to delight.

It's a winner! It certainly makes me think of the many times that either David or I fell sound asleep while sharing bedtime tales with our kids. Gentle nudges would work to get us back on track; but there were times when the reading was done by the ones who were supposed to be doing the sleeping!

Singing Away the Dark, written by Caroline Woodward and illustrated by Julie Morstad. Simply Read,

"The cattle block the
road ahead.
The bull is munching
hay.
I softly sing to calm
myself and plan the
safest way."



Haven't we all heard the stories from parents, and sometimes grandparents, about our great good luck in not having to walk to school in the dead of winter...at least a mile, in thigh-high snow and UPHILL all the way! Why, I think I have even tried to convince my kids that it happened to me; but, they know exactly how far it was for me to walk to George Fitton, McLaren and Harrison...no more than five city blocks! 

I didn't have to walk a mile to catch a school bus, when the cold winds blew and the snow was piled high. But, many children did and some still walk long lanes to get to the bus stop early in the morning. I wonder how many of them feel like the young girl in this lovely, wintry tale. When she leaves home, it's dark and there are many sights and sounds that cause her to be anxious. The warmth of the house is lost to the cold, icy weather that surrounds her. She knows she must hurry for the bus will not wait, and she has a mile to go.

As she walks she makes the discovery that singing helps to calm her fears.

" I sing for sun, I sing for strength, I sing for warm toes, too."

The singing serves to diminish the early morning animal sounds, the creaking of the tree branches, and makes the darkness fade away. Her trek is timed perfectly...she reaches the road as the bus rolls into sight. Ah, another day of school with her friends.

The lilting verse perfectly voices her fears and her wonder at the daily journey. Julie Morstad's soft watercolor illustrations provide a flawless backdrop. She uses the bright white of the snow to lessen the deep dark of the winter sky, and reds and yellow to keep us ever watchful of our narrator as she makes her way from home to bus. She is never out of our sight. The animals and trees are in silhouette as she passes, until her singing brings warmth and color to the darkness. The farmer out early to feed his stock and her neighbor's welcome wave lend a protective quality to her daily foray into this wintry wonderland. The familiarity of the warm yellow bus with its bright lights bring a sigh of relief...for all.

Short, written by John Schwartz. Roaring Book Press, 2010. $19.99 ages 12 and up

"Now don't go thinking that
anybody who says he can make
you taller is just full of hot air and
that the only transformation he is
capable of is transforming your
money into his. There are legitimate
treatments out there - but some of
them sound more like the stuff
of horror movies than medical
treatment."


Does it take a short man to write a book about short people? I don't know; but, we are blessed to have John Schwartz take up the cause for people like himself everywhere. Perhaps his experiences are the impetus needed to write this thoughtful and special book. He is a science writer at the New York Times and thought the time had come for someone to write a book that would speak to those who share his vertically challenged state. In doing so, he makes a case for anyone who is different...and goodness knows, that applies:

"But many of us, at some time of another, have felt different - and have hoped that what makes us different might actually make us special."
It is funny, wise and written in first person which gives it such presence and immediacy for his audience. He impresses with his knowledge of statistics, and his cautionary tone about where we get our information. We can all find studies that voice our beliefs and biases. Many studies seem to have been undertaken to prove that 'tall'  is good...for jobs, for advancement in those jobs, for monetary acumen. It is difficult to tell when the reporting of such studies is skewed. John Schwartz helps his readers develop an ability to detect such hype, and a response to those who would demean short people:

"So when you see the big headlines about those studies saying that, on average, short people don't achieve as much, or that on average they don't earn as much, or that on average they aren't as smart, there's a handy response: Who wants to be average?"

He asks his readers to think clearly about such beliefs about being different, and to use what physical characteristics are theirs to be all that they can be. He offers the opinion that it is up to each of us to help people understand our strengths and who we are.  While amusing and personal, he gives us all pause to think about our own idiosyncrasies, and the lengths people go to in order to change who they are to meet some assumed standard. When boys can't be too short and girls can't be too tall, don't we need to step back and consider for a moment, 'why?'

Thoughtful and uplifting. Thank you, John Schwartz!

