Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander Ramsey, illustrated by Floyd Cooper

Ruth is thrilled when her dad buys a car for his job. The car is for his job, but before he begins his new job, their family is going on a cross-country trip to visit Ruth's grandmother in Alabama. They leave Chicago and at first everything is exciting and fun. Mama has made picnics they eat at the side of the road and Ruth is thrilled to see the country pass by the car's windows. Then they stop to get gas and Mama asks to use the restroom. But the restrooms are for whites only. Mama and Ruth have to go into the woods. They can't stay in a a hotel, so Mama and Daddy take turns driving all night long. They can't eat at restaurants, so they eat the food Mama packed at the side of the road. Then they stop at a friend's house and he tells them to look for Esso stations, one of the few service stations where they can get gas. At the first place they stop, the friendly man gives them The Negro Motorist Green Book. It's a list of all the places they can sleep, eat, and shop. Their trip gets better, but it's still not all easy. When their car breaks down, no one will stop to help them and Daddy has to walk a long way into town to find a friendly mechanic. Finally, they arrive at Grandma's house, safe at home with family.

That was a really long summary, but I wanted to pack in the whole fascinating story! There are plenty of nonfiction books about the struggle for civil rights for African-Americans, many of them in picture book form. This, however, is the best one I've seen so far for early elementary students. Or for older children for that matter. It's easy to look with admiration at the people who struggled for equality, but I think a lot of kids - and adults - don't grasp exactly what Jim Crow meant. Segregation was much more than an abstract concept; it was a very real presence that made life dangerous and normal, everyday things we take for granted now difficult or impossible.

This book drives home the impact of segregation and the way it limited the lives of African-Americans, keeping them trapped in certain areas, cutting them off from better jobs, and creating an atmosphere of fear and humiliation. It's also an excellent explanation of the way many people fought segregation in small ways and worked together to create better lives for themselves and other African-Americans.

Verdict: Recommended for every library. I would strongly recommend this book be read aloud to any classes studying the history of civil rights and segregation.

ISBN: 9780761352556; Published August 2010 by Carolrhoda Books; Review copy provided by publisher for Cybils

Monday, December 27, 2010

April and Esme Tooth Fairies by Bob Graham

How does Bob Graham do it? Again and again he brings off stories and art that should be simperingly sentimental...and yet it isn't. What is cuter and more twee than tooth fairies? But Bob Graham's tooth fairies are adorable and sweeter than chocolate truffles while still being determined, tough, relatable, completely real characters.

April and Esme are ready to collect their first tooth. Their parents aren't so sure, but April is seven and three quarters after all and it's time for them to take their first flight. They navigate the city and it's lights, the breezy wind and messy toys only to find the precious tooth in water! Even when the little boy wakes up they manage to avert disaster and successfully take their first tooth!
This book reminds me of Mary Norton's classic Borrowers stories. There's the same exquisite combination of the miniature and the real, the cute and the tough. Like the Borrowers, the tooth fairies' house is full of repurposed items. There's plenty of danger out in the world for tiny beings, but there's adventure and excitement and family as well. Graham adds into the mix his own trademark contemporary family - April's dad complete with pony tail and wings, her mother with tattoos and flowers in her bathing in a teacup. There's gentle humor and a real sense of the excitement and importance of growing up.

Verdict: Perfect. Absolutely perfect at every point.


ISBN: 9780763646837; Published September 2010 by Candlewick; Review copy provided by publisher for Cybils

Sunday, December 26, 2010

The Three Little Pigs by Steven Guarnaccia

When I first heard about this book, I was not enthusiastic. Suuuure, we need a version of the three little pigs as an "architectural tale." Then I got a good look at it and fell in love. This is the best retelling of the three little pigs I've seen for quite a long time.

There's a point when you get tired of all the fancy retellings - of course we love Sciesczka's remaginings and Marshall's kooky illustrations, but to really appreciate a fractured fairy tale you have to know where it came from, right? Plus, I think we're so caught up in the retellings and rewritings we lose sight of the basic strength of the story that has made folktales survive for so long.

Guarnaccia, while keeping a unique viewpoint of the story with a fun twist, has given us a strong, simple retelling - back to the basics! The three pigs, stylishly dressed in suits, set off into the world from their mother's house. They construct their houses of metal scraps, glass, and finally concrete and stone. The big bad wolf, suitably attired in black leather, blows down the first two houses but can't make a dent in the third. So he tries to lure out the third little pig with a viewing of a tomato greenhouse and an orchard of tasty apples - but this little pig gets up way too early for the wolf! Finally, the wolf tricks the little pig into meeting him at Frank's Flea Market...but the pig escapes yet again, rolling down the hill in a rug. The wolf tries to climb down the chimney, gets his tail scorched in the fireplace, and runs away, never to return.

