This book is all about the illustrations. The refrain "What can this be in the foggy, foggy forest?" encourages children to guess what the black silhouettes on each page could be. Once the child has made his/her guess, the page is turned to reveal the answer. The revelations are favorite fairy tale characters ... with a twist. for example there is an "ogre doing yoga" and "Cinderella and Snow White in a water-pistol fight." The misty white vellum pages on which the silhouettes are printed create an almost 3-D effect, giving a feeling of depth as the reader moves through the pages and ultimately the forest to the surprise at the end. This would be an excellent book for a pre-school storytime.

This is an excellent introduction to Jeff Gordon for your younger NASCAR fans. Simple writing tells the story of Gordon's life and history in the sport. A "Cup Career Statistics" chart in the back track the number of Gordon's wins, poles, top 5's, and top 10's through every year of his career through 2007. Large color photos throughout make this an attractive book to browse. A Glossary, Index, and Bibliography are included. This book is part of a series called "Stars of NASCAR." Other drivers included in the series are Matt Kenseth, Kevin Harvick, Kasey Kahne, Jimmie Johnson, and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. This is a good purchase if you have young NASCAR fans at your library.

E.S. - This sequel to "Mostly Monty" can be enjoyed even by those who have not read the first book. Monty Morris is a typical first grader, who also happens to suffer from asthma. Although under control, his condition does influence decisions concerning activities he can and can't take part in, such as a birthday party held at a house with a dog. Children will be able to relate to Monty and his reactions to new experiences, including stagefright before the first grade play and his nervousness at his first Karate lesson. Each chapter is a stand alone story, which still manage to flow together smoothly. This is a good book for younger chapter book readers.

E.S.: Elementary School Kata Steiner lives with her parents and older brother in Budapest following World War II. They have survived the Holocaust but now find themselves suffering under the grip of the Hungarian Workers Party. Kata’s father has lost the factory that he built and is now a laborer there, and Kata’s mother creates stuffed bears to sell on the black market. Kata tells her family's story, indicated in italics. Kata's clear, first-person voice never loses the child's point of view
Cheng has based her story on her Hungarian family history; each chapter begins with a photograph of a piece of the instructions for the bears her grandmother made. This book reads like a memoir, and it is a thoroughly convincing recollection of post-World War II Budapest
 

Voss, his father, Bogdown, and his Uncle Shpoont, ship themselves to the U.S. (from Slovobia) in a crate of black market cheese puffs. The story of what happens is told in a series of letter home written in hilarious broken English. Voss’s father gets sick and they take him to a special hospital for illegal aliens and can’t get him back out. Voss discovers that the hospital is being used as a front for an organ harvesting operation so the Slovobians hatch a plan to break everyone out. The book is very funny but the humor, at times, gets a little old by the end. For the most part it is an effective satire.

This story takes place in Memphis in 1954. Johnny is a white boy entranced by “black” music. He meets up with a man named Elvis who is singer/guitarist just before Elvis becomes locally popular. Johnny has never known his father and doesn’t have much information about him. His mother works for a man who is very controlling of her.
This man, his mother’s boss, also tries to control Johnny by preventing him from spending time with the Black man who is the boss’s driver. This book does have racism as a major theme, but this issue doesn’t overwhelm the story. For the most part the characters are well drawn and the language is vibrant. Elvis as a character is a lively part of the book.
Overall excellent but it may be hard to sell to teens.
 

H.S. (12th grade)
Danny is a straight teenager who is staying with his straight father in a mostly gay tourist town in Maine for the summer. Danny works as the dishwasher at the bar where his father is employed. Gay guys hit on Danny a lot and he’s flattered rather than angry and upset over their unwanted advances. Danny gets involved with a local waitress who he starts dating and his father also a romance with a woman. Some of Danny’s reactions, especially to the gay men who hit on him, seem weird as most straight men would probably feel uncomfortable if it keeps happening. This book has a lot of emphasis on sex and drinking – it isn’t for younger adolescents and is more suitable for ages 17+.
 

This is an urban coming-of-age story that takes place in Los Angeles. Fourteen year old Shawn, the main character, is in the process of finishing up 8th grade and is getting ready to go to 9th grade. He must deal with gang violence and drugs, a broken home (however both parents are present in his life), and an alcoholic aunt who "watches" him while his mother works. He and his friends' interests are basketball and Bruce Lee. The book's dialogue feels authentic as does the relationships between Shawn, his friends, his love interest and his parents. The language is hip and urban. One puzzling aspect of the story, however,is that Shawn seems oddly unaware of his changing body for someone so "streetwise." This drawback along with the book's unappealing cover illustration are the book's only minor flaws -- otherwise the story is effective and holds interest.

Moon Over Star celebrates the 40th anniversary of man's first step on the moon. The event is told through the eyes of Mae, a young African-American girl living on a farm in a town called Star. From the early morning church service where prayers are said for the astronauts to the lunar landing to man's first step, Mae is filled with wonder and excitement. She dreams that one day she,too, might be an astronaut. Her grandfather doesn't seem to share her enthusiasm and has mentioned before that the money for the program might be better spent elsewhere. Watching the historic event, however, even Gramps says," I reckon that's something to remember" and later , on the porch, tells Mae to keep on dreaming. The ending sums it up perfectly: " Gramps had looked to the moon all his life./ It told him when to plant and when to harvest./ And once upon a summer's night,/ It told me to dream." Jerry Pinkney , as always delivers with his il lustrations.

M.S.
This is a book with issues. Is it fantasy? Certainly there is enough magic to qualify. Is it historical fiction? Only if you like your European Renaissance highly fictionilized. Or perhaps, being based loosely on Bohemian legends, it is a fairy tale. It doesn't matter. The story of the amazing clockmaker who has his eyes put out by the obnoxious prince and the clockmaker's plucky daughter who sets about to right the wrong should not be so stiffly written that one quickly loses interest. Naturally, it is the first of a series, and one can only hope that the future books will be less contrived and plodding.

E.S.
This is the first in Scholastic's new "multi-platformed" series. Two very likable orphans, Amy and Dan Cahill, are given the same choice that all of their cousins have: now that Aunt Grace has died, should they take their million dollar inheritance and go, or should they try to solve the 39 clues that will lead to power and affect all of mankind? Amy and Dan choose to go on the scavenger hunt and the series is on. Great humor, a bit of history, trading cards, and a chance ot win real money from Scholastic are all teamed up with good solid writing and a great yarn. Nine more books to follow.

Starred review in Booklist, and PW and recommended in BCCB and Kirkus, seventeen year old Edna will not visit her mother who is hospitalized for cancer and is hiding from her personal problems involving guilt over the death of her six year old autisitc brother as well as facing the imminent loss of her mother by having an affair with her handsome but troubled and immature art teacher. With the help of a psychiatrist Edna is able to come to terms with her own reality and give up her affair with the teacher and to visit with her mother. I agree with the SLJ reviewer who says "this book begs for discussion."

[General Reading Level: E.S.; M.S.]
Goblins! is about goblins and how they are best left alone. However, in spite of the best efforts of a band of ancient humans to keep them at bay and underground, one escapes to the surface. That’s when Sam’s and PJ’s troubles begin. Unintentionally drafted into the cause to protect the surface world from General Eww-Yuk and his army, our heroes use quick-thinking to outwit the hapless but powerful (and abundant) goblins. This tale moves quickly and has plenty of gross details and interesting characters to keep the young reader happy, especially boys who may identify with both of the main characters at one time or another in the story. Written by the author of DemonKeeper, the family resemblance of this book is clear: Goblins is also lots of fun to read.

