Showing posts with label book for library. Show all posts
Showing posts with label book for library. Show all posts

Book Review: Animal Planet Strange, Unusual, Gross & Cool Animals by Animal Plant and Charles Gingham

Animal Planet Strange, Unusual, Gross & Cool Animals is a children's non fiction book  by Animal Plant and Charles Gingham. It is part of the Animal Bites series. This book offers information paired with full color photos of some of the oddest animals in the world! For instance, did you know that an archerfish can spit water up to 16 feet? Or that the giant weta is the world's largest and heaviest insect? This exploration of animal oddities introduces young animal lovers to some of the most astonishing and obscure animals in the world-including some brand new discoveries! There are more than 200 vibrant photographs and fun facts about animals with unusual behaviors, strange appearances, and remarkable stats.
Animal Planet Strange, Unusual, Gross & Cool Animals is not new in the idea, but executes it very well. I have read more than my fair share of books about the wacky, weird, and gross animals of the world. My daughter is an animal nut, and my son loves anything vaguely gross or monster like. So this book is right up their alley, and we have explored every similar book available to us, and this book holds up very well to the competition. There are a number of bright, bold photographs on each page along with interesting facts to correspond to each animal included. The texts combines humor and fact very well, capturing the attention of readers of all ages. I think reluctant readers will be put at ease with the large print and the way the text is grouped into small sections. this makes the flow of information easy to understand and from being intimidating. while I have seen many of these animals and corresponding facts before, there was so much here that i found new information and creatures to learn about as well. This is a must buy for library, school, and some home collections (like mine).


I need this book for my kids, who love animals and all things weird. Honestly, I think I will order it now and save it for a Christmas gift. This book is perfect for reluctant readers or anyone who loves totally gross and amazing animals. As a bonus, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of books in the Animal Bites series benefits the principal partners of R.O.A.R. (Reach Out. Act. Respond.), Animal Planet's initiative dedicated to improving the lives of animals in our communities and in the wild. 

Book Review: Orion Poe and the Lost Explorer by Will Summerhouse

Orion Poe and the Lost Explorer is a middle grade adventure novel by Will Summerhouse. Eleven-year-old Orion lives with his stodgy grandfather in eastern Maine. When a series of strange events draws Orion into the mystery of a lost explorer he is swept up in an adventure that takes him to the top of the world. To survive he must survive in the arctic, outwit a scheming treasure hunter, and take on a tyrant with an anger management problem. Can Orion solve the mystery and get back home alive?

Orion Poe and the Lost Explorer is an exciting tale with a balanced mix of survival fiction, mystery, action, and adventure. Orion Poe is a brave and loyal young hero with a pragmatic take on the world. he does not always toss himself into danger, but does a good number of times after weighing the pros and cons of action versus inaction. The story has a bit of a Treasure Island feel to it, so if you have always been a fan of that classic this book might feel like a new take of favorite ideas. Orion comes across a variety of crazy characters and situations. the professor, the ship captain, the shifty treasure hunter, and the crew of the ship they take north are just the start. There is a good deal of Orion finding his way on his own, and proving himself to those that might otherwise consider him too young to be of use. The combination of coming of age, survival, and sheer adventure might capture the attention of readers that might otherwise lose interest in reading. The short chapters might also keep these readers going, giving them satisfaction regularly in having completed a chapter, or two.

I liked that the grand adventure is linked to the real-life explorer John Franklin and there are little bits of knowledge about him and surviving in cold conditions through the book, as well as the historical information included at the end of the story. I rather liked Orion's grandfather, and only wish he had been included in more of the story.

I would suggest Orion Poe and the Lost Explorer for readers around nine and older. I think readers that enjoy action, adventure, mystery, or survival fiction would connect with the story the most. Readers that enjoy coming of age tales and exploration can also find a great deal to like here. I am not a big fan of survival fiction, I am one of those readers that prefers character driven plots more than stories where characters are consistently forced to react to outside forces, but I can think of many readers that will greatly enjoy the book.


Series Review: If You Were Me and Lived In... by Carole P Roman

If You Were Me and Lived In... series by Carole P Roman is a fabulous, and still growing, collection of
books that introduce different countries to young readers. In each book Roman describes the capital city of the country, a major holiday, what children call their parents, a favorite sport or activity, a favorite location to visit, favorite foods, and the name for school. Each book shows children that no matter where we live, what we look like, and what language we speak that we can easily find something in common with people in different countries and cultures.

If You Were Me and Lived In... is a series that would make a great addition to any school library or classroom, as well as public libraries. As of now, the series has books about Australia, Mexico, South Korea, France, India, Kenya, Norway, Turkey, and Russia. Each offers information is an easy to understand format, including some information that was new to me. I would recommend this series for starting discussions about diversity, travel, what our favorite things are, the differences and constants between cultures, and geography.
About the Author:
Named to Kirkus Reviews' Best of 2012 for her first book, award winning author Carole P. Roman started writing as a dare from one of her sons. Using an imaginary game she played with her grandson as a base, Captain No Beard was born."Captain No Beard- An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate's Life" has not only been named to Kirkus Best of 2012, it received the Star of Remarkable Merit, and won the Pinnacle Award for 2012. "Pepper Parrot's Problem with Patience" Book 2 in the series, received 5 Stars from The ForeWord Review The Clarion Review. Strangers on the High Seas has won second place in the Rebecca's Reads Choice Awards 2013. It has followed with six more books to the series.

