Posts Tagged ‘childrens fiction’

Book Review: Go to Sleep, Russell the Sheep by Rob Scotton with Giveaway

Posted on Wednesday, June 23rd, 2010 by the1stdaughter

Go to Sleep, Russell the Sheep by Rob Scotton

Published by HarperFestival (A division of Harper Collins Children’s)

Pages: 16

Ages: 2-5

Publishers Summary: This is Russell.

Sometimes Russell is just a little bit out of step with the rest of the flock.

All the sheep are falling asleep — except Russell.

What’s a sheep to do?

Russell tries everything … until, at last, he falls asleep.

The Turkeybird Speaks: “I’m back! Did you miss me? I know it’s been a little while since I reviewed anything, but I had to take a breather. Besides, I’ve got quite a few new books coming up with reviews you’ll have to read! But for now…grab a snack and snuggle in with some comfy pj’s, because you’ll love this next book!

“Russell is a guy that I can relate to. He can’t sleep! I can’t sleep! I mean, come on, there’s so much to do and if I sleep, who knows what I could miss out on?! You know? I’ve got to think about my trains with that new set-up I wanted, the rocket ship I want to build and then of course all the books I want to get reading. If I fell asleep that would all go away, I just know it!

“But I guess we all need a break, right? Russell tries all sorts of things, he makes sure it’s dark, but then it’s too dark. Then he thinks he might be too hot, but ends up too cold. His hat even gets messed up he tries so hard! Haha! So how do you get to sleep when you just can’t seem to get settled in? Russell finally does the best thing ever, counts sheep! It’s perfect! I love to count! My favorite number right now happens to be 18, but that’s besides the point. By the time he gets to the end, he’s sound asleep with his froggy friend and I’m just about there myself.”

Mom’s Two Cents: “Absolutely, the Turkeybird is a number 18 fanatic! I think every time we read this he ends on 18, though the sheep only go to 10. It’s great! One of the best parts of having read this book to the Turkeybird over the last six months or so is to see how he’s changed. When we first started to read it he definitely knew his numbers already, but they were often jumbled up and not always in the right order. Now he goes all the way up to 18 and then some. It’s fabulous to see the progress he’s making and how he is always learning.

“As for Rob Scotton, the illustrator and author, his art is wonderful! Russell the Sheep as well as his Splat the Cat series are beautiful and definitely enjoyable for both parents and children alike.

“This is perfect for little guys and gals in need of a great before bed book. As well, a wonderful book for beginning counters. The Turkeybird, and now Littlebug, have been loving this book recently, especially Russell’s ziggy zaggy hat! If you’re looking for a great laugh with a little bit of education thrown in, Russell is a sure thing. Both you and the kiddos will absolutely love Russell the Sheep.”

The1stdaughter Recommends: Ages 1 and up. Perfect before bed and for beginning counters. Also, a wonderful book for interacting with little ones.

For the Comments: Do you have a favorite “before bedtime” book? We’d love suggestions!

DON’T MISS: Activities to do with Russell the Sheep:
Count Sheep with Russell

As a special treat we are offering one copy of Go to Sleep, Russell the Sheep by Rob Scotton, the board book edition, to one lucky winner!

Details: One winner will be chosen at random after the contest closes. You MUST fill out the form below, comments will not count as entries. Only one entry per household. Must be a follower of There’s A Book. Giveaway is open internationally. The giveaway will run from June 23, 2010 until July 10, 2010 midnight EST.

This contest is currently closed and the winner will be announced shortly. Thank you again to all who entered, please make sure to check our Giveaways Page frequently for new opportunities to win!

This book was purchased for our home library.
Purchasing products by clicking through the links in this post will provide us a modest commission through our affiliate relationship with IndieBound.

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? (20)

Posted on Sunday, June 20th, 2010 by the1stdaughter

This fabulous weekly recap is hosted by Shelia of One Persons Journey Through a World of Books. Each week we recap what we’ve read and look at what’s coming up this week. If you’re interested head over to Shelia’s site and get involved! It’s a blast and I may even stop by to see what you’re up to!

