Book Review: Ninja Red Riding Hood by Corey Rosen Schwartz and Dan Santat

Ninja Red Riding Hood is a picturebook written by Corey Rosen Schwartz  and illustrated by Dan Santat. It is a companion to the hit The Three Ninja Pigs, another fractured fairy tale and sure-fire storytime hit.  Ever since the three little pigs started teaching everyone Ninja skills Wolf just can’t catch a break!, huffing and puffing just hasn’t been enough to scare up a good meal. His craving for meat sends Wolf to classes at the dojo, and soon he thinks that he is ready to try out his new moves. A little girl and her tiny granny should be easy targets, right?

Ninja Red Riding Hood is another great twist on classic fairy tales for the picturebook set. This story is told from the wolf's point of view, and he is very frustrated. Since so many of his fairy tale foes have started studying martial arts he has had a hard time finding food. He thinks that Little Red and her grandmother will be easier targets than the ninja pigs, especially as he spends some time training as well. Unfortunately for him, Little Red is no slouch when it comes to martial arts herself. A fun story, with the message that anyone can be strong and capable, regardless of age, gender, or even species.

I would highly recommend Ninja Red Riding Hood to all picturebook fans. Readers involved in martial arts, fairy tale fans, and those that loved The Three Ninja Pigs will all really enjoy the art and story.

Book Review: It's in His Kiss (A Lucky Harbor novel) by Jill Shalvis

It's in His Kiss is the newest Lucky Harbor novel by Jill Shalvis, and I expect it is the start of a new trio. Becca Thorpe left behind her old life of doing everything she can for her brother, and ran away to the beach. She is ready to take chances and live in the moment, particularly if one of those moments includes the grumpy but sexy surfer she meets after arriving in Lucky Harbor. Boatbuilder and investment genius Sam Brody is a self-made man with a few trust issues and a father that takes more than he gives. Working together is a dangerous proposition for them both, but well worth the risks. But, when Becca's brother comes to town asking for help, will her habit of helping more than she should take her away from a chance at love?

It's In His Kiss has exactly what I expect from Shalvis, but not what the book summaries I have seen online prepped me for. Some of the major plot points are slightly different in the book than on the Amazon and Goodreads summaries say, but everything that Shalvis fans look for is still very much in play. Becca is a smart and strong woman, that has gone through quite a bit. She never received the care and support she deserved, and as a result is more than a little weary of others and giving her trust. Sam has not had the greatest life either, and has earned his trust issues as well. Thankfully, his friends and support system are firmly in place and knows his worth and even with his issues is a strong and caring individual. The chemistry is great, there is humor and a good set up for where the Lucky Harbor love bug will strike next. I found that there was a little less of the humor that I normally find in the Lucky Harbor crowd, less wacky antics from the secondary characters, but it was still a good read.

It's In His Kiss was a nice weekend read, one that had me wondering how everyone's issues would resolve, and how the closest characters to Becca and Sam will get together in the next book (which I am looking forward to). It was not the best that I have read from Shalvis, but it was still pretty darn good.

Book Review: The Mischievians by William Joyce

The Mischievians is an older picturebook by William Joyce  that explains the strange smells, disappearing remotes, missing homework, and all the little things that you have never been able to explain on your own. None of these lost things or weird experiences happen by chance, they are the work of the Mischievians. These creatures are an ancient race of troublemakers who do all the things that embarrass you, bug you, and that YOU get blamed for!

The Mischievians is a fun and mock-informational book about the little mischief makers that make life a little more difficult. readers will meet the Homework Eater (steals your homework), the Endroller (uses up ALL the toilet paper), the Yawn Mower (makes you yawn at the worst time), and many more. The use of imagination is powerful and the details here are impressive. I loved the illustrations and the ideas and possibilities that this book opened the door too. My only reservation here is that so many children, and adults, refuse to accept responsibility for their own mistakes and faults that this book might give some imaginative folk the feeling that their responsibility avoidance is okay. As someone that loses things on a regular basis, particularly after putting them in a specifically 'safe' place, I like the idea that something else is to blame but know the difference. 

I enjoyed The Mischievians and would recommend it to older fans of picturebooks and for sharing in a group. The only people I would avoid sharing this book with are those that are regularly avoiding taking responsibility for themselves. It just might give them ideas that might amuse, could also continue or encourage bad habits.

