RAH, RAH, RADISHES! Written and illustrated by April Pulley Sayre. Beach Lane, Simon & Schuster. 2011. $17.99 ages 3 and up

"Stash some squash.
Fill your cupboard!
Butternut, buttercup,
acorn, Hubbard!"

Come on, admit it! You don't eat enough vegetables and you are not even sure what some of them are. Most of us need to eat more of them! Michael Pollan (In Defense of Food) urges us to live by seven words. They are 'eat food, not too much, mostly plants.' Pretty simple, and oh, so sensible for all!  Now, April Pulley Sayre helps in that quest.

After poring over the lip-smacking display of munchy, crunchy vegetables in her boldly colored photographs,
you cannot help but salivate at the bounty. Then, read and reread her chant. It is a feast for stomach and voice!

The strong rhythm of the text just begs to be repeated...read it with your class, your children, your friends' children but read it and then keep reading it. It would be great fun for shared reading in a classroom, or try it for a performance assembly this spring. It might start out as a readaloud; but it will quickly become one of those rhymes that stays with you as you go through your day and that kids will love to read on their own or with a friend. Soon you'll hear your kids repeating the couplets...they could be even become new verses for outdoor skipping games.

Along with that, we all learn about those foods that supply us with so much of what we need for healthy bodies. The author could not possibly include all vegetables but she offers a suggestion in her ' A Few More Bites' section at the back of the book:

"Fans of rhubarb, taro, collard greens and other vegetables missing from this book, please don't get steamed. You can find these and other vegetables, vegetable facts, and yummy photos at AprilSayre.com."  Do a search, you won't be sorry. She also offers up advice for learning more about these wonderful natural foods in her 'Be the Baron of Broccoli! The Colonel of Corn! The Cauliflower Queen!' segment.

I have tripped my tongue over her other chant books: Ant, Ant, Ant, or Bird, Bird, Bird and Trout, Trout, Trout and will happily go about sharing Rah, Rah Radishes in classrooms and workshops. Luckily, we will soon have another treat in store. Here's the word from April herself:

"Right now I am putting finishing details on Go, Go, Grapes: a Fruit Chant, which will be out next year."
Rah, Rah, April Pulley Sayre!

Meow said the cow, written and illustrated by Emma Dodd. Scholastic, 2009. $19.99 ages 2 and up

"By now the animals
all could tell
that Cat was behind
this beastly spell!
They were all feeling
a little bit cross.
"it's time to show that
cat who's boss!""

Who doesn't love a trickster tale? Kids will laugh out loud when they read, or listen to, this amusing story about a spell-casting Cat who's had it with all the early morning noise on the farm. Thanks to Cat's grasp of magic the Rooster gets a rude awakening himself the next morning.

It seems that Rooster is not the only recipient of the spell's magic. As the farmyard awakens, with no help from the squeaking that comes from the rooster's beak, all the animals find themselves speaking an unfamiliar language. The pigs are clucking, the chickens oinking, the sheep are barking and the only sound that will come out of the Sheepdog's mouth is a loud 'BAA'.  Kids will love the muddle and eagerly join in with farmyard sounds of their own. You can just imagine the fun!

The artwork is as chaotic as the barnyard racket, with strong textures, bright colors, varied perspectives and expressive digitally rendered animals, all confused by their situation. The text is boldly shown encouraging much noise from the listening audience. When it all becomes too much to bear, Cat knows he's in BIG trouble. As he is chased from the farm and treed by the angry and embarrassed animals, he knows it's time for a change. The spell is undone!

No one is more surprised than Cat when sunrise brings warmth and light to the farmyard the following morning. It is poetic justice!

Mother Goose Picture Puzzles, written and illustrated by Will Hillenbrand. Marshall Cavendish, 2011. $20.95 ages 2 and up

"Old Mother Goose,
when she wanted to wander,
would ride through the air
on a very fine gander."

So many children today have not heard and therefore, cannot repeat or chant the poetry of my childhood and my childrens' childhood. They are missing so much! Will Hillenbrand sets out to change all that and I am delighted that he has. Bravo!

I love his newest book and am very happy that I stopped by my favorite children's book shop, wallet in hand,. Whenever I go to THE STORY GARDEN here in Brandon, I tell myself to leave my money in the car...never happens! What a great gift this new discovery will be for new arrivals, and for those just figuring out what reading is. I also had a lovely visit with Jan and Emily while there...