Architectural fans of course will get a big kick out of identifying the various buildings and furniture on the end pages in the illustrations. But for kids, this is one fun story. It has all the classic elements of the original folktale, with plenty of modern pizzaz and flourish.

Verdict: Recommended for the story and the clean, excellent art. Read this one aloud to preschool and up so they'll be able to appreciate Sciesczka's fractured retelling when they're older!

ISBN: 9780810989412; Published March 2010 by Abrams; Review copy provided by publisher for Cybils; Purchased for the library



Saturday, December 25, 2010

Carmen learns English by Judy Cox, illustrated by Angela Dominguez

Carmen tells her little sister, Lupita, all about starting school. On her first day, Carmen was scared and confused. She was the only one who spoke Spanish and she didn't understand the other children. But then her teacher talks to her - in Spanish! Terrible Spanish! Carmen is reassured - if Senora Coski isn't scared to make mistakes, she can try too. Carmen learns new words every day, important words like "restroom" and fun words like "yellow". Carmen is still too shy to talk in school, but she practices at home and teaches Lupita everything she learns. Then, they start to learn numbers. Carmen is excited - here is something SHE knows and she says the names out loud. But the other kids say she's saying them wrong. Carmen wants to explain but she doesn't have the English words. Then her teacher makes everything right by having Carmen teach the other children the Spanish words. Now Carmen is a teacher - she teaches the other children Spanish and she teaches her new English words to her little sister. By the end of the school year, Carmen is confident enough to practice her English in school and stand up to the kids who tease her. Lupita will have an easier time in school next year because of all the things Carmen has taught her and Carmen thinks maybe she'll be a teacher when she grows up - just like kind Mrs. Koski.



This story is ideal for reading aloud in a kindergarten or first grade classroom. It's an excellent picture of how frightening and confusing it is for a child to start school when they don't speak the language and incorporates many practical ideas for teachers to ease the way and for ESL students to practice what they have learned and gain confidence. Hopefully, this will also gently encourage other children to have a little sympathy and patience and not tease kids who are struggling with English. I would like to see this book in Spanish or bi-lingual so it could be used in ESL classrooms and so Spanish-speaking parents could read it to and with their children. However, even in English an older sibling could read it out loud to parents and younger siblings.

Verdict: Recommended - you are certain to have at least some Hispanic children among your patrons, even if it's only a small book, and this is a sympathetic and interesting story for both English and Spanish speaking children as well as a good story for teachers to read.

ISBN: 9780823421749; Published July 2010 by Holiday House; Review copy provided by publisher for Cybils

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Kindergarten Diary by Antoinette Portis

Antoinette Portis is a genius. Even though we all know this, I feel it must be remarked upon. First, you have the stunning classic Not a Box. Then the remarkable sequel, Not a Stick. Then, in a complete departure, the artistic magic of A Penguin Story.

And she's done it again. A completely new style and medium (I am just saying what it looks like to me, not an art critic here folks!) a completely new plot and storyline. "Not another first day at school book" you groan. Ah, but this one is different, for the following reasons.

It's written and drawn on handwriting practice paper - you know the kind with the dotted lines? So cool. It's a fascinated collage of textures and art. It's written in diary format. It covers the first month of kindergarten. It's completely, completely from a child's perspective. Annalina is scared of silly things - like her teacher being a monster - and real things, like the bigger kids being bullies. Some of the thing's she's scared about don't happen. Some of them do. This is REAL first time at school folks, not the sappy sweetness that drips out of most new school books.

Annalina enjoys some things about school and she hates other things. She likes her teacher most of the time, but Ms. Duffy isn't an angel from heaven with unending patience, surrounded by adoring children. Annalina makes growing up decisions, like shortening her name to Anna. She makes not-so-grown up decisions when she cuts her hair. She gets teased by the first graders. She makes friends. Some friends don't last very long!

Verdict: This book is REAL. Funny, contemporary, exuberant, scary, it encompasses all the first school experiences in a way that's both reassuring and honest. Every kindergartener should read this book before the big day! Don't forget to show it to preschoolers who want to know what kindergarten will be like, and to your 1st and 2nd graders to remind them how they felt when they were starting school!



ISBN: 9780061456916; Published June 2010 by HarperCollins; Borrowed from the library; Purchased for the library

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

The Thingamabob by Il Sung Na

There seems to be an unlimited number of books with animals discovering an article of human apparel - mittens and underwear seem to be the favorites - and then coming up with humorous uses for it. Just when I thought there couldn't possibly be another book on this subject, along comes this scintillating gem!

