2008 Notable Children's Books

Before we say adieu to 2008, let me say THANK YOU to all you BFK readers, subscribers and visitors. Since I launched this blog in May 2008, BFK has received considerable traffic from book lovers around the world. I hope that BFK's reviews, essays and articles on children's literature have helped you in many ways.

As we end the year, I would like to share with you two important lists that should aid you in selecting quality literature for your children and students.

• The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) has listed the 2008 Notable Children's Books. The list already includes the current year's Newbery, Caldecott, Belpré, Sibert, Geisel, and Batchelder Award and Honor books.
• The National Education Association (NEA) shares the Teachers' Top 100 Children's Books. The list was compiled from an online survey in 2007.

Here's to another year of books and reading magic! Have a Happy New Year.

Connie Luayon
Publisher & Editor
Books for Kiddies
http://books4kiddies.blogspot.com

Review: Three Shades of Green

by Binay Srivastava

If emotionally charged stories portraying love, selfishness, betrayal, female foeticide, or even immortality of the soul have ever moved you to know what lies ahead, or the shape of things to come, here is a book that will tease your most fertile imagination. You could say it is a thematic production of feminine reactions to occurrences in the ordinary course of living. A truly unforgettable and un-put-down-able book from start to finish.

As we all know, the colour green represents life-force. 'Three Shades of Green' is a work of fiction carrying three true-to-life stories symbolizing life in different hues, contexts and textures. Each story is materially different from the other in its setting, relationships, emotions and outcomes. The characters, no hero or heroines but ordinary humans, face everyday situations in a way that shows human frailty - strong at one moment, and weak at the other.

The first story -Sandy and Pearl- involves two friends, both women facing different problems. They are ridiculed by family and society, face the troubles and chose a courageous path. This story heralds the inner strength of them. The idea to write originated when, in the words of the author, 'I heard the news of nearly twenty fetuses having been found in a well in a doctor's backyard'. The second story of the book - A Fine Line- in contrast to the first one is about the inability to harness inner strength at weaker moments of life of human nature. This is about the impulsiveness, wrong choices, and above all, betrayal, all in the name of love. The last story, Peetam, is a small suspense thriller filled with magic, miracles, and near personification of soul itself. The whole story revolves around a single line from Bhagavad-Gita, which describes the importance of a soul and its immortal nature.

This book is Manasa Rachapalli's debut work in fiction. Though fairly young in age, she has acquired a considerable experience in writing and copyediting. An active blogger, poet, and above all, a dancer, Manasa is currently engaged as a technical writer in one of the largest IT firms in the world.

Three Shades of Green
Format: Paperback
Author: Manasa Rachapalli
ISBN: 9788122310337
Page: 167
Price: INR 195
Publisher: Cedar books
Edition: 2008

Binay Srivastava

Review: Call of the Tree by Darryl Markowitz

by Stephanie Ehmen

Stephanie and Vaughn find themselves living in a futuristic country that has been stripped of all freedoms, as we know them, their thoughts, actions and every aspect of their society controlled by those who govern. Their lives, and the lives of those around them are void of meaning and purpose. The government-sponsored church gives them no comfort, and the corrupt government "Keepers" watch their every move.

When Stephanie meets Vaughn, she sees something different in him. He dares to think! Together they defy the "system" as Vaughn encourages Stephanie to think deeply about herself, as well as about the world in which they live. Spending time together in their secret places, they explore the age-old questions of what Life and Love mean. They try desperately to hold onto the Goodness they discover within themselves, while at the same time they must fight off the dreams and visions of darkness.

Always lurking in the background, unbeknownst to them, are the one-eyed monsters, Master Grrragagag and his student underling, who use their orb to watch all past and present happenings. They discuss various ways of manipulating and controlling their human subjects in order to kill the glow of goodness within them. Hovering above them all are the wise King Mafferan and Queen Yinauqua, always watching, all-knowing.

A good book is one that you can't wait to get back to, and when you are finished, you wish there was more. This book is well written, with a well thought out plot. It is easy to read and yet deep enough that you find yourself reading it again in order to understand the full meaning and depth. Attention Harry Potter fans - here is a new series for you!

This book presents the ages old good vs. evil story in a new way. It is written by an author who has a great love for the kids he has met and come to know. It confronts the subjects that all teens, no matter their background, think about and discuss with each other. Drugs, alcohol, sex, feelings and emotions, right vs. wrong, good vs. evil, the characters in the book explore in great depth and in such a way that all who read it can follow and understand. It doesn't matter if kids come from high income homes with religious upbringing, or from a life of poverty on the streets, they all think about these issues and must at some point work through them in their own minds, deciding for themselves what choices they make. Every teen, young adult, parents and those who work with kids in any way should read this book. Having a deeper understanding of what our youth face today is a must if we are going to guide our kids in the right direction. No one, no matter their Faith or Religion can put their head in the sand and assume that their kids will not face, think about, discuss and confront these very same issues. This book offers them a guide, with no "preaching", only the morals that we want out children to aspire to.

Review by
Stephanie Ehmen
author of
"Angels and Quilt Pieces...Our Journey with a Katrina Family"
http://www.eagleswingspublications.com

Great Christmas Tales Your Kids Will Love

by Jeremy White

If you teach your children to love books at an early age you're doing them a lifelong favor. And there's no better place to start than at Christmas. Not only do books make great holiday gifts, but there are hundreds of wonderful children's books that deal with Christmas themes. So, what are you waiting for? Get going.

Where to start? With our list of the best Christmas books for kids, of course. Making a best-of list is always tricky. The process is subjective to begin with. And you're always going to offend someone by leaving off their personal favorite. Believe us, we know we're going to leave off lots of great books. Okay, enough apologizing. Onto our list, which is presented in no particular order and designed to appeal to various age groups of children:

How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Dr. Seuss - You can't have a list of great children's books and not include a Dr. Seuss work. You just can't. Enough said.

No Peeking!, Charles Reasoner - What's inside all those gleaming presents under the tree? Every kid is dying to know ... but they have to wait until Christmas morning. Don't make your little one wait until Christmas morning to read this wonderful book!


A is for Angel: A Christmas Alphabet and Activity Book, Debbie Trafton O'Neal - Just like it sounds, this book uses the alphabet to teach children about the spirit and meaning of celebrating Christmas.

Why the Chimes Rang: A Christmas Classic, Raymond Macdonald Alden - A classic indeed. The original is nearly 100 years old, but this version has been updated with modern artistry to make the book fresh for a whole new generation of young readers.

The Night Before Christmas, Clement C. Moore - Can you complete this line: "'Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring..." Yeah, we thought so. Based upon the classic poem we all know and love, this book is a winner.

The Polar Express, Chris Van Allsburg - Despite the fanfare, many found the movie to be disappointing. The same won't be said for the book. This tale is becoming a modern classic. Let your little one take the ride.

The Littlest Christmas Tree, Janie Jasin - Think back to when you were a child and looked up to older kids and adults. Didn't you yearn to grow up fast, to be big? Now, wouldn't you do just about anything to be a child again, if only for one more day? In this book, a small seedling wants desperately to grow up into a large Christmas tree. But it learns to be patient. It's a great lesson for your child - and a great trip into yesteryear for you!


The Christmas Hero, Golden Books - We all know and love the classic, animated Rudolph that runs on network television each holiday season. This book, which doubles as a coloring book, recreates that tale and stays true to the cartoon kids have watched for generations. Read it to your little one as she colors the pages.


The Legend of the Candy Cane, Lori Walburg - Do you know anything about the fascinating history of the candy cane? We didn't either, until we read this book. We won't spoil anything for you, so let us just say this: anytime you look at or eat a candy can again you'll be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas.

Twelve Days of Christmas, Alison Inches - This Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy book plays upon a perennial favorite. Your kids will love it!

Brought to you by Imaginary Greetings, a regular contributor of valuable family oriented content. For safe, family-friendly games and activities visit the official Santa Claus Home Page.

Walk Two Moons - Book Review

by Carma Dutra

Walk Two Moons is the tale of thirteen year old Salamanca (Sal) Tree Hiddle and her trek from Euclid, Ohio to Lewiston, Idaho with her zany grandparents. Through humor, wit and poignancy Walk Two Moons addresses dying, loving and grieving. I loved this story. The plot twists, satire and charming characters come alive on every page. Another great facet about Walk Two Moons is how the main character, narrates a parallel story of grief and love while she sorts out her own heartaches.