Disasters, written by Brenda Guiberson. Henry Holt, H B Fenn, 2010. $22.99 ages 11 and up

"The hurricane slowed when it
hit New Orleans. The storm surge
was funneled into narrow canals
and channels, which increased the
pressure. The wind broke windows,
knocked down trees and power lines,
and shredded roofs, including that of
the Superdome, home of the city's
professional football team."


There are ten disasters here and they are presented chronologically, from the outbreak of smallpox to the horror of Katrina and its continuing aftermath. Brenda Guiberson provides a just right mix of facts, so that all readers can access the information without being overwhelmed by it. It would prove to be a hit as a readaloud in intermediate and middle years classrooms, even beyond. As an adult I found the presentation fascinating and compelling. As usual, I learned a lot!

The author is adept at making her readers feel that they are part of the disaster being described...giving details and proving that the best nonfiction writers do their research well before sharing it with their audience. She is able to help us easily understand each of the different times in history, while keeping the information clear and manageable. There is so much here to discover!

And you know how kids like disasters. This will be a popular book for borrowing and will lead its reader to a deeper understanding of the events that led up to, and that followed some of the most talked-about tragedies, past and present.

Each chapter is about twenty pages long, long enough to provide needed details but not too long to lose interest and forward motion. There are subsections, quotes and many details...often alarming. The archival photographs, clear and concise drawings are captioned to add interest and information. Along with telling what led to the disasters, the author also offers suggestions for prevention of future catastrophic events. In a Notes section she provides titles for further reading and her own sources of information. There is also an extensive bibliography and a useful index.

Looking at our history teaches us about the past, and the future:

"Nature will always shake, sizzle, gush, and wallop. It has the strength to destroy but also the systems to protect and restore. There is much to be learned from a close look at past disasters. The clues can lead to wiser choices for living in the natural world."

What an addition this book will prove to be for a history class, and for budding historians!

OH NO! Written by Mac Barnett and illustrated by Dan Santat. Hyperion, H B Fenn, 2010. $19.99 ages 5 and up

"I never should have built
a robot for the science fair.
Everything was going so well...
until the rampage started, that is.

I probably shouldn't have
given it a superclaw, or a
laser eye.

Or the power to control dogs'
minds."

There is no way that I can do justice to this over-the-top, energetic, entertaining, and always engaging collaborative effort! But, I want to tell you a bit about it...to ensure that you get it in your hands and share it with your kids. It's a tough read to a classroom; but will take you on a hilarious romp when shared one-on-one!

It begins as it should, with the cover...meant to invite the reader in for all the enjoyment that is sure to unfold . But I mean, it begins with the dust jacket. Uncover the book, and take time to look at both sides. You will meet the little girl who inadvertently created the destroyer robots. Reflected in her glasses you will see images of the spectacles she created without knowing the extent of the chaos that would befall her city. And that's only the beginning...

Look to the inside of that dust jacket and you will see a poster depicting what looks like a film version of the book you are about to read. It takes some of its inspiration from the Japanese and their affinity for Godzilla and his ilk. And we haven't even come to the jacket flaps, which provide a quick summary and a stylized vision of the book's creators. What about the endpapers? Well, there's another story!

The endpapers show finely detailed, labeled blueprints for said robot from the Robot Unit Series - 01 and a Growth Ray Device - 02. It is suggested that they are for the fifth grade science fair, under Mrs. Turnham's tutelage. There is so much to see before continuing into the heart of the book. On it goes, filled with drama and delight, humor and satire. I have pored over the pictures endlessly, trying to figure out if I am even coming close to 'getting it'. I am quite sure I am not!

There is limited text, but the story is clear. The computer generated illustrations add so much detail that I cannot begin to tell you about them. Suffice it to say; you will not, in the least bit, be sorry if you get a copy of this wildly imaginative and seriously wigged-out look at a child's inability to understand the true extent of their actions.

Fortune Cookies, written by Albert Bitterman and illustrated by Chris Raschka. Simon & Schuster, 2011. $17.99 ages 2 and up

"On Thursday my fortune
said:

Good things come to those
who wait.
 
And guess what?

It rained all day.
So I built a fort."