Here’s what we’ve been up to this week:

Another busy week here at There’s A Book! Quite a few reviews and if I have to pick just one for you to look at it would absolutely be The Secret Lives of Princesses, one of my favorite books of the year (even for adults!). I was also able to get most of my links added to my “Links” page, make sure to let me know if I missed you, it wasn’t intentional, I promise!

I was also able to go to lunch on Saturday with one of my favorite book bloggers, Jill from Fizzy Thoughts! We are actually going to start up a monthly get together now that we know we have another friend nearby as well, Gwen from Chew & Digest Books. It should be a blast and I can’t wait!

Besides that, we’ve had a house of sick kiddos, but slowly they’re getting back on their feet…just in time to go to grandma’s for the weekend for a family reunion of sorts. That’s what’s happening here, how about where you are?

Read/Reviewed (Just click on the title to see the Review!):
The Secret Lives of Princesses by Philippe Lechermeier Illustrated by Rebecca Dautremer
Keeper by Kathi Appelt Illustrated by August Hall
The One That I Want by Allison Winn Scotch (Review & Giveaway for Chick Lit Reviews)
Pookster and the Unloose Tooth & Pookster and the Practically Perfect Pickle by Rhonda Funk
Just Floating In: Lawn to Lawn by Dan Yaccarino
A Place for Delta by Melissa Walker and Illustrated by Richard Walker (Review coming tomorrow!)

Interviewed:
When I Was Young – Lale on Lit

Events:
A Bit of Me(Me) – Animals?
Friday Book Blogger Hop
Coming Very Soon: Got Books? (Have you signed up yet?)

Giveaways:
Pookster and the Unloose Tooth & Pookster and the Practically Perfect Pickle by Rhonda Funk
Go to Sleep, Russell the Sheep by Rob Scotton (Coming Thursday!)

What’s up for the week to come:

Reading/Reviewing:
Forget You by Jennifer Echols
The Lies We Told by Diane Chamberlain (Review for Chick Lit Reviews)
The Fixer Upper by Mary Kay Andrews (Review for Chick Lit Reviews)
Karma Bites by Stacy Kramer and Valerie Thomas
Bogus by Karla Oceanak and Illustrated by Kendra Spanjer

The Turkeybird and Littlebug are Reading/Reviewing:
Go to Sleep, Russell the Sheep by Rob Scotton (Coming Thursday!)
Simple Steps Activity Book by Molly Smith and Illustrated by Tad Carpenter
First Words:Bright Baby by Roger Priddy
The Adventures of Precious the dog by Precious

Giveaways Coming Up:
Go to Sleep, Russell the Sheep by Rob Scotton (Coming Thursday!)

So, what are you reading this week? Have any suggestions I should add to my reading pile?

Purchasing products by clicking through the links in this post will provide us a modest commission through our affiliate relationship with IndieBound.

Just Floating In: Lawn to Lawn by Dan Yaccarino

Posted on Wednesday, June 16th, 2010 by the1stdaughter

As many of you know Dan Yaccarino is one of our favorite Author/Illustrators. His artwork is always so appealing to both kiddos and adults alike. So, when I received another email from him letting me know about his latest book and new trailer, I knew I had to post about it.

Lawn to Lawn by Dan Yaccarino

Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers (An imprint of Random House, Inc.)

Publishers Summary: Not everyone loves lawn ornaments. But Pearl was different. Pearl was their friend—the only human who knew they were real.
So when Pearl’s family moves and (shockingly!) leaves their pink flamingo, deer, gnome, and lawn jockey behind, Flo, Betty, Norm, and Jack know what they must do. They must find Pearl no matter how long and perilous the journey.
Through cities and suburbs, over mountains and through swamps, the ornaments make their dangerous way. They survive storms and menacing gargoyles. They get directions from weather vanes and other statuary. And always, always, they must avoid the dreaded trash truck!