A plump and delightful white elephant finds...a thingamabob. It's unexpected, surprising, and mysterious. His friends don't understand it, so he decides to experiment! Can it fly? Float? Hide him? Then, suddenly, he discovers exactly what this strange thingamabob is for...to stay dry!

The simple text points to the humor in each picture, adding a tongue-in-cheek accompaniment to the deliciously textured pictures that will have children rocking with laughter. I think my favorite part is the umbrellas on the endpapers. I want every one of them. So...umbrellaish!

Verdict: Recommended. Toddlers through teenagers will giggle, snicker, and howl at this slyly silly story.

ISBN: 9780375861062; Published March 2010 by Knopf; Borrowed from the library.

Monday, December 20, 2010

Soup Day by Melissa Iwai

Maybe I should have posted this one yesterday because I love, love, love it. And I don't even like soup. I mean, I've tried to like soup, and I love the idea of soup, but somehow it never works for me. Anyways.

I want to hug this book. It is so warm and comfy, but sturdy too. It is not precisely a board book, but its pages are sturdier and stiffer than normal picturebooks, kind of a thin cardboard. The simple text is bold and marches strongly across the collaged and colorful illustrations.

On a snowy day, it is soup day. Counting up to six, a little girl and her mother pick out vegetables. Coming home, the vegetables get cut into different shapes. The vegetables cook in the pot and the little girl and her mother play together. Then it's time to add noodles and spices, clean up toys, and Daddy's home and it's soup time!

A recipe for soup is included in the back of the book. There are several reasons I like this story, apart from the endearing text and illustrations. First, I'm pleased to see the depiction of an Asian girl with Caucasian parents. Even in our fairly small, homogeneous community there are quite a few adopted Chinese girls and I have not found many stories that portray these children naturally, without making a huge issue of their adoption. Second, I really like the inclusion of concepts. This is a perfect toddler book and concepts are always good in books for little ones. They like to pause and count and identify. Third...I just really like all the elements together in this book.

Verdict: It's like really good soup - lots of different parts making one yummy whole!


ISBN: 9780805090048; Published September 2010 by Henry Holt; Borrowed from the library; Purchased for the library

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Junkyard Wonders by Patricia Polacco

Incidentally, it is my birthday. No, I am not writing reviews on my birthday. I am a great review scheduler. At this exact moment, I am probably asleep. Or at the zoo looking at tigers and the octopus.

So.

Like many of Patricia Polacco's stories, this deeply emotional and intense story is drawn from her own experiences as a child. In the story, a girl named Trisha decides to stay with her father and grandmother instead of returning to her mother in California. She wants this because she hopes to be in a "normal" class at school and finally have friends. Unfortunately, she immediately finds herself in "the junkyard" and completely deserted by her summer friends. In this class are all the kids who don't fit in; they have learning disabilities, physical illnesses, and other problems. Scorned and bullied by the other students and ignored by the rest of the school, Trisha and her classmates nevertheless blossom under the determined love and care of Mrs. Peterson. They become friends and start having hope that they are, as Mrs. Peterson claims, geniuses. They even visit and junkyard and get a wonderful idea; to reclaim a broken model airplane and make it "bigger and better." But then things go wrong. Jody, the boy who protected them from bullies, dies. One of the bullies tells the principal about their plans to fly the reconstructed plane in Jody's honor and the flight is cancelled. But Mrs. Peterson always has a plan...

In the author's note at the end of the story, Patricia Polacco tells us how her friends in the "junkyard" became amazing, successful people - Junkyard Wonders.

The length and plot of this story are not going to appeal to younger children. The youngest age I would hand this to would be a mature 1st grader. This story is best suited for older elementary ages up through middle school, as well as for teachers. Although some people are going to want to try to use this as a deterrent for would-be bullies, I don't think it will make much difference there. Children who lack empathy and compassion are rarely changed by a story, not matter how much emotional punch it packs. They simply won't draw a connection between the "weird kid" they tease in the hallways and Trisha and her friends. This story is for the kids who think they don't matter. For the ones who are told they're useless and damaged. For the kids who get left out and overlooked. It gives them hope that they do have potential, that they can overcome difficulties and realize their dreams. That they too can become Junkyard Wonders.

Verdict: Recommended, if you happen to have a juvenile picturebook section, this would be a good place to put this book.
ISBN: 9780399250781; Published July 2010 by Philomel; Borrowed from the library.

Saturday, December 18, 2010

You are the best medicine by Julie Aigner Clark, illustrated by Jana Christy

A mother diagnosed with cancer reassures her little girl that she can endure all the bad things by thinking of the good things they have together and how much they love each other.

