Book Review: Everybody Loves Ramen by Eric Hites

Everybody Loves Ramen by Eric Hites is a book for everyone that have developed a taste for instant ramen noodles, whether from necessity or choice. This book offers related fun facts, stories, puzzles, and fifty recipes that anyone can make using the packets of Ramen. The combinations range from obvious to “really?” and stem from the experiments of the author and his friends conducted to concoct original, and hopefully taste, ways to cook a staple in their lives. 

Everybody Loves Ramen is a fun gift for students and adults making their way on their own for the first time. Almost everyone on a limited budget has turned to Ramen Noodles at some point, and these recipes are entertaining, and some sound appetizing. I will admit that I was a little disappointed, because I did not read the description and was hoping for a book on making traditional Ramen, but I was still entertained and have considered some taste combinations that had not been on my radar before. The book is fun and humorously written, well worth a look if you have any fond memories of Ramen, or are just starting to branch out into the hungry realm of “I’m broke” cuisine.  

Early Book Review: What Color is a Kiss by Rocio Bonilla

What Color is a Kiss by Rocio Bonilla is a picturebook that was originally published in 2015, but has a new edition being published on December 6 2016. Sassy and intrepid Monica loves to paint and sees her world in every color of the rainbow, but the color to paint a kiss is a question that nags at her. She paints and paints, hoping to discover the answer. With the help of her mother, Monica discovers that kisses and love come in all colors.

What Color is a Kiss is a sweet and creative way to explore colors, concepts, and creativity. Monica loves to paint and create. Her current project is to paint a kiss, but what color should it be? She explores the positives and negatives of several colors- listing the good and bad things that she associates with them- not finding just the right shade in her exploration. When her mother stops in and gives a moment of affection Monica comes to realize than any color can be a kiss, and every color can show love. A simple and sweet story that is good for exploring creativity, self expression, and colors. 

Book Review: The Fantasy Artroom by Arron Pocock

The Fantasy Artroom by Arron Pocock is a book that will help you brush up on your skills and add new tricks and techniques to your repertoire. Sketching, line art, watercolors, mixed media, composition, rendering methods ― The Fantasy Artroom is your all-in-one traveling companion into the world of fantasy art. These step-by-step demonstrations offer easy-to-follow methods for drawing trees and landscapes; forming dwarves, witches, mermaids, centaurs, and other characters; and putting them all together into enchanting compositions. Introduce a new dimension to your drawing, line art, and watercolor images with this richly illustrated guide and its helpful exercises, tips, and suggestions.

The Fantasy Artroom is a nice blend of explaining the whys and hows of fantasy art. Arron Pocock explains their techniques and preferences in the genre. I like the way the process is discussed, including technical skill, intent, and inspiration. I find that all three are important in all art forms, and there is no exception here.  Everything was covered thoroughly and there was plenty of encouragement along with the discussion of skill and practice. I think inspiring artists could benefit from this material.

The Fantasy Artroom was a well organized, beautiful, and instructional book. readers that are interested in expanding their art skill, particularly in dealing with fantasy worlds and creatures, will find much of interest here. 

Early Book Review: Doodle Adventures: The Search for the Slimy Space Slugs! by Mike Lowery

Doodle Adventures: The Search for the Slimy Space Slugs! by Mike Lowery was an interactive read for middle grade readers. It is currently scheduled for release on May 17 2016.This is the first book in a lighthearted fantasy stories where the reader first draws him- or herself into the story, and then continues by following prompts and adding more illustrations and doodles. Set in space, the book invites the reader to join Carl, a duck and member of a super-secret international group of explorers, on a journey in search of a very important grail-like object; a jar with an artifact that's gone missing.

Doodle Adventures is a fun book that I think my middle grade reader will absolutely love. The book often prompts readers to draw something that is absolutely necessary to the story, but leaves the exact content of the artwork up to the reader. There is some silly humor, plenty of action, and lots of fun. The illustrations that are already in the book, of Carl the Duck and the action, are fun and well done so that they catch the eye and ad to the story. However, they are also simple enough not to discourage the reader from adding their own ideas and artwork to the story. Readers that enjoy illustrated chapterbooks, graphic novels, and drawing will all enjoy this book. The only issue I can see is with readers that might not remember that library books and other books are not fill in the blank or for addition additional artwork too. However, I have faith that most parents that have children with that inclination will already know and handle the issue appropriately.

Doodle Adventures is on pre-order for my son, and I think any reader that needs to feel fully involved in the story, or really loves to doodle, will adore this book. I think this will appeal to readers that like interaction with the story, silly humor, and fast paced stories. I think this would be a good pick for less confident or reluctant readers, as long as they know not to write in their other books. 