Sal's mother leaves home without warning and Sal experiences a feeling of abandonment even with all the post cards her mother sends to her. When Sal's father announces her mother will not be coming home, Sal is devastated. Still, she and her father move to Euclid, Ohio against Sal's desire.

Sal's grandparents, Grams and Gramps Hiddle are determined to help Sal get to Lewiston, Idaho before her mother's birthday. However instead of following a direct route they follow the scenic tour bus route.

In order to pass the time and keep her mind off of her Gramps crazy driving, Sal narrates the story of her friend Phoebe's mother who also left home. Phoebe is adamant her mother did not leave home on her own accord rather Phoebe believes her mother has been kidnapped by a lunatic who delivers notes with strange messages like "Don't judge a man until you've walked two moons in his moccasins."

Additionally, Walk Two Moons provides a glimpse of how families can react differently to similar circumstances and still hold on to a solid foundation of love and warmth. As you begin to learn about Sal's grandparents and the deep love they share you also learn about Sal's friend Mary Lou and her family who are openly rambunctious and affectionate with each other in comparison to Phoebe's family who are uncomfortable with outward signs of affection.

Author Sharon Creech's talent to write two storylines simultaneously is the essence of Walk Two Moons. There are so many things to admire about this book that a mere few lines of plot description will not do it justice. However, just when you think you know where the plot is headed, Creech drops a few surprises on you and a curve ball is thrown right between the pages. Walk Two Moons speaks on a level that all middle grade students can relate too. The plot unfolds nicely and yet the end is still a surprise. Don't be surprised if a small tear trickles down your cheek too.

Learn more about children's writing tips and award winning book reviews by visiting Carma's Window at http://carmaswindow.blogspot.com. Download the free EBook, "Unite to Write," a compilation of thirteen top expert authors as read on Ezine article directory and "Free Tips on Freelance Writing."

Christmas Books For Children - Some Favorite Picks

by Karen Gallagher

A wonderful way to share the Christmas spirit with a child is to read special Christmas books together. You may even start a tradition of giving your children new Christmas books every year in advance of the holiday, so that you can enjoy these books in the days or weeks before the celebration.

There are many terrific Christmas books for children, and new titles are published every year. It can be overwhelming to try and find the really good ones, so here is a list of ten recommended Christmas books to get you started:

(1) Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree: Told in perfectly rhyming verse, this is a charming story about a wealthy man whose Christmas tree was a tad too tall for his soaring ceiling. And so begins the journey of the treetop as it spreads Christmas joy down the line.

(2) The Puppy Who Wanted a Boy: A lonely puppy named Petey is in search of a boy to take care of him. Just when he was about to give up, Petey finds the perfect home and an abundance of love just in time for Christmas.

(3) A Wish to be a Christmas Tree: After years of being passed over, a large pine tree comes to the sad realization that he will never be a Christmas tree. His forest friends show him that he plays an even more important role all year long by providing shelter and protection. In the end, they thank the pine by turning him into a beautiful Christmas tree with berries, icicles and other decorations of nature.

(4) Olive, the Other Reindeer: In a silly, lighthearted story, a dog named Olive misunderstands the lyrics to the song "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." When he hears the line "All of the other reindeer...," Olive comes to the false realization that he is a reindeer, not a dog. So off he goes to help Santa deliver presents, and despite his inability to fly, Olive's canine talents come in handy.

(5) Snowmen at Christmas: Snowmen come to life at night after the children are asleep and engage in their own Christmas activities, like visiting with Santa and Christmas caroling. The illustrations are so magical that readers yearn to jump in and join the snowmen in their frolicking.

(6) Bear Stays Up For Christmas: Bear's friends wake him from hibernation so that he can participate in the Christmas festivities. Long after everyone else has fallen asleep, Bear continues baking, wrapping, and decorating. And along the way, he learns that giving is the best present of all.

(7) Santa's Reindeer: For inquiring minds, this wonderfully illustrated book explains everything a child would want to know about reindeer. Every question is answered, such as how they land so quietly in the roof and what they do the rest of the year. This beautiful book is a keeper for the coffee table at Christmastime.

(8) Auntie Claus: Sophie is very curious about her Auntie Claus who serves Christmas cookies throughout the year and takes mysterious annual trips right before Christmas. So she decides once and for all to figure out what is going on, and finds herself on the adventure of a lifetime.

(9) Olivia Helps With Christmas: The beloved Olivia is so busy watching everyone else prepare for Christmas. She is especially tied up waiting for Santa so that she can open her presents. In a richly illustrated Christmas book, Olivia is true to her endearing and comical form.

(10) The Mouse Before Christmas: In this luminously illustrated Christmas book, an excited little mouse gathers cookies for Santa and sits up to wait for his arrival. When the jolly man arrives, mouse peaks into his sack of toys, accidentally falls in, and takes a wild ride on Santa's sleigh.

Start growing a collection of beautiful, humorous, and touching Christmas books that you can enjoy with your children for years to come. The time you spend together enjoying these special stories will be an invaluable part of this special holiday season.

Karen Gallagher has a BA from Bucknell University and an MBA from Rider University. She is the founder and owner of The Lollipop Book Club, a company specializing in the gift of high quality books for children.

http://www.lollipopbookclub.com

Review: Window Boy by Andrea White

by Neha Kashmiri

Bright Sky Press (2008)
ISBN 9781933979144

To me, "Window Boy" was a sad, but strangely uplifting, novel in hectic times. Sam Davis is a twelve-year-old boy with cerebral palsy. His father has abandoned him; his mother is too absorbed with her new boyfriend to notice Sam most of the time. In all this, his three beams of light are his prim, if talkative nurse, Miss Perkins, the imaginary voice of Winston "Winnie" Churchill, and the basketball court almost in his backyard.

Sam gets the chance to go to school with the other children. At first it is a disaster but Winnie tells Sam to keep a stiff upper lip. Soon, as his teacher starts to understand him, Sam writes an essay on his hero, Winston Churchill, for a contest. On his twentieth and last day of school, he gets out the words to tell the captain of the basketball team to appoint Micky Kostov, a Russian boy no one likes, as point guard. Then he is taken to an institution by his mother who is leaving to Europe to marry her boyfriend.

Sam starts to slowly fade away when the news reporter comes to take his picture and write an article about him. The essay he had written long ago had won him the contest and $1,000. Finally, his mother, betrayed and deceived by the man she was about to marry, comes back and saves him. Later Sam goes on to become a basketball coach to the team he helped become tournament champs.

No words I could say or write could convey the impact of the book on me. As a librarian's assistant, I had read to special-need children and this book made me feel incredible guilt and anger at myself for the revulsion I felt at the sight of some of them. "Window Boy" by Andrea White is meant for kids and teenagers, but I think adults could benefit just as greatly from it. I give a high, high recommendation to someone looking for a break from action/horror/fantasy.

http://www.readerviews.com/

Books For Boys - Appealing Stories For Active Little Guys

by Karen Gallagher

Experts suggest that children should read at least 10 minutes a day, though striving for a solid 20 minutes is even better. Reading is the single most important cornerstone for learning, so establishing good habits early on will set your child up for success in school and in life.

But it can be challenging sometimes to get little boys to sit still long enough for a single book. They seem to have a limitless supply of energy that works against them during story time. For this reason, it is important to seek out books for boys that are appealing, entertaining, and interesting. When you do find the right books, you will be pleasantly surprised at how engaged they become and how quickly reading time passes.

Here are some book categories to consider when looking for good books for boys:

• Books about Superheroes: Many little boys love superheroes and the awesome powers they possess. They watch movies, collect action figures, and demonstrate their own superhero abilities when playing. Some books for boys about superheroes include: Dex: The Heart of a Hero, Superhero ABC and Traction Man is Here.


• Books about Sports: All of the excitement and action that takes place in the field, court, or rink can be captured in great books about sports. And the lessons learned through these stories are invaluable. A few suggested books for boys about sports include: The Magic Hockey Stick, Roasted Peanuts, and Game Day.