I'm always a bit ambivalent about "sick parent" or similarly themed books for several reasons. This particular book is probably the best of the ones I've seen. It deals with various aspects of cancer and chemotherapy - losing hair, being tired, feeling sick - in a gentle and reassuring way by having the mother remember all the good things about her daughter and the fun they've had together that she loves. It's hopeful and comforting, finishing with the message that "love and kindness really are the best medicine." The soft pastel illustrations fit the hopeful, gentle theme of the book.

What bothers me about this type of story, is how focused it is on reassuring the child that their parent will, of course, eventually recover. This story seems to say that the mother's memories, hope for the future, and mutual love between her and her daughter will triumph over her illness. Now, I'm going to assume this book is referring to breast cancer, on the rather flimsy basis that there's a strong pink theme, plus it's the most common cancer for women. Now, just grabbing some random percentages off the internet - 20% of women with breast cancer die (random stats! do not call me on them please!) the point is - sometimes your parents do not get well. Sometimes all the love and kindness you have to offer isn't enough.

So where does that leave the child whose mother has died? Wondering if they just didn't love mommy enough? If she didn't have enough happy memories to help her through?

Of course, on the other hand, how on earth do you convey the possibility of death in a picturebook to a young child? Do you really want them to be aware of their mortality at that age, even if they're capable of grasping it? I guess somehow I want something a little less definitely "you will get well" and more focused on the warm memories and togetherness of the earlier parts of the story.

Verdict: While I have reservations, this is still probably one of the best dealing with cancer in a parent books I've seen up until now, so I would recommend it for your tough topics or parenting collections.

ISBN: 9780061956447; Published September 2010 by Balzer + Bray; Borrowed from the library

Friday, December 17, 2010

Hot Rod Hamster by Cynthia Lord, illustrated by Derek Anderson

This story has no deeply moving plot, no depth of character, no exquisitely artistic illustrations.
It's one of my absolute favorites this year.
It's pure, glorious, delightful, uninhibited, FUN!!
An exuberant, excited hamster is building a car for the big race. "Great day, grin day, build a car to win day,/Cheer day, chase day, gonna have a race day!" With the help of an eager friendly bulldog and the audience, he chooses his car, wheels, engine parts, paint, and one last important detail - a helmet! Then he's off to the races...but oh no! His marvelous racing car is practically invisible among the big dogs! But this little hamster isn't daunted; he's ready for anything! It's a wild race, but Hot Rod Hamster wins!
Yay!!

Verdict: This is the kind of book that definitely deserves the word "rollicking." It's just so much fun! Fun to read, fun to look at, fun to listen to! Perfect for storytimes with toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarteners. Perfect for quiet perusing and giggling. Perfect for displays about cars and hamsters. All-around pitch perfect in every point.

ISBN: 9780545035309; Published February 2010 by Scholastic; Borrowed from the library; Purchased for the library

Thursday, December 16, 2010

How Rocket learned to read by Tad Hills

Rocket, an endearing little white dog with black spots, loves to chase sticks and listen to the birds, smell his favorite smells and nap under his favorite tree. But one day...a little yellow bird appears and delightedly tells the confused Rocket that he is her student. Rocket is reluctant to listen to this strange bird, and tries taking his nap under a bush instead. But it's hard to sleep when she starts reading a fascinating story about a dog...and soon Rocket finds himself learning the alphabet and then sounding out words. Just when Rocket is getting the hang of it, the little bird leaves and it is winter - but he doesn't forget his lessons and spends the winter practicising his alphabet and spelling out new words. When the little bird returns, they read together in the warm summer sun.
This story has so many different things to enjoy. The reluctant Rocket and chirpy little bird, gorgeous artwork in the changing seasons, and the many, many words just waiting to be spelled out. It's a celebration of reading and learning, but also an appreciation of the beauty and excitement that's everywhere, just waiting to be explored.

Verdict: Recommended for preschool through 1st grade.


ISBN: 9780375858994; Published July 2010 by Schwartz and Wade; Borrowed from the library

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Eeeek, Mouse! by Lydia Monks

When a mouse shows up at breakfast one day, everyone in the family screams "Eeeek, Mouse!" except Minnie. She likes mice - why not? Daddy decides to build a cunning trap, assuring Minnie that the mouse won't be harmed, but Minnie isn't so sure so she comes up with a cunning plan of her own...and soon she has a whole family of mice in her little mouse house! But someone else has a cunning plan of their own - the cat! Can Minnie save her mice?
There's something inherently funny about mice traps, and this story is delightfully familiar and yet new at the same time. The child saving the mice from her parent's trap and the cunning cat has been done before, but Lydia Monks breathes new life into this story with her hilarious depictions of mad inventor Daddy, the cat's violent daydreams, and Minnie's ingenious solutions. "Mouseholes" cut into different pages pull the reader's eyes into the next segment of the story and there are funny asides and details from all the different characters.