Book Review: The Silver Rings by Samuel Valentino

The Silver Rings by Samuel Valentino is a fun book for middle grade readers.  Celia and Alice are twin sisters whose bid for freedom from their evil stepmother leads them on a journey through a world of fantasy and imagination. They encounter a sarcastic fairy godmother, giants, charming princes, an overly dramatic fox, and more along the way. Bits of familiar tales are woven through the story, along with some lesser known stories. However, each tale is given a humorous twist. 

The Silver Rings is a fun twist on fairy tales for the younger set. There are many recognizable fairy tales that are heavily woven into the story, which makes the reading feel more inclusive to those that feel like they know more about the story than what the author is initially telling them. at the same time, there are less known stories and many unique twists that will keep even some of the most jaded readers on their toes.The characters are well developed, and while often times the reading is easy, there is a sardonic twist and a feeling of sarcastic humor that would made this book great for middle grade readers, particularly reluctant readers. I really enjoyed the common thread through the whole book that it is not being royalty, or pretty, or anything so shallow that gets a happy ending, it is resilience, planning, and creative thinking that will help you come out ahead. 

I really enjoyed The Silver Rings, and  think that it will have a wide fan base once word gets out about the story. It is clever and fun, with a feel that is somehow both familiar and unique. the best of both worlds.

Early Book Review: Bug on a Bike by Chris Monroe

Bug on a Bike by Chris Monroe is a picturebook currently scheduled for release on October 1 2014. This book follows a bug leading everyone he meets on a long trip. As he rides his bike on friends ask if they are there yet, but the bug does not answer. When the bug finally reaches his destination, with everyone from the athletic pickle to a surprisingly agile nickel along for the ride, everyone is happily surprised. 

Bug on a Bike is a cute story of friendship and exploration. I loved that the bug leads his friends on a merry ride through the country side with the goal of giving them (and himself) a happy surprise. The illustrations are cute and cartoony, with bright colors that will catch the eye. There are rhymes and silly details on each page, some of which you might miss on the first read. While I do not want my kids randomly following anyone off into the distance with no idea where they are going, I think the story is still cute and worth a look. 

Book Review: Claude on the Slopes by Alex T. Smith

Claude on the Slopes by Alex T. Smith is a cute picturebook. It will be available as a hardcover on October 1 2014.  Claude is a dog that is far from ordinary and spends each day after his owners leave pursuing adventure. In this book Claude and his best friend Sir Bobblysock go to the Snowy Mountain and learn to sled, ski, and more.

Claude on the Slopes is a fun book. Cluade is a dog on a mission, to have new adventures. He is sweet and sometimes a bit simple, but never comes off as a bumbling fool. Sir Bobblysock is a sock yes, but he is somehow also the more practical of the two characters. Claude learns about sledding, skiing, snowman building, snowball fights, the dangers of avalanche, and the methods to help those buried after one. The illustrations are great, adding some color and aditional humor to the tale.

Young readers that are fans of picturebooks featuring world discovery by an innocent main character that gets to do this they cannot, like Curious George, will enjoy Claude on the Slopes and the previous book in the series Claude at the Beach. While I enjoyed reading the book I do not think it broke new ground and did not leave me looking for more, but I am certainly glad that I met Claude and Sire Bobblysock!

Early Book Review: The Angry Little Puffin by Timothy Young

The Angry Little Puffin by Timothy Young is a picturebook that is currently scheduled for release on September 28, 2014. One little puffin at a zoo or aquarium is upset after hearing visitors constantly mistake him for a penguin. He finally reaches his breaking point and goes on a rant about the many differences between the two. that is until a little girl stops him in mid-speech by explaining to her father why puffins are her favorite.

The Angry Little Puffin is a well drawn and fun picturebook. I think the little puffin is absolutely adorable, and most readers (regardless of age) can relate to his upset. we have all had a moment when we felt alone, misunderstood, or unappreciated. The little girl actually seeing the puffin and recognizing his characteristics for the wonders they are turns everything around. The book not only shows children that we all get angry and frustrated, but it also shows how we can help ourselves and others when they reach that breaking point. I think the point that reaching out can be a simple, small thing but can mean everything to the one they are helping.

I loved The Angry Little Puffin and think everyone else will too. children that love nature and animals will love learning about the puffin, and just what makes them different from the penguin. the book can also let readers of all ages know that getting upset is normal, but not only can you calm down but a small effort can go miles in helping lift someone else out of a frustrated funk as well. 