Recommend (highly if you could use this type of fiction, especially as it is a good "stand-alone" story)

km 2/5/09

Starred in SLJ, Booklist, and Book Links, and recommended in PW, BCCB and Kirkus this recounts some autobiographical material covered in Sweet Creek Holler, this time told by oldest sister sixth-grade Audrey and tells about life in 1948 Virginia Coal Camp where father drinks up the pay check and mother is depressed over the death of a baby. Still a wished for better future does happen for the White family. The strength of this little historical novel
is in the characterization of the three younger sisters, whom Audrey calls,"the three little pigs," and the parents who are carefully nuanced without demonizing them. I agree with Booklist, "a tough tender story."

[General Reading Level: E.S.; M.S.]

The title characters, Ben Golden and Arthur Gray, are friends. The only thing really unusual about their friendship is that Ben is a normal boy, while Arthur is a ghost. In this third story in the series, the pair is confronted, along with their other ghost friends, with a problem presenting such dire consequences as to end the world as we know it. Humans (besides our hero Ben) are starting to see ghosts. They encounter a series of adventures and make new friends on their way to preserve the status-quo and protect both the ghostly and human world.

This is a fine read for older elementary aged children; teens will find it a bit too predictable and, well, innocent. And while it is set in England, with a few quirks American readers will find distracting, the setting and writing style contribute to this as an engaging and fun read into another world of supernatural beings not-so-different than the one we know.

km 2/4/09

Recommend (with the note that there are two prior titles in series).
 

E. S. Ruby, (The Smallest Girl Ever) is the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Genie, a great genie and a great magician, respectively, so her parents are quite disappointed when she seems to have no magical talents whatsoever. She is tragically orphaned at the age of 10, and a series of caregivers value her only for her parents’ magical items: a genie lamp and a magic wand. Consequently, Ruby becomes smaller and smaller, until she falls into the hands of someone who loves her and discovers the magic that’s always been inside.
Likewise, Thomas Top (The Boy Who Could Fly) lives a mediocre life with a dad who refuses to have fun and a mom who, therefore, can’t have fun either. On Thomas’ birthday, however, the Fat Fairy comes and grants him a wish. Thomas wishes that he could fly, and this special gift changes his life, and his parents’ lives, for the better.
While both stories in this flip-over book have endearing protagonists, The Smallest Girl Ever is the stronger story, with more dastardly characters and more peril to keep readers turning the pages. Pen and ink drawings add interest and whimsy.
 

E.S. In this addition to her collection of traditional fairy tales in an African setting, Isadora remains faithful to the Grimms’ original tale. Rapunzel, taken from her parents at birth by an evil sorceress and imprisoned in a tower with no doors or stairs, still manages to attract and "marry" a handsome prince. When Rapunzel innocently asks the sorceress why her dress grows tighter every day, the sorceress realizes that Rapunzel is “with child,” cuts off Rapunzel’s hair, and banishes her to the wilderness. When he learns of this, the prince jumps from the tower, blinding himself on thorns, and wanders through the wilderness, grieving for his wife. He eventually finds her; her tears restore his eyesight, and they and their twins live happily ever after in the prince’s kingdom. Isadora’s collage illustrations, done in oil paints, printed paper, and palette paper, are rich and gorgeous, effectively evoking the war mth and beauty of the setting, as well as the essence and emotions of the characters.

M.S. - If you can train a dog, can you train boys? Sixth grader Annabelle is going to try. After being away for the entire summer, Annabelle returns to a new house, a new dog and starting a new school. This is the first time that she is going to have to deal with boys, since her old school was an all-girls school. After being tormented, by boys, during the first few days of school, Annabelle decides to try some of the same training techniques on the boys in her middle school, as she uses on her new puppy. While training her puppy and the boys, she develops a confidence that she didn’t know she had. The book is a great read, and many girls will be able to identify with Annabelle, and maybe it will help them develop their inner strength.

M.S. - Inspired by Nathan Hale’s famous words spoken upon his hanging for treason, this historical fiction allows you to witness the relationship between a teacher, Nathan Hale, and his student, Jonah Hawkins. Nathan knew that he was against the King’s rules, but Jonah, who promised his dying father he would remain loyal to the King, questions his own loyalties. The story begins with Nathan Hale’s hanging and the subsequent chapters explain the relationship between Nathan and Jonah. These chapters alternate perspective between the boy and his teacher, and the perspective is clearly defined. This is a book that would be good as a supplement when studying the American Revolution and could start discussions about loyalty and questioning ones beliefs.
 

A coming of age novel of a 15 year old Italian-American girl, who attends Catholic School. Her father died in a car accident when she was 7 and she lives with her mother and grandmother. For 8 years she has been writing to the Vatican to be declared a living saint, with no response from the pope. She regularly petitions the saints to help her with her problems, and writes daily in her Saint's Diary. She is still waiting for her first kiss and has her sights set on Andy. But when he wants more than a kiss, she realizes he is a jerk and that her friend Michael is the boy for her. The Italian-American family is brought to life through the dialogue with her mother and grandmother. A funny and engaging character, reader's will enjoy getting to know Antonia.

Aronson journeys into his own conflicting feelings towards Israel. He presents a lot of information from the forming of Israel to its policies of today. He asks many questions and tries to answer them with facts and personal accounts. His book should provoke a lively debate on the topic of Israel and how it relates to the Middle East and the ongoing conflicts among the religious sects. A handful of black and white photographs and maps accompany the text. He provides a short bibliography as well. He also looks at the attitudes of Jews in America versus the attitudes of the Israeli Jews. It engages the reader and forces him to think about morality, bigotry, politics, and religion. It is a fascinating look at a complicated country and hot issue, but teachers might prefer a more objective text.

E.S.
No reviews found.

Allie continues (this book can stand alone). Her family has made a recent move and she is the new girl in 4th grade. She has made a few friends but it seems that the biggest girl in class, Rosemary, has singled her out to pick on. School clothes problems, Grandmother and stove problems, little brother and pirate clothes problems, spelling bee troubles, and a new kitten who has been born prematurely are some of the life situations that Allie must deal with and make rules for as she goes. As Allie collects advice for some of these problems, her list of rules increases. It is actually the custodian who makes a very good suggestion as to how to deal with the bully problem. This was a fun read about a girl with a clear and ultimately caring voice. High Recommend

Zoe does not like living in Kansas and she hates that her mother has moved the family there leaving behind her father and his livelihood as a fisherman. Blaming her mother is easy when everything Zoe loves is now inaccessible. The house her mother inherited and is now renovating becomes a metaphor for their broken family. When Zoe is arrested for taking a jar of breast-enhancing cream from the drugstore, her required community service introduces her to the prairie and those who love and need it as much as she needs the ocean. Beautifully written but the author has made Zoe a bit more prickly than likable.

H.S. This is a very sophisticated novel featuring an older teen whose mother has disappeared leaving Rue and her father. Rue's father has been unable to function as a college professor and is soon suspected of causing his missing wife's death. Adding to the puzzles surrounding him is the death of one of his students. Rue begins to realize that she sees those around her sometimes as human and sometimes as faerie. The illustrations by Naifeh are dark and otherworldly playing into the story line which eventually clear Rue's father but reveals her mother as faerie. Thus Rue begins to have experiences which require her faerie heritage.

Continuing the story begun in HERE THERE BE DRAGONS, Owen follows the adventures of the three Oxford scholars who have been given the responsibility of being caretakers of the Imaginarium Geographica or the maps of all the imaginary lands ever described. The novels are intricate and full of allusions to mythology and Arthurian lore. Jack (C.S. Lewis, John (J. R. R. Tolkien) and Charles (Charles Williams, a lesser-known fantasy writer) are not yet the well-known fantasy writers they will become and, in fact, are not fully identified until the end of the first novel. These novels need to be read in order and by students who have the patience to puzzle through the many references. Buy only where the other novels are popular.