Verdict: Recommended - a sweet and funny read with something for everyone to enjoy.

ISBN: 9781606841228; Published May 2010 by Egmont; Borrowed from the library

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Feeding the Sheep by Leda Schubert, illustrated by Andrea U'Ren

In simple, rhythmic prose, a little girl learns from her mother the cycle from sheep to wool to sweater. Each picture shows a different part of the process, starting with feeding the sheep and ending with knitting a sweater, including sheering, carding, dyeing, and more along the way.

This is an educational story to read to young children who will be fascinated to see the process that leads up to the finished process. It's also a sweet and warm story showing a mother's love for her daughter and the passing of the seasons on a farm. The simple rhymed refrain at the end of each section of text is perfect for making this a gentle bedtime story.

U'Ren's art is simple and clear enough so that children can understand the various processes, but also includes fun pictures of the little girl playing with the wool and her dog and snuggling up to her mother.

Verdict: Recommended. I haven't seen any other sheep stories, especially not any that manage to be both informative and entertaining.

ISBN: 9780374322960; Published March 2010 by Farrar, Straus & Giroux; Borrowed from the library.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Clever Jack takes the cake by Candace Fleming

Jack is poor but clever and when he gets an invitation to the princess's birthday party, he's determined to go, even though he doesn't have a present or the money to buy one. Instead, with lots of hard work, sacrifice, and a little cleverness, he bakes her the most wonderful cake.
Then he sets out for the party...but on the way, his cake disappears one piece at a time. When he finally arrives, he has nothing but a story to tell, which turns out to be exactly what the princess wants.
From an adult point of view, one wonders why a poverty-stricken peasant boy finds it necessary to give a present to the princess who is receiving gold, jewels, and tiaras. The invitation doesn't say anything about a present, but Jack's mother is quite sure he needs one - which turns out to be true, when the princess's first words are "and what have you brought me?" plus, if all the children in the kingdom are invited, they can't all be bringing gold and jewels - what are the other poor children bringing. But, of course, that's the adult point of view.
Children are unlikely to see the socioeconomic implications of the story. Yes, I spent too much time in college analyzing fairy tales, obviously. This completely original story has the cadence and elements that make folk tales so alluring to children. The rhythmic language, the building up of events to various conclusions, and the satisfying ending of the plot.

Karas' simple illustrations focus on Jack's feelings as he experiences a series of disasters, the princess's bored face, and the various creatures Jack encounters rather than the background, focusing the story on the different characters.
Verdict: This is a longer picture book, but because of the plot it will work fine even with very young children. Recommended.

ISBN: 9780375849794; Published August 2010 by Schwartz & Wade; Borrowed from the library.

Friday, December 10, 2010

Goal! by Mina Javaherbin, illustrated by A. G. Ford

Six ragged boys play soccer in the hard dirt street of their South African home. They have a real soccer ball, won by Ajani for being the best reader. But Ajani is worried - if the bullies find out, they will steal the ball. How can the friends keep their ball and their game?

This is a stunning book. Beautifully understated text, gorgeous pictures, celebrating friendship, resilience, and the universal love of soccer (or football, depending on where you're from).

The poverty of Ajani and his friends isn't emphasized; they're presented in a way that a child in similar or very different circumstances can empathize with. Every child has to make compromises when they play with friends, every child has to deal with bullies, every child has a friend who makes mistakes and has to be forgiven. Children in very different circumstances in the US will be able to compare themselves to Ajani and his friends and understand where they're coming from while still getting a glimpse into a different world.

Verdict: Recommended, especially for older children in grades 1 - 4.

ISBN: 9780763645717; Published April 2010 by Candlewick; Review copy provided by another Cybils panelist



Thursday, December 9, 2010

Rufus the Numbat by David Miller

Australian marsupials are inherently funny. They just ARE. When I took Nic Bishop's Marsupials on my school visits, all I had to do was list the names and the kids went nuts. They especially loved the betong. I mean, you just have to say that out loud, don't you? BeTONG!
Anyways, my new life's ambition is to find a zoo somewhere which harbors a numbat and see a real, live one. This story was adorable!
Rufus the Numbat trots through an ever-increasing scene of chaos. He likes peace and quiet...but that's not what he leaves behind! The illustrations are fascinating, cut paper and paper sculptures. If you look closely at the cover image you can see that Rufus' "fur" is actually sort of shredded paper. I think the pictures will work best in a group situation, where the kids can sit back and see the whole picture. The text is simple but adds humor just at the right moments. Accompanying the line "Rufus doesn't like cream cakes" is a background of a paint-bedabbled painter and his ladder collapsing on top of a tea table and it's occupants, while paint brushes and cream cakes fly through the air. Rufus, of course, just keeps walking.