It's a picture puzzle book (rebus style) of Mother Goose nursery rhymes. Will Hillenbrand uses inspired artwork in place of some of the words and makes reading a great deal of fun. Isn't that what it is meant to be?

What a great way to get our littlest ones joining in. They can 'read' the pictures which is a most useful skill when one wants to learn how to read. Illustrations help our children figure out what the words are saying. In this case. the pictures replace the words. This author takes it a step further and adds captioned spot illustrations that match the pictures in the text of the rhyme and thus allows children to see the words accompanied by a visual representation of them. Intelligent and imaginative...I love rebus books!



The illustrations for the twenty rhymes are warm, and often humorous. The expressive faces display happiness, surprise, delight and even consternation. They are pastoral in nature and offer up double page spreads that flow seamlessly from one verse to the next, often providing a clue about the nursery rhyme to follow. It is great fun!

As I have mentioned previously, children who know rhymes are a step ahead of those who don't when it comes to reading. The ability to hear and see similarities in words and sounds stand them in good stead for being successful readers down the road. Isn't that worth it?

Little White Rabbit, written and illustrated by Kevin Henkes. Greenwillow, Harper. 2011. $18.99 ages 2 and up

"When he hopped
through the high grass,
he wondered what it
would be like to be
green."


In a simple and elegant book, Kevin Henkes introduces his young audience to an imaginative and lively bunny who very much enjoys his adventures close to home.

As he hops along, he has many wonderings....what would it be like to be green, to be tall, to fly and even to be as still as a stone. What do you wonder? I think this book is a perfect introduction to that kind of thinking for the youngest listeners and will act as a mentor book for young writers who have some wonders of their own. His wandering and wondering are cut short when he comes a bit too close to a cat, and he quickly finds his way back to the safety and love of home.

The illustrations are a wonderful match to the sweet text. He uses bold outlines and pastel colors to show his audience very clearly the fun to be had in a neighborhood journey. Each new question is followed by a lovely, detailed double page spread, allowing Little White Rabbit to try his hand at the many adventures that intrigue him.

The text has a repetitive rhythm that will be very much enjoyed and aped by the children who share the delight found in its pages. Perfect to share and full of fun for all!

Tweak Tweak, written by Eve Bunting and illustrated by Sergio Ruzzier. Clarion, Thomas Allen & Son. 2011. $17.99 ages 3 and up

"Can I jump?

No, because you are not a frog.
You are a little elephant. But
you can stomp your foot and
make a big sound.

STOMP! STOMP!"


Oh, I love engaging books that honor the relationship between parent and child (or nurturing adult and child)! In this warm and gentle book from the prolific and thoughtful Eve Bunting, we meet Little Elephant and her Mama. I love the repetitive structure of the text...it is sure to encourage young listeners to read along in quick time. The rhythm adds grace and energy, keeping the reader captivated by the daily walk taken by the two of them. Little Elephant discovers much along the way as Mama patiently answers all questions.
Sergio Ruzzier creates the perfect character...inquisitive, tiny, innocent and trusting that Mama has all the right answers when questions are asked. You just want to pick her up and give her a hug. The soft, round shapes and subdued colors match the gentleness of the story. The delightful spreads that show Little Elephant imagining herself jumping, flying, climbing, swimming and singing are my favorites. His use of soft pastel backgrounds to show Little Elephant trying her hand at previously-unknown abilities and her fantasy forays add the perfect touch!


In the end Mama shows a matching confidence in her daughter, allowing her to lead the way home:

"And Little Elephant led Mama
past the fig tree where the bird sang,
past the place where the butterfly flew,
past the river where the crocodile swam,
past the acacia tree where the monkey climbed,
past the place where the frog jumped,
and all the way home."

How can you not love it?

Here Comes the Bride, written by Beatrice Masini and illustrated by Anna Laura Cantone. Tundra, 2010. $19.99 ages 6 and up

I can't believe that I haven't posted a single book in a week...but, I have a GREAT excuse! I was in Victoria for my daughter's wedding last Wednesday and a beautiful time was had by every single person who shared Erin and Drew's very special day.

In honor of that day, I think I will tell you about a wedding book....that seems appropriate, doesn't it? On this their first week anniversary...happy, happy day to both of you!

"The big day finally came. The little church was crowded. Everyone was curious to see the bride's wedding dress. Filomena had made so many lovely gowns that hers was bound to be beautiful."