When a box arrives in the mail and is opened by its recipient, she discovers that it contains seven (count them)...seven fortune cookies. The tag says they are for Fortune and from Uncle Albert. She chooses to open one each day, for a week. The fortunes are tucked inside a cookie and released by a pull tab.

The first one, opened Sunday, tells Fortune that she will 'lose something you don't need'. Lo and behold, out comes a tooth! Leaving that tooth to the good graces of the tooth fairy, she goes to bed. Again, the fortune seems to match the circumstance. It tells her that 'money is like the wind.' She takes that to mean she should use the money under her pillow to buy a kite...which she does.

On she goes opening a new cookie as each day passes. Her fortune wavers from one event to the next, each seeming to match the prophecy found in the delectable cookie, until the one on Saturday suggests 'seven is your lucky number'. Indeedy, do! How many fortune cookies did she get? How many days in the week are there? How many kittens might there be in a litter? If you guessed seven, you are right!

So many things to enjoy in this little book....a bit of a game with the pull tabs, wonderful art, the ups and downs in a child's day-to-day life, a lesson in counting and the days of the week, and an exciting bonus as the week comes to a close...a clear reminder of the wondrous gift that all this good fortune truly afforded her....and us!

The Chicken Thief, illustrated by Beatrice Rodriguez. Enchanted Lion Books, 2010. $14.95 ages 4 and up

Ah, a blog post with no quote from the book! That might be a first...but, it won't be the last. I love wordless books and feel the need to remind readers that just because they don't have words, it does follow that they don't tell a thoughtful and quite unbelievable story. So, now I am going to spend some time writing about a book that uses nary a word to pack a wallop in the telling.

 It is a story of thievery and of love....and a whole lot more. As it opens we see a fox hightailing it away from a white cottage in the forest, hen under his arm. The cottage inhabitants include a surprised rabbit, an enraged bear, an aghast rooster (the mate?) and scattered squawking hens and a host of baby 'chicklets'. Bear, Rabbit and Rooster set off in hot pursuit, through daylight and moonlight. They take refuge in tall trees when exhaustion calls a halt to the running. When the morning sun rises, they are off again...until the fox finds his den and the others must try to find a way inside.

The tunnel maze is daunting, Bear is too big to fit and the others are not too keen to tangle with a fox in his lair. A close look inside shows the warm glow of candlelight and the camaraderie of a chess game being played. What the what? Fox and Hen seem quite content to be together and that sets the stage for the final 'twist in the tale'.

Humor and quiet thoughtfulness about relationships are here for all who share this book! There are many questions to be asked and considered. The panoramic views suggest the long distance travelled and the hardships faced as the chase plays itself out. Every expression is clearly conveyed, the warmth of the daytime sun, the cool of the nighttime vigils and all action in between is evident to each 'reader'.

Put this on your list of books to add to your bookshelf...it is meant to be savored and shared time and again.

Bones, written and illustrated by Steve Jenkins. Scholastic, 2010. $21.99 ages 6 and up

"To support its great weight,
the elephant has leg bones as
thick and strong as tree trunks.

The stork, like all flying birds,
has thin, hollow bones that make
it light enough to get airborne."



No matter how many times I share Steve Jenkins' superb books, I am constantly aware of the awe in which he is held by his legion of fans. Open a page in this book and it is sure to remind someone of that illustration in Actual Size (Houghton, 2004) that shows the head of the saltwater crocodile, or the levels of the sea in Down Down Down (Houghton, 2009) or the orangutan holding a large leaf as an umbrella over his head in the rainforest in How Many Ways Can You Catch a Fly? (Houghton, 2008). If kids have been lucky enough to borrow, or buy one of his remarkably illustrated and researched books, they will be fans for life. If they are working in a classroom where Steve Jenkins' books are being studied, they will emerge more informed and constantly intrigued by the wonders of our world. They will also have come in contact with an inveterate questioner and a perpetual learner.


As is usual for this talented and inquisitive man, the information about bones in animals and humans is presented with clear and accurate attention to detail. Why even the big, smiling human skull on the front cover is a promise that here you will discover much. Open that cover and the title page shows a monkey swinging across it. Note how remarkably similar it is to our own human skeletons! And then we are right into the 'bare bones' details of skeletons and how they work.

