How To Share With A Bear, wirtten by Eric Pinder and illustrated by Stephanie Graegin. Farrar Straus Giroux, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2015. $ 20.50 ages 3 and up

"Quick as he could,
Thomas got his
favorite books and
rushed back to the
cave.

Too late!

The bear was
already there. Caves
never stay empty ... "

It's one of those days when a self-constructed cave seems the best place for a quiet and prolonged read. So Thomas sets about creating the space he needs, with all the amenities that will make it perfect. Once completed to his satisfaction, he discovers it's too dark inside to read. Off he goes in search of a flashlight.

While gone, something big finds lodging in Thomas' cave. It has shy brown eyes ... a bear! Thomas employs all of his knowledge about bears to try and lead the interloper away from his warm den. A blueberry trail works temporarily. The bear is wily. While Thomas goes off to get books, the bear returns. A back scratcher, a sink full of toys, honey oat cereal and a bee costume should do the trick for attracting the bear away from Thomas' cave. Finally, Thomas has his cave to himself.

When the bear tries to get inside for a snuggle, there is no room. Only then do we realize who the bear is ... an inconsolable younger brother. Thomas shows his softer side when he pushes out the walls, causing a cave-in. What's the solution? Can they build a bigger cave together? Of course, they can!

"And Thomas learned that bears
like one thing even more than fish
or blueberries or honey.
They like their big brothers."

If your little ones aren't sure how to construct their own cave, they can ask my kids. They would fill the living room with blanket-covered play spaces day after day after day. Or, you can check out the final page of this charming book that shows them exactly how to do it. Ta-da!

A repeat reading offers several clues to the identity of the bear and a lot of detail to be shared and discussed. The soft colors, familiar setting and concealed identity keep little ones interested while not causing any distress ... straight through to the lovely ending.    
                                                                   

Most Dangerous: Daniel Ellsberg and The Secret History of the Vietnam War, by Steve Sheinkin. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast. 2015. $22.99 ages 12 and up

"They came to California to ruin
a man. Not to kill him, not literally.
But the next best thing.
On a summer day in 1971, two men
in wigs and glasses strolled along a
sunny sidewalk in Los Angeles. One
had a black mustache and walked with
a limp. The other carried a camera on a
strap over his shoulder.
They stopped in front of a three-story
building of brick and glass ... "

As he has done so brilliantly in previous books, Steve Sheinkin takes a complex political story and has it read like an adventure - just the kind of book he wanted to read when he was a kid. His research is exemplary and his interpretation of all that he has learned makes for the best kind of nonfiction. It is a book worth sharing, believe me!

Every scene is fraught with intrigue, information and insight. I started reading it on the plane on my way to Victoria and finished it that evening, once I had spent time with family and returned to my suite. As soon as I got home, I passed it to my son who had enjoyed reading Bomb: The Race to Steal the World's Most Dangerous Weapon (2012). Our response was the same to both: admiration, awe and renewed awareness. Pretty amazing stuff!

Daniel Ellsberg worked as a government analyst during the Vietnam War era, spent two years in Vietnam, and came back a changed man. He no longer believed that the Americans had a place there. He became an antiwar activist, after learning the truth about what was truly happening there and not being shared with the American people. Finally, in an act that many called treason (whistle-blowing), he released a copy of the Pentagon Papers, a secret government document detailing the truth about the war and the lies that had been perpetuated through the tenure of four presidents and over a period of twenty-three years. It was explosive, leading to the Watergate Scandal, the resignation of Richard Nixon, and the end of the war in Vietnam. Heady, indeed!

Even yet, it begs questions of government that need to be asked. Can we trust our elected officials? How do we know what is really happening behind closed doors? How much should be kept secret? It is a timely topic.

The strength of his writing comes from compiling the tremendous amount of research done (thirty-six pages of bibliography and source notes, and excellence in choosing the archival photos to include) into a highly emotional and eminently readable story that makes history come alive for his readers. It is divided into three sections, includes a list of almost 100 people who played a central role, is told chronologically to full effect, and ends with an epilogue suggesting that Ellsberg's 'treason' is in direct relation to security leaks made by Edward Snowden. Hopefully, it will elicit discussion in classrooms and at home. 

 

https://youtu.be/X03vYUIN0oY 

      

Hansel and Gretel, by Holly Hobbie. Little Brown and Company, Hachette. 2015.$19.00 ages 5 and up

"Then, on the third
morning, they suddenly
came upon a cheerful
little cottage. The dwelling
was made of cake, with a
roof of cookies and vanilla
icing and windows of
sparkling sugar. Hansel
and Gretel broke off pieces
of sweet chocolate and
hungrily ate them."