Her new non fiction series, "If You Were Me and Lived in..." combines her teaching past with her love of exploration and interest in the world around us. The debut book in the series, "If You Were Me and Lived in...Mexico" has won the Pinnacle Award for Best in Children's Non Fiction 2012. France, South Korea, and Norway. Rebecca's Reads has given If You Were Me and Lived in...Norway an honorable mention in the 2013 Choice Awards. If You Were Me and lived in ...France won second place. ForeWord Review has nominated If You Were Me and Lived in...France for best in children's non fiction literature 2013. They will be followed with Kenya, Turkey, India, and Australia. She plans to do Portugal, Greece, and Argentina next year.

Writing for children has opened up a whole second act for her. While she is still working in her family business, this has enabled her to share her sense of humor as well as love for history and culture with the audience she adores. Roman lives on Long Island with her husband and near her children.

Early Book Review: Quinny & Hopper by Adriana Brad Schanen, Greg Swearingen

Quinny & Hopper by is a children's chapter book written by Adriana Brad Schanen and illustrated by Greg Swearingen. The book is currently scheduled for release on June 10 2014. This is a book about to very different kids finding a the best kind of friendship. Quinny has just moved from New York City to a big farmhouse in a tiny town. It is there that see meet Hopper, a crazy chicken, and a grumpy older neighbor. Quinny has a lot to say and never seems to stop moving while Hopper gets to the point and proceeds with caution. Quinny has some very big ideas, while
Hopper comes up with smart solutions. The pair could not be more different, but together they can do anything. Can Quinny and Hopper stick together in the face of social pressures at school and the hunt for a crazed chicken?

Quinny & Hopper is a fun and heart warming tale about children finding their best friends, and the best in themselves. In the summer before third grade Quinny, and big hair, smiles, and ideas finds herself in a tiny town with nothing familiar but her family, which includes two little sisters with less than sanitary habits. Hopper spends his days trying to avoid his older brothers and building bone models. They do not seem like a perfect pair, but like most children they will surprise you. Their well fleshed out characters struggle with themselves and expectations others have of them and the world in general, while still making the reader chuckle. I think children and adults can find something to relate to and enjoy in this book.

I recommend Quinny & Hopper to early chapter book readers, families to share, and library collections. There is a lesson in the story about being true to yourself and your friends, but it is not a lesson that comes off as preachy. Rather, young readers just might come away from this book with a new appreciation for the 'different' kids and wonder if they could be just as great of a friend as Quinny or Hopper.

Early Book Review: Pigsticks and Harold and the Incredible Journey by Alex Milway

Pigsticks and Harold and the Incredible Journey by Alex Milway is an early reader book that us currently scheduled for release on May 27 2014. Pigsticks is the last in a noble line of explorers, and he is determined to follow in his forepigs’ footsteps. however, he needs an assistant to do the heavy lifting. His help-wanted ad draws a motley crew of candidates, so he chooses a hapless delivery hamster named Harold. The unlikely pair set off from Tuptown with plenty of tea cakes in tow, Pigsticks is breathless with excitement while Harold is struggling for breath under all the gear. They take long trek through jungles, over deserts, and up a giant ice-topped mountain. When the last crumb of cake is stolen by a herd of thieving goats and their goal is nowhere in sight the doubt whether they will ever discover the Ends of the Earth?

Pigsticks and Harold and the Incredible Journey is a charming tale that will make newly independent readers and those that need a wee bit of help smile. The tale has everything young readers might want; cute animals, adventure, humor, and some daring do. I loved that the path taken by Harold and Pigsticks mirrors the journeys many imaginative youngsters might take in their own backyard. I love the twist that brings them home and allows for the opportunity of further adventures. I think my two imagination fueled adventure seekers will adore this book, if I can let go of it long enough for them to enjoy it.

I would recommend Pigsticks and Harold and the Incredible Journey to readers that are just starting out with chapter books and to reluctant readers that think they cannot handle, or would not enjoy, reading a chapter book. The story is engaging and fun, while encouraging readers to go out and use their imaginations and have adventures of their own.

Book Review: The Pigeon Needs a Bath by Mo Willems

The Pigeon Needs a Bath by Mo Willems is the newest addition to the Pigeon collection from Willems, and it meets all the exceptions of this fan. In this adventure the intrepid pigeon really needs a bath. However, you know the pigeon is not going to make this easy. Pigeon is sure the bath he took last month, he thinks, has him covered. But when even  the flies start telling him he needs a bath, pigeon still is not sure. It's going to take some serious convincing to try and get the Pigeon to take the plunge.

Mo Willem rocks, I love his books and was thrilled to see this on my cart to catalog! In The Pigeon Needs a Bath readers see the pigeon fight against a bath with as much effort as he has previously fought against bedtime, and for driving a bus, having a hot dog party, and so on. Pigeon's tenacity is something I can recognize in both my kids, and honestly myself at times. Also, I know there are parents out there that have battles about getting the kids in the bath. (I am fortunate in that my biggest problem is getting them out of the tub, and limiting the baths to once a day.) So this book is something so many kids and parents can relate to and find entertainment in that I think everyone should read it. Yup everyone, kids that love the bath, kids that hate the bath, and parents that just hose the kids off in the summer or let them play in the rain to avoid the fight.

The Pigeon Needs a Bath is another home run by Mo Willems. It is a great read aloud book to share, and a book young readers can enjoy alone. I think the book, the ending in particular, is something all caregivers can relate to, and will make kids smile too!