• Books about Pirates: Young boys are drawn to the mystery and intrigue of pirates. The lifestyle of a pirate is fascinating and dangerous, appealing to the active minds of little boys. A few good books for boys about pirates include: How I Became a Pirate, Do Pirates Take Baths?, and The Night Pirates.


• Books about Adventure: A little boy's imagination can take him to far away places without ever leaving his bedroom. Good books for boys about imaginary adventures will have him begging to read more. Some suggested titles include: Jimmy Zangwow's Out-of-this-World Moon-Pie Adventure, Zathura, and The Secret Shortcut.

By surrounding boys with books they enjoy, reading will become a fun activity that they choose to do voluntarily. This love for reading should be cultivated at an early age by choosing books for boys that are entertaining and appealing. In doing so, you will cultivate a love for reading, the fundamental building block for learning and growth.

Karen Gallagher has a BA from Bucknell University and an MBA from Rider University. She is the founder and owner of The Lollipop Book Club, a company specializing in the gift of high quality books for children.

http://www.lollipopbookclub.com

A Wrinkle in Time Book Review

by Tonia Jordan

I recently read A Wrinkle in Time for the second time in my life. Meg Murray's father is a scientist, and he's missing. Along with the help of her brother (Charles), a school friend (Calvin) and some other-worldly friends (including Mrs. Who, Mrs. Which and Mrs. Whatsit), they're seeking to find and retrieve the missing scientist.

The three children must travel through time and space and confront many opposing forces, including one another.

Children will love this book, especially those with interests in science fiction. I read this book when I was young, and to this day I can remember exactly where it sat on the library's shelves. I re-read it as an adult, and I can still feel its magic!

I like the very basic introductions to physics ideas in this book. Time travel is just one of the ideas touched upon here, and it's explained in a way that children can begin to understand some of the larger forces in the universe. A Wrinkle in Time presents an interesting story with complex vocabulary and ideas in such a way as to introduce them to children.

Meg Murray is an outcast with a strong will, a child who feels like she doesn't belong. She does have a very supportive family that encourages curiosity and intelligence and one that sticks together no matter what. A Wrinkle in Time can be a great book for any child (especially a girl) who feels like they aren't quite "normal" or the perfect fit for mainstream society.

A Wrinkle in Time is just the first book in this interesting universe. The saga continues with A Wind in the Door, then A Swiftly Tilting Planet and finally Many Waters (which follows the adventures of Meg's younger twin brothers). It's obvious that the first novel in the series was a successful one. It's a classic amongst children's literature and is re-read by many adults who wish to recapture the magic of their childhood reading.

When I read A Wrinkle in Time as a child, I remember feeling its magic, thinking the book was fantastic. Reading it again as an adult, the book seemed very simple. I found the story to be lacking just a little, but I still enjoyed it. If you're reading this for the first time as an adult, remember that it is a book intended for a younger audience. If you can stay in touch with that magical feeling of being a child, you'll see the magic of this book.

Tonia Jordan is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Writers. Her portfolio can be found at http://www.Writing.Com/authors/spidergirl so stop by and read for a while.

Ten Tips For Raising a Book Lover

by Karen Gallagher


Some kids can read quietly for hours while others cannot seem to sit still long enough to get through a short story. And a whole lot of children are somewhere in the middle. Regardless of where our kids fall on the "book-lover" spectrum, most parents agree that there is plenty of opportunity for improvement.

So how do you go about shifting the pendulum away from the TV and toward a good book? Follow these ten tips and you will see even the most resistant children reading more:

(1) Set an example: Take a look at your own habits. When your kids watch you unwinding after a long day, what do they see? Many times adults do not reach for a book until they slip into bed, long after the kids are asleep. Next time, grab a book rather than the remote control at a time when your reading habits are visible to your children.

(2) Read out loud: Even if your child is an independent reader, it is still important to spend time together reading a good book. For early readers or kids who are struggling a bit, let them just relax and listen to you read sometimes. They will learn to enjoy the entertainment value of a good book without the frustration of struggling through it all alone.

(3) Keep books in the car: At home there are a lot of distractions that can be more appealing to a child than reading a book. But when sitting at a doctor's office or on the sideline of a sibling's sports event, a book takes on a whole new light. So keep a stash on hand for the next time your child needs to pass some time.

(4) Visit the library: If you have not stepped foot in a library for some time, you will be pleasantly surprised at what it offers. A well-run branch has ever-changing displays and attractions for kids. In addition to borrowing some video games (yes, they have those too!), your child can select a generous number of books to enjoy for a couple of weeks.

(5) Find new places to read: It is good to have a quiet place at home to read. But sometimes it is even better to break the routine and take your child somewhere new to do some reading. Find a bench at a park, sit on your front porch, spread out a blanket in the backyard...you get the idea. Changing the environment breaks up the monotony and keeps it fun.

(6) Let your child pick the books: There is plenty of required reading in school, and that can feel like a punishment for kids who do not have an affinity for books. So take some time to help your child find books he or she find interesting for leisure reading.

(7) Find books that are below your child's reading level: Yes, you read that correctly. Children need to feel confident about reading, and they will never feel good about it if every book is a challenge. Rather, encourage your child to pick up a book that he/she will master quickly and easily from time to time.

(8) Set reading goals based on chapters, not time: Reading for a half hour vs. reading two chapters. Which is better? It is important that your child have a tangible goal in mind- one that can be measured by accomplishment. Reading for a half hour is not a concrete enough since some of that time might be spent drifting off or daydreaming. On the other hand, reading two chapters is a well-defined goal leading to a sense of achievement.

(9) Read the same books as your children: Once your child is able to read chapter books independently, you can still read them too. Take the time to talk about the books and what you liked about them. You will demonstrate to your child that you have an active interest in reading, and specifically in the books your child has chosen.

(10) Give books as gifts: A book is by far the best present you can give to a child. Long after the toys are forgotten, books will provide entertainment and educational value. Do something to make your gift of books special, such as writing words of encouragement on the inside cover. You may consider giving your child a gift card to a bookstore and letting your child pick the titles. Make it an experience or tradition that your child will always remember. Just remember that the way you approach reading as a parent will influence and shape the way your child perceives it. Follow these tips and your child will learn to love and enjoy reading for a lifetime.

Karen is the owner of The Lollipop Book Club, a company specializing in the gift of books for children. A book arrives each month with a handcrafted lollipop and a personal note. It is the perfect children's gift for birthdays and holidays. http://www.lollipopbookclub.com

The Caldecott Medal - A Prestigious Children's Book Award

by Karen Gallagher

image source: wikipedia

If you see a golden, circular emblem on a children's book, then chances are you are looking at a title that has received the highly-esteemed Caldecott Medal. While teachers, librarians, and experts in children's literature recognize the prestige associated with the Caldecott Medal, others may not truly appreciate this highly regarded, much coveted award.

These facts about the Caldecott Medal will provide a little insight into one of the most important awards given to a children's book:

• The Caldecott Medal was named after a nineteenth century English illustrator named Ralph Caldecott.

• The Caldecott Medal is awarded once a year by the Association for Library Service to Children, part of the American Library Association.

• The Caldecott Medal is given to the artist of the most distinguished picture book for children.

• The artist must be an American citizen or resident.

• Only one Caldecott Medal is awarded annually and it receives the gold medal.

• There are usually a few runners-up in a given year that are granted Caldecott Honor status and receive the silver medal.

When a committee reviews books for consideration of the Caldecott Medal, the members consider both the artistic technique and the pictorial interpretation of the plot. Keep in mind that the Caldecott Medal is not based on the written text, but the actual artistic rendering of the story.

The next opportunity you have to read a Caldecott Medal book with a child, take a few moments to really appreciate the artistic work. You might even ask your child to tell you the story by looking at the pictures alone. In doing so, you will both slow down and enjoy the work of art that should have a permanent spot on your child's bookshelf.