Book Review: My Teacher Is a Monster! (No, I Am Not.) by Peter Brown

My Teacher Is a Monster! (No, I Am Not.) by Peter Brown is a great picturebook for this time of year. A boy named Bobby thinks his teacher is the worst. She is loud, she yells, and he is fairly certain she is a monster. Luckily, Bobby can go to his favorite spot in the park on weekends to play. Then one day he sees his teacher there! That day Bobby learns that monsters are not always what they seem.

My Teacher Is a Monster! (No, I Am Not.) is a fun story that most school age children can relate to. Either they are upset with their teacher for the work they need to do, a punishment they feel is unfair, or stories that they have heard about the teacher before school even starts. Then the is the innate belief with most young students that teachers really do not exist outside the school building, and you get a universal starting ground for a charming story. Each page has small monstrous details for the teacher and little bits of humor in each illustration. This is one of those picturebooks that stands up to several readings and will be a great going back to school read for story times or at home.

My Teacher Is a Monster! (No, I Am Not.) is a book that I would recommend for group or one on one reading. Newly independent readers will enjoy exploring the book on their own or sharing with others. The story is fun, humorous, and has a universal theme that all readers will enjoy.

Book Review: Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble by H.P. Mallory

Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble is the first book in the Jolie Wilkins series by H.P. Mallory  is a blend of human, urban fantasy, and romance. Jolie is a self employed psychic approached by a powerful warlock to help solve a murder. The trouble is that in the process she discovers that she has the unique power that allows her to bring the dead back to life. This makes her a major asset, and there are several players that want her for their team. The gorgeous warlock that discovered her powers, a ruthless witch in search of more power, a couple of vampires with a taste for witches, and more are all vying to have her on their side. Jolie needs to decide who has the best intentions, and her best interests at heart. Her love life is in play, but so is the fate of the supernatural creatures around the world. Can she master her powers and make the right choices?

Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble was a mixed bag for me. I know as the first book in the series there would need to be some serious world and character set up for the future. However I felt like the introduction of men interested in the self deprecating and seriously in the need of a mirror Jolie was a little much. As was the oversexed best friend. I felt like the guys were just tossed at her, not because they were necessary to the plot (which they were but not as relationship fodder) but because the author wanted to set up complications that could carry through the series. now that I have that out of the way, I did like the premise of the book and the majority of the characters. I regularly got annoyed with Jolie and her disbelief that men could be attracted to her and her obsession with her appearance (because of course outward appearance is everything and personality and whatnot mean nothing). The puzzles of who is on what side and who has ulterior motives is very well done, and I was actually surprised at one point. I m hoping that now all of the story and world prep work is done the second book in the series will have some serious character growth and action to make the investment worth it. I am trying to trust that it will, but am a little leery. 

I would recommend Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble to readers that are a fan of the author. Readers that are willing to read a first novel that is mostly the set up for the following series might want to give it a try, but I would wait until reading a review of the second book (which I will get to eventually) before making an investment. 

Book Review and Giveaway: Captain No Beard: An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate's Life by Carole P. Roman

Captain No Beard: An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate's Life by Carole P. Roman is a fun picturebook.  Captain No Beard and his pirate ship The Flying Dragon set sail for a voyage of the imagination with his fearless crew of four: First Mate Hallie, Mongo the Monkey, Linus the loudmouthed lion, and Fribbit the floppy frog. Normally a young boy named Alexander, his cousin Hallie, and three stuffed animals, once they board his bed their world is transformed into a magical vessel, sailing the seven seas on dangerous and exciting adventures!

Captain No Beard is the first book in a series of picturebooks about Alexander, Hallie, and their stuffed animal crew using their imagination to explore the seven seas. They explore pirate terms, use team work, and entertain young readers. The illustrations are colorful and fun, exploring the use of imagination.

The second book, Pepper Parrot's Problem with Patience continues the narrative about friendship, teamwork, and how everyone is a little different. In this book Pepper is a new member to the crew and is having trouble keeping up with everyone else. It all comes down to different learning styles and shows young readers that no only is it okay to learn or think differently from others, but that helping each other is much better than laughing, teasing, or getting angry.

Would you like to add this series to your personal or classroom collection? I just happen to have a complete set in my hot little hands. Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway below to win every captain no beard book in my possession. The set includes; Captain No Beard: An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate's Life, Pepper Parrot's Problem with Patience, Stuck in the Doldrums, Strangers on the High Seas,The Crew Goes Coconuts, and The Treasure of Snake Island. 

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