Book Review: The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom (The League of Princes #1) by Christopher Healy, Bronson Pinchot

The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom is the first book in The League of Princes series
by Christopher Healy. I listened to the audiobook, which was read by Bronson Pinchot. The story is that of four Princes Charming. Prince Liam, Prince Frederic, Prince Duncan and Prince Gustav are the princes who saved Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Snow White, and Rapunzel, respectively. Rejected by their princesses and cast out of their castles, Liam, Frederic, Duncan, and Gustav stumble upon an evil plot that could endanger each of their kingdoms. Now it's up to them to triumph over their various shortcomings, take on trolls, bandits, dragons, witches, and other assorted terrors, and become the heroes no one ever thought they could be.

So there is the plot and the main characters, which are all very well fleshed out and grow considerably as the story progresses. they all are stereotypes that grow far beyond what we expect, and what they are prepared for. The lovely princesses are also very strong characters that defy the roles that they are thrust into. I loved that characters we all thought we knew are cast into new light and given further adventures. BUT, what really made this book for me is the narrator. I do not know if I would have enjoyed The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom to the extent I did if it were not for the voice talents of Bronson Pinchot. Oh my, he gave each of the characters such distinct voices, enhancing the images I had for each and giving them different accents to boot. The phrasing, inflections, and accents of each character just brought them to life for me. I am currently listening to the second book in the series- and he is even more impressive there.

I highly recommend The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom to readers that love twists of fairy tales, action, adventure, and humor (there is tons of humor here!). I even more highly suggest listening to the book, just be aware that you might catch yourself laughing out loud, which might inspire strange looks from those nearby.

Book Review: Kibble Talk by Cynthia Port

Kibble Talk by Cynthia Port is a children's chapter book about nine-year-old Tawny who just cannot turn down a dare or crazy plan. Because of this weakness she gags down a piece of dog kibble. afterwards she can hear and talk to dogs. This includes her enormous Great Dane named Dinky, who fondest wish is to be a tiny lap dog. Tawny promises to help him become one. Tawny soon finds out what it means to make, and keep, a promise to a friend. while she does her best to help Dinky, her parents begin to question her sanity and her best friend Jenny becomes her worst enemy. Can Tawny keep her own thoughts straight and still manage make things right in her family, get her best friend back, and figure out how to handle such a special gift.

Kibble Talk is the first book in the Kibble Talk series. It is funny, sweet, and fast moving. I loved the character of Tawny, who is adventurous and willing to try anything once. She is also willing to put her own friendships and social standing on the line to keep a promise and her ability a secret. I really liked that while tawny was not a perfect kid, and had all the fears of looking foolish that are pretty much universal, she still stood out as a smart and unique character. I also loved the concept of the book, and its execution. talking to animals is not a new idea, but the way it was done here and the humor involved just made the story great fun to read. I love forward to seeing what kind of trouble Tawny and Dinky find themselves in as the series continues.

I would recommend Kibble Talk to readers around 7 to 12 years old. I think it is also well suited for reading aloud in a classroom or as a family. Animal lovers, readers that enjoy a good laugh, and those just getting into reading for fun will all enjoy the story. just keep an eye on any pet food in the house, because I can imagine that some enthusiastic readers might be tempted to give it a try in hopes of being able to hear your animals like Tawny. Kibble Talk: Dog Gone Dinky, book 2 in the series, should be available by the end of February, 2014.

Book Blog Tour for The Noise Beneath the Apple Including a Giveaway and Author Interview

**Foreword’s 2013 Book of the Year Award Finalist**

About The Book
Written by Heather Jacks and accompanied by an eleven-track vinyl record featuring the original music of a select number of participants, this 200-page art-style coffee table book measures 12’’ x 12’’ and weighs in at a whopping 8lbs. Putting the spotlight on the age-old profession of busking, Jacks also seeks to stem the tide of regulation intended to suffocate creative expression and take performers off the streets.

A limited-edition coffee table book, The Noise Beneath the Apple®, is a unique and vibrant study of the culture of street performance, its legitimacy in modern times and above all, an intimate look at thirty-five buskers throughout New York City. Released with an eleven-track vinyl record that was mastered by Grammy and Academy Award winning mastering engineer Reuben Cohen, this book is a singular achievement and a one-of-a-kind tribute to the chaotic, beautiful and spirited world of busking.

Bio:  
Heather Jacks was raised on an Indian reservation in southeastern Oregon, until age fifteen. Jacks was the first ‘experimental exchange student’ to Australia with an organization called YFU, Youth for Understanding, where she spent 10.5 months in 1982. Once she returned, she received her B.A. from USF and followed that with two years of study at UC Davis.  She has worked in the music industry in various capacities, since the eighties; radio, production, A&R, booking and most recently as a music journalist.  She was recently named a finalist in the Book of the Year Award in the Performing Art & Music category, for her multi-media project, The Noise Beneath the Apple®, which was inspired by her love for street music, busking and the people who make it.  Heather can be contacted at: heather@heatherjacks.com

Visit Us Online:


Enter the Giveaway
  1. Was there a specific moment or idea that inspired writing this book?
I became who I am today in 1976.

Jimmy Carter was president. Vietnam was granted admission to the United Nations. The US of A was celebrating her 200th birthday, and Chief Don Sconchian had finished his time on this planet; (which is our fancy way of saying; he died), and I discovered Jack Kerouac in the Outhouse. These seemingly unrelated things are the exact pieces of my youth that cemented an early love affair with street performance.