Does every girl dream of being a princess, or a ballerina, or a bride? I don't know.  Do they also dream of being a designer, an astronaut, a writer? I don't know that either. Dreams are wonderful and scary things. They dare us to go beyond what we think is possible and provide hope for many. I trust that we never stop dreaming.

Filomena is not your typical bride...or is she? She spends her days making a bride's dream come true as she listens to her customers:

"Filomena, I want to look like a dainty fairy in delicate lace!"

"Filomena, I want to look like a glamorous movie star in a shimmering satin sheath!"

Then, she creates the most wondrous dresses; but, never for herself. Filomena has a dream, too. She wants to design her own wedding dress. It turns out that she has a secret admirer. He is as close as next door. Rusty is a mechanic, and a dreamer, too. He loves Filomena but doesn't have the courage to ask for her hand. When he finally summons up the strength needed and asks, she is quick to accept his proposal, having loved him forever.

As she creates her own dress, she has no time for other pursuits. She cannot go riding with Rusty. She takes all the dreams of her customers and her own and creates a dress for her own wedding:

"It was more than a cloud. It was a blizzard of white. Her veil was more than a veil. It was a sail. Her flowers were an overgrown garden of hearts and butterflies." 

When Rusty cannot see her beneath the flowers and embellishments, he succumbs to uncertainty and runs in fear. Filomena, knowing what is truly important, follows him. As she runs, she loses parts of her dress and discards other parts, leaving her to catch him in a simple satin shift...the absolutely perfect dress:

"At the reception, nobody could stop talking about Filomena's dress. It was short, simple and elegant."

Each time I read this engaging book, I find more details in the lively collage artwork. Included are captions in English and Italian, and many funny decorations are added to capture the attention of readers and add to the humor of the story. The elongated characters are full of personality and love, appealing and memorable. The perspectives are varied, the details welcome and the tone of the book itself is charming, at a time when 'Say Yes to the Dress'  and "Bridezilla' programs give us a skewed perception of what a wedding day should be!

For those who attended the nuptials a week ago, we cannot imagine a happier pair, or a more perfect celebration! Congratulations to the delighted Mr and Mrs K!

Cooking with Henry and Elliebelly, written by Carolyn Parkhurst and illustrated by Dan Yaccarino. Feiwel & Friends, H B Fenn, 2010. $19.99 ages 3 and up

"Now, there are two ways to make barbecued banana bacon: You can start with bacon and add bananas, or you can start with bananas and add bacon. It's really up to you. And while that's in the oven, let's check on our waffles. You want them crisp but not crunchy, brown but not black, hot but not cold."

Take one five year old big brother, add one two year old little, spunky sister and mix in many cups of hilarity...that delicious and unique concoction is what you get in this lively new book from a newbie to the children's literature field and an accomplished artist. Oh I forgot, a generous dollop of imagination!
Henry is keen to do a cooking show for TV, and kind enough to let his little sister Eleanor (well, he likes to call her Elliebelly) help him with the recipe. She's cute, but remember....she's two! Things are not likely to go as planned. First things first, a chef's hat doesn't cut it for Elliebelly. She wants a pirate hat. 

A series of similar missteps lead to a cooking show disaster. You've seen  some of those on TV yourself. The occasional break in filming or a fade-out to commercial allow for some unforseen changes in the script. It's always funny and never tedious. Poor Henry! He just keeps forging forward. Elliebelly is ready for anything, and can't wait to taste the 'raspberry-marshmallow-peanut butter waffles with barbecued banana bacon.' Did anyone tell her that it was only PRETEND?

Mom comes to the rescue with a real meal, and the two are off the air...until the next time!

The pairing of Carolyn Parkhurst with Dan Yaccarino is testament to great editing. The author has the language of the siblings down pat. They seem to echo conversations I have heard and create a great back and forth for young readers. The artist fills the pages with recognizable youngsters, with their wide eyes and always open mouths. The body language and expressive faces add fun and familiarity to the text.  The bold primary colors and softened edges are perfect. Take a close look at the endpapers...any parent will recognize their lives with young children amongst the images. They are an open invitation for kids to step inside and see what the book has to offer.

I like the design, too. The text in bold black at the top of the page is Henry's script and Elliebelly's is constantly interjected in red. Readers will love the opportunity to read the story in pairs, or even trios (with someone reading Mom's words), using wildly expressive voice to bring the characters to life.  

The Firefly Letters, written by Margarita Engle. Henry Holt, 2010. $19.99 ages 12 and up

"Imagine my nervousness
having to translate while Fredrika
scolds the schoolmistress
for keeping girls in class
only one hour per day
and for teaching them nothing
but embroidery, lacemaking
and saints' lives
while boys study all day long
learning mathematics and science."