PS/ES
Prior to the title page one reads: "Tilly and her friends all live together in a little yellow house . . . ." This introduction is followed by an illustration of that house with each of the friends looking at each window. The story then begins with Tilly by herself reading her favorite story. Tiptoe the rabbit comes in to play with Tilly, followed by Hector the pig. Next, Doodle the alligator invites them to a feast, which is interrupted by Pru the rooster. The five of them then prance along as though in a parade when Tumpty the elephant invites them for a ride. Then they all begin dancing, making noise, and doing silly things until Tilly decides it's time for a story. They all sit down to listen to her read her book, which begins, "There are six best friends who all live together in a little yellow house . . . ." This is a cute, simple story with enjoyable illustrations. The back cover indicates that there will be six books in the Tilly and Friends series .
Kirkus: Marginal

Reviewd by Karen Stuppi
 

ES
This story focuses on a poor country family consisting of a hard-working mother and three children. The middle child, Jack, is telling the story. Once Ma leaves to work the night shift, Jack's sister Maybelle tells him and his little brother Eddie that she has a plan to help out their mother. They will go to Mr. Kenney's field and harvest his potatoes so that Ma does not have to worry so much about feeding them. Once it is dark, the three of them take a wagon to the field and start loading bags with potatoes. Once they bring the sacks home they feel dejected when they realize the bags are filled mostly with stones, with only a few potatoes. And when Ma comes home, she is angry at them for stealing from Mr. Kenney's field. When they go to Mr. Kenney, he tells them he is grateful to have his field cleared of all those stones and they are welcome to keep any potatoes they also picked up in the process. The children are happy to tell Ma the good news and she commences to frying u p a pan of potatoes for the whole family to enjoy. This is a heartwarming story about a family who makes the most with what they have.
Booklist: Starred
Horn Book, Kirkus, PW, SLJ, Library Media Connection: Recommended

Reviewed by Karen Stuppi
 

E. S.
Even before the title page, there is a note to readers affirming that everyone is scared of something, and that drawing, writing, and collage can help to conquer fears. Beginning with Arachnophobia (fear of spiders) and ending with Musophobia (fear of mice), nearly ever-imaginable fear is mentioned. Many of the pages tell the reader to record their fears below, which may encourage borrowers to write in the book. Clever pictures and the ever present little mouse will intrigue readers. Be aware that there is a foldout map and within the book which may not hold up well under continued use. The book will certainly help little readers to build their vocabularies!
Starred by Kirkus and positively reviewed by Publishers Weekly, this book will have appeal to readers. However, librarians may be less charmed since books may end up with writing in them.
Previously published as Emily Gravett's Big Book of Fears.
 

M.S./H.S. 16-year-old Oliver Puckle, a contemporary of Henry David Thoreau, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Louisa May Alcott in Concord, Massachusetts, works as a reporter for his uncle’s newspaper. One day, a vision of beauty, named Margaret Roberts, came in to place an ad, and Oliver was smitten. By the end of the day, however, Miss Roberts had gone missing from the town; soon afterward, a search party discovered the dead body of Hetta Bird, the “local madwoman,” lying beside the parasol belonging to Miss Roberts. Oliver, already obsessed by the young woman, is determined to solve both the murder and the missing person case, and enlists the tracking expertise of his Native American friend, Charley Bigbow, as well as the keen observations of Thoreau.
This historical novel is written in the style and language of the story’s time period (mid 19th century). The story is slow to start, as Platt spends several chapters describing Concord, its (now) famous inhabitants, and their philosophies. During a brief discussion about race and Abolitionists, the “n-word” is used. The mystery itself is compelling enough to hold readers’ attention, and wraps up quite neatly and quickly. Kids who grew up reading or listening to unadulterated classics such as Little Women, Peter Pan, The Wind in the Willows, or Treasure Island may enjoy this tale. Less experienced readers, however, may get mired in the language and feel like they’ve stumbled into a school assignment.
 

E.S. One day, a little girl named Feng Huang found the feather of a phoenix, a bird that was “the Supreme Female Powers and Principles of the universe,” that had the powers of “Wisdom, Clear Sight, Equality, Generosity, and Right Judgment.” Feng Huang wanted these powers, too, and she thought she might get them by drawing a phoenix. But her attempt at drawing the mythical bird was clumsy, and her friends made fun of her. The Queen Phoenix swooped down from heaven to help Feng Huang by posing as a model for her to practice drawing for one day. After that, the girl was on her own. Through deep thought, she was able to conjure the phoenix representing each of the six special powers, to draw these special qualities, and to feel herself completely changed. Finally, she was able to capture the essence of the phoenix, creating a drawing that came magically to life, flew in the sky for three days, and even took Feng Huang and her fri ends for a ride, teaching them the special powers along the way.
Demi’s signature artwork, with deep, rich colors, intricate patterns, and luminous touches of gold and silver, makes this a visually stunning book. However, the story’s underlying theme may be too ethereal and abstract (and, as a result, perhaps boring) for the intended audience. Purchase only where the illustrator has a devoted following.
 

E.S. K-10, so named by his mom because he is one step above other dogs, has had multiple owners (through no fault of his own), and is no stranger to animal shelters. When he lands in yet another shelter, he immediately starts making plans to gain his freedom again. However, K-10 isn’t as young and cute as he used to be, and he isn’t adopted right away, so he, Pearl, and Peppy escape from the shelter together. While on the outside, he goes hungry, falls in with a pack of mean dogs, gets attacked by another dog, is hit by a truck and stuck by a porcupine. Peppy and Pearl miraculously find their beloved owners, but what will happen to K-10? Animal lovers will empathize with K-10’s feelings of hunger, desperation, and fear, as well as his independence, loyalty, and courage, and they’ll be rooting for him to find his forever home.

P.S./E.S. Large photographs and simple text inform readers about birthday celebrations in different cultures. A map of the world on each double-page spread highlights the continent and pinpoints the location of the event described. Readers will find that kids all over the world celebrate in much the same way that we do in our country, with family and friends gathering to give gifts, share special meals, and eat cake after blowing out birthday candles. This is an attractive offering about a fun topic, for the youngest readers. Includes glossary, suggestions for additional reading, and the facthound.com portal to related websites.

E.S.

After his last adventures, Urchin of the Riding Stars has taken his place as a trusted member of the Circle in King Crispin's court. Life on the island is back to normal, with little Princess Catkin growing up and testing everyone's patience in the process. But daily life is disrupted when Lord Arcneck and other inhabitants of Swan Isle come to Mistmantle asking for help. Their home has been taken over by bloodthirsty ravens that are attacking them and ravaging everything in sight. Lovers of the Redwall series will consume these books as well. VOYA seems to say it best: " (Urchin's...) adventures twist and turn beautifully. McAllister continues to build an enchanting world on Mistmantle."

General reading and interest level would be for Elementary School. An overview of the causes of the Civil War begins this clearly written and well illustrated book about the Battle of Antietam. The Generals McClellan and Lee are introduced as well as the conditions of the soldiers. The victories on the the part of the opposing armies gives a sufficient background to explain decisions on the part of the generals. Each of the movements of the armies during the battle are discussed with many diagrams to clearly identify each part of the battle. The most striking addition is the many photographs, not only of the battlefield but of conferedate money, rifles used and nearby towns to give a real sense of the time. Includes index, table of contents, a glossary and additional title and internet sites to extend the book.