Once Chief died—(btw: everyone is called Chief or Cousin on Indian Land), I was promptly shipped off to white school with my Outhouse edition of On The Road. The experiment was deemed unsuccessful by all involved, so I was sent to the Outback in Australia, as an ‘experimental’ exchange student. This was in 1982 and I was 15. It is safe to say, that the nomadic lifestyle was instilled in me at an early age. The tradition of busking also finds its roots in this type of nomadic lifestyle. Time honored Indian dance, Aboriginal ceremonies and Pow-Wow’s were all things I grew up with—and one can find close parallels between these things and busking—(performing on street corners for money.)

I arrived in New York City in December of 2009. At Grand Central Terminal, I met Luke Ryan, a perfect incarnation of jester, prankster and musician, who I eventually dubbed The Queen’s Cowboy. “About 10, it gets weird,” he said, glancing at me sitting on a subway bench. He looked into the garbage bin located next to him. “The first Starbucks cups make their appearance. Then the Starbucks cups get bigger; and when the biggest Starbucks cup makes its appearance, the day is pretty well done. When I see all the Wall Street Journals piled in the garbage pail next to me: We’re screwed. I know that’s it.” He began to pack up his guitar, collect his tips and move on. It would be Luke who would ultimately be the inspiration for a project three years in the future; The Noise Beneath the Apple®.

When The Noise Beneath the Apple®, began to crystallize in my mind, I was a freelance writer, submitting to various culture and online ezines. As I wandered the streets and subways of NYC, I discovered some great street musicians and thought it would make for some good stories and fun reading. For me, that was about it. But, as I got to know some of the musicians and see how the street culture was manifesting, I realized I could do something more; something socially relevant: capture a piece of history and help legitimize the profession of busking. I went back and to find Luke, who is a 40 + year veteran of busking. He was my first.

      2. Do you have a favorite story about busking or the streets of NYC in general? 

Although not necessarily a
‘busking’ story per se, it is a moment that catapulted me from observer to participant in the world of street. I arrived in New York City in the wake of Barack Obama’s election. Needing to earn a living, I chose to sell novelty political condoms on the streets. I got all my licenses, forms and inventory and set up station in Union Square, where I was promptly handcuffed, arrested and taken to jail. Some months later, my case was dismissed with the wave of a hand and the flick of a stamp. I went back to the streets, dismissal document in hand. Twenty minutes later, I was approached by the police, who gave a cursory glance at my paperwork and dismissal and then instructed me to put my hands behind my back. Handcuffed for a second time, I demanded an explanation. I was told—(and I quote) “Just because it was dismissed, doesn’t make it legal.” In the end, it was the Obama Condoms that gave me the much needed‘cred’—and prompted street performers to open up and talk to me. The Obama Condom Lady was legit. ;-)

       3. Do you have a favorite instrument or song that just makes you smile before you can even see the busker responsible?

Life is a voyage of discovery, and throughout this project, I have discovered so many cool instruments and styles of music; the Theremin, the Kora, glass cowbells, and the Nyckelharpa—to name a few. I love Latin music and flamenco guitar; heavy metal and electric violin. It was absolutely wondrous to bring all these sights and sounds together in a unique version—(and vision) of the song New York State of Mind—which I talk about in #7. After listening to our version of the song, no less than 1,000 times, I’m sure; I still LOVE it; the collective sounds of passions merging and artists shaking loose.

4. What was your favorite part of creating this book?

My favorite part of creating this book changes, based on where I am standing in relation to the project as a whole. Now that the project has been produced, I look back at the hardest parts—(which for me, was production; ie: paper type, bleed lines, InDesign, measurements, slipcase, etc…) or actually pressing a vinyl record! Not only putting the music together, but those records start out like hockey pucks. And I think, ‘WOW! I did that! I learned a LOT! There’s real validation in learning and completion, which ultimately leads to further learning and moving forward.

It goes without saying that I LOVED doing the interviews, hearing people’s stories, writing the profiles, capturing and honoring who they are and their contributions to the society and culture, of which they are an integral part. I guess in end, that remains my favorite part of the project; the human connection. I am standing here four years later—and am a better person; because of the musicians I met on the streets; and the newfound friends I made. I hope they took something of value from me as I did from them.

5. I know a few people that have spent significant time busking, have you noticed any common characteristics beyond talent and just being awesome people?

There are many misconceptions about busking; “They can’t get a real venue.” “They have no talent.” “They are homeless.” My experiences have shown these to be exactly that; misconceptions. What I have witnessed, is that buskers choose to perform on the streets, the rawest, most authentic stage there is; to share their craft outside of a financial context for everyone to enjoy and participate in. I think the operative term here is ‘choose’…very simply, buskers/street musicians choose to be there.

To quote Shedrick Williams of The Jason Adamo band, “A lot of people do this for the perks or the money, but a lot more choose to do it for the love of the music.” Then there is the fantastic violinist, Jim Graseck, who is a Julliard graduate and has chosen to make his career as a busker for the past 40+ years, even though he currently plays in the most amazing venues in New York City and appeared on The Johnny Carson Show, back in the day. There is freedom in artistic expressions that survive and manifest with no financial context. It might be called an esoteric level of experience, for both performer and audience.

Know that audience participation is a huge component. If you dig what you hear or see; then dig a little deeper and drop them a buck, for the song, the experience, the story, the photo, the YouTube video. This small exchange of daily experience is a currency, which is not exchangeable for articles of consumption—in other words, ‘You can’t buy it at Walmart.’