Book Trailer for Lawn to Lawn (*Email or RSS Subscribers may have to click through to the post to view.):

This is definitely going on The Turkeybird’s wishlist! We can’t wait to have it in our home, review coming soon!

Images and Book Trailer provided via Yaccarino Studio. Thank you!
Purchasing products by clicking through the links in this post will provide us a modest commission through our affiliate relationship with
IndieBound.

Book Review: The Secret Lives of Princesses by Philippe Lechermeier

Posted on Monday, June 14th, 2010 by the1stdaughter

The Secret Lives of Princesses by Philippe Lechermeier Illustrated by Rebecca Dautremer

Published by Sterling Children’s Books (A division of Sterling Publishing)

Pages: 88

Ages: 7 and up

Publishers Summary: Go beyond Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella! Some princesses are well-known to all children—but others, equally magical (and sometimes, a lot funnier) have remained anonymous, mysterious, and far from the fairy-tale crowd. Now these captivating ladies are finally stepping out of the shadows where they’ve remained hidden for far too long. With wit, sublime humor, and beautiful art, The Secret Lives of Princesses introduces a bevy of royal daughters to the court of young readers.  While it alludes to some of their more famous sisters, this large and lusciously illustrated compendium presents such unique and unforgettable characters as the petite Princess Claire Voyant, who can see very far into tomorrow (but muddles her predictions); Princess Oblivia, who forgets everything and misses all her appointments; Princess Tangra-La, who does the tango, the fandango, and any dance that comes her way; and Princess Babbling Brooke, who chatters on and on about everything and nothing. Plus, you’ll learn about such princessy matters as the language of fans; coats of arms; and how not to offend dangerous fairies who cast evil spells.Poetic, often humorous, and always enchanting, this is the perfect collection for princess-loving girls who long for more than just the traditional fairy tale.

“Were you the little girl dying to have your turn with the magic wand and tiara? You know…the one who sang along with every Little Mermaid song or Sleeping Beauty aria. You could have even been the girl who sat in her room dreaming of far off places and new adventures in some fairytale land. Perhaps not, maybe you just happen to know a little girl who fits one of these situations. I know I do, at least a few of them actually, and this book is just perfect for them…and me for that matter.

The Secret Lives of Princesses is the other side of the coin when it comes to typical fairy tale princesses. Ever wonder what the real reason was for Sleeping Beauty’s hundred year sleep? It could be as simple as she’s related to the ever-so-sleepy Princess Somnia who can’t seem to be bothered to get out of bed even for the most important of events. And maybe Cinderella was really suffering from a case of memory loss when she forgot about her pumpkin carriage, similar to how Princess Oblivia forgets who she is on a regular basis. There is so much more to be learned from Princesses who stories have yet to be told, including their secrets, their pets, traditions and some very peculiar quirks. Each new-to-us Princess has something to share and none should be missed.

“One of the best parts about this book, besides the fantastic stories obviously, is the artwork. Each page you turn is like walking through an art gallery. I personally have many favorites that I’d love to have framed and hung in Littlebug’s bedroom. The illustrator, Rebecca Dautremer, is absolutely brilliant. The detail in each piece is phenomenal, because just when you think you’ve seen every little part you take another look to reveal a small button or thread coming loose. Amazing! The following images are taken straight from the book (courtesey of the publisher of course*), this first one is Princess For-A-Day because, unfortunately for her she is only a Princess for one day only.

Princess Molly Coddle’s Garden Maze:

“As I said, each illustration is a work of art on it’s own and is something adults and children will appreciate equally. Children because the art will come alive in their imaginations and carry them to these far off places. For adults, there are so many reasons adults will love the illustrations, but most importantly, you will be taken to that same place the little girl next to you is dreaming of as you read together these new and very fun stories.

