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Home » Staff Picks

Carol's Staff Picks

I really enjoy reading children's books of all kinds, especially non-fiction (you really can learn a lot from kids' books!) and somewhat edgy young adult fiction. These same tastes apply to my "adult" reading. Give me a great non-fiction book like King Leopold's Ghost, or a memoir like Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight and I am lost in deepest Africa or wherever the author chooses to take me. Historical fiction is another favorite and serves the same purpose of traveling to other worlds and other times in the comfort of an easy chair. Who could not be transported by a wonderful book like A Fine Balance?

Day of Tears (Paperback)

By Julius Lester
$7.99
ISBN-13: 9781423104094
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Jump At The Sun, 4/2007
Other Editions of this Title
This is an extraordinary account of slave life told in a simple style. Heartbreaking. For ages 12 and up.
Carol

The One and Only Shrek! (Hardcover)

By William Steig, Meryl Streep, Stanley Tucci
$29.95
ISBN-13: 9780312367138
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Macmillan Young Listeners, 3/2007
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This is a wonderful collecion of William Steig's most popular picture books in one sort-of-handy edition. To see them all together, from Shrek to Brave Irene, makes one marvel at his story telling and artistic talent. The stories have just the right mixture of humor and warmth to satisfy a wide ranging audience from 3 to 93.
Carol

"The Trouble with Dogs..." Said Dad (Hardcover)

By Bob Graham, Bob Graham
$12.99
ISBN-13: 9780763633165
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Candlewick, 6/2007
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Dave (the new dog) is getting into trouble and the family decides it's time to get him some training. But even the trainer sees that carefree, exuberant behavior is heart-warming! A wonderful, delicious new book from our favorite, Bob Graham, whose pictures are always as entertaining as his words. And if you like this, you must read "Let's Get a Pup", Said Kate. For animal lovers of all ages.
Carol

Sneakers, the Seaside Cat (Paperback)

By Margaret Wise Brown, Anne Mortimer
$6.99
ISBN-13: 9780064436229
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: HarperCollins, 5/2005
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Sneakers discovers the sea just like a little one might. The smells and creatures are different and interesting. This is a lovely introduction, beautifully illustrated, with the Margaret Wise Brown touch.
Carol

Lottie's New Beach Towel (Paperback)

By Petra Mathers, Petra Mathers
$6.99
ISBN-13: 9780689844416
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Aladdin, 5/2001
Other Editions of this Title
Aunt Mattie sends Lottie a beach towel just as she is going off for a picnic with Herbie. Little do they know that the beach towel will help fix the boat and also come in handy at a wedding during their adventurous day at the beach.
Carol

Sally Goes to the Beach (Hardcover)

By Stephen Huneck
$18.95
ISBN-13: 9780810941861
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Harry N. Abrams, 5/2000
Lovers of black (and yellow) labs will especially enjoy reading about Sally's vacation adventures at the beach. The large, colorful illustrations and the sparse text are perfect for very young "readers".
Carol

Global Babies (Board Books)

By Global Fund for Children, Keren Su, Frans Lemmens
$6.95
ISBN-13: 9781580891745
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Charlesbridge Publishing, 7/2007
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Very young children like to look at babies' faces. These baby faces from around the world are really quite special. They show a range of emotions, environments, cultures, and races. The one thing they have in common is that they are all beautiful!! A lovely book for babies and adults.
Carol

Paint The Wind (Hardcover)

By Pam Munoz Ryan
$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780439873628
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Scholastic Press, 9/2007
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Orphaned Maya is thrust into a completely different life when her strict paternal grandmother dies and she goes to live with her mother's relatives in Wyoming horse country. She discovers her love of horses and her innate courage while connecting especially to Artemisia, a horse that her mom used to ride. This is a wonderful adventure story written in sophisticated language that girls especially will love. Fans of Pam Munoz Ryan will not be disappointed. For ages 9-12.
Carol

Love, Stargirl (Hardcover)

By Jerry Spinelli
$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780375813757
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Knopf Books for Young Readers, 8/2007
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Stargirl (from Spinelli's previous novel of the same name) chronicles her life after she leaves Arizona and Leo in the form of letters to him which she never sends. She adjusts surprisingly well to her new life and new friends while going through a range of emotions about her separation from Leo. Will her "messages" to him be heard?? The tension lasts until the very end. This is an intriguing story for 9-12 year olds.
Carol

600 Black Spots: A Pop-up Book for Children of All Ages (Hardcover)

By David A. Carter, David A. Carter
$21.99
ISBN-13: 9781416940920
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Little Simon, 9/2007
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What's so hard about counting? In David Carter's po-up world it isn't that easy!! This is a book for an advanced counter who can find dots in secret, hidden places. Give it a try.
Carol

Wrecked (Hardcover)

By E. R. Frank
$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780689873836
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Atheneum/Richard Jackson Books, 9/2005
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Frank usually writes for a slightly older audience, but this one works for 14-year-olds. Anna is involved in an accident that kills the driver of the other car--her brother's girlfriend. The book is about Anna's road to emotional recovery through treatment of her Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Frank, a psychiatric social worker, is well prepared to write about such problems and their solutions. She does a great job helping the reader to appreciate the problems and leading them (and Anna) toward a solution.