ES, MS

This is a fascinating biography about Manjiro, a Japanese boy who lived during the middle of the nineteenth century. The story begins in 1841, a time when Japanese citizens were not allowed to leave the country. If they tried to do so and were caught, they would be executed. Manjiro, 14 years old at the time, was working for a fisherman when a storm took their boat away from the coast and brought them to a rocky island 8 days later. After 6 months on the island, an American whaling ship rescued them. While on the ship, Manjiro learned to read, write, and speak English. The ship stopped in Honolulu where the fishermen stayed to find jobs. Manjiro stayed on the ship to sail with the captain to Massachusetts. There he went to school and eventually he got a job, planning to save money so that he could eventually buy his own ship and sail back to his family in Japan. In 1849, everyone was talking about the California gold rush, so Manjiro sailed there and was able to find enough g old to get him the money he needed. He then sailed to Honolulu to seek out his fellow castaways, two of whom were eager to join him in his return to Japan. As the fishermen sailed closer to Japan, they began to wonder if they would executed for leaving their country so many years before. When they first got to Japan they were jailed and asked many questions. Manjiro told the questioners about railroads, steamships, the telegraph, watches, and other inventions. He drew them pictures and assured them that America did not want to invade Japan, but only wanted to trade with them. Finally, Manjiro and the fishermen were allowed to return to their villages. Manjiro's mother was overjoyed at his return, as she had thought he had died long ago. The story ends there, but the Author's Note following provides more details, explaining that Manjiro was made a samurai and that he eventually returned to America as a member of the first diplomatic delegation sent to the West.
Booklist: Recommended
Horn Book : Starred
Kirkus: Recommended
SLJ: Recommended

Reviewed by Karen Stuppi

ES

Ellen and her friend Ollie love to play in the apple tree in her yard. All year round they enjoy different activities as each season brings change to the apple tree. In the spring they each sit in their special branch enjoying the white flowers. In the summer, with the plentiful green leaves hiding them, they pretend they are spies. And in the fall, they help Ellen's parents by picking as many apples as they can reach. One day in winter, however, a wind storm knocks the tree down. Ellen and Ollie are saddened by the loss of the tree, but Ellen's mother tells them that in the spring they will plant a new apple tree. When spring finally arrives, they all go to the garden center to buy a new tree. Ellen is a little disappointed to find out that they need to buy a very small tree. Her mother explains that it will eventually grow to be as big as their old one. And when fall comes around again, the little tree produces one apple that they are able to divide into four slices, making the four characters very happy. The author/illustrator has provided an enjoyable story centering around the life, death, and rebirth of an apple tree. Her detailed, playful illustrations are welcoming. One problem I did note, however, was that in the illustration showing the parents digging out the trunk of the old tree, Ellen is watching them while holding a saw in her hands. It seems strange to have this little girl holding a dangerous tool in an otherwise pleasant book.

Reviewed by Karen Stuppi

E.S.
P Booklist (Nov 15, 2008) "captures the peridoic bumps of a real relationship... resonant story..."
P Kirkus Review (July 1, 2008) "free verse to create a charming, breezy, compassionate glimpse into... childhood friendships... great fun."
P School Library Journal (Aug 1, 2008) "Whimsical ink sketches enhance... creative early chapter book... smart, endearing characters..."

In this second, but independent book about Jake and Minn, Jake decides to return to his old neighborhood and take the summer off from all the camps and planned "fun". He wants his days to himself with nothing to do. However, it's not as good as he'd hoped. Minn comes to visit and things get a little out of hand - she doesn't know Jake is part Korean, and she sees him acting strangely around a girl. But a simple conversation during a Disney Land trip and things are resolved - it pays to talk things out. Cartoon pen-and-ink drawings a little strange but do support & add to the text. The free verse makes the story somewhat hard to follow at times but it also makes for a quick and short looking read. Recommend

E.S.
This is a tall tale about a girl named Estrella who runs so fast she leaves a trail of fire behind her. Estrella also has the ability to heal all animals and some very exotic creatures, such as a rock eating dog, become her pets. When her pets are kidnapped by a gang of ghosts Estrella must save them. The story takes place during the California Gold Rush and the author has many colorful characters that keep the story humorous. The illustrations are beautiful complementing the time period and place. The story is very long so it would work best with an older audience. It may not have as much appeal in our area because it relates to California history, but it is a good example of a Tall Tale.

E.S.
This is the story of a chicken named Ethel Fae Klucksworth (who prefers to go by Starlight Lapoule) who wants to be a high end fashion model in Milan and New York. The other animals on her farm thinks she is crazy, but Starlight has a fairy godmother to grant her wishes. Every time Starlight wants to wish for something, she just lays and egg and the product of her wish will hatch. This brings her a car to travel across country, then a plan to cross the ocean. However, something funny happens when she returns to the US. She wishes for house to live in and her egg hatches a radio. She wishes again and she gets an egg beater. It turns out her fairy godmother had taken a vacation and the nephew covering for her was getting the wishes mixed up! It’s a simple tale of “be careful what you wish for!”

H.S.
Kaeleigh and Raeanne are identical twin sisters physically, but are as different as day and night in terms of their personality. Their parents lead very public lives as their father is a judge and their mother is running for a Senate seat. Since a car accident several years ago, the girls’ father has become an alcoholic and began molesting Raeanne. As their mother spends most of her tie on the campaign trail, she has become emotionally detached. Meanwhile, Kaeleigh has been smoking pot and sleeping with her drug dealer in rebellion o what she thinks her father is playing favorites. Both girls dip into their parents’ alcohol and medicine cabinets. In order to feel control over her body, Raeanne becomes bulimic and begins cutting herself. The two sisters have secrets from each other, and one of them must speak up so that they can help each other.This book involves a lot of tough topics- sexual abuse, drug use, alcoholism, and eating disorders. The author’s use of po etic form makes it a quick read and the reader is intrigued at what will happen next. Might be more suitable for public libraries.

General reading level is H. S. due to language, drug use and violence.

Rico Fuentes, fifteen-years-old, is by his own description the “palest Cubano who ever lived”. Growing up in New York City in the 1960’s to parents who struggle financially and with, in his father’s case, alcohol abuse problems. Rico’s life is not easy. After having to transfer to a Public High School, Rico’s life gets even worse. He is hassled daily by fellow students because he doesn’t fit in and his best friend Jimmy becomes addicted to heroin. Rico’s parents are concerned by his truancy and decide to send him to live with his Uncle in Florida. Instead Rico and his friend Jimmy run away to Wisconsin where Rico has a “Big Brother” type friend who is going to college and living on a hippie/commune farm. It is here that Rico saves his friend Jimmy, comes to terms with who he is and grows into the person he was meant to be. This is a well written book with well drawn characters though it is written about a young man of Cuban decent, young adults of any cultural background can empathize with this young man's plight.

E.S.
First published in 1991, this reissued story has added biographical information about Houdini, information about how the author researched the book, a magic trick, and early sketches along with suggestions for further reading.
Victor, a little boy, loves Houdini’s tricks and tries to imitate them, but with no success. One day his dream comes true and he meets Houdini. Victor asks him dozens of questions, but Houdini, anxious to catch a train, promises to write Victor a letter giving him some of the secrets of his magic. Finally, Victor receives a letter which tells him to come to Houdini’s house. When Victor arrives, Houdini’s wife answers the door and tells him Houdini has died. It is Halloween. Mrs. Houdini gives Victor a small locked box. When Victor gets home, he tries to open the box but cannot. He finds the initials E.W. engraved on the bottom and decides it was not Houdini’s box at all. He puts the box in his attic. Years later, Victor’s son hits a baseball which lands on Houdini’s grave. Houdini’s real name, Ehrich Weiss, appears on the gravestone. Victor realizes that the box he has had for so long really was Houdini’s. That night Victor locked himself in a trunk and escap ed in seconds.
Students interested in magic will find the story appealing. Black and white drawings enhance the story. Libraries not owning the original publications will want to purchase this enjoyable story.
 