This has always been one of my favorite fairy tales. I think it is the idea that young children are so resourceful at overcoming the odds. Well, and the appeal of a house made of deliciousness!

The plight of the family is encompassed in the darkness of the title page: spare surroundings, all the trees cut down leaving the woodcutter father without a means of support, no happiness evident anywhere. As the story opens we see a gaunt woman wearing clothes that overwhelm her slight frame, the children eating worriedly from their meager bowls of food, and a dispirited man slumped over his meal. The wife is livid and threatening.

"We cannot feed your children any longer. We must
get rid of them." She was the children's stepmother.
"Get rid of them?" the woodcutter shouted. "Never! I love my children."
"Then make four coffins," the wife scolded bitterly. "One for each of us."

What would we do? It is a brutal question to ask.

The telling is in keeping with the original tale ... two trips into the forest to try to leave the children behind, one return trip following white pebbles sparkling in the moonlight, a second one impossible as the birds have consumed the breadcrumbs dropped, the trek through the forest (full of trees to cut if only people had money to buy the wood), finding the cottage that sparkled and shone, meeting the woman who lived there and turned out to be mostly hungry for children, the trickery and the triumphant return home to live happily ever after. The text for the telling is spare, as Holly Hobbie wants her illustrations to be the focal point.

The artwork is described in an author's note:

"My paintings are created with transparent watercolor, pen and ink, and gouache on watercolor paper. It was necessary to change my typically cheerful palette to convey the somber setting of Hansel and Gretel. I found myself using indigo for the first time in my life, rather than the brighter and friendlier ultramarine blue. Thank goodness the sun breaks out in the end."

That art is as sinister and harrowing as the tale it tells. The magic of the candy house is overpowered by our first look at the witch - white-faced, spindly limbed and voluminously clothed. Her back turned to the smiling children allows a glimpse at her true nature. Beautifully rendered, yet creepy as well, it is good to know we are in for a happy ending.
                                                                   

Mother Bruce, written and illustrated by Ryan T. Higgins. Hyperion, Hachette. 2015. $18.99 ages 3 and up

"But the fire in
his stove fizzled.
So he went out to
get more wood.
When Bruce came
back, he was met
with an unwelcome
surprise."

Hey, Bruce is not likely the bear you want to meet when you are out for a hike in the woods. He is a mite grumpy, and there are a lot of things he doesn't like. He does like to take things that belong to others. He likes eggs best, stealing them to create some new and delicious meal for himself. One of the recipes he wants to try calls for some pretty special ingredients:

"First, he caught a few salmon.
Then he collected
honey from
a local beehive.
He liked to support
local business,
you see.

Last, he went to
Mrs. Goose's nest
to pay her a visit."

Bruce gets more than he bargained for when he chooses the wrong nest to rob. What a surprise when four tiny goslings hatch from the eggs he was hoping to cook! In a classic case of mistaken identity, the goslings attach themselves to Bruce, convinced he is their mother.  Now, he's got parenting troubles. Those hapless babies follow Bruce everywhere he goes. Nothing he does to discourage them works. They don't understand the threats behind his toothy snarls and loud roars!

His patience stretched to the limit, Bruce begins to find joy in their presence. He works to raise them with their future in mind, offering lessons in art, feeding them nutritious food, and assuring they get their rest. The seasons pass, the goslings thrive and grow from annoying baby geese to stubborn teenage geese to boring adult geese.

Fall hopefully brings a reprieve. Bruce explains how they will make their trip south. They are not interested. After many creative attempts to send them on their way, he resigns himself to accompanying them - by bus to Miami!

Not only is the writing wonderfully sharp and full of fun, Ryan Higgins creates endearing images throughout of a grumpier than average bear, four adoring goslings, and adds a boatload of sly humor that will have little (and older) listeners rolling in the aisles. The textures and colors are appealing, the perspectives are ever-changing, and the setting is perfect for presenting this unconventional family that eventually manages a peaceful co-existence.

A surprise ending is sure to ramp up the enjoyment for all. I cannot wait to share it with a classroom full of delighted listeners!
                                                                           

Fable Comics, edited by Chris Duffy. First Second, Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2015. $22.99 ages 8 and ujp

"When I woke up in the spring,
I found these things in front of
my house.
A carrot and two pieces of coal.
Is it a special message from
someone?
Maybe it's a gift.
No, it's a snowman.
No it isn't.
It is. Or it was a snowman.
It melted when the sun shone ... "

I have told you about the two previous titles in this terrific series ... Nursery Rhyme Comics (2011) and Fairy Tale Comics (2013). They are a great way to get young readers with a penchant for graphica accustomed to some of our oldest stories and verse.