6. What do you do when you are not writing?

I live in and LOVE my City by the Bay, San Francisco. That being said, I spend an inordinate amount of time eating and drinking throughout all the funky and fabulous neighborhoods here. I also make (and sell) unique, one of a kind, retro shoulder bags, from reclaimed records. The front cover is on one side and the actual vinyl record—(not a pressed blank) on the other side. It gives me a great excuse to haunt all the vintage shops and record stores in the City. I’m a HUGE Baseball fan. I bleed Orange & Black and watch most of the games—(that takes a lot of time, considering there are about 162 games in a season!) I also read TONS and post little reviews everywhere. Whew! I’m tired just thinking about it!

7. Do you have any plans for what you would like to do next?

Last year, I ran a successful crowdfunding campaign, via Rockethub. We had so many wonderful and amazing supporters. From their generous contributions, we took 30 participants from the book—(NYC buskers/street musicians), to Grand Street Recording in Brooklyn, New York and recorded the hit song by Billy Joel, New York State of Mind. The uber talented recording and touring artist, Keaton Simons, flew in from Los Angeles to arrange, produce and mix the tune. The music is incredible! We have a Beat Rhymer, musical saw, violins, Cello, tons of vocalists…it is amazing. So far, only our Rockethub funders have heard the song, but we will be doing a media-launch in about May. From that day, we also created a 12 minute short documentary film. It was such an inspiring time and we are all very proud with the way everything turned out.

My hope is to replicate this project in other cities such as Boston, New Orleans, Chicago, Nashville, etc… Link to Trailer #1 for Short Documentary

       8. Is there anything that you would like to say to your readers and fans?

Thank you for giving me the gift of time, to pursue, create and manifest my passion.
Thank you.


Book Review: Pig and Small by Alex Latimer

Pig and Small by Alex Latimer is a picturebook about how two very different people can look past differences and become great friends. Pig thinks he is sick, he keeps hearing a squeak from his snout and cannot figure out just what is going out. Soon he discovers that he is not sick, the squeak is coming from a little bug that wants to be his friend. The pair try out a series of their favorite activities and find that their sizes make some games hard to play together. However, with a little persistence the pair discover that they have quite a bit in common and become the best of friends.

Pig and Small is a fun picturebook that offers laughs as well as a couple good lessons. Some of the activities, like hide and seek or chess, that Pig and Small attempt to play together are obviously not going to work and are giggle worth via the text and illustrations used to describe the level of failure there. However, there are two lessons here that I think are important for us to teach our kids, and to be reminded of ourselves. The first is the most obvious lesson, that the physical aspects of others is not what makes them friend worthy, rather it is personality and interests that connect people. Secondly, I think the story offers up the idea that not all friendships are instant fits, like all great relationships it might take a little bit of effort to come together, but it will be worth it when you find that connection. I love it!

I highly recommend Pig and Small, not just because of the lessons. The word choices and illustrations are charming and well-paired. I simply enjoyed the read and only considered the depth of the lessons now that I look back and try to put my enjoyment of the book into words.

Book Review: How To Make a Planet: A Step-By-Step Guide to Building the Earth by Scott Forbes

How To Make a Planet: A Step-By-Step Guide to Building the Earth by Scott Forbes is a book that describes the scientific theories of how the earth was formed. The book does a great job of talking the details of how our planet was formed with the basic building blocks of protons and neutrons and became the life sustaining place where we were all born. Forbes does a wonderful job of taking huge and abstract idea understandable.

How to Make a Planet begins with a timeline that easily shows how little time we have spent on our planet, and how long it took to get Earth to how it looks today. The books goes step by step through the history of our planet, and offers time checks through the book to show where each event of change took place in the larger scheme of things. The pictures and graphics are wonderful, and are worth exploring in their own right, even as they help drive home the information.  Information about weather, the water cycle, the atmosphere, and more are included in the book, which I find helps readers of all ages to see how interdependent the aspects of our world are, and how easy it would be to destroy out planet my ignoring the effects we can have on it.

I would highly recommend How to Make a Planet for middle grade students as well as libraries, The book would be a great resource in science classes and for homeschooling, since it offers well organized information in a way that inspires awe and further exploration.

Early Book Review: Plant a Pocket of Prairie by Phyllis Root, Betsy Bowen

Plant a Pocket of Prairie, written by Phyllis Root and illustrated by Betsy Bowen, is a non fiction picturebook scheduled for publication on April 15 2014. The prairie once covered almost 40 percent of the United States and is currently one of the most endangered ecosystems. This book explains what a prairie is, why they are important, and how readers can bring back a little of the prairie in their own backyard.

Plant a Pocket of Prairie does a nice job of explaining the nature of prairies and the variety of wildlife in the ecosystem. There are specific suggestions for what readers might plant in order to help displaced or hungry animals and insects, as well as how to go about growing those plants. The airy illustrations capture the feel of the prairie and just might inspire a few pockets of prairie before readers finish the book. The text offers some great information, but did not really flow like I wanted it to. However, the book is still a lovely book and inspired me to change up my spring planting a little bit this year.

I would recommend Plant a Pocket of Prairie for school and library collections. I think this book would be a good classroom or homeschooling resource for talking about the environment, the prairie, and the webs of life. It might be particularly engaging for those that live in areas where there were once vast prairies.

Book Review: The Only Alex Addleston in All These Mountains by James Solheim, Jeffrey Ebbeler

The Only Alex Addleston in All These Mountains is a picturebook written by James Solheim, and illustrated by Jeffrey Ebbeler. In this story young Alex Addleston has just moved to a new town, and on her first day of school discovers that a boy shares her name. The two Alex Addlestons begin to do everything together. They chase Flatt Mountain fireflies, code secret messages, and collect crawdads. When Alex's parents move her family to Kenya, the two friends lose contact with each other. Half a world apart, each Alex still keeps the other close while climbing trees, counting stars, playing games, and growing up. One day, just maybe, they will rediscover what it means to be best friends, no matter what.