Caldecott Medal Winners, 1938 - Present

2008:The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

2007: Flotsam by David Wiesner

2006: The Hello, Goodbye Window Illustrated by Chris Raschka, written by Norton Juster

2005: Kitten's First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes

2004: The Man Who Walked Between the Towers by Mordicai Gerstein

2003: My Friend Rabbit by Eric Rohmann

2002: The Three Pigs by David Wiesner

2001: So You Want to Be President? Illustrated by David Small; text by Judith St. George

2000: Joseph Had a Little Overcoat by Simms Taback

1999: Snowflake Bentley, Illustrated by Mary Azarian; text by Jacqueline Briggs Martin

1998: Rapunzel by Paul O. Zelinsky

1997: Golem by David Wisniewski

1996: Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathmann

1995: Smoky Night, illustrated by David Diaz; text: Eve Bunting

1994: Grandfather's Journey by Allen Say; text: edited by Walter Lorraine

1993: Mirette on the High Wire by Emily Arnold McCully

1992: Tuesday by David Wiesner

1991: Black and White by David Macaulay

1990: Lon Po Po: A Red-Riding Hood Story from China by Ed Young

1989: Song and Dance Man, illustrated by Stephen Gammell; text: Karen Ackerman

1988: Owl Moon, illustrated by John Schoenherr; text: Jane Yolen

1987: Hey, Al, illustrated by Richard Egielski; text: Arthur Yorinks

1986: The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

1985: Saint George and the Dragon, illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman; text: retold by Margaret Hodges

1984: The Glorious Flight: Across the Channel with Louis Bleriot by Alice & Martin Provensen

1983: Shadow, translated and illustrated by Marcia Brown; original text in French: Blaise Cendrars

1982: Jumanji by Chris Van Allsburg

1981: Fables by Arnold Lobel

1980: Ox-Cart Man, illustrated by Barbara Cooney; text: Donald Hall

1979: The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses by Paul Goble

1978: Noah's Ark by Peter Spier

1977: Ashanti to Zulu: African Traditions, illustrated by Leo & Diane Dillon; text: Margaret Musgrove

1976: Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People's Ears, illustrated by Leo & Diane Dillon; text: retold by Verna Aardema

1975: Arrow to the Sun by Gerald McDermott

1974: Duffy and the Devil, illustrated by Margot Zemach; retold by Harve Zemach

1973: The Funny Little Woman, illustrated by Blair Lent; text: retold by Arlene Mosel

1972: One Fine Day, retold and illustrated by Nonny Hogrogian

1971: A Story A Story, retold and illustrated by Gail E. Haley

1970: Sylvester and the Magic Pebble by William Steig

1969: The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship, illustrated by Uri Shulevitz; text: retold by Arthur Ransome

1968: Drummer Hoff, illustrated by Ed Emberley; text: adapted by Barbara Emberley

1967: Sam, Bangs & Moonshine by Evaline Ness

1966: Always Room for One More, illustrated by Nonny Hogrogian; text: Sorche Nic Leodhas, pseud. [Leclair Alger]

1965: May I Bring a Friend? illustrated by Beni Montresor; text: Beatrice Schenk de Regniers

1964: Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

1963: The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

1962: Once a Mouse, retold and illustrated by Marcia Brown

1961: Baboushka and the Three Kings, illustrated by Nicolas Sidjakov; text: Ruth Robbins

1960: Nine Days to Christmas, illustrated by Marie Hall Ets; text: Marie Hall Ets and Aurora Labastida

1959: Chanticleer and the Fox, illustrated by Barbara Cooney; text: adapted from Chaucer's Canterbury Tales by Barbara Cooney

1958: Time of Wonder by Robert McCloskey

1957: A Tree Is Nice, illustrated by Marc Simont; text: Janice Udry

1956: Frog Went A-Courtin', illustrated by Feodor Rojankovsky; text: retold by John Langstaff)

1955: Cinderella, or the Little Glass Slipper, illustrated by Marcia Brown; text: translated from Charles Perrault by Marcia Brown

1954: Madeline's Rescue by Ludwig Bemelmans

1953: The Biggest Bear by Lynd Ward

1952: Finders Keepers, illustrated by Nicolas, pseud. (Nicholas Mordvinoff); text: Will, pseud. [William Lipkind]

1951: The Egg Tree by Katherine Milhous

1950: Song of the Swallows by Leo Politi

1949: The Big Snow by Berta & Elmer Hader

1948: White Snow, Bright Snow, illustrated by Roger Duvoisin; text: Alvin Tresselt

1947: The Little Island, illustrated by Leonard Weisgard; text: Golden MacDonald, pseud. [Margaret Wise Brown]

1946: The Rooster Crows by Maud & Miska Petersham

1945: Prayer for a Child, illustrated by Elizabeth Orton Jones; text: Rachel Field

1944: Many Moons, illustrated by Louis Slobodkin; text: James Thurber

1943: The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton

1942: Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey

1941: They Were Strong and Good, by Robert Lawson

1940: Abraham Lincoln by Ingri & Edgar Parin d'Aulaire

1939: Mei Li by Thomas Handforth

1938: Animals of the Bible, A Picture Book, illustrated by Dorothy P. Lathrop; text: selected by Helen Dean Fish

Karen is the owner of The Lollipop Book Club, a company specializing in monthly gifts of books for children. A book arrives each month with a handcrafted lollipop and a personal note from the gift-giver. It is the perfect gift for children's birthdays and holidays. http://www.lollipopbookclub.com

Books That Remain in Our Hearts and Our Minds

by Alana Morgaine

Looking back at the books you read as a child, there are probably always a few that stood out among the rest. Names like The Wizard of Oz and Alice and Wonderland are just a few of the books that have stood the test of time. Without these amazing works of literature, we would have been unable to leave our world behind and explore the fantasy worlds that allowed us to delve deep into our imagination.

Alice In Wonderland
Written by Lewis Carroll, one of the books that immediately comes to mind as an outstanding children's book is of course Alice in Wonderland. About a seven year old named Alice, this book took us to places that we never anticipated. When she fell asleep and plunged down that rabbit hole, we could never have expected the adventures she would face with Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter, the March Hare, and the King and Queen of Hearts.

This book was originally published on July 4, 1865. The story was told by a Reverend Charles Lutwidge Dodgson and Reverend Robinson Duckworth. During a time when both reverends rowed up the River Thames with three little girls. As they journeyed up the river, the reverend shared a story about a girl name Alice who is very bored and goes on an adventure. The young girls asked Reverend Dodgson to write the story down. The young girls who first heard this story were age, 13, 10, and 8.The 10 year old's name was Alice Liddell. Reverend Dodgson gave his first manuscript of Alice's Adventures Under Ground to her sometime around November 26, 1864. It was speculated from Dodgson's diaries that he actually gave the first manuscript to another friend prior to giving one to Alice Liddle. The friend George MacDonald loved it and adviced Dodgson to submit it for publication.

The Wizard Of Oz
Another famous children's book that still today lives on in history is The Wizard of Oz. Still being shown as a movie, there is just nothing like the original book to instill fun, enjoyment, excitement, and even fear in the hearts of little children. L. Frank Baum was the real man behind the curtain, and through his words, we learned of the trials and tribulations of a girl named Dorothy. Although in the book the Munchkins, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion were real and not brought about from a tornado, this book allowed us to feel as if these characters were our friends.

This book was orginally published by George Hill company in Chicago in 1900. The orginal name of the book was The Wonderful Wizard Of Oz. The actual first edition was published in 1901.

The first film of the Wizard Of Oz was in 1908 as a silent film with actress Mildred harris. The most recognized successful film came in 1939 called The Wizard Of Oz where Judy Garland played Dorothy. There were other versions of the film made prior to 1939 as well. One in which Baum produced was called His majesty, The Scarecrow Of Oz in 1914.

Charlotte's Web
A story about animals that talk and a girl who loves them as if they were family, Charlotte's Web was a children's book that especially stays in the hearts of little girls around the world. With a sophisticated vocabulary, Charlotte the spider feels she must save the life of Wilbur the pig in an unusual way. Although they have a love hate relationship in the beginning, Charlotte, as told by writer E.B. White, worked day and night to write messages in her web in order to save Wilbur from slaughter.

First publication of this book was in 1952. The author also wrote the book Stuart Little. The book begins with the story of a litter of pigs with one being a runt that was to be killed. The 8 year old daughter Fern of the farmer John Arable begs to not kill the runt. The runt ends up being given to Fern as a pet and so the story begins.