Most of the fables included in this collection were originally penned by Aesop. I was particularly interested in the ones that came from other cultures as they were new to me. Graphic renderings of these old tales are made relevant in their modern settings. There are twenty eight fables shared. The editor describes them as 'bossy stories with a message for you'.

Kids will love watching the fox try to get the grapes he so desires using a jet pack, the language of the tortoise as he boldly crosses the finish line after escaping the talons of a ravenous eagle ... 'In your face, you frikety fracking 'rabbit!', or the hilarious tale of the mouse council that comes up with the perfect plan to protect themselves from their enemy by belling it so that they will always know where that darned cat is. But, who is brave enough to place the bell around the cat's neck ... why, no one!

I like that most of the cartoonists choose to reinvent their fables in a personal way, while keeping the moral true to its original intent. The settings may change; that only adds to the appeal for their target audience ... those who love their stories to be told in graphic form. The panels are carefully drawn to assure attention, the print is easy to understand. Often funny, and certainly recognizable in form, this is a book that would make a welcome addition to both classroom and library collections. It works as an introduction to the traditional tales, or as a boldly imagined companion to them.

Read it. Then, read it again. You won't be sorry!                                                                       

We Dig Worms. A TOON book by Kevin McCloskey. Publishers Group Canada, 2015. $17.95 ages 4 and up

"My tunnels bring air
and water to the soil
to help plants grow.
When worms dig,
twisting and turning,
they make the earth ...
earthier."

There can be few better ways for early readers to learn about earthworms! This is a book that is sure to provide answers to the many questions that children might ask about the worms they see following a rain, or when digging in the garden.

The author begins by telling his audience that there is variety in the worm family; the one he wants to discuss is the earthworm. There are many good reasons to learn as much as we can about them. He discusses their usefulness: how they help the earth by digging and by 'pooping'.  A map of the worm's body shows readers just exactly what they look like inside and outside, with labels and captions to aid with understanding.

Questions are answered in speech bubbles, while the author adds a short, concise bit of information to match the conversation between a child and a worm:

"Mister WORM?

Why do you come out
after the rain?

It's easier to WRIGGLE
when it's WET!

WORMS MOVE AND BREATHE BETTER WHEN IT'S WET."

That bluebird might be a problem. The earthworm is quick to avoid its invitation to lunch by letting it know there is work to be done. Mr. McCloskey chose the perfect medium for his wonderfully, informative illustrations - gouache and acrylics on recycled brown paper bags. The earthworms would be pleased, wouldn't they?
                                                                         

The Whale in My Swimming Pool, written and illustrated by Joyce Wan. Farrar Straus Giroux, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2015. $20.50 ages 3 and up

"Maybe you just
need a little help.

Why my pool?
Why not the pool
next door?

They have the best
pool on the block!"

An inflatable pool might be the very best place to be on a hot summer day - at least that's what the small boy thinks when he makes his way into the backyard to enjoy a cool plunge. Wait a minute! What is that humungous thing atop the tiny pool? Can it be a whale?

Mom is interested in the book she is reading, doesn't really hear what her son is telling her, offers no useful advice. The youngster comes up with his own solution for the dilemma. He will count to ten, the whale will be gone, problem solved! Trying to dislodge the intruder doesn't work, a suggestion to use the pool next door has no allure, a game of fetch is ignored, even a fishing pole does not help.

When he runs out of ideas for enticing the whale away from his pool, he comes up with a perfect solution for making the best of the situation. A call from Mom to announce it's time for a nap creates a brand new dilemma. It will take ingenuity, but I am certain this further problem will also be solved.

Front endpapers are festooned with the initial problem; at the back, we are presented with the current difficulty. The thick lines of the illustrations assure understanding and humor for a young audience.
The simple, animated text makes for ease of reading and a guaranteed return to the book for a closer look and a repeated share.

The Princess in Black and the Perfect Princess Party, written by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale. Illustrated by LeUyen Pham. Candlewick Press, Random House. 2015. $14.99 ages 6 and up

"She took off her favorite
fluffy dress. She slipped off
her glass slippers. Underneath,
she was dressed all in black.
She fastened on her mask. She
was no longer Princess Magnolia.
She was the Princess in Black.