The Only Alex Addleston in All These Mountains is a fun and heart warming story about true friendship. The two Alex's vow that they will be best friends forever, and do everything together. When they are separated, the two keep their vow despite not being in contact and the vast distance between them. I loved the feel and the bright, playful illustrations that were splendid in their own right. I think that the ending was especially wonderful, with a conclusion in images alone that will particularly speak to the adults that might be sharing the book.

I really enjoyed The Only Alex Addleston in All These Mountains, and think that readers of all ages will as well. Parents, teachers, and caregivers of all kinds trying to handle the difficulties of children sharing a name (and not being happy about it) could use this book as a way to show nicer ways the conflict could be resolved, and those struggling with a pending or resent move could us this book to help handle transitions.

Blog Tour Review for I'll Never Let You Go by Marianne Richmond

I'll Never Let You Go by Marianne Richmond is a charming picturebook about the love a child has for their favorite blanket or stuffed animal. Edward has had Blankie since the day he was born. They do everything together and would do anything for each other. However, it is time for Edward to go to school, and he needs to leave Blankie at home. The story handles his questions and fears about the separation, and parallels that with a parent's need to handle separation as well.

I'll Never Let You Go is a sweet book about love and growing up. Edward and his Blankie are best friends, doing everything together. As school looms he must deal with being separated from Blankie, as well as his mother. I think all children with a favorite blanket, animal, or whatever, can relate to Edward. Parents can also relate to the need to let their children grow up and face their similar challenges and the explanations that come with them. The lovely illustrations and delightful text come together to make this a charming story to share.

I think that I'll Never Let You Go is a sweet book that can strike a cord with many children, parents, and teachers. I think that it could be especially useful in households that are facing similar crisis- such as the loss or necessary separation between parents and children or children and their favorite object.

About the Author:
Beloved author and illustrator MARIANNE RICHMOND has touched the lives of millions for nearly two decades through her award-winning books, greeting cards, and other gift products that offer people the most heartfelt way to connect with each other. She lives in the Minneapolis area. Visit www.mariannerichmond.com.


Book Review: Pinkerton's Great Detective: The Amazing Life and Times of James McParland by Beau Riffenburgh

Pinkerton's Great Detective: The Amazing Life and Times of James McParland by Beau Riffenburgh is an intriguing exploration of the legendary Pinkerton detective who took down the Molly Maguires and the Wild Bunch. The operatives of the Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency were renowned for their skills of subterfuge, infiltration, and investigation. This is particularly true of McParland. So thrilling were McParland’s cases that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle included the cunning detective in a story along with Sherlock Holmes. There are many conflicting accounts of McPharland's life, and this book looks at the likelihood of what is true in light of the variety of stories and known facts about his life and times.

Pinkerton's Great Detective is the result of Riffenburgh digging into the recently released Pinkerton archives. Colorful narratives and a sharp look at the conflicting stories are combined to give interested readers the first biography of McParland and the agency’s cloak-and-dagger methods. There are a lot of theories and story explored within the research and suppositions of Riffenburgh. The result of the meticulous research makes for a dense but very interesting read. I was intrigued by the life and mysterious portrayed, but had to put the book down a few times to read something of a less dense nature. There are just so many stories about McParland, some perfectly possible and others completely impossible, that Riffenburgh had a huge amount of ground to cover and make accessible to interested parties. I think the result is well done, thoroughly researched and vetted, and an interesting read.

Pinkerton's Great Detective is an educational and interesting read for anyone interested in real detectives and the evolution of cloak and dagger detecting in the early days of the Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency. With the re-surging interest in Sherlock Holmes, I think that Riffenburgh will find an eager audience of individuals interested in one of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's inspirations.

Book Review: The Alchemist War by John Seven, Craig Phillips

The Alchemist War is the first book in the middle grade series the Time-Tripping Faradays written by John Seven and illustrated by Craig Phillips. A wager involving Hannibal’s elephants and a mouse lands the Faradays in hot water with their employer, the Cosmos Institute. They are punished with a trip to 1648 Prague to educate Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand III about fashions in footwear. Teenage siblings Dawkins and Hypatia fall in with alchemist Jan Richthausen. Somebody is meddling with technology that is beyond even the Faradays. Dawk and Hype traipse along on a multi-century chase that loops back around to close with tantalizing hints of adventures to come.

The Alchemist War seems to have less to do with the actual alchemists and much more about setting up an exciting and plausible set of adventures for the Faraday family. I loved the characters, and the technology, that sets the stage for the story. Dawk and Hype are well done, as are their slightly too trusting parents and the electronic guardian that seems eager to lead them into adventure and allow them some freedom to explore which might not be the best idea since they are on probation due to Hawk's previous adventure. The set up with the alchemist is good, as is the very plausible connection of personalities, technology, and rules that make the time travel that the entire series hinges on work. I think the history and factual bits woven into the story just might capture the attention of some readers and encourage further research.  Since I had a galley version, I did have a few editing issues, certain letters seemed to be missing regularly through out the copy, but I am going to assume (I know, usually a bad idea) that those were fixed in the final edits. All in all, and fun and interesting read that should capture the attention of many readers.