Early Book Review: Crochet One-Skein Wonders® for Babies by Judith Durant, Edie Eckman

Crochet One-Skein Wonders® for Babies: 101 Projects for Infants & Toddlers is a nonfiction book that is currently scheduled for release on May 3 2016. This book collects one hundred and one patterns that use one skein of yarn or less. Projects include Hats and caps, bootees and socks, mitts, dresses, tops and bottoms as well as blankets, bibs, soft toys, bottle cozies, diaper bags, and more. Most of the patterns are accessible to crocheters of all skill levels, although there are some stitches and patterns that will keep more experienced crafters thinking as they work as well. A nice collection for crocheters that are looking for small projects and cute gifts to make.

Crochet One-Skein Wonders® for Babies is a nicely organized and varied collection of crochet patterns for young recipients. Single skein projects are great for keeping in the car, working on while traveling, or for stash busting. I will admit to using these projects for all three. The patterns are interesting enough for all crocheters, with plenty that can be done by all skill levels. These are all original patterns were contributed by 54 designers from around the world. Each project comes with complete instructions, charts, schematics, and beautiful photographs so that no matter how you like to work (I like following a pattern while the charts only confuse my many times) you can complete a perfect project. Particular favorite patterns of mine from the book are the April Showers Cape, Dad and Me Necktie, and the Kitty Kat Lovey.

I would recommend Crochet One-Skein Wonders® for Babies for crocheters that love crafting for the little ones, and will get much use from these patterns.  

Book Review: Crochet Mandalas by Marinke Slump, Anita Mundt

Crochet Mandalas by Marinke Slump and Anita Mundt is a collection of 20 original patterns based on a mandala motif. The projects include homewares; like a table cover, coasters, rug, and cushion, along with a vest, shrug, and other wearable art. Each pattern is charted and accompanied by full color photographs of the finished product. Instructions include lists of supplies and abbreviations, plus explanations of special stitches and gauge. Skill levels range from simple to advanced, providing an exciting array of possibilities for novices as well as experienced crocheters.

Crochet Mandalas is a well organized collection of projects with clear instructions, patterns, and vibrant photographs. There were a number of helpful explanations and charts that would help less experienced crafters master the skills and have successful finished projects. While retro is in, again, I have to say that I found that some of the projects felt dated and there were only three that I would want to actually try. Sadly those three are ones that I have seen similar finished products and instructions for previously. I think the book is a good option for those that want to make this particular style or set of projects, but it is not one that I would recommend to every crochet fan out there. 

Book Review: Frankencrayon by Michael Hall

Frankencrayon is a picturebook by Michael Hall. However, this book has been cancelled despite the fact that the crayons staring in the story have costumes and were going to tell an fantastic story. However, now that someone is reading the cancelled story, they explain why the picture book has ended. It is all because of the horrible scribble that suddenly interrupted the story. They tried to clean the page, but the scribble just kept getting bigger. It was out of control and everyone was so disturbed that they cancelled the book, but they forgot to tell Frankencrayon. So when the crayons playing him entered on Page 22, they ran right into the scribble.

Frankencrayon is another great picturebook from Hall. I like when the characters of a book talk directly to the reader, particularly when it is done right like it is here. The crayons are preparing to perform for the reader and are disappointed in the cancellation. The explanation of the scribble and resulting cancellation is humorous and delightfully illustrated. The scribble, made continuously worse by the crayons trying to 'fix' it reminded me of many situations. One that could be easily resolved, but only escalated because of fear or panic. When the forgotten Frankencrayon makes his appearance readers expect him to be afraid or act like the other crayons, but the unique perspective and solution by this trio of crayons is perfect.

Frankencrayon is a wonderful picturebook, and would work as a storytime read, or for sharing one on one. 

Early Book Review: Outdoor Math: Fun Activities for Every Season by Emma AdBage

Outdoor Math: Fun Activities for Every Season by Emma AdBage is a book that helps parents, teachers, and children to find ways to get outside and do some math at the same time. It is currently scheduled for release on April 1 2016. The book includes twenty-two outdoor activities, organized by season. With these activities, children will learn about numeracy and arithmetic, as well as math concepts such as shapes, time, greater/less than, even and odd numbers, patterns and grids. The activities have simple-to-follow instructions and are accompanied by adorable illustrations that provide clear visual demonstrations. The natural materials required (stones, pinecones, snowballs, worms) are easy to find in many environments. Supplementary spreads introduce the numbers 1 to 10 and further explore addition/subtraction and multiplication/division, with simplified explanations and illustrated examples. There are also science lessons here, regarding the properties of nature and how things change during the four seasons. Many of the activities can be done in pairs or groups, promoting teamwork and cooperation. A list of activities in the back matter indexes the activities and categorizes them by the math skills they develop.