"The princess is back!" said the
Princess in Black. She slid down
the secret chute."

Poor Princess Magnolia! Her birthday party is perfectly planned for an afternoon filled with good times with her princess friends. She is suitably attired, the guests are arriving ... her monster alarm rings loud and clear. She must leave, change into her Princess in Black costume, and be off to stop a monster from eating a goat. Her horse is at the ready - off they go! Both are disappointed to leave the much-anticipated party, but duty calls.

That is only the first disturbance of the afternoon. It seems that every time the party goers are ready for something fun to do, an alarm rings and Princess Magnolia must create a diversion so that she can attend to the important work of defeating monsters. The diversions work. However, every time she returns, changes back into her party paraphernalia, she looks a little worse for wear. Princess Sneezewort picks up on some clues to what is happening. She notices that Princess Magnolia is not always where she is thought to be. Identity in check, the Princess in Black remains a mystery to the end.

There is much to ponder as early readers follow, chapter by chapter, the demands made of a superhero. It is not work to be taken lightly. It requires dedication, self-sacrifice and time. After a series of interruptions, she has every right to lose her cool when confronted with yet another monster threatening Duff the goat boy's charges. That monster is stunned by her reaction, and contrite. It provides a birthday gift that proves very useful when Princess Magnolia returns to her palace.

A funny, welcome addition to the Princess in Black series, this book shows fans that, while she may appreciate the many benefits of being a beautiful princess, she has the moves needed to slay monsters in another action-filled adventure.

February brings the third installment ... The Princess in Black and the Hungry Bunny Horde. Sure to be a winner, leaving happy readers begging for more.

                                                                            

 

Written and Drawn by Henrietta, a TOON book by Liniers. Publishers Group Canada, 2015. $17.95 ages 4 and up

"What were you doing
inside my wardrobe?

We were looking for a HAT
for Louie. He doesn't have
one!

Aw, poor Louie!

We sure could use some
help!"

Two stories for the price of one! How fun is that? In the hands of the very talented Argentine artist Liniers, it is quite the book to share. Henrietta is at the heart of it, with her new box of colored pencils, her vivid imagination and an awesome talent for getting her story on the page!

She loves her new art supplies:

"A  box of colored
pencils is as close
as you can get
to owning a
piece of the
rainbow."

Pencils in hand, she sets out to write a brand new tale, The Monster with Three Heads and Two Hats. The images are childlike, while also being scary - even scaring the artist herself with noises and mystery. She likes her story, using all she knows about writing to 'thicken the plot', build the suspense, and explain it all to her cat Fellini who offers an audience and pertinent questions about her work.

Humorous, observant to the elements of story building, and acknowledging useful punctuation add interest for the reader. Henrietta moves the story along with gusto. She is impressed with her own work, never knowing exactly what might happen next. She keeps it fluid and lively. I love the diversion from the intense action when she draws and captions the numerous hats to be found in Emily's closet.

"The best things
are the ones that
make you say
WOW!

Or MEOW!

This old
encyclopedia really
knows a lot about
hat -o-logy."

There are monsters, a mute mouse adept at directions, and a wonderful gift for Emily. All bring the tale to its faultless conclusion. The two worlds - the one of the writer herself and the one of the story being told so wonderfully - keep readers aware and aching to know what comes next when creativity is allowed free rein.

Brilliant, wise,  and perfect for any aspiring writer you might know. Let this book be their inspiration to follow that dream!                                                                         

           

Book: My Autobiography, written by John Agard and illustrated by Neil Packer. Candlewick Press, Random House. 2015. $19.00 ages 10 and up

"Enter A E I O U

It must have been fun being a little letter in those days, with different people taking you and shaping you into their own language - straightening you here, curving you there, as they saw fit. Even writing you in all directions, right to left, left to right, not to mention downward and upward. A page must have felt like a trampoline."

Book is the narrator of this intriguing memoir which takes its audience from oral storytelling to the advent of the e-book. It provides a carefully constructed look at the evolution of itself over the 5,000 years it took to bring us to what books are today.

As we read, we learn about the growth of alphabets, the evolution from clay tablets to the codex. We readers have met Book many times over the years. We will have our own opinions about those: some wonderful, some mediocre, some not worth the paper it took to create them. Book is a most interesting historian of the beginning, middle and ending of its development. It tells the how and why of its genesis. The years have made it ever more accessible for those of us enjoying reading today ... no more scrolls, heavy tomes that would challenge some of the strongest among us.