The Alchemist War was a well done and intriguing start to a new series. I think that it will be well received, particularly by those that grew up reading books like the Magic Tree House series when facts about history and science are delivered in adventure and excitement. I look forward to seeing just where Dawk, Hype, and their family end up next.


About the Author:
John Seven grew up in the 1970s, when science fiction movies and TV shows were cheap and fun. His favorite shows were The Starlost, Land of the Lost, and Return to the Planet of the Apes, and he loved time travel most of all. John collaborated with his wife, illustrator Jana Christy, on the comic book Very Vicky and a number of children’s books, including the multi-award-winning The Ocean Story, A Year With Friends, A Rule Is To Break: A Child’s Guide To Anarchy, and Happy Punks 1-2-3. John was born in Savannah, GA, and currently lives in North Adams, MA, with his wife and their twin sons, Harry and Hugo, where they all watch a lot of Doctor Who and Lost together.

About the Illustrator:
Craig Phillips is an award winning illustrator who has been providing illustrations to the publishing and advertising industries in the United States, Australia, and Europe for over a decade. He has created book jackets and interior art for Random House, Penguin, Scholastic, Simon & Schuster, Hachette Book Group, TOR Books, Wizards Of The Coast, Oxford University Press, and many more. His work has been included in many art annuals, as well as national and international exhibitions.

Book Review: Northwood by Brian Falkner and Donovan Bixley

Northwood is a middle grade novel written by Brian Falkner and illustrated Donovan Bixley. Cecilia Undergarment discovers that the dog next door is being mistreated. She is determined to help him, but her daring rescue sends her and the dog, Rocky, on an amazing adventure into the dark forest called Northwood. This forest is rumored to be home to black lions, and no one that goes in seems to come back out again. Cecilia and Rocky discover even bigger mysteries about the forest, like a castle and people that live seemingly trapped there by the maze and lions. Can Cecelia figure out the mysterious of the forest and find her way home, or will she having the leading role in the next mysterious disappearance story?

Northwood begins in Cecelia's neighborhood, and her strange home made of balloons. Then comes the fact that she can talk to animals, and needs to rescue the poor dog next door. Somehow these facts come together and lead to Cecelia and Rocky floating away into the depths of the Northwood, and beginning an even more dangerous trek through the dark wood.  I loved that all the strangeness found in Cecelia's life and the Northwood are eventually explained, but that process does not take away the wonder that their existence brings. Black lions, the mysterious fog, impossibly hard trees, and more are all introduced and explained wonderfully. The characters and language are used extremely well and left me feeling like I am missing the magic that might be hiding the the world around me.

I think Cecelia is a great character, she is smart and strong minded. I think that her tenaciousness and flexibility to do what needs to be done in order to do the right thing makes her a great role model. Evan's love of and misuse of big words,  Avery's personality, and the variety of other characters come together nicely to make the story exciting and fun to read. There is plenty of 'kid' humor- with names like Tony Baloney and Cecilia Undergarment how can you doubt it. However, there is also a message about doing the right thing (particularly when it is not easy) and some sensitive topics handled beautifully. The setting descriptions are very well done, and the illustrations are equally delightful. The book is an all around win, with my only disappointment being that there were still some lose ends that I would like to have seen tied up at the end.

I greatly enjoyed Northwood and would highly recommend it to middle grade readers, and just about everyone that enjoys fantasy like fiction that feels like it could happen because of the writing style. Fans of Lemony Snickett style asides and getting a few good snickers out of silly names and such will particularly enjoy the story.

Book Review: Michael Recycle Meets Bootleg Peg by Ellie Bethel, Alexandra Colombo

Michael Recycle Meets Bootleg Peg is a picturebook written by Ellie Bethel and illustrated by Alexandra Colombo. This is a book in the Michael Recycle! series, but it is not necessary to read the series as a whole or in order to appreciate it. Michael Recycle is a caped-clean-Earth-crusader. He is on the job, turning his attention to the high seas after his favorite restaurant's menu is rendered fishless because of overfishing. Michael aims to rights another environmental wrong as he searches for the culprit, Bootleg Peg, and receives aid from the ocean creatures in the process.

Michael Recycle Meets Bootleg Peg is a colorful and fun adventure that highlights the need to pay attention to how our actions affect the world in both big and small ways. Michael is an echo aware hero that works to keep the environment healthy. Bootleg Peg is a mean pirate that is more worried about her own green and enjoyment than the way her actions affect the creatures she captures or the world in general. The confrontation is exciting and the solution novel. I loved the use of ocean creature to help solve the problem.

Michael Recycle Meets Bootleg Peg is full of bright and fun illustrations that will interest most younger readers. The environmental message could come off as a little heavy handed to older children and adults, but I think it will be well received by the intended audience and will be a good tool in teaching environmental awareness and care.

Early Book Review: Shapes in Math, Science and Nature: Squares, Triangles and Circles by Catherine Sheldrick Ross, Bill Slavin

Shapes in Math, Science and Nature: Squares, Triangles, and Circles is a children's concept book written by Catherine Sheldrick Ross and illustrated by Bill Slavin which is scheduled for release on April 1st 2014. This book discusses the tree basic shapes (squares, triangles, and circles) and their importance in the world. These shapes are everywhere and are extremely important in the disciplines of math and science. The book is full of interesting facts about these shapes, and their three dimensional counterparts. Explanations of these shapes and the applications in geometry, engineering, school, and much more can inspire young readers.