There is much to ponder as we make our way through its double-page spreads...many bones are shown actual size, while others are created to scale. At the bottom of each spread, the author provides parenthetical information for readers. As he explains the function of bones for most of the world's species, he also reminds us of their importance:

"Remove an animal's skeleton, and it would become a helpless, squishy sack of skin."

An initial guessing game places just one bone of a human hand on the first page and the whole thing on the following one, and lets readers know that there are 27 bones there. He moves on to arms, legs, ribs, vertebrae, and the skull. But, that's not all. You never knows what's coming next and that it a big part of the appeal. The accompanying text is short, sweet and to the point, never overwhelming with detail and always encouraging the young reader to move on and learn more.

The foldouts are visually delightful, from the rib cage of a two metre long python (that's a lot of ribs), to skulls in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, and finally to the fully complete human skeleton (and its 206 bones). He ends with text boxes that contain even more information:

"Human babies are born with about 300 bones. As they grow, some of their separate bones, such as the ones in the skull, fuse together. Adults end up with a total of 206 bones."

Or:

"The blue whale is the largest mammal that has ever lived, with a skeleton to match. A blue whale's skull is the size of a station wagon."

Who didn't want to know that?

Mockingbird, written by Kathryn Erskine. Philomel, Penguin. 2010. $8.50 ages 10 and up

"At home I go to my hidey-hole
in Devon's room. I take his piece
of notebook paper with me. The
one that says EAGLE SCOUT
PROJECT. The one with the list
of supplies for his chest. The one
that says he's going to teach me.
I stare at the list trying to find 
Closure. I keep hoping that
somehow the Devon-ness of the
list will give me the answer but it doesn't."

Did you ever just hug a book when you finished reading it? I just did. I love books, and many have had a powerful impact on me. Is it the day? Is it the mood? Is it that it speaks to you at this particular time in your life? I don't know and frankly, I don't really mind the not knowing. To say this book had an impact is an understatement. One minute I was laughing out loud and the next I was crying. It might be the day,  the mood I am in, or it might be that that I just finished reading a book I LOVED...and I think you should read it, too!

If it doesn't squeeze your heart and make your throat ache, I will be surprised. If you don't want to call it a 10 and put it on your 'keeper' shelf, then it didn't affect you in the same way that it did me. But, I still think you should read it!

I'll set the scene. Caitlin is in fifth grade, her mother is dead (a victim of cancer), her beloved brother has been killed in a school shooting, her father is devastated by the loss and she is dealing with the black and white world of a child with Asperger's syndrome. Her understanding of the world in its most literal terms is clearly drawn and packed with emotion, as Caitlin struggles for Closure, for Finesse and with trying to make friends. Her older brother Devon was her guide through the many struggles...and now he is gone. She must face the confusion of the world on her own; with a little help from some new friends.

Mrs. Brook is a wise, focused and incredibly supportive counselor who works to help Caitlin Get It. At 'recess for the little kids' she meets Michael, a six-year old student at her school who is also in need of closure, for his mother was one of the school shooting victims as well. Michael's innocence and unwitting support help Caitlin when she most needs someone. She is able to tell Michael about herself and what she is feeling:

"I wear sweatpants and a long-sleeved T-shirt every day. Except in summer. Then my sweatpants and T-shirts are short sleeved. The T-shirt can be any color. I don't care as long as it's not yellow or gold or mossy green or pukey green or poopy green - That makes Michael start giggling - or any kind of pink because those colors make me feel sick. And it can only be one color because I don't like colors running into each other. And there can't be writing on the T-shirt or people will read it and I don't want them looking at me. And the long-sleeve T-shirts can't have scratchy cuffs. And none of the T-shirts can have tags in the back or collars. Or stripes. Or pockets. Or zigzag stitching. Or double stitching. Now my Dad knows and he says I'm such a breeze to buy for."

She realizes that both she and her father need to find some level of peace with what happened on The Day Our Life Fell Apart, and she searches to find a way to bring Closure for them. She understands that it is important. When she finally decides what they need to do, she must convince her father. It takes patience and persistence:

"You have to Work At It . . . ," Caitlin tells her father. "You have to try even if it's hard and you think you can never do it and you just want to scream and hide and shake your hands over and over and over."