Today, Book is for everyone ... in a variety of forms, from a variety of places. It is meant to be savored by each of us because of its being relatively inexpensive, more available, much easier to hold.  Whoever could have imagined the digital age, and the advent of the e-book?

Book is not so impressed:

"I let e-Book know in no uncertain
terms that my old musty smell is a
heartwarming perfume to the nose of
book lovers rummaging in used book
stores, yard sales, or charity shops.
Then I changed the subject and
told him it was a shame he couldn't
experience the thrill of being dog-eared.
That shut him up."

The design is lovely; adding trivia in boxes, through attractive illustrations and memorable quotes. Fonts change, history is shared and it won't take long to read aloud or alone. Accurate and bold, it is sure to be enjoyed by those who have a chance to share it.

Merry Christmas to all!

 

               With special holiday wishes for those who
                 read and share Sal's Fiction Addiction 
                            with family and friends!

              

Double Trouble for Anna Hibiscus! By Antinuke and Lauren Tobia. Kane Miller, Publishers Group Canada. 2015. $20.50 ages 4 and up

"It is brothers," Anna
Hibiscus tells her cousins.
"That big bump was brothers."
"Boys!" shouts Benz.
"Two boys!" whispers Angel.
"That means trouble, " says
Clarity.
"Big Trouble!" says Chocolate.

"Uh-oh," thinks Anna
Hibiscus."

As does any child whose life is turned upside down by a new baby, Anna Hibiscus has concerns. When the baby arrives, it is two ... and they are boys! She is warned that may mean trouble. It isn't long until she discovers that they truly are double trouble!

Mama is sleeping when Anna wants her usual morning cuddle. Uncle Bizi Sunday is making food for Anna's Mama and has no time to make her usual breakfast ogi. A shared breakfast with Grandmother (this time a banana) is impossible as Grandmother is also sleeping, having helped with the birth of the baby 'bothers'. Anna often helps the aunties with washing clothes. Today, those aunties are rocking babies. Where will the trouble end?

Not with the uncles ... they are doing twice the work because of the babies. It's Papa to the rescue, with a hug and reassurance. No one has forgotten the big sister. Anna is comforted and able to pass on some love and wise advice to her little brothers:

"We have Mama and Papa,
and Grandmother and Grandfather,
and so many aunties and uncles,
and cousins to share!
You don't need to cry."

This is a perfectly delightful story, made stronger with the bold and expressive artwork created by Lauren Tobia. Her full-page spreads and spot pictures show the gamut of emotions felt by the charming Anna. Having met her in prior stories, I knew that this one would be memorable, too. Together, both artists have given us a book to treasure and to pass along to families expecting a new baby. Pay special attention to the endpapers, front and back.

Warm and winning, keep a couple on hand for times when you need a special gift for an older sibling. You can't go wrong with it.
                                                                          

Magical Animal Adoption Agency: The Enchanted Egg. Written by Kallie George and illustrated by Alexandra Boiger. Harper, 2015. $16.99 ages 8 and up

"Then she made a final round of the Agency, turning some lights on for the hatchling, so it wouldn't be scared. Even so, after she locked the door, she lingered on the top step, unwilling to leave, until at last she heard a humph from the gnome's direction. She made her way down the path, stopping when she reached him. "The egg hatched," she whispered, "and the animal is loose."

If you are looking for a new series to share with a transitional reader - a child who is exploring longer texts with familiar characters, you might want to check out the Magical Animal Adoption Agency. This is the second book, and the second one that I have read. While you can read this one without first sharing Clover's Luck, it is important to know that the enchanted egg that is the focus this time around was rescued at the end of the first book by Mr. Jams, the owner of the agency, after a long trek to find it.

Clover, who loves animals and proved that she was worthy of Mr. Jams' trust when he left her in charge that first time, is again tasked to take care of things while he goes in search of an expert on unusual, magical eggs. Since no one knows what the egg might produce, Clover would like to think that it will not hatch before Mr. Jams returns.

While he is gone, Clover shows readers that she is trustworthy, astute and sympathetic to the plight of the animals in her care. We meet the clients along with her - giants looking for a pet that will guard their golden goose, an allergic unicorn, and a ghost who bakes cupcakes - each looking for the perfect magical pet for themselves.

Clover is more self-assured this time, having proven worthy the first time she was given a seemingly formidable task. When she checks the nest she has so carefully created for the polka-dot egg, she finds the shell broken, and the baby missing. With the arrival of visitors looking to adopt a pet for themselves and needing Clover's guidance, she has little time to look for the hatchling. Will she find the baby before anything happens to it?