This is fine historical fiction, told in Margarita Engle's elegant and descriptive verse. The author adeptly tells  Fredrika Bremer's story, using the letters, diaries and sketches that Bremer made when she visited Cuba in 1851 and other included resources.

'Fredrika Bremer was Sweden's first woman novelist and one of the world's earliest advocates of equal rights for women' and as such, provided a most worthy subject for this book. She traveled the world in search of a place where people were treated equally by everyone. She loved the climate and beauty in Cuba; but she was distressed by issues of slavery and her helplessness in making a real difference there. She stayed for three  months. Her stay was longer than planned in order to help Cecilia, her translator. Cecilia was a slave who longed for her African home; whose pregnancy, difficulty breathing and arranged marriage make her a most sympathetic character for readers.

Elena is an imagined character, endlessly curious about the world and allowed freedom with limitations. She is twelve when she meets Fredrika, and sure to be married by the time she turns fourteen as was the custom of the day. Her work is to learn the skills that will make her a valued wife and to add to her hope chest.
Her life is not unlike the life that Fredrika lived in Sweden, and from which she took her leave;

"I knew that I could not survive
as a half-starved rich girl
for the rest of my life.
Roaming the world
has been my escape."

There are four narrators, the three women mentioned and Cecelia's husband, Beni. Each has a personal perspective for Cuban life and the other characters. It is fine writing that makes each of them a fully realized participant in the story they share. The women meet by chance and as they travel together, they find that they have a common goal...they want everyone to experience freedom and equality. Though their language and culture differ greatly, they find a kindred spirit in each of their traveling companions.

Powerful and informative, Margarita Engle offers a story of friendship and enlightenment. Each woman is changed by their shared experiences. Let's leave the final words to Fredrika:

"I think of the ladies in Europe
drinking hot tea with sugar.

Do they ever wonder
about the slaves
who chop the cane
that sweetens their tea?

How will they know
unless someone travels
and writes
about the tales
told by brave children
like Elena
and courageous mothers
like Cecelia?"

Bravo!

Memoirs of a Goldfish, written by Devin Scillian and illustrated by Tim Bowers. Sleeping Bear Press, 2010. $17.95 ages 5 and up

"Day Three

I swam around my bowl.
I thought about taking a nap.
But fish don't sleep.
So I swam around my bowl."

With his bowl to himself and his simple routine, Goldfish enjoys his life. Then, others are added to the bowl. It begins with a bubbler; Goldfish is not impressed. He does nothing but bubble and really doesn't add anything to Goldfish's well-being. Then come plants, a snail with a penchant for slime, an aggressive crab, a pirate ship and even a visitor  from Hollywood.

Mervin the snail seems to be the only one truly content  with his lot in life...there is always something to be cleaned away from the side of the bowl.  By Day Ten Goldfish is starting to question the insanity:

"This is ridiculous.
I was trying to find room for a swim today when Rhoda and Clark told me that they are going to have babies soon.  Like there's room for THAT."

Finally, it's just too much and Goldfish has a meltdown. Screaming for peace and quiet, he finds immediately himself floating alone in a small, clean, heavenly place. He is delighted....and alone. It doesn't take long for him to wonder what will happen to the others. Who will help when they run into trouble? Tearful and distraught, he longs for their company once more. To his surprise that wish is soon granted, as all the occupants of his first home are reunited in a much bigger place, one meant for 'family'. The surprise ending will bring delight!
The artwork is wonderful. It's filled with expressive and unique personalities, bold, bright colors, and a most appealing design. Taking a careful look, wide-eyed listeners will note each new addition to the fishbowl family. There is so much to see as the story is shared..

Ask A Bug, edited by Deborah Lock. DK Publishing, Tourmaline Editions. 2011. $10.99 ages 6 and up

"How many insects are
there in the world?
Scientists think the number of
insects alive at any one time is
10 quintillion
(10,000,000,000,000,000,000).
That is 200 million insects for every
human being on the planet."

No wonder there are so many darn ants in my front lawn! I might have my 200 million share right here....yech!!! As I sit on my front step, I watch in wonder at their constant motion and industriousness...and hope that they do not find their way inside. They would not be happy here!