P.S., E.S.
Delightful pictures capture the beauty of the Arctic winter and the penguins at play. Pip, a small penguin, loves to play and explore. Mama and Papa care for her, but warn her not to stray too far. Every night, they sign a song, “Our home is where the land is free, from hill or mountain twig or tree, in our pebbly nest by the stormy sea where Mama, Papa and Pip makes three! (Sadly, a grammatical error mars the song! The correct version appears on the back cover.)
One day, Pip wanders off and finds herself lost. She looks for home, but finds for each animal she encounters, it is somewhere different. The story ends with the perfect ending of Pip reuniting with her parents and understanding that home is about family.
The illustrations are wonderful!
 

ES/MS/HS

Kirkus, PW, SLJ: Recommended

If judged by its title and cover, one would think this is just another alphabet book for primary students. However, this book is much more than that. Primary students may have fun looking for the letters and other items in each piece of art. But they will have difficulty deciphering many of the words in the alliterative descriptions on each page. At the same time, a teacher may find it useful to read some of these phrases to elementary students to introduce them to alliteration and inspire the class to create their own A is for Art book. Art teachers may use this book with even older students to discuss abstract art and the use of a variety of media. Thus, while it may be difficult to determine in what collection to place this book, it is certainly a book that has many uses and will be intriguing to a wide audience.

ES/MS
This is part of a series of books about American government published by Capstone Press that have a graphic novel feel to them. Justices, lawyers, political figures, and even the Supreme Court building itself are depicted as cartoon characters, complete with word bubbles. Interspersed among these illustrations are facts detailing the history of the Supreme Court; its purpose as compared to local, state, and federal courts; landmark court cases; as well as the procedures the Court follows and how justices are nominated. It provides a wealth of information in an accessible format. The table of contents will be helpful for students researching a specific aspect of the Supreme Court. The timeline at the end of the book is also useful. Via the FactHound website provided, additional information can be found on the Internet for students looking to do further research.

ES
This is a great book for reluctant and low-level readers. They will be attracted to the unusual animal and the large, colorful photographs of this creature, but will not be intimidated by the text, which is minimal on each page. It provides enough simple facts for primary students who are assigned animal reports, but will also be enjoyed by those interested in Weird Animals, which is the name of the series to which this book belongs. The glossary is helpful, and the book also includes a contents page and a brief index. However, the book provides the FactHound site to find related Internet sites, but the sites it provides for this book are simply about other types of fish and other animals, not the frogfish.

E.M. & M.S.
P* Booklist (June 1, 2008) "exceptional art, along with Rappaport's and Lincoln's words, makes this a fine celebration..."
P Horn Book (Nov/Dec, 2008) "With language as lean as our 16th president... portraits glow..."
* Horn Book (Jan 2009)
PM Kirkus Review (Oct 15, 2008) "among the clearest in nonfiction for this age group... compelling illustrations... failure to contextualize the Lincoln quotations... diminishes the historical verisimilitude..."
P School Library Journal (Oct 1, 2008) "distinguished book... words are both accessible and effective... powerful images... one Lincoln book that all libraries will want..."

Oh yes, it's a keeper. In light of the 200th anniversary of Lincoln's birth, I agree this is a great choice for all libraries to hold in their collection. Kinders through middle school this book will help portray the man Lincoln was. The text with his quotes and the amazing illustrations, bring Lincoln to everyone. GET IT :) Outstanding

E.S. & ??? M.S.
No reviews found.

The author has done a very capable job with this recipe book. After the contents, there is an introduction and measurement conversion list, a listing of steps to prepare for cooking, then some kitchen safety thoughts. 10 recipes of varying skill levels (simple to advanced 1 - 3 stars) follow with a pattern of ingredients, tools, steps, a photo of the completed recipe, and an extra tip of information. There is a range to select from, breakfast, snack, lunch, or dinner. Appended is a "tool glossary" with both explanation and photo; regular glossary, read more, and internet sites; about the author and index are here. The web link is for FactHound and offers 3 links to vegetarian recipes, the same for k-3 as 5+ grades. The sites were commerical but looked to be fine and helpful. There are 9 other book in the series. If you need recipe books this set looks worth while, although somewhat light for the price with only 10 recipes. Recommended to High recommended as needed.

E.S.
No reviews found (SLJ had a description)

Part of a series "All about Winter" by Pebble Plus, the book makes great use of photos of winter scenes with animals involved in their winter business of survival. Migration, hibernation,and other animal behaviors - lake bottom, protective coloration. (Be aware that there is a reindeer that is shown as migrating/walking to find food. I shared this book shortly after Christmas and had to assure some worried children that these were not Santa's reindeer eating berries and grass and walking. Cute.) The large photos are wonderful and the children enjoyed the information about the animals in winter. A good book for the season - Highly recommended for library, classroom, and student use.

M.S.
M Booklist (Dec 15, 2008) "talk about the devastation of war... older readers... will best appreciate the direct raw poems..."
P Kirkus Review (Oct 15, 2008) "26 verse vignetets convey... urgency and emotion... moving inviation to hope."
M Publishers Weekly (Nov 3, 2008) "gentle acrylics temper 26 poems about war..."
P School Library Journal (Dec 1, 2008) "hope amids grimness... teachers will appreciate this measured response to the subject."

This book holds a range of poems (26) in a range of forms about the topic of war. It and the illustrations explain the horrors of war but also go on to offer some hope for ending the conflicts. Some of these poems are on the gruesome side - people on the bus and then they are gone. But so is war. The last one speaks of working together for peace. A language or social studies teacher could use this book in a number of lessons for older students. Those who enjoy poetry may also enjoy this volume. Thoughtful but needs the correct audience. Recommended as needed. I do think the title should be "poems of war moving toward peace" not "poems of peace."

E.S.
Pm Booklist (Oct15, 2008) "chronicle of his journey to Uganda... first-person account... remarkable and well-captioned full-color photographs abound... wish for more... no index..."
P Kirkus Review (Sept 15,2008) "map sets the stage...photographs give readers an idea of the land and people... attractive... will delight..."
P School Library Journal (Nov , 2008) "takes readers along... insightful observations...personal perspective..."

Wildlife photographer, author Richard Sobol, explains and shows the reader his trip to Uganda to photograph the endangered mountain gorilla. A map and introduction share this. He then goes through his trip with information and photos about Uganda, and his trip to the two National Parks where the gorillas live. For an hour visit to the park a$100 ticket must be purchased. After 17 pages of this there are 10 pages of gorilla through the trees pictures. They are in their natural habitat. Each picture has its caption. There are some mountain gorilla facts, web sites, glossary, and afterword by Leonardo DiCaprio. I'm not sure of the need for this book unless one wants to be a nature photographer and go to Uganda to these particular parks. The photos of the gorillas were nice but not breath taking. So.... Recommended as needed.

E.S.
Chalk is a New York City dog, and Cheese is a mouse from England. Cheese pays his friend a visit in New York. Told through comic strips with speech balloons, the story may be hard for young readers to follow, and references to the sights of New York City, such as the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center, may be even less clear. But, the fact that they are friends who look out and care for each other despite their differences will not be lost on children. When Cheese gets lost in the city, Chalk finds him, and at the end when Cheese is tired, Chalk carries him home.
Cute story, but additional purchase since the city sights will need explanation for most children.
 

E.S. - When a bully catches fourth-grader Raymond tearing up, he becomes worried that he's too babyish so, with his friend Graham's help, decides to learn to be manly. This school story is set around Valentine's Day. The boys have to write poetry, learn country-dancing for the school show, and attend the "maturation" program at school. They talk about their crushes, try to avoid the bullies and the bossy kids, and learn about compassion while coping with Grandpa's messy manners and having to dance with the teacher at the show: Raymond is growing up! The writing will appeal to elementary school children as it mixes real worries with humor. Black and white illustrations add to the fun. Fans of Horrible Harry and Marvin Redpost will enjoy this book.