Outdoor Math is full of pictures and detailed instructions and suggestions for engaging children in games that can help solidify math concepts. There are some very simple games and activities for the youngest learners such as working with shapes, there were more advanced activities that included multiplication and division. I think some of the games and pictures seemed a little dated to me, like the guides my teachers and parents had when I was a kid, the ideas are still sound and would be engaging for the right children. I did like that there was a good variety of games to chose from, and some for every season. It is a useful book, one that would be a good resource to have on hand or for checking out of the library and making copies of the activities you are most likely to implement with your own children or the group you work with or care for.

Outdoor Math is a great resource for parents and teachers to have at their disposal. Using these activities they can help teach or reinforce math lesson, all while having the children playing outside and active. A win-win as far as I am concerned. 

Early Book Review: Pure Soapmaking: How to Create Nourishing Natural Skin-Care Soaps by Anne-Marie Faiola

Pure Soapmaking: How to Create Nourishing Natural Skin-Care Soaps by Anne-Marie Faiola is a currently scheduled for release on February 9 2016. This is a great starter and instruction guide that explains the benefits and details of making your own cold process soaps. The book offers complete instructions, including the science and safety precautions needed. There are 32 recipes that range from simple castile bars to intricate swirls, embeds, and marbled and layered looks. There are photographs that guide you through the step-by-step instructions of cold-process soapmaking.

Pure Soapmaking is a well written and thoughtful instructional guide to the craft of making soaps. I find the idea of making cold-process soaps more than a little intimidating. However, I very much like knowing exactly what is in my skin care products- and those my children use. In this, the idea of crafting my own custom soaps is intriguing and desirable. I found the photography and text came together in a way that makes the process much less intimidating and much better understood. I think this is a much read for those just starting out in cold-process soap making and a handy resource to keep around and use for recipes and information even after feeling like you have mastered the basics. 

Pure Soapmaking is a wonderful and detailed guide to making your own soaps.  I have made my own soaps in the past, but never tried cold process soaps, since I find the use of lye more than a little intimidating. However, this book with its instructions and encouragement might help me make the leap. 

Book Review:Susan B. Anderson's Kids’ Knitting Workshop The Easiest and Most Effective Way to Learn to Knit! by Susan B. Anderson

Susan B. Anderson's Kids’ Knitting Workshop: The Easiest and Most Effective Way to Learn to Knit! by Susan B. Anderson is a great introduction to knitting for children, and adults new to the craft. This  introduction to knitting in the round includes easy-to-follow illustrated tutorials on techniques from casting on and binding off to joining colors to make stripes, and 17 progressively challenging knitting projects. The projects begin with simple infinity scarves and hats and build up to toys and decor. Step-by-step text and photographs that kids can read and follow on their own mean they will be knitting independently in no time.

Susan B. Anderson's Kids’ Knitting Workshop is a well organized and helpful tutorial for beginning knitters. The book is targeted to children and young adults, with projects that are focused on their demographics. However, as an experience crocheter with only a nominal knowledge of knitting I found the guide to be extremely helpful. While aimed at the younger set, I think adult knitters could use the information and tutorials to master the skill as well. I wish I had this book handy this first time I attempted to knit. With this guide I think I can make great strides in my skill set. I already feel more comfortable with the skill set, and think that anyone interested in doing the same could benefit from the book as well. I think kids and adults alike will find the guide well organized and helpful. The photographs, illustrations, and information combine to make the book readable and easily understood by all skill levels. The chapter on stocking your toolbox and sourcing yarn; as well as the advice on starting a knitting group and connecting with local knitting communities, charity knitting, and more was a nice bonus.

Susan B. Anderson's Kids’ Knitting Workshop is a helpful and very informative resource for children (and adults) that want to master knitting.  

Early Book Review: Snap by Hazel Hutchins, Dusan Petricic

Snap is a picturebook written by Hazel Hutchins and illustrated by Dusan Petricic. It is currently scheduled for release on September 22 2015. Who does not love a brand new box of crayons?  Evan is happily using them when, Snap! The brown crayon breaks in two. Then one by one, the others break, get crushed, are blown away, or simply disappear. Evan is frustrated, but scribbles using all the bits and pieces that are left and discovers new joys and uses for all of his crayons- regardless of the shape they are in.

Snap is a picturebook that makes readers think about emotion and creativity. When things do not go as planned Evan is frustrated and wants to throw things. instead he channels that energy and uses his not so perfect crayons in new ways, and in turns discovers new things. He combines colors, uses the crayons on their sides, and even finds use for the crumbling nubs. This is a good example for readers of all ages, not to let unexpected problems destroy our fun, creativity, or enjoyment of the day.

Snap is a delightful picturebook about moving past disappointment and finding the positive in life. Evan's brand new crayons break, disappear, and otherwise fail him. but, he moves forward and discovers new ways to use them that make him happy. I can think of many daily situations when we could all stand to follow in Evan's example- myself included. 