Little Women
Burned into the mind of young women everywhere was the story of Little Women written by Louisa May Alcott. Based on the life of Ms. Alcott this 19th century family portrayed the best and the worst about growing up in New England during the Civil War. With the beauty of Meg, the talents of Jo, the weakness of Beth, and the spoiled nature of Amy, it is hard not to fall in love with these four women through the dreams, courtships, and growing up.

The Little Women novel was first published in 1868. The book was based on the author's own personal live experiences as a child living in Boston and Concord Massachusetts with her three sisters.

Old Yeller
Finally you have a book that still touches the hearts of many children who read it. Old Yeller, written by Fred Gipson was as much about the Texas Frontier, as it was about the ugly stray dog that kept Travis safe and protected on his ranch. Full of laughter, tears, and heartbreak, this book will always be remembered fondly by any child who reads it.

This book was first published in 1956. The film Old Yeller was made in 1957. The actual title of this book was named after a fictional Mountain Cur dog. The dog in this story is the main character in the book. The actors included in the first film were Dorothy McGuire and Tommy Kirk.

Our Childrens Books

Alana Morgaine

http://www.alanasbooksandmagazines.com

http://www.alanasbooksandmagazines.com/Shop/books-for-children/index.asp

Review: The Princess Academy

by Nola Redd

After hearing a number of people recommend Shannon Hale's The Princess Academy, I couldn't resist trying it out myself. I found it to be a delightful read, perfect for children and young adults, and rather engaging even for us 'big people.' More than your average fairy-tale, the novel creates a protagonist that exceeds the usual boundaries.

The premise of the novel is fairy-tale typical. When the priests of Danland determine that the prince's bride will come from the slopes of Mt. Eskel, an academy is set up to permit potential brides to learn the knowledge and manners of the court. Young Miri is one of the twenty girls taken from the quarry-rich village down the mountain. As she learns more about life beyond what she has yet experienced, she finds herself struggling with her desire to marry the prince. She wants to help her family to have a better life, but she also loves her home and does not wish to leave. When bandits capture the school, Miri must use not only her book knowledge but also the knowledge she has gained about herself to rescue herself and her friends.

Although the novel has a fairy-tale premise, Hale goes beyond the simple story and creates three dimensional characters that are both realistic and engaging. The headmistress appears cruel and overly harsh, but by the end of the novel we recognize her motivation. Miri's desire to "marry the prince" and leave he rhumble home is both typical and human, but she also struggles with her love of Mt. Eskel. And though the motivations of one of the more spiteful girls is rather psychologically typical - bad childhood and all that - it is also presented in a credible light that makes it not completely trite.

What I most enjoyed about this novel, however, was the way that Miri uses the knowledge gleaned from the academy not just to acquire a husband, but instead to improve life for her village and her family. Through her studies and desire to read, she finds that the villagers have long been cheated, and uses that information to improve life for all. When she realizes that her older sister and the boys (and even the parents!) also wish to learn, she sets up an academy in her village so all can study. In doing so, she teaches young readers that even children have power to apply what they learn, if they but seek it; that knowledge and study both have real-world applications and can make life better now instead of just 'after graduation.' The young women are empowered by their mind and by exploring and expanding on their natural gifts and talents, and these are the things that really matter.

In short, rather than just being a fairy tale where the prince is astounded by beauty, The Princess Academy encourages young adults - especially young women, who are the most likely target audience - to apply themselves and to seek benefits from that application now rather than later. Between this premise and the engaging and excellent writing style that makes the story live in the reader's mind, this is a book I would recommend to anyone.

Nola Redd is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Fiction Writing.

Review: Strawberry Girl

by Carma Dutra

Strawberry Girl by Lois Lenski is one of the classic Newbery Medal Winners. Awarded the medal in 1946, it speaks of a time that was more familiar and current than today. Today this rich novel opens the window into a time few can remember. This is one of many books Lenski wrote with an emphasis on regional stories allowing young readers to get a taste of how American children lived during the early part of the twentieth century.

Strawberry Girl is an interesting read. At first glance the title and the cover picture of a young girl carrying a fruit basket can mislead the reader to expect a cute little story of a young girl who loves strawberries. Conversely, the story is more about clashes and tribulations between farmers and cattlemen along with how they resolved violent conflict than it is picking strawberries.

Strawberry Girl depicts two families, the Boyer's and the Slater's. The Boyer's move from North Carolina to Florida to raise strawberries, sweet potatoes and harvest oranges. The Slater's are cattle people and have lived in central Florida for a long time. They do not believe in putting up fences and they let their cattle roam all over the county even if it means destroying their neighbor's crops. The two families argue through out the entire book. The Slater family thinks the Boyer's are "uppidity" because of the Boyer's successful farming enterprises. The Slater's routine is to sit back and do nothing to improve their way of life.

This way of thinking creates hostile actions and feelings between the two families. Violence and drunkenness escalate through out the story. This book may cross the line with many adults when the neighbors begin to kill each others animals in addition to the school teacher getting beat up by the Slater boys. This incident forced the school to close for weeks. Certainly a little discussion with young children may be desired to explain why these incidents happened.

Additionally, Lenski writes in a Florida backwoods dialect typical of the time period which might be too challenging for third and fourth graders to read. I think this story should be read aloud to get the full effect of what the southern dialogue sounded like. For example, talk like

"Ha, ha! Hain't no dog! Hit's a coon." and "will git you yet, jest you wait."

However, I don't believe this book won the Newbery Award for its depiction of aggression. Times were hard in the early 1900's and resolution of conflicts back then is not typical of today. Strawberry Girl explains the day to day activities of the Boyer family. A young reader can learn exactly how to grind sugar cane and pull it for fun afterwards. Also the book explains the details of Florida weather in the spring and summer. Additionally it goes into detail on how to raise strawberries in sandy soil. Part of the charm of this middle grade novel is in describing how the old Florida pioneers did it.

Strawberry Girl is a sharply written novel about harsh times. It accurately describes a true to life pioneer adventure.

Learn more about children's writing tips and award winning book reviews by visiting Carma's Window at http://carmaswindow.blogspot.com - Download the free EBook, "Unite to Write," a compilation of thirteen top expert authors as read on Ezine article directory and "Free Tips on Freelance Writing."

Essay: A Bookish Life I Will Always Cherish

By Jamie Quaranta

There is something about my childhood that I think you should know. When I was just two years old, I was diagnosed with a mild form of autism known as Asperger's syndrome. I had trouble talking with others. I had trouble with my handwriting. And, you guessed it, I had trouble reading.

But, you'll be happy to know that I did improve upon my reading skills when I was handed my first children's book in preschool at the tender age of four. I can recall a "pop-up" book collection about a miniature Golden Retriever known as Spot. These "pop-up" books made it much easier for me to read the words as well as navigate each vibrant page, each of which contained a hidden object that led to the clues Spot was so eager to find. There was one "pop-up" pocket-sized book, in particular, in which Spot had to find his bone for dinner. I had to "lift" a "golden toy chest," "open" a "kitchen closet," all until he finally found his bone back in the "toy chest!" The words in these books were by no means powerful, but they were still a critical tool for my all-important cognitive skills in every sense of the developmentally delayed word.

Perhaps no other children's book collection, however, had a more profound impact on my childhood (and in my later years in life) than the Berenstain Bears. They "lived down a sunny dirt road in Bear Country," but the lessons they taught me, as well as every other friend and relative of mine, were of great, if not astronomical, importance to life itself. My all-time favorite in this series is "The Berenstain Bears Get the Gimmies (1988)." It teaches you how not to be greedy when you're at the grocery store, the retail store, and even at home. I realized that I should never ask for more money and/or more candy and other "addictive" material things because, as I began to realize at the end of the story, asking for more and more on a continual basis can be embarrassing and totally impolite. In other words, I realized it was important for me to be grateful for whatever I have rather than what I don't have, which continues to be my most moral status quo to this day.

Although I did love reading children's books in preschool and elementary school once I got the hang of their colorful words and illustrations, I hate to admit that my middle school reading experiences were less than fulfilling. I had trouble reading slightly more intricate chapter books like Daniel Keyes' "Flowers for Algernon (1966)," S.E. Hinton's "Rumble Fish (1975)" and "The Outsiders (1967)," "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, and many other stories tailored for young adults; they simply didn't contain any pictures. I also had to start doing more detailed book reports not just on the stories themselves, but on the broad, sometimes taboo, themes they emphasized as well. What I did find fulfilling about "Algernon," however, was that it was about a man with severe mental retardation; I began to realize that being retarded was a chronic medical condition and not merely another indirect, derogatory synonym for acting stupid. Although "Algernon" was still dated in its depiction of the medical treatment the protagonist received by the time I reached my "tween" years, I no longer treat others with developmental disabilities the same way again, but in an inspiring and uncondescending way, that is.