Verdict: You might need to explain to the kids what a numbat is - refer to Nic Bishop's excellent Marsupials for further information - but even if they can't identify the animal, this funny and beautifully illustrated story speaks for itself.


ISBN: 9781876462963; Published 2010 in Australia by Ford St.; Review copy provided by publisher for Cybils

Look! Cute trailer!


Wednesday, December 8, 2010

The Star by Felicity Marshall


Any grammatical inconsistencies or other oddities in this or following reviews may be laid at the feet of the mighty decongestant, of which I have partaken freely.

Three friends live in the detritus under a pier - a worn doll, small spotted dog, and a harlequin. But Marion, the doll, dreams of being a star and a little bird pulls them through the television screen to a place where Marion can become a star. She changes her dancing, appearance, and finally her friends so that she can become a celebrity. But when she's worn out and replaced, she finds her true friends are still waiting for her and they return to their old home.

The illustrations are smoothly created and have several beautiful touches. The art was quite fascinating and I loved the many subtle touches that brought out points in the story. The story itself...well, it's well-written but I just didn't like it. The "girl leaves true friends to become a star and then returns" is a really worn plot, imo. What always bothers me about this plot, and this one in particular...is how it's always shown as "bad" to change yourself. What if Marion doesn't want to live with a bunch of discarded toys under an old pier? What if she prefers herself fixed up and not clunky? The others' insistence "we love you just the way you are" while Marion "secretly longs for adventure" well, that to me says possessive relationship much? Why shouldn't Marion have a chance to try something different? The place where Marion goes to become a star is obviously Hollywood and there are some very chilling images at the end of what happens to her replacement, a china doll that shatters.


Verdict: I liked the art, but I'm not sure who I would give this story to....kids I wanted to discourage from entering show business? Kids obsessed with celebrities? It's a beautiful book, but the story doesn't sit well with me.

ISBN: 9781876462925; Published 2010 in Australia by Ford St. Publishing; Review copy provided by publisher

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Argh! Technology moves too fast!

A random library lament as I fiddle yet again with my budget for next year. I've spent the past two years trying to delete, discard, hide, lose, and destroy all our old VHS and cassette tapes. We still have about 20 VHS and about 20 cassette sets in the YA and juvenile audiobooks, plus about 20 book+tape combos for little kids, but there was definite progress made. I was hopeful of having the whole process done next year.

And now we're buying Blu-Ray. Argh! I know, I know, you can play dvds on the new players and all, but now I've got to buy the same dang movies AGAIN, that I just re-bought on dvd, after getting rid of the vhs. And then re-bought AGAIN when they were promptly stolen.

On the bright side, the dvds will probably be stolen again, so I'll have to buy them anyways, so I might as well buy an additional bluray copy. Blu-ray? Blu ray? Bluray?

Sigh. I would rather be buying board books. They never change format.

Monday, December 6, 2010

Benjamin and Bumper to the rescue by Molly Coxe, photographs by Olivier Toppin

I happen to be a fan of stop-motion animation, especially the fuzzy variety (I said fan not expert) and this book irresistibly reminds me of some of my favorites. Specifically, those lovely Wind in the Willows movies.


This book has solid charm. When Benjamin Middlemouse's mother doesn't come back from her errands, he calls his elephant friend Bumper and they set out to the rescue. They check with the Pantrymice, who have terrifying news - Sir Pouncelot is hunting for mice and moles for his casserole! Benjamin and Bumper track Benjamin's mother through the garden and up the steps where they find her in a cage! With a clever trick and Bumper's help, Benjamin rescues his mother and she comes up with an idea to keep Sir Pouncelot away from all mice and moles in the future.

The text verges on the too too sweet for words on occasion, and some might object to Benjamin's mother's plan - to cook for the cat, who won't eat them as long as they serve him delicious food. But on the whole the plot and writing is extremely satisfying. Children will love the perils and triumphs of Benjamin and his friend and parents will find this a story they're happy to read over and over again.

Of course, the really endearing part of this book is the art. You could spend forever identifying each fascinating little detail in the pictures, from the handmade felted characters, to the tiny furniture and carefully set scenes. The reader sees the world from the mouse's point of view, so while there are tiny dishes and toys, there are also massive steps, large vegetables, and all the other accouterments of a human-sized world, repurposed for the various characters.

Verdict: Recommended for storytime and for more detailed viewing. A wide range of ages will find something to interest them in this adorable tale with its detailed art.



ISBN: 9780981969718; Published June 2010 by Brave Mouse Books; Borrowed from the library.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

So many days by Alison McGhee, illustrated by Taeeun Yoo

This is a gorgeous book with stunning illustrations. The warmth and beauty of the language is matched by the vision and delight of the art.