Shapes in Math, Science, and Nature is a book that introduces the history and current practical applications of geometry and much more. I really enjoyed the variety of puzzles and activities that are included throughout the book to bring home the points already made, and to encourage readers to take their new knowledge to the next level. I think this book would be a wonderful resources for classrooms, parents, and particularly home schooling families working with geometry or engineering. Young readers that are particularly interested in math, nature, science, or engineering will enjoy exploring the book to further their understanding.
 
Shapes in Math, Science and Nature is an introduction and expansion of information about the basics of geometry. It covers the applications at home, in school and just about everywhere in between. Puzzles and activities add to the fun factor and make the book a great classroom and study resource.


Giveaway and Excerpt of Nightengale's Nest, The New Book by Nikki Loftin

Nikki Loftin's new novel, The Nightingale's Nest, is a powerful novel about friendship and family that calls to mind Bridge to Terabithia.

Twelve-year-old John Fischer Jr., or "Little John" as he’s always been known, is spending his summer helping his father with his tree removal business, clearing brush for Mr. King, the wealthy owner of a chain of Texas dollar stores, when he hears a beautiful song that transfixes him. He follows the melody and finds, not a bird, but a young girl sitting in the branches of a tall sycamore tree.

There’s something magical about this girl, Gayle, especially her soaring singing voice, and Little John’s friendship with Gayle quickly becomes the one bright spot in his life, for his home is dominated by sorrow over his sister’s death and his parents’ ever-tightening financial difficulties.

But then Mr. King draws Little John into an impossible choice—forced to choose between his family’s survival and a betrayal of Gayle that puts her future in jeopardy.

Inspired by a Hans Christian Andersen story, Nightingale's Nest is an unforgettable novel about a boy with the weight of the world on his shoulders and a girl with the gift of healing in her voice.

a Rafflecopter giveaway 

Excerpt:
Gayle leaned against me, and I felt her hair brush my arm. I reached down and petted her, my hand stroking once, twice, the way my mom used to do when I was little. The way she hadn’t done in almost a year.
But Mama had told me I was the size of a man, now, and I should expect to be treated like one.
I was glad to be so much stronger, most of the time. My muscles were harder, and so were the calluses on my hands from helping my dad with the business. It was just… I didn’t know getting big meant the end of anything soft. Maybe if Raelynn hadn’t died, I’d still have one person who would hug me.
Gayle leaned in closer and said, “I’m not supposed to sing. But Mrs. Cutlin hurt herself on the stove, and I thought if I sang, it would help her. But… it didn’t.”
I wasn’t sure what Gayle meant – that she thought her singing would help. Maybe she imagined it would cheer Mrs. Cutlin up. I could have told her that wouldn’t work. Just last year, the woman had refused to let two other foster boys attend their own fifth-grade graduation swim party. She said they’d been acting up, and she wasn’t going to reward bad behavior.
I remembered Jeb’s slip of the tongue and wondered. Maybe the foster people knew Mrs. Cutlin wasn’t all that nice. Maybe something had happened with those two boys. Maybe Mrs. Cutlin -- or Jeb -- had marked them up, and didn’t want anyone to see the signs of a beating. Gayle’s face had grown so sad and closed off, I knew it was time to change the subject. But first... “Gayle? Why did Jeb say your name was Suzie?”
“That’s what they call me,” she said and shrugged. She pulled three pieces of tall Johnson grass up and began to braid them together, winding blossoms from the pink evening primroses that sprinkled the lawn into the braid. “But it’s not my real name. I just pretend, so they’ll leave me alone. Sometimes I forget.”
“What is your real name?” I paused. Maybe Susan was her middle name, or something. “Your whole name, I mean.”
“I’m not supposed to tell,” she whispered. “That’s what got me in the most trouble yesterday, when the preacher came with the extra clothes.” She looked down and picked at the shirt she had on. It was a different shirt, I noticed, red and blue striped. Not nearly as worn-out as the one from yesterday, even if this one didn’t fit her as well. “First he told Mrs. Cutlin I shouldn’t be so dirty. He’s the one who called the caseworker to come out today. Then he asked my name, and Mrs. Cutlin got so mad.”
“Why?”
Gayle shrugged again, and ran across to the base of the sycamore. “She says if I act crazy, I’ll have to live somewhere worse. She said to keep my mouth shut.”
I knew why Mrs. Cutlin didn’t want Gayle to act crazy. If she did, they might take her away and make her foster some other kid, a bigger one that ate more, maybe even one she couldn’t shove around. Or they might not let her foster any more at all, and then how would Mrs. Cutlin pay the cable bill?
“Come on,” I said, standing up and pulling stray dandelion clocks off my shirt. “You can tell me your name. I won’t say anything.”


“I’ll give you a hint,” she said. Then she opened her mouth and sang. It sounded like bird song, almost exactly, but some kind of bird I’d never heard before. I could tell the difference between dozens of different calls – cardinals to crows, meadowlarks to mourning doves. But this? It was more beautiful than any bird I’d ever heard. 
Nikki Loftin
Nikki Loftin is a writer and native Texan who lives just outside Austin, Texas, with her two boys, two dogs, nine chickens, and one very patient husband. She writes Middle Grade novel-length fiction as well as personal essays, puppet plays, articles, poems, and short stories. She is the author of The Sinister Sweetness of Splendid Academy and Nightingale's Nest. Nikki is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin graduate writing program (MA, '98). She has been a popcorn seller, waitress, bookstore employee, Music and Gifted/Talented teacher, and a Director of Family Ministries. Her favorite food/obsession is ice cream, preferably Blue Bell Moo-llenium Crunch. On very good days, she prefers writing even to ice cream.