I am forever singing the praises of DK Publishing for the wonderful work they do in bringing amazing and 'much in demand' nonfiction to our little ones. On the double page spreads created for this book,  kids get an up close and personal look at a wide variety of 'bugs'. There are numerous questions about each one, plus a box titled 5 things to know about us. The questions are answered, the captions and labels useful and readers come away with an expanded knowledge of each of the 'icky' and 'elegant' critters.

Bugs are the perfect respondents. When a butterfly is asked where it goes when it rains, it answers: "We hide under large leaves or rocks and hold our wings tightly together. If the rain is too hard, our wings will be damaged and we will die."

Now to ants!

"Why do ants have armies?
We are social insects, which means we live in a group, or colony, to help us survive. We each have jobs to do. Most of us are workers but some are soldiers, guarding the nest. They defend the colony by biting, stinging, or spraying acid at attackers."

Does it help to know more about ants? While I can appreciate their tenacity and cooperation, I still want them out of my lawn!!!

There's more...if you want the scoop on bugs right from the source, find this book and share it!

Seeds of Change, written by Jen Cullerton Johnson and illustrated by Sonia Lynn Sadler. Lee & Low Books, 2010. $18.95 ages 8 and up

"Wangari wrapped her arms around the trunk as if hugging her great-grandmother's spirit. She promised never to cut down the tree."




It's inspiring to have another book about Wangari Maathai, the first African woman and environmentalist to win the Nobel Peace Prize (2004) for her work in Kenya. Growing up there, she learned a love of the mugumo from her mother. She watched as monkeys climbed its branches, as birds sang songs from their airy nests, as animals and people shared its fruit. As she sat in its shade on hot afternoons, she learned that her people believed their ancestors' spirits found solace there.

Wangari's thirst for knowledge led to an education that few girls in her small village received. When she wanted to further that education she moved away from her family and studied in Nairobi, before going to the United States for university studies. There she was greatly encouraged by her professors and eventually she returned to a teaching position at the University of Nairobi.

Much had changed in Kenya since she departed for studies in the United States. Trees were being cut down and the environment destroyed to make way for 'progress'. She knew it would have a detrimental effect on her people. She set out to replant the trees that were being destroyed. Encouraging women to join her, they formed the 'Green Belt Movement' which has led to the planting of  thirty million trees! That work resulted in a renewed respect for the land that was being systematically destroyed. The Nobel Prize, when it was presented, was a worthy thanks for the environmental concern she held for her beloved country and people, and for the future of our world.

There is much to ponder here for older readers. Maathai faced numerous obstacles as she sought her doctorate degree in biology and further, as she struggled against those greedy for the land that had sustained her ancestors and her village.  It holds a worthy place alongside three other books about this remarkable woman...Planting the Trees of Kenya (2008), Wangari’s Trees of Peace (2008), and Mama Miti (2010).

Using scratchboard and oils, with bold color and white outlines, Sonia Lynn Sadler has created lush quilt-like spreads which have at their heart the sacred mugumo tree that has inspired Wangari's life work. It is a beautiful book!

Spring is Here, written and illustrated by Will Hillenbrand. Holiday House, Thomas Allen. 2011. $19.95 ages 3 and upi

"Mole rapped on Bear's
window.
Tap. Tap. Tap.
"Snore," replied Bear."


It must be Mole's first spring because he's not sure that it has yet arrived. He sets about finding out for himself. The air smells sweet, the sun is shining gloriously and there is squishy mud to dip his toes in when he steps outside. It must be spring!

He wants his friend Bear to wake up and enjoy it. No matter what Mole does, Bear just keeps right on snoring. Mole even gets close and tries tickling his nose. It does not rouse his sleepy friend. Wait! He's got another idea.

This one involves egg gathering, cow milking, butter churning, and some mixing. Breakfast in bed finally does the trick! As Bear awakens to enjoy the feast, he calls to Mole to wake up because spring has arrived.

Mole is just too tired to care! Awwww!


Little ones will love this story of friendship and light humor. It's a charmer. It's a perfect book to share with little ones, with its accompanying sounds and simple text. The mixed media artwork has a gentile spirit, in keeping with the story's tone. The colors are warm and cozy, the lines softly drawn. It sure to bring enjoyment to its intended audience.

Animals Allive, edited by Wendy Horobin. DK Publishing, Tourmaline Editions. 2011. $17.99 ages 6 and up

"Each habitat can support only a limited number of species and every species adapts itself to suit a particular role in that habitat. By eating different foods or making its home in a different place, a species can reduce the competition it faces from other animals, yet live side by side with them."