Unfortunately, I can't see any kid being interested in it. Maybe if you read it interactively "what's the dog doing now? what do you think the little girl is going to do next" but other than that....no, I'm not a big fan of "inspirational picturebooks"

On the other hand, it would make a GREAT graduation present! Next time I know somebody graduating, they're getting this one!

Verdict: If you have parents who like inspiration picturebooks, this might be a good selection for your library collection. Otherwise, save it for personal gift-giving.



ISBN: 9781416958574; Published January 2010 by Atheneum; Review copy provided by the publisher for Cybils; Purchased as a gift

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Big Red Lollipop by Rukhsana Khan, illustrated by Sophie Blackall

Rubina has been invited to her first birthday party. She is SO EXCITED...until her mother, Ami, says she has to take her fussy little sister Sana along. Ami just doesn't understand how birthday parties work! It's not much fun with Sana along, but the worst thing happens after they get home with their party favors. A long time later, it's Sana's turn to be invited...and now Ami says she has to take the littlest sister, Maryam, along. What will Rubina do?

There are several reasons this is an outstanding story. First, it's a universal theme that children will recognize and understand, although it's not one often seen in picture books. The absolute, helpless anger at an adult who just doesn't understand is so, so perfect. I think every child will recognize that frustration and every adult can remember a time when they felt those emotions. The clash between siblings, the older child who feels the younger one is getting away with everything, and Rubina's struggle to decide whether or not she'll help Sana, are all sympathetically and realistically portrayed. Finally, I was glad to see the realistic consequences of Sana's attendance at the party - Rubina doesn't get any invitations "for a really long time." Contrary to all those happy multicultural books, where a student from another culture is first mocked for their strangeness, and then accepted without difficulty....Khan says it like it is; kids are the ultimate conformists and they don't generally like different. Rubina's fellow students don't become fascinated by Pakistani family structure, they don't flock around her begging to know about her family; they avoid her. Rubina has to learn how to reconcile the different cultures she is part of - her family and her school - on her own.

Sometimes I'm a fan of Sophie Blackall's art and sometimes I'm not. Here, I definitely am. The energy and movement of her round-faced children, their excited, angry, hurt, happy expressions, and the changing perspectives are the perfect complement to Khan's text.

Verdict: A beautifully nuanced story with elements that will resonate with a wide range of children of different ages and experiences. The basic plot will draw in younger children in a storytime atmosphere, but this book is also an excellent story to give to older elementary children. Recommended for children dealing with different cultures at home and at school, for children with siblings, and for anyone who's ever been frustrated that someone just doesn't understand.

ISBN: 9780670062874; Published March 2010 by Viking; Borrowed from the library; Purchased for the library

Monday, November 8, 2010

The Tooth Fairy Meets El Raton Perez by Rene Colato Lainez, illustrated by Tom Lintern

Two different mythologies meet. Who will win? The Tooth Fairy is collecting teeth for her castle - El Raton Perez is collecting teeth for his rocket ship. El Raton Perez has collecting the teeth of Miguelito's family for generations - but in the United States, it's the Tooth Fairy who collects teeth! When Miguelito's tooth is lost, it takes the special skills of both tooth-collectors to retrieve it and with a little discussion realize they can compromise and both use the tooth.

A note at the end of the story explains the tooth-collector legend around the world and gives details about the two in the story. Translations of the Spanish terms are also given, but they're also pretty obvious from the story.

This is a fun story with lots of silly details. A great way for kids to see connections between different cultures by showing two traditions and how they vary from place to place. I prefer Lintern's illustrations in Cold Water Witch, but his Photoshopped pencil illustrations are quite pleasant in this story and lend a cartoonish feeling to the silly scenes.

Verdict: If you're looking for multicultural stories kids and their parents will actual check out, this is a definite yes! Lots of fun details as well as traditions from different countries and a lesson on compromise and working together.

ISBN: 9781582462967; Published March 2010 by Tricycle Press; Borrowed from the library

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Baxter, the Pig Who Wanted to be Kosher by Laurel Snyder, illustrated by David Goldin