Summer reading was no fun for me in both junior high and high school. I had to read stories mandated by my teachers or, better yet, my hometown's Board of Education committees. I had to write increasingly intensive essays that didn't pertain to my simplistic, or rather juvenile, style of writing. I had to make sure everything was done right before the first school bell rang on the first day of school. The list went on and on.

But what was deeply ironic about my adolescence was that I did, indeed, become a much better writer. The books I had to read in school may have been insignificant or less than satisfying, but that, by no means, interfered with my collective, self-reflective diaries. I always wrote in my journal about how I was feeling about my education and personal life, as well as how others perceived me in the process. I also began to teach myself about how to write solid non-fiction essays, for that meant something even more self-sustaining altogether.

But who deserves credit for this improvement? Well, I would have to admit that it was my high school English teacher who made me much more enthusiastic about my reading and writing both in and out of the classroom in the end. She truly cared about my potential to rise to the top of my special education class. She knew I literally had a learning disability that was hard to classify or explain, let alone admit to others openly. More importantly, she realized just how difficult it would be for me to succeed beyond high school. The rest is history.

I am now an avid reader and writer. I'm not much of a fiction lover, although I do read some bestsellers like "The Da Vinci Code (2003)" when I have spare time, especially at night. Most of the time, however, I like to read a diverse range of non-fiction treatises and "novels," even if they are for "escapist" pleasure rather than as academic food for thought. But even more important than my current reading habits are the ways in which I write. I'm no longer apprehensive about writing scholarly essays and book reports, so I'm no longer writing in my journal on a daily basis. Although I still struggle with my writing in terms of finding the most appropriate style and syntax, I would have to admit that improvement is no substitute for continuing to explore new avenues and pathways for as long as I remain most literately competent.

But do I still read a favorite book from my childhood that continues to be in my collective self-consciousness? You bet. I happened to (and still happen to) memorize almost every single gem of a line in Dr. Seuss' "How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1957)." I'm sure I'm not the only child still at heart who can do I what do at my Grinchy best. So, that said, it's always comforting to know that even the most trivial of all things wordy can live in your heart forever for whatever reason you make it to be.

ABOUT THE WRITER

Jamie Quaranta has a Bachelor of Library and Information Science degree from Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, Connecticut.

As a journalism student at Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, CT from 2003-2007, he received numerous accolades from his friends, teachers, colleagues, and relatives alike for his outstanding amateur writings in a diverse range of styles, including creative non-fiction essays. In addition, he worked as a staff writer for the renowned two-year school’s student-run "Horizons" newspaper, where he specialized in arts-and-entertainment reviews, editorials, health news briefs, and other genres.

redtaglibrary@yahoo.com

Review: A Very Special Christmas With Grandma by Leanne Bush

By Bettie Corbin Tucker

Merry Christmas! Every December many people around the world utter these words to one another as they look forward to the wondrous holiday season. In A Very Special Christmas with Grandma, Leanne Bush charms readers with the story of young Sarah who visits her grandmother for an entire week before Christmas. Readers will find themselves wishing that all children could have the same experience as Sarah-and by writing this book, the author has made this possible. Other children, along with Sarah, can experience an old-fashioned Christmas, with all its wonderful traditions.

From the moment that Sarah's parents leave their daughter at Grandma's house, it is a very busy time for this couple who are separated by generations but united by love. It is obvious that the grandmother and grandchild are very close as they happily work together on Grandma's "to-do" list to prepare for the yearly holiday. There are Christmas cards to prepare, and a tree to decorate. The tree is a real one given to them by a neighbor who lives on a large farm. The tree goes into a stand that holds water; it is Sarah's job to water the tree every day. The author describes in detail how they decorate the tree, going into detail about how they make a long chain from loops made of construction paper. Though I'm revealing my age, I remember doing this for our Christmas trees in grade school. It is fun and seems to look better than many modern decorations we buy from stores today.  
  
After the tree is finished, Grandma makes them some mouth-watering hot chocolate with her added ingredients of crushed peppermint candy and small marshmallows on top. Then it's time for bed so they can go to church the next morning. The rest of the week keeps them continually busy as they make various kinds of cookies and take some of them to a local nursing home where a group of people from Grandma's church sing Christmas carols to the elderly. The true "reason for the season" is not forgotten as Sarah helps her grandmother set up a nativity scene on the coffee table, and later, Grandma tells her the story of Jesus' birth.  
  
The week passes quickly as the two build a snowman, wrap Christmas presents, watch Christmas shows on TV, and read Christmas stories together. And on Christmas Eve, they hang up a stocking for Santa to fill with goodies for Sarah. Of course, they don't forget Santa, leaving the jolly old man milk and cookies. Before going to bed, Sarah's grandmother gives her a Christmas ornament and a special stuffed rabbit named Levi that she had received when she was a little girl. Grandma had kept him in very good condition. Now Sarah will need to do the same. 
  
On Christmas morning, Sarah discovers that Santa Clause has come and given her many nice presents. Later Sarah's parents arrive, and there are more presents to exchange. Then, after a delicious ham dinner with all the trimmings, it is time for Sarah to go home. She gives Grandma a very special hug and kiss, and of course, thanks her for the wonderful memories of such a special week. 

This book is excellently narrated and an adventure that young children should not miss out on. It is written in age-appropriate language for children who want to be read to as well as for children who are old enough to read the words all by themselves. Readers should thank the author for reminding children of the values of yesterday and the special bond that they can have with their grandparents. It is my recommendation that individuals buy several copies of this book for Christmas gift-giving. The children on their list will truly enjoy it-so will the parents and grandparents

Bettie Corbin Tucker is the author of seven books, book reviewer, former publisher and radio talk show host.

Review: American Diaries - Janey G Blue, Pearl Harbor 1941

By Carma Dutra

American Diaries: Janey G. Blue, Pearl Harbor 1941.
Author: Kathleen Duey

Janey is a 12 year old girl who has recently moved from Kansas to Hawaii with her family. Her father is a civil service worker at Hickam Field in Pearl Harbor. Her experiences and impressions of December 7 take place from Sunday, December 7 at 7 a.m. to Monday December 8, 7 a.m.

Janey loves the trees, fresh fruit and all the people on Oahu but she misses Kansas and her best friend Tilly even more. Besides, all the talk of impending war makes Janey nervous and scared. The evening before December 7, 1941 Janey writes in her diary "Last night after the Christmas concert the grown-ups got going about the war again. Holy Golly, I am sick of hearing it. Its bad enough we have to listen to the planes from Hickam Field drill all the time. Some pilots pretend to be invading and the others practice defending the harbor and the airfields and they all pretend to fight. It's so noisy that Pokey (dog) hides under the bed."

After the bombing of Pearl Harbor begins confusion spreads like wildfire. No one knows what is happening or where to go. Janey believes she must stay calm so her four year old brother will not be scared and her mother can concentrate on finding out what is happening at Hickam Field.

Through the words of Janey G. Blue, Kathleen Duey captures helplessness, fear and anxiety many people must have felt that fateful day; December 7, 1941. Kathleen Duey is an award winning author who has written more than 50 books for children, YA and adults. Thirty-three of these books have been historical and adventure fiction. She also novelized the DreamWorks movie Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron.

American Diaries is a collection of books written in a similar fashion as a series except the characters do not repeat nor does the historical events. American Diaries books are about 140 pages in length and are written through the eyes of a twelve year old within a twenty-four hour period portraying some historical event or period.

Learn more about children's writing tips and award winning book reviews by visiting Carma's Window at http://carmaswindow.blogspot.com. Download the free EBook, "Unite to Write," a compilation of thirteen top expert authors as read on Ezine article directory and "Free Tips on Freelance Writing."

Choosing Children's Books

By Robert Grazian

Children need to have a variety of reading experiences if they are going to learn to make good decisions. How to choose children's books for your students is going to be challenging task, but if you follow a few recommended steps, you should end up with a variety of good, informational and interesting books for them to explore as they become discerning readers and decision makers.