The Secret Lives of Princesses was a book that I was immediately in love with from the moment I first had it in my hands. You will chuckle your way through page after page, but stare in awe at the beautiful artwork that accompanies each well-crafted story. It’s hard to imagine that these stories haven’t always exsisted, but they’re here now. Personally, as I mentioned already, I can think of at least three little girls in my life who will be enjoying a copy of this book very soon (as well as some very excited Mom’s, Aunt’s and Grandma’s). You absolutely don’t want to miss this wonderful book for all ages and imaginations.”

The1stdaughter Recommends: Ages 4 and up. Parents and children alike will laugh and be swept away by the wonderful stories and beautiful artwork behind these “new” Princesses and all their secrets.

For the Comments: Which of these new Princesses is your favorite? Take a look at the Portrait Gallery and come back and tell me. Not enough time? Who was your favorite as a child and what secret do you think they may have kept hidden?

The Secret Lives of Princesses Official Website with Fabulous Games:
Memory, Slide Puzzle, Matching, Personality Quiz, Portrait Gallery and Trading Card Info
The Secret Lives of Princesses Facebook Page

This book was provided by Sterling Children’s Books for review (find them online here and on Twitter here). Thank you!
*Images Reprinted with permission from The Secret Lives of Princesses. Illustrations © 2004 by Rébecca Dautremer, published by Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.
Purchasing products by clicking through the links in this post will provide us a modest commission through our affiliate relationship with IndieBound.

Book Review: Pookster and the Unloose Tooth & The Practically Perfect Pickle by Rhonda Funk

Posted on Sunday, June 13th, 2010 by the1stdaughter

Pookster and the Unloose Tooth & Pookster and the Practically Perfect Pickle by Rhonda Funk

Published by Carmichael Publishing

Pages: 16 each

Ages: 4-8

Publishers Summary for Pookster and the Practically Perfect Pickle: Pookster is very protective of her pickles. So when her brother Bubs brings his toy soldiers to the table during her pickle eating break, she thinks they are there to swipe her green treat and take it to their leader.

Pookster’s choice of sweet or sour words will mean the difference between keeping her pickle…or losing it to Mommy forces.

“Pookster and her brother are a typical brother-sister duo who pick on each other at times, but other times truly enjoy each others company. These two stories are Christian based and carry a central themes of love and patience throughout. Each story is well written and perfectly colorful to provide little readers something to grab onto.

“Considering that my dear sweet Turkeybird just had his first tooth pulled Pookster and the Unloose Tooth was pretty cute, although he was a little concerned about the growing back part. I just explained to him the difference was that he didn’t have a choice with the pulling of his tooth and in the story, Pookster, had a choice and possibly made a poor one. It was the perfect opportunity to set him aside and teach him a little bit about the choices we make; which is one of the things I love about reading and learning from books.

“In the second story Pookster gets a little out of hand and has to learn a lesson about kindness and using the right words. Again, another great way to teach young children the impact our actions have on others and how we can learn to think before hurting someone’s feelings.

“Each of these books were a breathe of fresh air, honestly. I’m not generally drawn to many Christian titles because I find them to be overly ‘preachy’ and don’t always voice my own beliefs. These stories by Rhonda Funk were wonderful! Perfectly balanced and not to pushy about the overarching Christian theme. Don’t get me wrong, they do include scriptures and a ‘lesson’ at the end of each book, but they are both tastefully done. The illustrations are also fun and enjoyable for children to connect with (as seen below). Overall, I would definitely recommend these to a family looking for Christian based books to help their children understand basic principles to apply in their lives.”

The1stdaughter Recommends: Ages 3 and up. Perfect for families with any basic Christian background looking to help teach their children beginning principles.

For the Comments: Do you have a favorite Christian children’s author or book? I love to hear about it!

Giveaway Details below the images and video.

Giveaway: Bring it on! Communications Publicity has graciously offered one copy of each of these great books (two total), including an audio version of each book, to be given away to one reader of There’s A Book!

Details: One winner will be chosen at random after the contest closes. You MUST fill out the form below, comments will not count as entries. Only one entry per household. Must be a follower of There’s A Book. Must be a US/Canadian resident. The giveaway will run from June 14, 2010 until June 30, 2010 midnight EST.