Here we get a chance to see animals as they have lived through the ages...what has happened to some of them and how do we prevent it from happening to others? It begins with an overview of the variety among animal species, and then moves to showing each of the animal groups and some of the animals within those groups that are in danger. The writers include a ranking system that show nine risk categories...these include near threatened, vulnerable, endangered, critically endangered, extinct in the wild and extinct. Three are minor categories.
In the introduction to each animal group, there is a description of the main characteristics, many wonderful photographs and a sampling of the animals under threat. There are symbols offering the reasons for the perceived threat under each text box. The main threats are: habitat loss, climate change, hunting, food supply, pollution, and disease.

Following this there are spreads that describe animals within the risk categories. In the two page spread that concerns sea otters we learn something about them, what the main threats to their existence are, about their population, size, weight, diet, habitat, lifespan and the range within which they live. It is extremely informative and often surprising:

"The sea otter's coat is incredibly thick - it has around one million hairs in every square inch of fur."

There is good news. Some species have been saved from extinction through a variety of measures...breeding programs, relocation, organizations , legal protection, and vaccination from disease. It takes a lot of effort on the part of concerned scientists and caring individuals.

Young readers are encouraged to become naturalists, to set up reserves, and to learn as much as they can about the animals of the world so that they will want to protect them always.

A glossary helps with unfamiliar language, and an index takes readers back to those pages they want to see again.

Falling for Rapunzel, written by Leah Wilcox and illustrated by Lydia Monks. Penguin, 2008. $8.50 ages 3 and up

"At this the poor prince had a cry,
then cupped his hands for one last try:
"Rapunzel, Rapunzel,
let down your BRAID!"
Confused Rapunzel pushed out
her maid."


We wondered if Noah would need to know the story of Rapunzel before this book was shared with him. Of course, he didn't! I mean, who wouldn't get a story that is filled with humorous happenings because of an inability to hear clearly what is being said from a distance. Rapunzel is, after all, high up in the tower and the Prince sits upon his horse far below her window. This is one of those books you might get tired of reading before the young 'uns are tired of hearing it again and again and again!
I have always been eager to see 'fractured' fairy tales...some of them are absurd and very funny. Some are not. But, when you find one that you know kids will enjoy, it is sure to be a memorable experience. Leah Wilcox does not disappoint with her first foray into the field of children's literature. It is an auspicious debut, I think!

Their initial back-and-forth results in Rapunzel throwing down her underwear when he asks her to throw down her hair. And so it goes, with a wild assortment of valuables making their way to the bottom of the tower where she is entrapped. Finally, he asks for her braid, which she mishears and offloads her maid. You know what they say about 'falling in love', right?  Well, that's the 'happily ever after' ending none of us suspected. Rapunzel thinks she finally got it right and offers advice for the next visit:

"I hope if they come back for more,
they'll think to knock on my back door."

Too funny, indeed!

The kooky collage illustrations will have listeners searching the pages for added humor. As the prince rides up, observant young listeners will notice a city in the background with a highway leading to it, a plane flying above it and Red Riding Hood making a trek across the top of the hill. On it goes! Great language, perfectly matched illustrations and a boatload of fun will make this a much requested read.

Earth Matters, edited by David Rothschild. DK Publishing, Tourmaline Editions. 2011. $16.99 ages 10 and up

"With grasslands spreading all over the world, it's hardly surprising that there is a great diversity of animals living in these ecosystems. There is as much activity below ground as above it. Grasslands are open spaces where there are few places to hide from predators..."


As is the case with all of DK's incredible nonfiction , the first thing you notice in this engrossing book is the use of bold, bright graphic artwork. There are diagrams, photographs, maps and timelines, all included to give readers a close-up and personal look at our world and why it 'matters'.

The language is most appropriate for the target audience, ensuring their attention and ability to process the information shared. In fact, they make it quite undemanding, even when covering such complex issues as the greenhouse effect. It works for me, too! While the tone is of needs scientific, it is not overwhelming with the crisis that faces us; rather it encourages readers to learn about this place we live in order to cultivate respect and awareness for sustainable living.

Each ecosystem on our planet is connected, making for a huge and wonderful place to live.  All who are interested in the way the world works, and our place in helping to sustain and protect it, will find much to ponder here. 'We are all it together' is a recurring theme and gives young readers a sense of hope and purpose for the future. Sometimes alarming, it is a book best shared with children and adults. That being said, children will pore over the pictures, the informative captions and find much to inspire their further learning. By sharing it with an adult, they may get help with questions they have as they arise.