Start your search by looking at the covers of books, the first thing your students will see. Your younger students will appreciate a cover that has primary colors, is simple, yet eye catching. The title of the book should be short enough to catch the interest of your reader, yet long enough to tell him or her what the book is about. Photos and clear, crisp illustrations on the cover will appeal to your students and entice them to pick the book up and open it.

The next step in the process of how to choose children's books for your students is to review the topic or content of the book. Your young readers will want to read books that are interesting, full of fun and adventure. These students are surrounded by information and they will want to read books that are filled with accurate as well as reliable information. To verify this, check the references provided by the author, review his or her credentials, and look for evidence of background research on the topic being presented.

The final three items to pay particular attention to when learning how to choose children's books for your students are:

• Illustrations: Graphic or visual elements in a text are sure to keep the reader coming back for more as long as they are appropriate for the book. They should be large enough so the child can determine what they are but not so big that they distract from the content of the book. There should be captions and or titles that are simple, yet explain the graphic adequately.

• Organization: Children's books should be organized in a way that will provide a clear, smooth transition between text and illustrations. If the book warrants it, there should be a table of contents and a glossary that the young reader can easily navigate to find items of interest.

• Font size and Type: This is the final step in your quest to discover how to choose children's books for your students. Font size and type is important for a number of reasons, readability being the most important. For younger children, the letters should be large and the font style simple. Small, more ornate fonts will be hard to read, distracting them from their goal: comprehension of the material. Check the spacing and placement of the words on the page to be sure the students can easily follow the story from one page to the next.

Choosing which books your young readers will want to read should not be difficult, despite the sheer numbers of available books out there, as long as you follow the steps outlined here.

Robert Grazian is an accomplished niche website developer and author.

To learn more about children's books visit Rare Children's Books Today for current articles and discussions.

Review: A Walk in the Rain With a Brain

By Carma Dutra

A Walk in the Rain with a Brain is written by Edward M. Hallowell, M.D. This book is designed for four (read to) to eight year olds.

Children do not receive enough encouragement to develop their own unique talents, skills and attitudes. Dr. Hallowell's book, A Walk in the Rain With a Brain reinforces the important message that no brain is smarter than the other. Everyone is born with a brain and everyone can learn with their brain. The exceptional illustrations by Bill Mayer are richly drawn in a cartoon manner that young children will be attracted too as well.

The story's central character is a girl named Lucy who discovers a brain on the ground named Manfred (Fred for short) as she plays outside in the rain. Lucy asks Fred to make her smart. "Everyone's smart," Fred told her, "You just need to find out at what."

Fred tells Lucy about the time that his other brain friends used to feel they weren't smart but you'll have to read the story to find out what happened.

This imaginary tale is delightful and can be a helpful teaching guide for parents and teachers with its fact based discussion guide in the back of the book. Hallowell writes that with proper guidance every child can develop to the fullest of the talents that they are born with. Hallowell says "Not all kids know that brains run the show."

About the Author: Edward M. Hallowell, M.D. is a noted psychiatrist and an internationally acknowledged expert on ADD. Also Dr. Hallowell is director of the Hallowell Center for Cognitive and Emotional Health in Concord Mass. The center is an outpatient treatment center service children and adults with a wide range of emotional and learning problems.

Learn more about children's writing tips and award winning book reviews by visiting Carma's Window at http://carmaswindow.blogspot.com Download the free EBook, "Unite to Write," a compilation of thirteen top expert authors as read on Ezine article directory and "Free Tips on Freelance Writing."

Review: In Search Of Molly Pitcher by Linda Grant De Pauw

By Lillian Brummet

Peggy MCAllister receives an assignment from school that could lead her to win the Rattletop Award. Each year the winner's name is placed at the top of the list of engraved winner's names on a bronze plaque for the town to see for all time. Peggy is determined that she will have her name on this list, however she makes an unpopular choice for the competition that will involve more work than the other options she was presented with, disappointing her teacher immensely. But something about this name stood out for her and she followed her heart.

Peggy soon discovers that Molly Pitcher's historical documentation is difficult to locate and entire sections of the story of Molly's life are missing or contradictory - forcing Peggy to interview people who have studied this era. Peggy's mother isn't well and is overworked, however, since they live with Peggy's Grandfather, she has ample support for the research project. His former career as a private investigator proved to be invaluable for Peggy in finding contacts and learning how to follow leads.

The research techniques and journey through the mystery of who was Molly Pitcher and what Molly's story was, can actually serve educators and parents well in that it shows the pleasure of a good mystery and the pride of solving the puzzle. The author also reveals the importance of good resources and contacts for research projects. The storyline also allows for small lessons on what an essay is, tips for doing a research project, detailing the work involved and the joy of finding answers. Another interesting educational aspect to the story is learning about the famous historical character in the US known as Molly Pitcher. The book has several images of historical war paintings and a few illustrations as well.

Author and award winning historian Linda Grant De Pauw has written 4 published historical non-fiction novels, 2 fiction novels and 2 other books for young readers. Peacock Press of Casadena (Maryland, USA) published her most recent book for young readers, In Search Of Molly Pitcher in 2007. The eye-catching cover design for this book, created by Kim Jacobs, held my attention repeatedly while trying to read the messages there.

Unfortunately, there is no information in the book itself as to the eco-printing or eco-publishing options that many conscious publishers are embracing today. For this reason alone, I have deducted a half star. Overall I think this book will be a wonderful adventure for young readers.

ISBN#: 978-1-4357-0607-1

Rating: 4.5-out-of-5 stars

~ Lillian Brummet: co-author of the books Trash Talk and Purple Snowflake Marketing, author of Towards Understanding; host of the Conscious Discussions radio show (http://www.brummet.ca)

Review: Journal Buddies: A Girl's Journal for Sharing and Celebrating Magnificence

By Susie Cortright

Parenting during these "tween" years is more complicated than I had imagined. My daughter and I are still close, but her friends are starting to play an increasingly large role in her life. I want to help her understand the importance of creating friendships that nurture her, as well as helping her to see how much of her daily life can be improved simply by focusing on the positive. I'm constantly saying to my kids, "What you focus on expands," and "what you appreciate, appreciates." I'm convinced that this is one of the most important and rewarding lessons a young person can learn.

Jill Schoenberg has written a book for girls ages 8 to 14 that reinforces these ideas. In Journal Buddies: A Girl's Journal for Sharing and Celebrating Magnificence (there's a boy version, too) Schoenberg outlines a method of journaling that is all about focusing on the positive. It guides girls to identify the traits, qualities and talents that they like about themselves and others, because, as Schoenberg explains to her young readers in the book's introduction, when you practice looking for the positive things, it becomes easier to see the positive things.

To help kids comprehend journaling as something that isn't like homework and doesn't even necessarily involve writing, Schoenberg encourages self-expression not just through words but also through drawings, doodles, photos, collages, stickers... anything the child feels most comfortable using to express her ideas. To trigger the creative imagination, the author also includes 89 creative journaling ideas that spark some great insights, from "Research your hero (historical, musical, sports...) and find similarities between your hero and you" to "Imagine the world you wish you could live in right now and write about it or draw a picture of it."

Each of the book's thirty journal entries consists of:

-A "thought for the day"

- A place for the journal keeper and her journal buddy to write down what they like about each other (This journal buddy can be anyone: a parent, teacher, mentor, friend, or sibling, for example, and the journal buddy can change from day to day.)

- A word to focus on for the day (such as "magical," "joy," "possibilities")

- Blank pages for creative self expression

Following the thirty journal entries is a special section for reflection.

When I first picked up this book, I was concerned about the necessity of the Journal Buddy. As an introverted child, I used my journal to write about things that I wouldn't want to share with a buddy. But as I started working with it, I realize that the buddy concept is what sets this book apart. It takes creative journaling to a new level and helps kids recognize and appreciate the positive aspects of one another. The result is a book that the child will treasure as it contains lists of a child's positive traits, as identified by another person - as well as positive traits that the child has identified in her buddies.