The sequel is equally as rewarding as the first book. The series is sure to attract many fans. Let's hope we won't have to wait too long to see what Clover is up to next.

 

Doctor Nice, written and illustrated by Valeri Gorbachev. Holiday House, Thomas Allen & Son. 2015. $23.95 ages 3 and up

"Who's next?" asked Doctor
Nice. "I am," said Moose.
"I fell through the ice. Achoo!
Please help me, Doctor."
"Don't worry. You just have
a cold," said Doctor Nice.
"Stay in bed for a few days,
and you'll soon feel better."
"I will. Achoo! I will.
"Thank you, Doctor."
"Who's next?" ... "

If you are looking for a book about professionals, you might want to share this one about a young and compassionate doctor who spends the day caring for each of the animals that pay a visit to the medical clinic. The variety in illness is immense. The tiny doctor, dressed in green scrubs, a mask and all of the paraphernalia needed to cure the multitude of patients, is IN.

First up is Mother Crow, worrying about her young son who hurt his foot while skiing. A cast for the broken foot is just what the doctor orders and mother and son are soon on their way. As one patient exits, a new one makes an entrance. From a moose with a cold to a cow with a broken tail, the doctor works medical magic in providing the perfect treatment for each. At the end of a long day of looking after others, there is a surprise in store for Dr. Nice ... and for the readers of this warm and lively book.

Valeri Gorbachev  uses watercolor and ink to bring this imaginative romp to life for his young readers. There are so many details sure to encourage attention and discussion as readers take note of the patients' complaints before they are shared. The pig is protecting her nose, the moose is carrying a large handkerchief, the goat kids are holding their heads protectively. On each double page spread showing the source of the medical complaint, we get a close look at the event that initiates a trip to the doctor in the first place. So much fun for little ones. A story to be shared when cold winter weather keeps everyone inside, and for using the imagination to get through the long, cold days.

That surprise ending is icing on the cake for this charming readaloud.

Silly Wonderful You, story by Sherri Duskey Rinker and illustrated by Patrick McDonnell. Balzer + Bray, Harper. 2016. $ 21.99 ages 3 and up

"And now ...
     since there was you ...
my days start oh-so-early,
with bright-eyed alarm clocks ...
Each time I step, sharp
little blocks go right through
my socks!
I find so many things
in unusual places."

If you live with a toddler, you will know just exactly what the mom in this new book by Sherri Duskey Rinker is feeling. Don't things change dramatically every single day?

I spent a month recently with my granddaughter and learned the real meaning of 'tired' as an aging woman with not nearly as much energy as I once had. However, the joys of being with her far outweighed the total exhaustion I felt by the end of a day spent playing, cajoling, checking up on, singing, chasing and reading with her.

This mother's rhyming text fully explores the many changes that take place with a growing child in the home, who wants to explore her environment, assert her independence and put all of her passion into bringing joy and laughter to those who love her:

"That you
could be
so
jumpy.

Or sometimes
GRUMPY
(and maybe just a tiny bit whiny)."

I am going to love to read this with my daughter and granddaughter when they arrive next month! It is sure to speak to Mom for the life they now live, and at some point in time, to Sicily who will want to share all the memories that its words evoke.

The sound effects, the funny little surprises that arise on a daily basis are so ably captured in the pen, brush and ink artwork Patrick McDonnell has created to accompany the rhyming text. The child's absolute joy in living and her many emotions are evident on every page, whether she is splashing in the tub, purposely touching what is not to be touched, racing her mother to the top of the stairs in an effort to avoid capture.

Cozy, frenetic and all too true, I think you will relate if you spend any time with a toddler.

https://youtu.be/FBruJbm-4QM

Marguerite's Christmas, written by India Desjardins and illustrated by Pacal Blanchet. Translated from the French by Carolyn Grifel. Enchanted Lion Books, Publishers Group Canada, Raincoast. 2015. $27.50 ages 8 and up

"Ding Dong!
She isn't expecting anyone.
Her heart begins to pound.
She is seized by anxiety.
This is it. Her time has come.
She's not ready.
She hears faint voices
coming from outside.
Peeking through the curtains,
she sees a car in front of her
house..."

This is my absolute favorite book for this Christmas season! It might be that it strikes a little close to home. I have not decorated for Christmas this year as we won't be celebrating until late in January, when my family is all together. It doesn't bother me in the least. When my son arrives next week, he is not likely to notice that there is no sign of Christmas being but a few short days away. Is it my age? Or am I just past the commercialism of it? The rush to buy, buy, buy when we need nothing and so many others have nothing. What a curmudgeon I am!!!

