Happy Hanukkah, everyone! No, we’re not Jewish, but my family likes to celebrate Hanukkah. And this is one of the picture books I like to read every year. It doesn’t really explain the meaning behind the holiday, so it’s not a great teaching tool, but it’s flavored with hope and family, two of the holiday’s […]
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Lewis Carroll, 1865, Book Review
I have never much cared for Alice in Wonderland. Before today, I had never read the book, only seen parts of the Disney movie. But since Alice features in the book I am currently writing, I had to take the plunge. And I found that I still don’t care for Alice. Before the Victorian era, […]
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, by Kate DiCamillo, 2006, Book Review
This is an adorable novel with the sweetly nostalgic feel of an old classic, which Bagram Ibatoulline intensifies with his stunning illustrations. It reminded me greatly of Margery William’s The Velveteen Rabbit. I would estimate the independent reading level suitable for tweens, but the story is a fabulous read-aloud for children as young as four and five, […]
The Great Fuzz Frenzy, by Janet Stevens and Susan Stevens Grummel, 2005, Book Review
I discovered this fabulous picture book a few years ago with my middle son and we both loved it. Now my youngest son asks me to read it again and again. And I oblige, because it’s one of those rare books that never wears out no matter how many times you read it. The pictures […]
Why Animals Talk, by Eric Pullin, illustrated by Chris Davis, ebook review
I was encouraged by other kids-on-Kindle enthusiasts to try out Eric Pullin’s Why series, so I purchased a .99 download. I didn’t know what I was getting into, but I was happily surprised. Why Animals Don’t Talk is sixteen pages of versed rhyme slightly below my usual range of expertise. This one’s a charming read-aloud for the […]
Grumpy Badger's Christmas, by Paul Bright, illus. by Jane Chapman, Book Review
My literary interests don’t usually extend to picture books, but every now and again one tickles my fancy. Such is the case with Grumpy Badger’s Christmas. Deep in the forest, all the animals are decorating for the holidays, but Grumpy Badger just wants to be left alone. He checks and rechecks his spring provisions and settles into […]