This book and interior art was provided by Bring it on Communications Publicity for Review and Giveaway. Thank you!
Purchasing products by clicking through the links in this post will provide us a modest commission through our affiliate relationship with Amazon.com.


It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? (19)

Posted on Sunday, June 13th, 2010 by the1stdaughter

This fabulous weekly recap is hosted by Shelia of One Persons Journey Through a World of Books. Each week we recap what we’ve read and look at what’s coming up this week. If you’re interested head over to Shelia’s site and get involved! It’s a blast and I may even stop by to see what you’re up to!

Here’s what we’ve been up to this week:

This week has been another rip roaring crazy week here. Bloggiesta was this weekend and I was lucky enough to step in at the last minute for a Mini-Challenge all about figuring out your stats. It was really fun and I think I was able to help a lot of other bloggers out there! Besides that, I’ve been reading like crazy and running after kiddos constantly. I even managed to throw out my back mid-week at the park (Littlebug is getting a bit big to haul up the top of a slide, but not big enough to get up there herself). I’ve also been busy with Gina from Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers putting together a book event of Epic proportions! You will definitely want to check out the Got Books? event, it’s going to be fabulous!


New Event!!!

Also, I just wanted to mention one more time that I’ve started a new Meme here at There’s A Book! It’s called A Bit of Me(Me) and it runs every Saturday. After participating in Armchair BEA and getting to know a little bit more about some of the fabulous bloggers out there I wanted to take the opportunity to do a little more “meeting and greeting”. I also wanted something on the weekends that was a little more relaxing. This week’s participants were fabulous and I can’t wait for more to jump on board. So, take a look and try it out! I can’t wait to get to know everyone a little better!

Read/Reviewed (Just click on the title to see the Review!):
13 to Life by Shannon Delany
Beautiful Malice by Rebecca James
It Could Be Worse You Could Be Me by Ariel Leve (Review & Giveaway for Chick Lit Reviews)

Interviewed:
When I Was Young – A Novel Idea

Events/Memes:
Self-Nomination: Book Blogger Appreciation Week Awards
A Bit of Me(Me) – Movies

Bloggiesta:
Mini-Challenge: It’s All About the Numbers (A Stats Challenge)
My Starting Line – Let’s Go!
Day Two – Let’s Keep the Party Goin’!
Day Three – Just Checking In!

Giveaways:
Coming today: Pookster and the Unloose Tooth & Pookster and the Practically Perfect Pickle by Rhonda Funk

What’s up for the week to come:

Reviewing/Reading:
The Secret Lives of Princesses by Philippe Lechermeier Illustrated by Rebecca Dautremer
Keeper by Kathi Appelt Illustrated by August Hall
A Place for Delta by Melissa Walker and Illustrated by Richard Walker
Forget You by Jennifer Echols
The One That I Want by Allison Winn Scotch (Review & Giveaway for Chick Lit Reviews)
The Lies We Told by Diane Chamberlain (Review for Chick Lit Reviews)

The Turkeybird and Littlebug are Reviewing/Reading:
Pookster and the Unloose Tooth & Pookster and the Practically Perfect Pickle by Rhonda Funk (Coming Today!)
Go to Sleep, Russell the Sheep by Rob Scotton (Coming Thursday!)
Simple Steps Activity Book by Molly Smith and Illustrated by Tad Carpenter
First Words:Bright Baby by Roger Priddy

Giveaways Coming Up:
Go to Sleep, Russell the Sheep by Rob Scotton (Coming Thursday!)
The One That I Want by Allison Winn Scotch (Review & Giveaway for Chick Lit Reviews)

So, what are you reading this week? Have any suggestions I should add to my reading pile?

Purchasing products by clicking through the links in this post will provide us a modest commission through our affiliate relationship with IndieBound.