Marguerite might be seen in much the same light. She is elderly and not our focus until we have become familiar with her surroundings - her snowy road, her neighbors as they greet each other taking great delight in the snowy landscape. Only then do we meet Marguerite:

"Marguerite Godin would be happy if she never had to set foot outside her house ever again."

She likes Christmas and until last year, she did her best to decorate the whole house. But, it made her very tired and then she didn't have the energy to take it all down again. The wreath stays up all year, only lit during the holiday season. She is not afraid to be alone at Christmas, although her family finds that hard to believe. In truth, she only wants their happiness. Marguerite is feeling old, vulnerable, set in the ways that she does what needs to be done. Her fears are buoyed by newspaper reports of robberies, people preying on the aged, her inability to move quickly to protect herself. It is a lonely life to live.

When a family car veers into a snowbank on Christmas Eve in front of her house, members of the family need her help. It brings every one of her fears to the forefront, causing endless worry as she allows the father to use her phone, the daughter to use her bathroom. But, watching the family celebrate together inside their stalled car brings a sense of joy to the old woman. A sudden halt to the noises she has been hearing from outside leads her to think that their battery has died. The family might be in need of further help. She prepares a snack, clothes herself for the trip outdoors, only to watch as  the tow truck hauls the car away. 

A tender smile and a sense of wonder at the beauty of the cold, clear night leaves readers with a sense of the peace the season can bring. Contemplative, at times humorous, unquestionably memorable.

The design is quite beautiful, with a cloth cover, thick pages, candy cane endpapers and wonderful retro illustrations. It is a window into a world of the elderly; a glimpse at the vulnerability of someone who may be part of the family; a moving story that could become a family tradition to read during the holiday season.

Little Red Gliding Hood. Story by Tara Lazar with pictures by Troy Cummings. Random House, 2015. $19.99 ages 4 and up

"But Little Red needed a
skating partner. The Dish
danced with the Spoon, and
Hansel spun Gretel like
sugar.
Little Red had no one. She
asked each of her friends.
T-t-t- too
c-c-c- cold!
Little Boy Blue just
shivered and quivered."

I can only hope that the children who share this story will have the background experience to make it the most fun possible. It concerns me how few children hear fairy tales and nursery rhymes as an integral part of their reading and listening lives. Fairy tales are perfect for offering a chance to discuss plot, characters and the battle between good and evil. Nursery rhymes help to ensure that young listeners can hear and repeat rhyming patterns, a very important part of learning to read in the first place. Knowing many of the actors who play a role in this rollicking tale will up the understanding and enjoyment.

Little Red is an accomplished skater ... on ice, that is. Her skates don't fit and are becoming more ratty with each trip to her grandmother's house. It won't be long until she can no longer make her weekly visit. Poor Grandma will be very disappointed!

When Red hears that a skating competition will net the winning pairs partners a new pair of skates, she has no success in finding that needed partner. On her way to Grandma's for advice, the Big Bad Wolf makes an appearance, frightening Red so badly that she comes close to taking a terrible fall. It's Wolf to the rescue, and a misunderstanding is quickly cleared up. Wolf protects Red, admires her skating prowess, and wonders if she might consider him worthy of being her partner. He, too, could use new skates.

Red shouts assurance, to those trying to protect her, that Wolf is her partner for the competition after his presence creates mayhem among the gathered participants and observers. They make an awesome pair. To everyone's surprise, they win the prize they both need badly if they are to retain their skating skills. Wahoo!

Kids who know and love these characters will take great delight in Troy Cummings' cartoony creations. They provide the perfect background for the many familiar and recognizable characters from beloved stories and poems. Fresh and full of fun, this book is great for reading aloud to a wide audience who will appreciate the wordplay and the detail-filled illustrations.

"The wolf frightened
Little Miss Muffet away.

She bumped Little Jack Horner
into the corner.

Humpty Dumpty
had a great fall.

And Jack and Jill came tumbling after." 
                                                                            

Lost. Found. Written by Marsha Diane Arnold and illustrated by Matthew Cordell. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2015. $19.50 ages 3 and up

"When a stiff wind blows
Bear's scarf away, it's
lost.

When Beaver wraps it
into a cozy cap, it's
found.

Lost.

Found."