M.S. The daughters of the book club are now in seventh grade. Mrs. Hawthorne has invited her daughter's nemesis, Becca Chadwick to join the group which will read Anne of Green Gables. Predictably, the original girls are horrified and the blend is not a smooth one. Only Megan, who has a deep interest in fashion, shares any interest with Becca and her clique. Cassidy struggles to accept her widowed mother's dating and Jess fears that her family may lose Half Moon Farm to taxes. As was the case in the first novel, Frederick weaves the girls' voices through in separate chapters while tying each to the trials and tribulations of Anne. The difficulties of middle school are realistically portrayed as are the fears that friends are choosing others. There is the hoped-for happy ending and MS girls are already asking about a sequel.

ES This is an adventuresome story about 13-year-old Manuel, who has a Puerto Rican background, vacationing in Rockport, Maine with his mother and his stepfather Dr. Randolph. When they are not vacationing, they live year-round in New Haven Connecticut; and after experiencing prejudice in Maine, Manuel desperately wants to make enough money to return to Connecticut. With this goal in mind, Manuel searches for a job. He comes upon a crotchety old lobsterman named Zeke, and Manuel convinces Zeke that he would be a great crewmate; Zeke grudgingly accepts Jake’s help. Manuel enjoys the hard work, and learns hard lessons from old Zeke, but Manuel does not learn enough to prevent him from dangerous tides when, without permission, he sails out to Jagged Jakes--the forbidden cove--for mussels. With lots of action, the sequence of events will keep the reader engaged. Use of IPODS and few crass words make this suitable for middle school, but with lots of dialogue using choppy sentences, the Fry score puts the reading level at 2nd and 3rd grade.

M.S. An eleven-year-old with leukemia will never be the main character in a humorous book yet Sam's story is a warm, loving book about dying and his plans to complete a list of wishes before that happens. Told in a realistic voice Sam's lists, journaling, doodles, and conversations speak honestly of his gradual acceptance of his approaching death. Sam wants to go up a down escalator, have a girlfriend and ride in an airship among other things. Through the help of another young patient he begins work on the list. Although his mother and his tutor support him through his trips to the hospital and list-making, his father is unable to deal honestly with the leukemia. Only at the very end of Sam's list is it clear how much his father loves him. Even at the very end there is one more list from Sam instructing his parents that they should tell funny stories about him at his funeral and give most, but not all, of his things away. This first novel was written when its English author was 23.

M.S.
P Booklist (Nov 1,2008) "large, imaginative cartoon -style drawing... text is clearly written and informative..."
M Kirkus Review (Sept 1, 2008) "interesting information... useful tips... vague chapter titles... [for] leisure reader..."
P School Library Journal (Oct 1,2008) "excellent overview... illustrations add to the book's appeal... not an exhaustive resource..."

This is an interesting introduction to what we all do or try to do at night. It offers theory, fact, scientific workings of the brain, stages of sleep, and more. There are asides of information in darkish gray boxes. The chapter titles are strange as they don't really tell what the section is about. There is an index, further reading section with both books and web sites, and suggestions for getting a better sleep. The illustrations were the low point of this book. Even the cover is strange. The pen-and-ink drawings are not inviting and are just weird. Recommended if needed - it is interesting but ?????

E.S

Joe Fenton's career as a concept artist for such companies as Disney has served him well with the ability to create engaging characters. I loved the quite simple though well thought out artwork in this book. I think the author would do well to create a longer book for older children...they would appreciate his eye for silly, creepy monsters. "What's Under the Bed" was a cute, quick read but the whole "under the bed" concept has been quite done by many others and felt stale. the rhyming narrative did not help in any way to make it feel fresh or original. This book would be more suited for a home collection than a library's.

E.S.
P Booklist (Oct 1,2008) "good-humored tale... urban setting... bright, exuberantly brushed watercolors... messaged addressed to grandparents."
P Kirkus Review (Oct 15, 2008) "cumulative folktale... brims with heart, warmth, and joy... another winner..."
P Publishers Weekly (Nov 10, 2008) "exuberant style blasts through... homey... syntax... comfortable caricatures..."
M School Library Journal (Dec 1, 2008) "humorous, the story's theme... little appeal to elementary crowd... illustrations seem less polished..."

The tale is about a Jewish matchmaker, Bubbie, who is trying to find someone for Mr. Sussman. She realizes along the way that she, herself should be the match. Going through many "changes" in herself, she finally realizes that she should just be who she is and let Mr Sussman enjoy her for who she is. Jerome, her grandson, helps with the gathering of materials as the tale progresses but Mr Sussman is never pleased with the changes he sees and Bubbie is getting rather disturbed with him. He finally comes to his senses and marries Bubbie. The illustrations are flowing and fun with lots of color. Recommended to grades 3+ for the importance of being one's self.

M.S. Beginning with The Boys of San Joaquin, Smith has created three books about boys growing up in a small town in the 1950's. Paolo is in the middle of a ten-child Italian Catholic family. Billy, also living with the family, is his cousin and closest friend. Billy is also deaf which is dealt with smoothly and without prejudice. Georgie, a younger brother is usually with the boys but as they start high school is not always part of activity in this book. The Cold War has touched their town and suddenly anyone might be a spy for the Communists. Intrigued by this idea the boys decide to become spies for the FBI. Naturally they choose a neighbor as the likely culprit but are soon disabused of the notion as Billy decides to court a Chinese girl who attends their school. Veronica is a much more exciting possibility as everyone knows the Chinese are the real enemy or at least equal to the Russians. In spite of Billy's kindness and devotion a harassm ent campaign begins involving rocks, painted slurs and threats. Throughout the book the strength of family resonates as the boys get into trouble and wiggle out with humor and relative realism. A near tragic conclusion strengthens the family bonds and leaves the reader hoping that Smith will continue their story.

E.S.
P Booklist (Sept 15, 2008) "loose, slapdash illustrations... lighthearted..."
P Kirkus Review (Aug 15, 2008) "always-spot-on for disgruntled kids... illustrations... extra touch of feeling."
P Publishers Weekly (June 23, 2008) "luminous watercolors... plays up the agony of waiting..."
P School Library Journal (Aug 1, 2008) "see possibilities for reader's theater... perfect to read aloud."

While this reviewer agrees with some of what the reviewers above said, I have a major complaint. The child in this story is not just waiting for someone to notice and play with him, he is damaging things, i.e. paint on the floor & wall; cutting up the rug, his jeans, & his hair; making a terrible mess in the kitchen. The idea that one must wait for things sometimes is good to discuss but perhaps other "waiting activities" should have been chosen that were not so destructive in nature. The illustrations are ok but the faces are not very appealing. This book would take lots of discussion if it were to be used as a read aloud - about what NOT TO DO WHILE WAITING for something like parents' attention. This book did not do it for me even though I love Viorst's other work. Not recommended :(

E.S. & P.S.
No reviews found

This is one in the Picture Window series about Life Cycles. Each 2 page spread offers solid information about the growth stages of a maple tree. Each spread also includes a box of extra facts i.e. "Maple trees are deciduous. This means they lose their leaves each year." The illustrations are welll drawn and brightly colorful. I perfer photos and think children do too, but the illustrations are sufficient to the point. Appended is a pie chart life cycle picture (not accurate but gets the idea asross); fun facts; a glossary; extra books & web site through the facthound.com; and an index. The book is a recommend for a seasonal read aloud or curriculum tie-ins.