Since it is a relevant subject at the moment here, this is what it says of floods:

"With rising sea levels and heavier rain, floods will be more common in many places. A warm current called El Nino, which brings heavy rain to South America every few years, seems to be happening more often and more strongly. Countries at extra risk of flooding need to bolster their defenses, and lay disaster-relief plans."

It is a message for all of us!

Nini Lost and Found, written and illustrated by Anita Lobel. Knopf, Random House. 2010. $20.99 ages 3 and up

"Away from the house,
Nini looked back.
"It is cozy in there", she thought.
By the warm fireplace.
In the tickly yarn.
On the soft couch.
Under the big quilt."

Aren't there times when each one of us dreams of being 'outside' the confines of hearth and home?  Nini is a beautiful tabby who notices through the open door that there are enticements beyond her home's four walls. She loves the blue of the sky, the smell of the grass and flowers and she wants to be there. So, off she goes.

She knows that things at home are good. She is a much-loved cat, and she has everything that she might need. But really, wouldn't it be fun to make new discoveries? Her exploration leads her to unseen places, toward new smells and other sensory delights. It is only as the light begins to fade that her courage fails her:

"Strange noises hovered.
Strange shapes lurked.
Nini smelled danger."

 Feeling trapped by the noise and her fear, she worries that she will not find her way home. As if on cue, she hears soft, familiar, loving voices calling to her. Still frightened she decides that she must show some courage and head toward home and safety. She does just that!

Once there:

"She meowed, meowed, meowed...
The meows meant,
"I am sorry, sorry, sorry...""

And, for now, she is content.

Short, accessible sentences for young readers, beautiful detail-filled artwork and a terrific readaloud. Can we ask for more?

Wellington's Rainy Day, written by Carolyn Beck and illustrated by Brooke Kerrigan. Orca Book Publishers, 2011. $19.95 ages 5 and up

"Wellington gobbled. Wellington swobbled. Wellington ate and ate. Every last gorgeous, every last worgeous, every last squorgeous bite. Then he lick-lick-licked the pan for the memory, the m-m-marvelous memory. M-m-meatloaf."

Welly, well, well! Here's a dog bent on destruction, I think!

He is not in a happy place; the fire has gone out and his back is cold, the smell of fresh meatloaf hangs in the air, the cantankerous house cat has swiped his nose AGAIN and it's raining. He hates walking in the rain!

As his master sleeps, Wellington becomes bored. Turning his attention to the meatloaf seems the solution to his state of ennui. Now, what to do with the empty pan? Ah, Honey's litterbox is close and convenient. It provides the perfect hiding spot for the evidence. As happens with me on occasion, once food is tasted, it always leads to MORE. The garbage offers sensational smells and untold treats. Once he has eaten his fill, Honey approaches.

Honey loves nothing more than to get Wellington in trouble with Master. She has a load of ammunition aimed strraight at the fully sated dog. She delights in causing him concern. The threat of a dreaded bath has Welly's tummy rumbling and soon:

"Wellington heaved., Wellington HURLED.
He upchucked. He barfed. He spewed."

EWWWWWW!

Even Honey is caught in the crossfire. With good common sense, Welly quickly cleans up the kitchen (you don't want to know how!), just in time to accept Master Horace's invitation for a timely walk. The Master is pleased with their time together and promises warmth and a special treat when they get back home. A touch of apprehension surfaces. What will happen when the Master notices the meatloaf is missing?

Not to worry...all is well! There is a certain poetic justice in the discovery made!

And I haven't even mentioned the droll and most expressive artwork! They add  to the 'flavor' of the book by giving us a clear picture of the characters, and their antics.

Tony Baloney, written by Pam Munoz Ryan and illustrated by Edwin Fotheringham. Scholastic, 2011. $19.99 ages 4 and up

"Sometimes when Tony Baloney
is tired of Big Sister Baloney, and
exasperated by the Bothersome
Babies Baloney, Dandelion behaves
badly."


Poor Tony Baloney...he's a macaroni penguin caught in the middle of  a family that sports three sisters for this lone male child. Big Sister is the 'boss' in the family and Tony seems to be at her beck and call when it comes to playtime. He complains that he is always the kitty. The Bothersome Babies Baloney are soother-sucking, diapered twins who manage to mess with most of what Tony holds dear. For hours it seems, Tony does what is asked of him. Finally Dandelion, his best stuffed friend, becomes tired of it all and turns to misbehaving.