When I Was Young – A Novel Idea

Posted on Tuesday, June 8th, 2010 by the1stdaughter

Blog Name: A Novel Idea
Blog URL: http://a-novel-idea-by-maryelizabeth.blogspot.com/
Twitter Name: I don’t tweet! (Can you believe it?)
Goodreads (and/or others): http://www.goodreads.com/mary1975rocks

1. When did you start your blog and why?
I started my blog in 2008 as a way to make myself sit down and actually write the children’s novel I have always wanted to write, thus, the blog’s title, “A Novel Idea”. My plan was to write a little bit of the story each day, no matter how small the entry. I figured this would be a solid path to making progress and at least get me started. I took a break from blogging for a while, and then seriously re-entered the blogosphere in March of 2010 with more ideas and ways to implement them! At that point, I wanted to showcase more creative activities on my blog than just write novel entries; I wanted to incorporate a variety of ideas and suggestions related to children’s literature. Since my Bachelor and Masters Degrees are in Education, coupled with my teaching and parenting experience, I thought I might be able to offer some insight on bringing children and literature together. It is definitely a subject area I love and with which I have a variety of experience!

2. Tell us a little about yourself outside of your interest in books.
I have four small children – two boys and two girls! Their ages are 6 years, 4 years, 2 years, and 4 months, so I am super, super, super busy!! I love being a mother, and I am very blessed to be able to stay at home with my awesome little ones! My other interests include: reading, blogging, writing, yoga, running, and scrapbooking. I love to unwind by reading a magazine or watching a really funny sitcom. I love to laugh!

3. Your favorite book from your youth and the story behind it.
I would have to say I have two favorite books from my youth – Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary and Superfudge by Judy Blume. I must have read both of those at least twenty times each!!! I remember reading about Ramona getting her new spelling words at the beginning of each week, and as she looked at that list, feeling like she had a fresh start with everything. That new spelling list made everything right with the world in her eyes! I could relate to her so well!! With every thought and experience Ramona had, I remember thinking, “Wow! That’s exactly how I feel!” Looking back, that shows Beverly Cleary’s incredible writing ability. Superfudge was a childhood favorite, too, due to Judy Blume’s ability to perfectly capture those intense feelings of adolescence. I could completely empathize with the embarrassment Peter would feel as a result of Fudge’s antics, as I have a younger sister and brother of whom I am much older. The dichotomy in those two books was the fact I could strongly identify with the main characters, and that felt wonderful.

“Mary Elizabeth is one of the best new Kidlit bloggers out there! She’s the perfect friend for a parent looking for new (and old) books for their little ones. Not only does she have the expert advice of being a mother of four tremendously cute kiddos, she also has an education to back her up. All of her reviews are the perfect balance of review and recommendation, often with multiple books being offered in a single post.  She also makes a tremendous effort to be a part of the blogging community at large, without ever being on Twitter!

“Not only is A Novel Idea one of my new favorite Kidlit blogs, but Mary Elizabeth has superb taste in books. Because you all know how much I love Beverly Cleary! Don’t miss out on this fantastic new site and friend! Take a look at A Novel Idea and find the next great book for the little one’s (or yourself) in your life.”

Interested in participating in the When I Was Young feature? Read about it here.
Purchasing products by clicking through the links in this post will provide us a modest commission through our affiliate relationship with IndieBound.


It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? (18)

Posted on Sunday, June 6th, 2010 by the1stdaughter

This fabulous weekly recap is hosted by Shelia of One Persons Journey Through a World of Books. Each week we recap what we’ve read and look at what’s coming up this week. If you’re interested head over to Shelia’s site and get involved! It’s a blast and I may even stop by to see what you’re up to!

Here’s what we’ve been up to this week:

This week has been pretty relaxed, with the exception of reading of course! On Friday The Baker (my hubby) was sworn in as an attorney here in the state of California, which was actually a pretty neat experience. We went to the local courthouse and met with the Supreme Court Judge who talked to us a bit and then he was sworn in. It was a fantastic ending and beginning. We are absolutely excited to see what happens next!