E.S. ?? P.S.
P* Booklist (Sept 1,2008) "winning introduction... spirited poems... masterful collage work..."
PM Horn Book (Spring 2009) "inventive collages compel attention... some [poems] are forced."
Pm Kirkus Review (July 15, 2008) "Rhymes and stunning illustrations... words... require elucidation."
P Publishers Weekly (June 30, 2008) "brisk rhymes... collages... stunning"
M School Library Journal (Sept 1, 2008) "some spreads... thrills- and others that disappoint.)

The book holds a nice concept for the age group to appreciate. The vocabulary is at times in need of an explanation i.e. mathematical, kaleidoscope, tapestries, profound, foraging, and more. If the idea is to expand the understanding of the vocabulary, that is wonderful. But perhaps an introduction to this effect would have been good. The illustrating collages are indeed great and the information, once clarified is good. Nice for discussions about the miracles and diversity of Nature and other science ideas.

M.S.  Greenberg draws on the civil rights era for his historical background as he writes of growing up in a home where his father is a white Jewish lawyer serving on the Legal Defense Fund of the NAACP. There is no question that David's father is doing a job which puts his life in jeopardy. The text is full of footnotes which tie the story to the actions of many historical figures including Martin Luther King and Lyndon Johnson. In other cases Greenberg has added characters to fill out the life of the child he was and how it related to his father's work. The family life is realistic and warm. Although it is obvious how dedicated Jack Greenberg is to the civil rights movement, he is a loving, supportive father who even makes strudel with David late one night following a family recipe which goes back generations. In an additional chapter at the end Jack Greenberg outlines the events which were the models for the story and the incidents which did not o ccur.

Anderson has explored the events leading up to the American Revolution through the eyes of a young woman who is a slave in a Loyalist household. Isabel and her sister were to be freed upon the death of their original owner but are sold and treated badly by rich New Yorkers who scheme against the rebellion. Tempted by the promises of a slave owned by a colonial officer, Isabel spies on her master but the hope of freedom remains a dream. As her hatred of her mistress grows she learns that her 5-year-old sister has been sold. In her anger Isabel yells at the woman and is jailed. Her punishment is to be branded with the letter “I’” for insolent. Even in the depths of the despair and illness brought on by her punishment, Isabel is determined that she will attain the promised freedom and find her sister. The historical background of the story is enriched with quotations from writers who lived the life, rebel or Loyalist, of the critical period presented. A sequel is promised.
 

Told as the diary of 14 year old Early Whittcomb who is traveling with another family from Iowa where his own family farm is in danger of foreclosure to Colorado is search of gold. There is a foreshadowing of evil because his beloved Uncle Jesse has already arrived at the mines and has been corrupted by the culture of greed combined with hardship and scarcity. Early makes an ally of Lizzy Bunderly, the free spirited daughter of his wagon train employer, and the two face heartache and loss (Lizzy's mother dies), while learning to endure and to hope. I agree with the Kirkus review which notes that readers will relish the short chapters with the trademark Avi cliffhangers along with the sharp attention to interesting (but not overwhelming) historical detail and the many period illustrations and photographs. This is highly recommended historical fiction for ages 10 -14.

This title is recommended for the H.S. level.

This is a collection of nine short stories, all but one of which has been previously published, that are of the quirky, paranormal, fantasy genre. Kelly Link has written two previous books of short stories for adult and this is her first foray into writing for the Young Adult market. I believe she has found her niche. Her stories are creepy but funny and they all contain unexpected twists that keep the reader entertained and engaged, always wondering “what in the world can happen next!?” This collection is not for your average reader, some of the stories are hard to follow but they are definitely worth the effort.

This book is recommended for H.S. level.

In this first person narrative, fifteen-year-old Joseph tells about his life living with his crack and alcohol addicted mother. Joseph is mortified by his mother’s behavior but he has put himself in the position of parent not child and even though he knows his life is miserable he won’t leave her alone. Joseph’s father was in the process of gaining custody of him but was suddenly deployed to Iraq putting the process on hold. Joseph’s lawyer aunt has tried unsuccessfully to get Joseph to move in with her but he fights it, not wanting to leave his mother alone. This is a short but powerful look at the mother child relationship and how strong a hold it has on most people. Readers will push for Joseph to succeed due to his warm and loving personality. Though this is short simple read, some of the content may be too much for middle school readers.

This story is best suited to M.S. audience though it can also be enjoyed by H. S. level especially reluctant readers.

This short novella tells the story of 15 year old Pemba who has to adjust to a new life once her mother moves her from Brooklyn to a small town in Connecticut. This story is told through poetry, prose and journal entries. As difficult as the move is, what is even harder is the visions that Pemba sees now that she is in her new house. These visions escalate to where Pemba actually blacks out and feels as though she has become one with the visions. A Black historical researcher befriends Pemba and helps her to understand the paranormal experiences she is having. These experiences lead her to learn about the life of a young mulatto girl who at one time in history lived as a slave in the house which now is Pemba’s home. This was a wonderful story that will appeal to a wide audience especially reluctant readers due to its content, short length and the variety of writing styles especially the parts written in verse.

H.S. First in a planned series of three books, Hunger Games takes place in the future of the new country of Panem, a dystopian state that has replaced the United States in destroyed North America. The country consists of the Capitol and 12 districts where the citizens are not allowed to leave their district. Years before, when Panem was formed, the districts rebelled against the Capitol, but they lost. To punish the people and keep them complacent, the Capitol created the Hunger Games where each district chooses one girl and one boy, between 12 and 18, to compete in the games. The annual games were designed to show the people what happens when you fight against the government by pitting these 24 tributes (the young adults) against each other to see who can survive while the other tributes are killed. Sixteen-year-old Katniss lives in the poorest district, #12, where she poaches food in the forbidden woods for her widowed mother and litt le sister. When her sister is chosen by lottery to partake in the Hunger Games, Katniss quickly volunteers. Katniss’s character is cold and cunning but very likeable, while her teammate, Peeta, recognizes the importance of humanity in such inhuman circumstances. Together they try to stay alive while the game events, part entertainment and part intimidation, are broadcasted throughout the country on reality television. The citizens are required to watch the games, another tactic by the government to keep the citizens in line. Collins’s characters are realistic and sympathetic as they form alliances and friendships to try and survive the games. Engrossing and fast paced, readers will be totally immersed as the events of the games unfold, in the style of reality shows as “Survivor” and “American Gladiator” (SLJ). Collins leaves the reader with unanswered questions leading into book 2. School Library Journal, Horn Book, Publishers Weekly, Booklist and Library Media Connection all gave a starred review.

Using different types of sharks as a starting point, simple text and striking photographs convey their remarkable diversity. In this addition to the Biggest! Littlest! series, the half- and full-page color photographs are each paired with four to eight sentences of simple and informative text displayed on a bright white background. Twelve different types of sharks are shown and briefly described. Although the media-magnet great white and hammerhead are here, many less frequently covered sharks are also described, including the ornate wobbegong, the cookie-cutter. A color map provides additional information on where the photographs were taken, rather than the ranges of the sharks themselves, an interesting detail. As with all the best nonfiction for the very young, the vivid photographs and high-interest text will spark many youthful imaginations. (glossary, list of book and Internet resources) (Nonfiction. 4 & up)

M.S. Cabeza de Vaca was a Spanish conquistador with a difference. Although he failed to gather riches, he learned to respect the native people he had set out to conquer and shared his impressions of those people and their land in a book that chronicled his adventures. The route de Vaca traveled throughout the southwest has been the subject of some debate, despite the information he shared in his account. This book is a personal narrative of the author’s quest to discover that route. Using clues from the explorer’s own book as well as guidance from a variety of scholars and guides, Lourie follows the Spaniard’s probable trail and shares information about de Vaca’s tribulations and triumphs. It is an interesting tale offering an alternate view of a conquistador, but will probably find a limited audience in a school library.
 