Book Review: Mechanica by Betsy Cornwell

Mechanica by Betsy Cornwell is a twist on Cinderella for mature middle grade readers, young adults, and adults. Nicolette learned to be an inventor at her mother’s knee. Her mom is gone now, and the Steps have turned her into a servant in her own home. On her sixteenth birthday, Nicolette discovers a secret workshop in the cellar and begins to dare to imagine a new life for herself. Could the mysterious books and tools hidden there be the key to escaping her dreary existence? With a technological exposition and royal ball on the horizon, the timing might just be perfect for Nicolette to earn her freedom at last.

Mechanica is a retelling of Cinderella with a touch or steampunk and extra fairy magic. Nicolette has lost her mother, who made magical, mechanical creations for both work and beauty. After her death Nick's father remarried and it was not long before she lost him as well. Then she was left to care for the house and the Steps herself, thankfully she had access to the machines and magic left behind to make things manageable. When she gains access to her mother's workshop on her sixteenth birthday everything gets better. She just might have found a way to escape and buy her family's home from the Steps- she can create and sell her own works. In the process she learns more about herself, her mother, and the larger world. Making friends and facing danger Nick just might have found a fairy tale ending, but is it what she really wants? I really enjoyed the dynamic of Nick and the friends she makes- although I did shh the big twist about them coming a mile away. What I found more interesting was that even though her new family is not exactly nice to Nick, there are moments when we can see each of the members as more than their cruel side. We are given glimpses that make them human and multifaceted despite their inhumane treatment of others. I also liked Nick's slow growth in understanding and worry about the work and magic she has involved herself in, and that through out everything being honest and true to herself prevails over some choices that would have made her life much nicer, at least on the surface.

Mechanica is more than a simple retelling of Cinderella. It is a coming of age story, a story about prejudice, a story about hard work, a story about determination, and a story about hope. While I could have done without a small bit of the story (love *cough* triangle) it is such a small portion of the larger story that it was easy enough to ignore. On top of it- the cover is awesome!

Some people are complaining that it sounds like a knock off of Cinder, but since I have not read Cinder (and the author sold this manuscript before Cinder was published) I cannot speak to that.

 

Book Review: Modular Crochet: The Revolutionary Method for Creating Custom-Designed Pullovers by Judith Copeland

Modular Crochet: The Revolutionary Method for Creating Custom-Designed Pullovers by Judith Copeland is a reprint of a crochet book from 1978. This book shows basic crachet technigues with plenty of detailed photographs to demonstrate how to crochet clothing using modular crochet techniques. The garments are worked in the same basic shape, which consists of eight modules, or rectangles. Yarn, color, size, and stitches used can turn the basic format into a variety of finished projects.

Modular Crochet is a technique that I have never really used, having taught myself to crochet via internet instructions and a few fantastic books while I was pregnant with my oldest child (who is just shy of 9). The idea is sound, and has been around for awhile, since this is a republication. I have to admit that I am intrigued and might be testing out the method when I finish up my current project. The technique is described well, and the photographs used do a good job of illustrating the technique. However, I will admit that I found the book to be dated, which is not completely unexpected. I think anyone that has the basic crochet stitches mastered, but is still intimidated by patterns and clothing could use this book to help master freeform or improvisational crochet. Not a bad guide, but definitely dated, although I guess we could just call it retro?

Modular Crochet is a well done guide, and would be useful to those wanting to try making clothing without using a prewritten pattern. The diagrams, instructions, and photographs work together to explain everything very well. My only complaint is that the book does not seem to be updated from the 1978 version in this publication.

Book Review: The Secret Kingdom by Michele Bledsoe, Richard Bledsoe

The Secret Kingdom is a combination of images and poetry celebrating the world of dreams in picturebook format by Michele Bledsoe and Richard Bledsoe.  Michele Bledsoe has been exhibiting her paintings and drawings in art galleries for almost 20 years. Inspired by the beautifully illustrated children’s books she grew up with, Michele started creating art when she was a child—and never stopped. With The Secret Kingdom, Michele Bledsoe hopes to inspire a new generation of artists to share her lifetime love of creating pictures. Art is for everyone, and The Secret Kingdom is a place that welcomes children of all ages.

The Secret Kingdom is less of a bedtime story, as it is marketed, and more of a book with the ability to inspire the interested, or either bore or frighten the uninterested. I enjoyed the flow of the poetry, and the related images were interesting and unique. Not a story or narrative, rather a book to display artwork with matching poetry that focuses on the power of dreams, art, and words.

I do no think this is a book for the typical picturebook, or even older picturebook crowd. The Secret Kingdom is a book best suited for those already with an interested in creating art, poetry, any kind or creative endeavor used to capture dreams and share them with others. From the descriptions I read, I expected more of a story or letter to young artists than I found in the pages, but it might find a special place in the collections of artists of all ages.