New Event!!!

Also, I just wanted to let everyone know that I’ve started a new Meme here at There’s A Book! It’s called A Bit of Me(Me) and it runs every Saturday. After participating in Armchair BEA and getting to know a little bit more about some of the fabulous bloggers out there I wanted to take the opportunity to do a little more “meeting and greeting”. I also wanted something on the weekends that was a little more relaxing. This week’s participants were fabulous and I can’t wait for more to jump on board. So, take a look and try it out! I can’t wait to get to know everyone a little better!

Read/Reviewed (Just click on the title to see the Review!):
Tempted by PC Cast & Kristen Cast
From Head to Toe by Eric Carle
Coppernickel, The Invention by Wouter van Reek
My Name Is Memory by Ann Brasheres
(For Chick Lit Reviews)

Interviewed:
When I Was Young – Live Green Mom

Giveaways:
One Copy of The Good Night, Sleep Tight Workbook by Kim West to one winner courtesy of the publisher Easton Studio Press. (Ends 6/11/2010)
One Copy of The Adventures of Daniel Boom aka Loud Boy: Grow Up! by D.J. Steinberg to two winners courtesy of Media Masters Publicity. (Ends 6/11/2010)

What’s up for the week to come:

Reviewing/Reading:
13 to Life by Shannon Delany (Review Coming today!)
Beautiful Malice by Rebecca James (Review Coming Thursday)
It Could Be Worse You Could Be Me
by Ariel Leve (Review for Chick Lit Reviews)
A Place for Delta by Melissa Walker and Illustrated by Richard Walker
Forget You by Jennifer Echols

The Turkeybird and Littlebug are Reading/Reviewing:
Pookster and the Unloose Tooth & Pookster and the Practically Perfect Pickle by Rhonda Funk (Reviewing Coming Tuesday)
Numbers by Jane Smith and Illustrated by Jill McDonald
Jigsaw Farm Illustrated by Sanja Rescek

Giveaways Coming Up:
Go to Sleep, Russell the Sheep by Rob Scotton

So, what are you reading this week? Have any suggestions I should add to my reading pile?

Purchasing products by clicking through the links in this post will provide us a modest commission through our affiliate relationship with IndieBound.

Book Review: Coppernickel, The Invention by Wouter van Reek

Posted on Thursday, June 3rd, 2010 by the1stdaughter

Coppernickel, The Invention by Wouter van Reek

Published by Enchanted Lion Books

Pages:32

Ages:4-8

Publishers Summary: In The Invention, Coppernickel discovers a blank page at the end of his favorite book — a great, big book about every invention ever made, and he takes this as an invitation to create his own. At first he wants to invent something that is simple and very useful, but as he begins to create a machine for picking high-hanging elderberries (his all time favorite food), his enthusiasm gets the better of him and his ever-more-complex machine gets out of hand. This
is no surprise given that whenever Coppernickel has something on his mind he goes to great lengths to accomplish his ideas, until he reaches the greatest possible lengths, after which he goes on to even greater lengths! Fortunately, the level-headed Tungsten is there to save the day—in more ways than one!

Coppernickle, The Invention is a delightful story all about a dog, Tungsten, who really wants to get outside to play, but has an overachiever for an owner, Coppernickle. He decides that after he finds two blank pages in a book of inventions that it’s his quest to create the next invention to fill the pages. With the help of his faithful dog he’s finally able to accomplish his goal and Tungsten is able to enjoy what he wanted to do from the start, play outside.

“When I initially saw this book my interest was primarily because of the illustrations (take a quick look below at the small details in just one page). They are different than any others I have ever seen, so unique and mathematical. Immediately I thought this book would be perfect for The Turkeybird at some point, he’s such a technical-thinker constantly figuring things out. After my reading of the book, I still agree with that, but now I know it’s also perfect for Littlebug. She already loves to look at the pictures in the book, but mostly just Tungsten, she’s definitely a animal person.