E.S.
Harriet and Patricia live at Hamster World and would love to be adopted at the huge sale taking place tomorrow. Patricia goes to sleep so that she is rested, but Harriet after reading an article on make-overs at the bottom of the cage has decided on some self-improvement. She makes herself glamorous with homemade hair gel and completes the look with a hat. In the morning she is ready to debut her new look. Patricia does not care for the “Glamster” that Harriet has become and after a look in the water bowl Harriet agrees with her. They clean up and a little girl looks in the cage and smiles. This book sends a nice message about being yourself. Harriet does look pretty funny in her get-up and the more mature reader might recognize a little Harriet in themselves.
 

E.S.
This is the first in a new series for new readers beginning to move into chapter books on the next level. The topic will be familiar to most families struggling with the decision to get a dog or not. The monkey family does chose to have Fudge, a cute brown and white puppy come and live with them. The boys start to take care of their new pet with excitement, but for Pete the older brother this goes by the wayside when friends and sports seem more interesting. All of the pet care responsibility falls on Max, the younger brother. Fudge and Max become best friends leaving Pete a little bewildered when Fudge would rather spend time with his little brother. Max is a good brother and helps Pete and Fudge get to know each other. The illustrations are well done and add to the story nicely. Readers will happily look forward to the next book so they can spend some more time with Max and Pete.
 

MS/HS. This story is narrated by 12-year-old Lizzy re-telling events that transpire during her friendship with Margaret (Peggy), who just moved into the neighborhood. Lizzie has earned the nickname Dizzie due to her autism, while Peggy has been given the nickname Piggy due to her weight; they are both tormented by the neighborhood boys. These isolating conditions bring Lizzy and Piggy into an unlikely friendship; they even become blood sisters, using Lizzy’s dagger. While Lizzy is eager to have a friend, and will do anything to keep her, Piggy is angry, bossy, and rude—often using foul language, and taking advantage of Lizzy. Piggy’s anger leads her to trap the bullies in a secluded tunnel—Lizzy is an accomplice to this action; in another situation, Piggy commits a near-fatal injury to a teacher using Lizzy’s dagger. The narrative shifts between events that occurred one year ago and the present, as Lizzie is questioned by polic e to determine her own role and responsibility in the events that have transpired. This time-shift requires the reader to pay strict attention to details for complete understanding of events. Lots of action will keep the reader engaged. The book seems like an easy read with sentences that are short and choppy, and the Fry Scale ranks the book between 1st and 2nd grade--possibly reflecting the autistic narrator--however, due to the nature of the action, and the language used, this is best suited for mature middle school students and older.

E.S.
This is the latest in the friends series by Mo Willems. The problem in this edition involves what to do on a rainy day when all the friends want to do is play outside. It starts with the usual complaining but in a few more pages Elephant and Piggie have stopped grumbling and have found that the rain can lead to all kinds of fun. The worms are splashing so they try it adding some jumping, running and skipping. All good things must end and when the sun comes out it puts and end to the rainy day games they were enjoying. Elephant solves this problem quite well with a spray from his trunk. The illustrations are simple and the expressions on the animals are perfect. I want to read the rest of the series.
 

E.S.
With beautifully rendered illustrations this book is a joy to look at. However, I am uncertain as to how engaging children will find it. It is a verbose, windingly told tale of a little girl searching for her lost love who has been captured by the Snow Queen and taken to her far-away land. Gerda, the heroine, travels far and wide in her search and meets many a dark creature, including a band of murderous robbers. As visually stunning as this book is, it contains such amoral, sadistic characters as a little robber girl who takes Gerda hostage at knifepoint. I found myself rereading passages such as the hostage scene several times, wondering at what age I would think it appropriate to have children read this. My conclusion is this is a book for adults. Perhaps it is the translation which gives this classic tale such a sharp edge, but I would recommend this book be enjoyed for its pictures and read by adults for sentmentality's sake. Interestingly enough, being half Dani sh, I had no recollection of how dark a tale "The Snow Queen" was, though Andersen was a reading staple of my childhood.

E.S
The story chronicles one day in the life of a man who owns 10 dogs! The dogs begin the day when they wake up their master at dawn. He looks as if hasn’t had nearly enough sleep. However the dogs want to go out so out they go alone. The reader or teacher can point out the helpful counting words as the dogs leave the house as well as the rhyming names given to the dogs. All ten make their way to the park only to end up at the pound after making the park smell as only dogs can. They do escape while the guard is sleeping and make their way home with their exhausted owner dragging 10 leashes behind them. It is a fun book to read and the rhyming and counting add to how nice it sounds when read aloud. The illustrations are not drawn in my favorite style, but children will laugh when they read this book.

Yoon, a recent Korean immigrant who is back after" My Name is Yoon" (2003) and "Yoon and the Christmas Mittens" (2006) wanted a jump rope for her birthday, but her mother gave her a storybook about a little Korean girl who was tricked by a tiger and an heirloom, jade bracelet. An older girl who offers to teach Yoon to jump rope tricks Yoon into letting her (the older girl) wear the bracelet. When the older girl refuses to give it back, Yoon has to learn to stand up for herself and solve a social problem at school. Swiatkowska's large colorful textured paintings featuring bold reds and aquas bring the story to life. This will be useful in units about combatting bullying. Recommended in Booklist, Horn Book, and SLJ, Kirkus asked for more explanation of the Korean folktale,"Tricked by a Tiger," and its application to life.
 

E. S.
A bear arrives in a busy city in the winter and encounters so much noise and confusion that he forgets why he is there. A homeless woman whom he befriends notices a poster advertising a trumpet concert that he is scheduled to perform and helps him find his way back to his purpose in life. The subdued watercolor illustrations reveal the bear’s increasing melancholy as he becomes figuratively and literally lost and isolated in the midst of the preoccupied city dwellers. While mature readers can find many subtle messages in this poignant story, young readers (the target audience) may not really understand the underlying themes. If budgets are tight, this book is not an essential purchase.

Farmer Brown and the animals are back again and this time they are busy preparing for the annual Corn Maze Festival. With a little persuasion, the feisty animals who amused readers in Click, Clack, Moo and Duck For President pitch in to help the farmer create a Statue of Liberty maze. Duck, however, has his own idea about the maze and modifies it at night with the aid of night vision goggles and a glow in the dark ruler. The final, funny masterpiece is revealed in a gatefold page at the end of the book. Although foldout pages are not ideal in a library book, that is the only problem with this otherwise wonderful book. The large size bold type, short sentences and witty illustrations are perfect for young readers and listeners.

Reviewed positively in School Library Journal, Booklist and Kirkus, in this visual fantasy English artist Jay creates a whimsical zoo in which traditional zoo roles are reversed and numerous stories are continuously developed without words, including one where an ostrich escapes his owner to ride away on a bus. Publisher's Weekly disagrees saying that the overall effect falls short of Jay's best titles with fairy tale or nursery rhyme themes. I agree with Booklist which calls this a "polished yet playful choice." Children will enjoy the seek and find games at the close of the books to send them hunting through the pages once again.

PS ES
Poor Humpty Dumpty, after his great fall his confidence is shoot, no more climbing for him. He just sits around at home watching TV. He is visited by the Little Dog, who laughed, the Dish, who ran away with the spoon, and the King’s Men, they just make sport of him. But Humpty, he just can’t see the point. Until one day, the King’s favorite horse is stuck halfway up a wall, it’s Humpty to the rescue. Using the proper climbing equipment, a lesson learned the hard way, he saves the horse and regains his confidence. With humorous illustrations and text, Horowitz entertains and amuses with this tale of hope.