In the book's introduction, Schoenberg writes: "If you choose to complete this journal, here's what I think will happen: You'll begin to feel stronger and braver day by day, and your kindness and creativity will expand too. You might even strengthen your character so much that the day will come when you will be able to be kind to anyone, anyplace, regardless of what they are doing. You may also become brave enough to openly share your magnificent self with anyone, anywhere, anytime!"

It's so nurturing when our daughters can build relationships built on kindness and building one another up, particularly at this age. The JournalBuddies.com website features free book excerpts for download, and you can purchase the books directly from the website. Both Journal Buddies titles are also available on amazon.com and bn.com.

Susie Cortright is the founder of Susies-Coupons.com and Momscape.com, a website devoted to helping moms celebrate life with children. Read more about Jill Schoenberg's book or enjoy amazon coupons or Barnes & Noble Coupons from Susie's websites.

Literary festival to celebrate The Wind in the Willows

THE anniversary of Wind in the Willows is going to be celebrated by Henley schools (England) as part of the Literary Festival on September 19th.

Four performances have been organised for the first day of the festival, meaning that around 400 school children will see the event.

Exactly 100 years ago the secretary of the Bank of England put the manuscript of a book into an envelope and sent it off to a firm of publishers. They were unimpressed, and sent it back. He tried again, submitting the book to several other firms. They too rejected it. It was not until October, 1908, and the unexpected intervention of President Roosevelt that Kenneth Grahame’s fifth book, The Wind In The Willows, was finally published.

Read more...

Review: Rose's Journal, The Story of a Girl in the Great Depression

By Suzanne Lieurance

This book lets kids travel back in time to the 1930s with a young girl named Rose who lives on a farm in Kansas during the Great Depression. The pink pages of Rose's journal take readers on a journey to see for themselves just what life was like from month to month on the farm. It also includes information about what was happening across the nation back then. Historical black and white photographs make this journal seem more real and help to give kids a glimpse of just how bleak life was for a girl like Rose.

Rose's Journal is an enjoyable way for young readers to learn about one of the most fascinating periods in American history - when Amelia Earhart made her solo flight from Hawaii to California, yet times were so tough for most Americans that they lived by this motto for making do with what little they had: "Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without."

The journal is printed on lines which look like notebook paper, as if each page were handwritten by Rose. It includes drawings of important things in Rose's life, like her puppy, the radio (which was a big part of everyone's life back then), and her family, etc. Kids and adults alike will find this to be an entertaining read that leaves them with a good idea of just difficult the Great Depression, dust storms, and droughts must have been for someone like young Rose.

Title: ROSE'S JOURNAL: THE STORY OF A GIRL IN THE GREAT DEPRESSION (A Young American Voices Book)

Author: Marissa Moss

Publisher: Silver Whistle Paperbacks; reprint edition, $7.00

Date: March 2003

ISBN: 0-15-204605-4

Ages: 9-12.

For more children's book reviews, as well as articles of interest to children's writers, visit the National Writing for Children Center at http://www.writingforchildrencenter.com/ and sign up for the mailing list to receive a free e-book for writers.

Suzanne Lieurance is a fulltime freelance writer, children's author, and writing coach. She is also the founder and director of the National Writing for Children Center. Visit her author's website at http://www.suzannelieurance.com

Review: The Monster on Top of the Bed

By Brenda Silver

Title: The Monster on Top of the Bed
Written by: Alan H. Jordan
Illustrated by: Manuela Pentangelo
Performed by: Virginia Castleman
Soft cover: 32 pages

Ages: 3-9 (Older children also like to use the book/CD and e-books with their younger siblings, and to help make e-books using the related My Monster on Top of the Bed e-book into which children's drawings may be uploaded.)

Publisher: LB Creative, LLC Press
ISBN: 978-0-9726318-0-8
Published: June 2008

Other Editions: Multi-media e-books in English, Spanish and Italian, audio-book with 98 tracks that read each page one-at-a-time.

In The Monster on Top of the Bed young Suzy learns that she never has to be afraid of monsters again after she befriends a "monster" who thinks of her as "the monster on top of the bed." This is a great children's book for children who love to read, and those who don't.

The author has created a captivating story. Manuela Pentangelo, the illustrator, has crafted ice-cream-parlor-delicious artwork. On the accompanying audio-book CD (available separately) the book is performed in English (2 versions), Italian and Spanish (2 versions.) As children listen to the different performances, they cannot help but develop an appreciation for the beauty of different languages. Just by listening, they pick up many Italian and Spanish words, and start to develop an appreciation of different cultures.

Like the Pixar movie, Monsters, Inc., this book allows children to discover the fact that a monster might be as afraid of them, but it does it in a very different, almost cerebral way. Also, as children read the story, they find a mantra that they can say to themselves to banish monsters, "You're welcome to stay, until I say 'nay,' then it's time to go, and you can't say no."

Children love to have magic enchantments, and this mantra can provide great comfort. Night-time fears (also known as bed time fears) is a very real problem with children. Telling a child that they don't have to be afraid of monsters doesn't usually work. It helps to give your child a flashlight that they can turn on to banish monsters at will. This book may be just the thing to enable your child to fall asleep without worry. The mantra itself may be sufficient to banish monsters without having to turn on that flashlight.

Brenda Silver has written many books and articles for internal publications of major companies. She is expanding to include freelance writing and ghost writing. Contact her at bsilver@advantapress.com

The Monster on Top of the Bed is one of many resources available from http://www.letsbecreative.org/ Once you register on the site (free) you may view the streaming video and even download an iPod version of The Monster on Top of the Bed for free.

Pre-order your copy of J.K. Rowling's "The Tales of Beedle the Bard"

The Standard Edition features all five fairy tales from the original The Tales of Beedle the Bard, a new introduction by J.K. Rowling, illustrations reproduced from the original handcrafted book, and commentary on each of the tales by Professor Albus Dumbledore.

Amazon is also thrilled to offer a luxuriously packaged Collector's Edition (available exclusively at Amazon) designed to evoke the spirit of the handcrafted original. It is housed in its own case (made to resemble a wizarding textbook found in the Hogwarts library). The Collector's Edition includes a reproduction of J.K. Rowling's handwritten introduction, as well as 10 additional illustrations not found in the Standard Edition. Opening the cover of the case reveals a velvet bag embroidered with J.K. Rowling's signature, in which sits the piece de resistance: your very own copy of The Tales of Beedle the Bard, complete with metal skull, corners, and clasp; replica gemstones; and emerald ribbon.

Review: The Candy Shop War

By Carma Dutra

The old saying "too much candy can be bad for your health" rings true in this fast paced, action packed story. Nate and his family are new in town which means a new school and new friends. Nate is not too happy about this but the three young friends he makes will soon become the type that last forever. One warm afternoon on the way home from school, the four young kids decide to try out the new candy shop. However, they are short on money and are in hopes the owner will give them a sample. Belinda White, owner of the Sweet Tooth Ice Cream Candy Shoppe, offers free candy if they will perform odd jobs around town. Not only is the candy free it's magical too!

What kid can resist magical rock candy to fly through the air and jaw breakers to become unbreakable? Throw in a little shift changing and talking animals and you have all the ingredients for a wild adventure. Soon Nate and his friends; Summer, Trevor and Pigeon discover the real cost of this addictive candy. Belinda White's true identity as an evil magician unfolds and Nate and his friends try to turn her own power against her. It takes all the wit and imagination the quartet can conjure up with a little help from Mr. Stott the ice cream truck driver who has some magical tricks of his own. The mystery deepens and doesn't stop until the last piece of candy has been eaten.

This magical fantasy story will make any 8 - 12 year old turn their imagination up a notch or two. New York Times bestselling Author Brandon Mull travels the country visiting schools, promoting literacy and sharing his message that "Imagination can take you places." Mull teaches lessons with all his stories by adding a reading guide at the end of each book. Questions like "Between Nate, Summer, Trevor, and Pigeon, who would you most want as a friend? Why?" and "What is the best approach for handling bullies?" are designed to stimulate the readers' deductive reasoning skills.

The Candy Shop War is published by Shadow Mountain.

Learn more about children's issues, writing tips and award winning book reviews by visiting Carma's Window at http://carmaswindow.blogspot.com/ - Download the free EBook, "Unite to Write," a compilation of thirteen top expert authors as read on Ezine article directory and "Free Tips on Freelance Writing."