Besides being absolutely beautiful to look at this book has an incredible and very funny story. As an adult who loves reading children’s literature this has quickly become one of my favorites. The relationship that Coppernickle and Tungsten have is just perfect. Coppernickle is pretty absorbed in his work and his faithful dog Tungsten would just love to go play. And though Tungsten has his own desires, he is still the ever faithful (sometimes snarky) and creative match for his energetic owner. Just take a look at this image below for example:

“This is a fabulous book with beautiful illustrations and a wonderful story that I’m happy to have in our home. You will absolutely fall in love with the dynamic relationship of Coppernickle and Tungsten! Although my Turkeybird is still a little too young to appreciate the entire story at this point I know in the very near future this will become one of his favorites. If you have a tender-hearted little one with an affinity for doggies or a technical wizard brewing before you you will definitely want this book in your home.”

The1stdaughter Recommends: Ages 4 & up. A wonderful book that will bring out the creativity in all who read it.

For the Comments: If you could invent one thing, what would it be?

This book and interior art was provided by the publisher, Enchanted Lion Books, for review. Thank you!
Purchasing products by clicking through the links in this post will provide us a modest commission through our affiliate relationship with IndieBound.

This post is in honor of Winston. My good friend Gina from Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers has an affinity for doggies and sadly her sweet Winston passed away yesterday morning (06/03/10). My heart goes out to her and her family as they grieve for their faithful Winston.

Book Review: From Head to Toe by Eric Carle

Posted on Wednesday, June 2nd, 2010 by the1stdaughter

From Head to Toe by Eric Carle

Published by HarperFestival (An imprint of HarperCollins Publishers)

Pages: 28

Ages: Newborn to 3

Publishers Summary: What does an elephant do? It stomps its foot. Can you? From the creator of such beloved classics as The Grouchy Ladybug and The Mixed-Up Chameleon comes this interactive story that invites kids to imitate animal movements. Watching giraffes bend their necks or monkeys wave their arms is fun, but nothing could be better than joining in. From their heads down to their toes, kids will be wriggling, jiggling, and giggling as they try to keep up with these animals!

Sweet as a Bug:“Wiggle wiggle wiggle. Shake shake shake. Kitty! Bend bend bend.

“This is another book I want my mom to read over and over again. Mostly I love moving, wiggling and waving my arms when the monkey shows up. The kitty of course is my favorite, but I still have no idea what my mom’s talking about when she tells me to ‘arch my back’. I’m sure she’ll help me figure it out soon enough. If I was to pick a favorite other than the kitty it would be the gorilla, I love thumping my chest and it always makes me giggle. It’s also another fun book to read with my big brother, Turkeybird, who pretty much knows the whole book by memory. One of my favorites right now, you definitely want to read this with the Bug in your life!”

Mom’s Two Cents: “Looking for a creative way to help little one’s learn where all their body parts are? Or even a fun way to make reading interactive with all the children in your life? This is a perfect book for both of these reasons. From the first page to the last you wiggle, bend and wave from head to toe. All of this as well as laugh and giggle until your sides hurt.

“Initially we purchased this book for The Turkeybird when we discovered he wasn’t learning his body parts quite along ‘the curve’. After a trip to the doctor where she asked him, as an eighteen month old, where his ears and mouth were without knowing I went out and bought every ‘body part’ book I could find. This was by far one of the top books out of the selection I picked up and it continues to be a favorite with Littlebug now.

“Eric Carle does a fantastic job of teaching children all about the basics we, as adults, take for granted and making it entertaining for everyone reading. Parents looking to help their kiddos out with basic body parts shouldn’t miss this book. You will enjoy every minute of wiggling and laughing as you explore with the little one’s around you all the fun body parts to know.”

The1stdaughter Recommends: Ages Newborn to 5. A must have for all kiddos looking to learn and have fun at the same time.

For the Comments: Do you have a favorite Eric Carle book? Which one?

This book was purchased for our home library.
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