It's time for Tony, with Dandelion in tow, to make a safe and stealthy getaway. That done, they commiserate with each other until Momma and Poppa stop for a chat. It seems Tony needs to find the right words to apologize to his sisters:

"I need to think about our behavior and using our words and saying we're sorry.
Oh, and we have to mean it, too."

Dandelion is 'not yet feeling nicely in my heart'. Thus, the talk and deliberation continue. It takes a while. When the smell of fish tacos wafts into the 'hideawaysis' (thank you, Katherine Hannigan), both seem more prepared to get on with the task at hand. Apology accepted and the Bothersome Baloney Babies proving adept at meowing, Tony need not worry about being the kitty...ever again! Big Sister Baloney has an even better idea!

What fun Pam Munoz Ryan must have had in finding the perfect 'voice' for a young disgruntled middle child, with some mischief on his mind! Then, to have Edwin Fotheringham bring her characters so brilliantly (in color and otherwise) to life is surely the icing on the cake. His use of bold primary colors and so many telling details adds wondrous fun. The always present trails of Parmesan cheese, the constant motion, the expressive faces and the surprise ending make this a book that will requested repeatedly. I know I will be reading it time and time again!

Without You, written and illustrated by Genevieve Cote. Kids Can Press, 2011. $16.95 ages 3 and up

"Stop!
You're going too fast!

Step back!
This is a racing track!"



Can you guess by looking closely at the front cover what this book has as its focus? Have you met Rabbit and Pig in a previous book? I hope so...I met them first in the companion book to this one...Me and You (Kids Can, 2009).  They were wonderful then, and they are equally wonderful now. In fact, they are best friends!

In the tale they help their young audience understand what can happen, even in the best of friendships. It takes two to make that special bond work. It is a difficult lesson to learn.

Their story begins in conflict. Rabbit thinks that Pig is pulling the wagon too fast, while Pig is delighting in the race. Rabbit complains about carelessness and Pig responds with a line about fussiness. It isn't long until hard feelings cause a rift and result in a parting of the ways.

With courage and confidence, they separate for better times alone. There are so many things to be done without companionship and concern over the other's feelings:

"I can play dress-up without you.
I can go to the park without you."

At midpoint they seem to have a change of heart:

"But my book is funnier
when I read it to you!"

Isn't that the truth? Everything's better with friends. I know it, and you know it. Now, Rabbit and Pig know it, too!

Charming, spirited and oh, so perfect for little ones and early readers. It won't take any time until they are reading it on their own!

I'm The Best, written and illustrated by Lucy Cousins. Candlewick Press, Random House. 2010. $19.00 ages 2 and up

"These are my friends -
Ladybug, Mole, Goose,
and Donkey.

I love them.
They're great,
but I'm the best."

As you can see from the above quote, Dog has a pretty high opinion of himself. If you have had experience with this kind of friend, they can be awfully hard to take. He can run faster than Mole and doesn't mind announcing it to the world. He can dig holes better than Goose...and on it goes.

The other animals are definitely outmatched at the contests that Dog presents, assuring himself proof that he is 'the best'. He is relentless in his efforts to prove himself. It takes a toll on his friends, as even the youngest readers will anticipate. Their sadness is palpable, but they are not ready to give up. What if Mole dug the holes? Who would be better? And what about Goose swimming with Dog? Who would win that contest?

Soon, it is Dog who is feeling bad about himself:

"Oh, dear.
I'm not the best at anything. 
I'm horrible at everything.
I'm just a silly show-off."

He is deeply apologetic.

Oops! Now his friends must convince Dog that he is good at many things, but especially at being a best friend. Oh, and with beautiful fluffy ears, too.

That makes him happy and he is off on another round of bragging. When will he ever learn?

Of her book, Lucy Cousins says:

"I'm the Best I really enjoyed because it was with inks rather than paints, so it felt new. The line is a pencil drawn line rather than a brush stroke. So I'm starting to feel that I like experimenting to find something different and a little bit fresh. With I'm the Best, I wanted it to be very, very bold, almost like my sketchbooks. Often when I'm doing my sketches for ideas they have a real vitality to them, and when I've redone that page seven times and had a go at a few colored paintings it's quite hard to keep that freshness."

I love her artwork....the bold, vibrant colors, the expressive faces of Dog and all of his friends, the smudgy watercolor details and the fun there is to share with young listeners. This is a story with much to consider and is sure to encourage discussion about what being a friend really means.