A perfect gift for little ones just learning the meaning of certain words and the joy of reading. It is a book about the concepts of lost and found, and how one thing inevitably leads to the other. The bear's red scarf is the most noticeable thing on the cover, the title page and the first page of action. As he trudges through the snow on a very windy day the scarf blows away.

Two raccoons are the first to see it, and each wants it for himself. A disagreement ensues, a chase follows, the scarf is forgotten. Once again, it is lost. A beaver finds it and creates a warm turban which gets tangled in a tree and left for someone else to find.

It isn't until all of the animals with previous knowledge of that lovely red scarf converge at one time that the scarf finally comes to the end of its journey. Each is not to be outdone by the others in an attempt at ownership, leaving the scarf a mass of wool scraps. Can they possibly work together to ensure its place in their lives once more?

Matthew Cordell ramps up the humor with his glorious watercolor and pen and ink art, and engaging sound effects. The scribbly lines create constant movement and discovery. He just makes the story sweeter and more entertaining for a host of little ones who will want to share it again - immediately.

                                                                         

When Santa Was a Baby, written by Linda Bailey and illustrated by Genevieve Godbout. Tundra Books, Random House. 2015. $19.99 ages 4 and up

"The years went by,
and Santa grew older.
He began to learn his
colors. Right from the
start, he liked red best.
"What about these dandy
blue pajamas from Aunt
Mabel?" said his mom.

Santa shook his head.
"Want red!"

Have you ever thought about Santa's parents? Or, do you think that magical beings just appear? Linda Bailey put her imagination to work and brings us a story of Santa as a baby, a toddler, a child and a teenager - all those times in his life that led him to his true calling. What wonder awaits!

His parents loved his dimples and his cherry nose. They were surprised, to say the least, when his loud HO! HO! HO! replaced any other tiny baby's giggle. He was happy, strong and very, very special. He was unwilling to wear anything that wasn't made in his favorite color -red. After opening all of his birthday presents, he especially loved re-wrapping them and giving them away. Oh, so generous! For another birthday he wanted a reindeer. His parents couldn't understand his request, so they got him a hamster. And so it goes!

It is no surprise that this charming child grows up to be Santa Claus. Each year brings new discoveries about those things that he loves, and an explanation for who he will become. Children will be delighted to learn the backstory of Santa's journey to Christmas elf extraordinaire. It is sure to become a family treasure and tradition after sharing it this year ... a book to be passed along to future generations.                                                                  

The pastel and colored pencil illustrations make the reader feel as if they are sharing a family photo album, watching the child grow and prosper under the loving care of his astonished and accepting parents. The humor is gentle, the emotions evident and the nostalgia is touching. Young listeners are sure to have their favorites, and will want to return for a closer look again and again.

This is a winner!

Dear Santa, Love, Rachel Rosenstein, written by Amanda Peet and Andrea Troyer. Illusrated by Christine Davenier. Doubleday Books for Young Readers, Random House. 2015. $20.99 ages 5 and up

"The Rosensteins didn't
celebrate Christmas because
they were Jewish.
Being Jewish was fun
most of the time.
It meant you got to hunt
for the afikomen on
Passover, blow the shofar
on Rosh Hashannah, and
get a present a day for all
eight days of Hanukkah - "

In my first year of teaching, one of my students was Jewish and we, as a class, learned as much as we could about Brian's celebration of the festival of lights. Five-year-olds were pretty impressed that he was to receive a gift for each of the eight days of Hanukkah.

Rachel Rosenstein is not so fond of the idea that she cannot share all of the things she loves about Christmas. In fact when Christmas finally arrives ...

"... Rachel felt like a kid in a candy store without a mouth."

She wants lights, and a Christmas tree, and cookies for Santa's visit. She writes him a letter, visits him at the mall, and provides latkes decorated with chocolate chips to give him the energy he needs to make it through a long night of deliveries. She prepares the house for his visit, does her best to wait up for him, but cannot keep herself awake throughout the long night. How disappointing to discover that Santa has not even stopped at the Rosenstein house!

Her mom does her best to explain and to comfort her daughter before leaving for her job at the hospital on Christmas morning. Her dad fills their day with fun and frolic. At the end of that day, he takes their grandfather and his daughters to their favorite Chinese restaurant for supper. Only when she notices some of her school friends arriving for their own meals does Rachel realize she is not alone in not celebrating Christmas. It is a revelation!

Christine Davenier's artwork, done in watercolor and pen and ink, perfectly matches the lighthearted tone. Energetic and attractive, they enhance the humor that is inherent in this story of wishing and hoping, and finally accepting what is special about each one of us.