We care about Caitlin and her struggles with the world that is hers. That is the work of this perceptive and beautifully written book...to make us care so much it hurts and then to exult in the big and little successes. Kathryn Erskine gives us a character who is so alive, so guileless and so memorable. She is an unforgettable narrator. This is a book to be savored.

Now, I am off to order a copy of Quaking (Penguin, 2007). I love when one book by a unknown (to me) author leads me to another.

Noni Says No, written by Heather Hartt-Sussman and illustrated by Genevieve Cote. Tundra, 2011. $19.99 ages 5 and up

"But now, if her friend Susie asks to
sleep over, Noni says yes, even though
she sometimes wants to say no.
If Susie asks to play with Noni's special
doll, Noni says yes.
If Susie asks to borrow her favorite dress,
Noni says yes.
Noni absolutely, positively cannot say no."

There are so many things that Noni CAN do! She helps with the baby, works in the kitchen with her mother. and is independent. But, there is one thing that she doesn't seem able to do. She just can't say 'NO!'  As with all other children, there was a time when saying no was a daily occurrence, and often more than once a day!Now, she wants everyone to be happy, especially her best friend Susie.

It doesn't seem to matter what Susie wants to do, or play with, or wear. Noni always says 'yes'. Susie, on the other hand, has no problem replying in the negative when Noni has a request:

"At Susie's house, when Noni asks if she can sleep over, Susie has no trouble saying no.
When Noni asks if she can play with Susie's special teddy bear, Susie says no without
hesitation."

Noni wants to say no, but she cannot bring herself to do it. Until one day....

The result will be as much a surprise to the reader as it is to Noni.

Genevieve Cote does such a commendable job of creating Noni's character. She is a gentle and caring little girl whose willpower is non-existent when Susie is near. I love the way she uses reds for the cheeks and background to give readers a feel for the embarrassment and concern she has when she cannot refuse Susie's demands. The smudgy charcoals are effective for the times when she does remember being negative and contrary. Playful and full of feeling, these illustrations provide a grand accompaniment to this empowering story of a young girl finding her own voice.

my name is not Isabella, written by Jennifer Fosberry and illustrated by Mike Litwin. Sourcebooks, Raincoast. 2010. $$19.99 ages 6 and up

""I am ROSA, the greatest, bravest
activist who ever was!
"Well, Rosa, MARCH out there and
take your seat on the bus."
"Welcome home, Rosa," the
mother said. "Did you have a nice
day at school?"
"My name is not Rosa!"
said the little girl."
Just how big can a little girl dream? As big as she wants!


I love it when a new book inspires its readers with imagination, wit and wonderful language. It's sub-title is 'Just How Big Can a Little Girl Dream?' and Isabella can dream big! It is an inspiration to any child who believes in being the best that she can be...and the message will not be lost on the boys and men who read it either. It might even work as a mentor text for anyone wanting to do research about those who have made our world a better place.

Isabella pretends to be a different wonderful woman each day, and she has a considerate, understanding and very supportive mother. The women that she chooses to portray are famous for feats of bravery, kindness, tenacity and intelligence. We don't know who they are modelled on until the end matter, but we can certainly guess at their identity while sharing this carefully drawn, brightly colored homage to some of our great female role models.

We first meet a remarkable Isabella-like young lady named Sally and the clues provided are astronaut, spacesuit, blast. Just when Mom thinks she has the right name again, Isabella is quick to reject that identity and invent another. The famous women are Sally Ride, Annie Oakley, Rosa Parks, Marie Curie, Elizabeth Blackwell and well, Mommy!
Isabella has the final say, as is usual in this heartwarming and charming story:

"It's me, Isabella, the sweetest, kindest, smartest, bravest, fastest, toughest, greatest girl that ever was, " said the little girl as she fell asleep and dreamed about who she would be...

...tomorrow."

Following the text, Jennifer Fosberry includes a short biography of the five women here honored, and of a Mommy. She follows up by acknowledging all women who work to make change happen and a list of the works she consulted in the writing of this lively book

I dedicate this post to Nan who helped me learn to be the best I could be...and to Erin, my own 'sweetie pie, honeybunch, angel face, lover girl'.