Baxter is sitting at the bus stop, when a man tells him about the joys of Shabbat. It sounds like fun to Baxter - a special dinner, singing, and being with loved ones. When Baxter returns to the bus stop, a different man is waiting and says he knows all about Shabbat...but Baxter could never be part of Shabbat dinner. He's not kosher!
Baxter sets out to make himself kosher. He tries kosher pickles, raisin challah, and even attempts to become a cow! But everyone tells him a pig can never be kosher...until he meets a friendly rabbi. She explains that being kosher would mean Baxter would get eaten! But as a friend he's welcome to Shabbat dinner.
The book ends with a brief explanation of what a Shabbat dinner is all about and the Jewish tradition of inviting strangers to share the meal. There's also a glossary of the various terms used in the story - kosher, mitzvah, rabbit, etc. I really appreciated that the glossary was written in a friendly, fun style so younger kids could understand the explanations.
This story is an excellent introduction to several major elements of Jewish tradition and culture. Some of Baxter's exchanges with various people at the bus stop feel a little forced, but the open and friendly style of the book balances it. I've been looking at various books introducing different elements of religous and cultural groups and this one, I think, is the best I've seen so far. It doesn't talk down to the reader, but doesn't make any assumptions about prior knowledge. Everything is clearly explained in a humorous, lighthearted manner and it's suitable for wide variety of ages - a lot of these books I've looked at have way too much text, but this one is just right. The illustrations are cartoons in pen, collage, and digital. Not my personal favorite, but they did fit the story well.

Verdict: I'd strongly recommend this for your collection whether or not you have a Jewish demographic in your area. It's a good introduction for kids (and parents) who know nothing about Jewish culture but also for kids who may have Jewish friends or neighbors and are curious about how dietary laws work, which is one of the more visible aspects of Jewish religion.

ISBN: 9781582463155; Published August 2010 by Tricycle Press; Borrowed from the library

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Chalk by Bill Thomson

This is a wordless book kids can really get their teeth into.

Heh. I couldn't resist. On a gloomy, rainy day, three children find a bag of chalk in the park. Magical chalk, that makes their drawings come alive. Of course, one kid can't resist drawing...you guessed it, a tyrannosaurus! After a frenzied chase, one child has a bright idea and the dinosaur is defeated. The chalk is left behind for another child to discover the magic, and the three children leave.

Thomson's illustrations, created from acrylic paint and colored pencils, have a slick surface and vibrant depth and movement. He perfectly captures the complete absorption in art, imagination, and magic that only a child can display, and the children's range of emotions from wonder to terror, are spot on at every point. I am specifically in love with the illustration of the butterflies coming alive on the concrete and the children's exuberant delight as they swirl up into the sky.

This book, by the way, is the kind of picturebook I'd like to see more of when I think of adding "multicultural" picturebooks to my library. The three children represent different races and genders, but they are caught in a moment of magic and excitement that any child can understand and empathize with. I was also glad to see that each child played a major part in the story - many picturebooks are starting to show minorities, but mostly as what I call "background diversity"; as a best friend, part of a class, or a neighbor, not as an important character in the story.

Verdict: Highly recommended for public, school, and personal libraries. Display it with books on dinosaurs, art, and imagination. Have children tell the story to you in storytime. Show it to your after school kids and then have a giant chalk drawing program.

ISBN: 9780761455264; Published March 2010 by Marshall Cavendish; Review copy provided by publisher for Cybils; Purchased for the library

Friday, November 5, 2010

Sneaky Sheep by Chris Monroe

While we are rather sad that Chris Monroe did not write another Monkey with a Toolbelt story, we felt much happier once we had read Sneaky Sheep.

Rocky and Blossom live in a very nice meadow with lots of nice sheep and a very nice sheep dog (his name is Murphy). But Rocky and Blossom are not happy. They want to explore! They want to try new things! They want...the greener grass high up the mountain. Murphy knows Rocky and Blossom aren't the whitest wool in the flock (insert hilarious spread of previous bad decisions) and tells them definitely NO.

Which is when the Sneakiness begins. Very, very sneaky Sneakiness. Of course, bad things happen, Murphy saves them, and all is well...for the moment!

Monroe's sketchy cartoon art is the perfect background for this hilarious take on the old adage "the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence." Suitable for preschoolers, this story will resonate most strongly with kindergarteners and younger elementary students who will pick up on the snarky humor.

Verdict: Highly recommended. A great book to have on hand for school visits.

ISBN: 9780761356158; Published September 2010 by Carolrhoda; Borrowed from the library

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Interrupting Chicken by David Ezra Stein

"It was bedtime for the little red chicken." Of course, bedtime requires a bedtime story...but the little chicken just can't resist jumping into the stories and interrupting! Finally, Papa tells her he's all out of stories - so little chicken will have to make up her own!
This is a fun, funny story. The sections of classic fairy tales which little chicken interrupts are drawn in what looks like a parody of Galdone's classic versions and little chicken's wild and unexpected interruptions will bring down the house every time you pull this out at storytime. A fun concept, beautifully executed throughout this unique bedtime story.

Verdict: Highly recommended. Use it to introduce children to classic fairy tales, as an anti-bedtime story, to encourage them to make up their own stories, and just for fun!

ISBN: 9780763641689; Published August 2010 by Candlewick; Review copy provided by the publisher for Cybils; Purchased for the library