Behind the Curtain: An Echo Falls Mystery (Hardcover)

By Peter Abrahams
$15.99
ISBN-13: 9780060737047
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: HarperCollins, 5/2006
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Here are two mysteries that will surely entertain the younger (10 and up) crowd. Ingrid is an adventuresome eighth grader whose hero is Sherlock Holmes. His inspiration helps her when she finds herself involved in some strange goings on in her little town of Echo Falls. Ingrid's appeal lies in her normalcy even though she's solving mysteries left and right. She has conflicts with her parents and friends, concerns about boys, and a very big heart. Kids will definitely relate to her and get caught up in the story.
Carol

Down the Rabbit Hole: An Echo Falls Mystery (Paperback)

By Peter Abrahams
$6.99
ISBN-13: 9780060737030
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: HarperCollins, 5/2006
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Gooney Bird and the Room Mother (Hardcover)

By Lois Lowry, Middy Thomas
$15.00
ISBN-13: 9780618532308
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 4/2005
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Gooney Bird Greene is a delightful second-grader in a wonderful, colorful class with a fantastic teacher. Although the plot revolves around a Thanksgiving play, the story is really timeless, entertaining, and endearing. Along the way everyone learns about using the dictionary and discovering some sophisticated vocabulary. Perfect for the 7- and 8-year-old crowd. And check out the first of the Gooney Bird books in paper, Gooney Bird Greene.
Carol

Where the Great Hawk Flies (Hardcover)

By Liza Ketchum
$16.00
ISBN-13: 9780618400850
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Clarion Books, 8/2005
This is a story taken directly from the author's family history. The story is set in 1782 and is told from the points of view of two neighbors: Daniel, the son of a Pequot mother and a Patriot father, and Hiram, the son of a family that has returned to Vermont, the scene of a terrifying Redcoat/Indian raid during which his uncle was taken. Both families endured the raid, but Hiram's family feels great prejudice for all Indians. It is through a series of fast-paced events that both boys come to some understanding of themselves and each other. History is expertly woven into this page turner that will keep you up nights until you've finished it. Ages 8-12.

The Rules of Survival (Hardcover)

By Nancy Werlin
$17.99
ISBN-13: 9780803730014
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Dial Books, 9/2006
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"Dysfunctional" would be a step up for Matthew's family. He is the oldest of 3 children living with their abusive and often drunk mother. He feels a profound responsibility to protect his sisters, especially Emmy, the youngest one. Yet his attempts to avoid potentially explosive situations create enormous tension. Eventually Matthew seeks help from near-by adults who come through for him later rather than sooner. Despite their struggles, the adults and kids do what is right and serve to remind us that making the right decision is not always that easy. The story moves along at a fast pace, keeping the reader on edge at all times. Kids 14 and up will especially appreciate this well crafted book.
Carol

Bread and Roses, Too (Hardcover)

By Katherine Paterson
$16.00
ISBN-13: 9780618654796
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Clarion Books, 9/2006
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In 1912 the mill workers in Lawrence, Massachusetts strike. Rosa's mother becomes an unlikely leader in the struggle and Rosa is afraid that her mother will be in danger. Likewise, Rosa's mother fears for Rosa now that there is no income and food is scarce. Rosa is sent to Vermont with other children of the strikers and there she meets Sal and Jake and Mr. and Mrs. Gerbati who teach her that she can be brave just like her mother. The characters are very well drawn and the struggles of the time come alive. Perfect for kids 10 and up.
Carol

Indigo's Star (Paperback)

By Hilary McKay
$6.99
ISBN-13: 9781416914037
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Margaret K. McElderry Books, 1/2006
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This is the second in a series about the British Casson family - 4 kids, 2 artist parents and a lot going on at all times. Indigo, the only boy in the family, has his own problems with bullies at school. But his new friend Tom who is visiting from America gives him new confidence. The rest of the kids have their own issues. Caddy, Saffy, Rose and Indigo are very real children in a very real loving family--despite all of their quirkiness!! Hilary McKay is unbeatable at telling a terrific story!!! A delightful read for middle graders. The first title in the series is Saffy's Angel.

DK Children's Cookbook (Hardcover)

By Katharine Ibbs, Howard Shooter
$17.99
ISBN-13: 9780756605971
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: DK Publishing (Dorling Kindersley), 10/2004
Bright pictures of ingredients and cooking steps make this cookbook very appealing and easy to use. There are some interesting recipes--not just PB and J--which vary in difficulty from easy (boiled eggs) to hard (vegetable lasagna, for one) and from breakfast to brownies. May even provide inspiration for kids to get interested in cooking.

Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship: The True Story Of A Remarkable Friendship (Hardcover)

By Craig Hatkoff, Peter Greste
$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780439829731
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Scholastic Press, 3/2006
Owen and Mzee are unlikely friends. Owen was found alone after the Tsunami of December 2005 swept away his pod of hippos. Rescued and brought to Haller Park in Mombasa, Kenya, Owen immediately started staying very close to Mzee, an Aldabra tortoise and they have been together ever since. Owen and Mzee is a delightful book with lots of facts and wonderful pictures. Everyone in the family will enjoy it. The reader can even follow their continuing friendship by going to LaFarge Ecosystems.
Carol

Gossamer (Hardcover)

By Lois Lowry
$16.00
ISBN-13: 9780618685509
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 4/2006
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Drop everything and start reading this perfect gem from Lois Lowry. Geared for a younger audience than The Giver trilogy, this enchanting story pulls at your heart and puts a smile on your face. It is the story of Littlest One, a dream helper, who gains confidence in the work that she does and intercedes to make the lives of a young boy and an elderly woman that much better. It is almost impossible to describe the delicacy of this story - sort of like Gossamer!!! Very Highly Recommended. For kids 10 and up.

Dairy Queen (Hardcover)

By Catherine Gilbert Murdock
$16.00
ISBN-13: 9780618683079
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 5/2006
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Anyone from ages 9 to 103 will love this refreshing book about a 15 year old dairy farmer who loves football and just happens to be a girl! She is hard working, confused, funny, and has a crush on the rival team's quarterback. One of those rare books that can be recommended for anyone. If you read 2 books this year, this should be one of them!!!!

Bottoms (Board Books)

By Tanja Kirschner

ISBN-13: 9780735820265
Availability: Out of Print
Published: NorthSouth, 9/2005
Lots of kids can identify animals, but how many can name them when only seeing them from behind?? A fun challenge for the youngest of our "readers."

A Christmas Carol (Hardcover)

By Charles Dickens, P.J. Lynch
$19.99
ISBN-13: 9780763631208
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Candlewick, 9/2006
The combination of J.P.Lynch's glorious edition of A Christmas Carol paired with Jim Dale's inspired reading is a terrific family gift for the holidays. Parents and kids can settle in, listen to the story, follow along in the book and be treated to Lynch's sumptuous illustrations. For all ages.
Carol

A Christmas Carol (Compact Disc)

By Jim Dale, Charles Dickens
$19.00
ISBN-13: 9781400086030
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Listening Library (Audio), 10/2003

Dimity Dumpty: The Story of Humpty's Little Sister (Hardcover)

By Bob Graham, Bob Graham
$15.99
ISBN-13: 9780763630782
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Candlewick, 2/2007
Humpty and his family live in an egg carton (of course) and work in the circus. Humpty is always getting into trouble, so falling off the wall is not unusual. But what most people don't know is that he had a musically talented, level-headed sister, Dimity, who, in fact, did help "put Humpty together again." Bob Graham is a genius at making stories come alive for young and old with his gentle touch. The pictures will drag you into this world and keep you there, smiling the whole time. Brilliant!!! Ages 3 and up.

The Golden Compass: His Dark Materials (Paperback)

By Philip Pullman
$11.95
ISBN-13: 9780375823459
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Knopf Books for Young Readers, 9/2002
Other Editions of this Title
It's been 10 years since The Golden Compass was first published. Since then it has won many awards (the first children's book to win the Carnegie Medal), and has been enjoyed by both kids and adults. Re-reading it 10 years later has only increased my respect and admiration for Philip Pullman. It is SUCH a good story. If you've missed it, you have a treat in store. For ages 12 - 112.
Carol

The Night Before Christmas: A Magical Cut-Paper Edition (Hardcover)

By Niroot Puttapipat, Clement C. Moore
$17.99
ISBN-13: 9780763634698
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Candlewick, 9/2007
It's the same poem, but Puttapipat's illustrations are so unusual. His silhouettes, cut-outs and pop-ups make this version one that will entertain all ages. A great family gift.
Carol

Tamar: A Novel of Espionage, Passion, and Betrayal (Hardcover)

By Mal Peet
$17.99
ISBN-13: 9780763634889
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Candlewick, 1/2007
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Part intriguing historical fiction, part modern-day quest, this Carnegie Medal winner is a riveting gem. Tamar is the code name of an SOE agent working in the Netherlands in 1944. It is also the name of a river in England and a girl following clues from her deceased grandfather. All three Tamars come together to reveal the true underpinnings of a family and a friendship. Mal Peet's powerful writing keeps the reader intrigued, on edge and turning pages furiously while learning a great deal about the "Hunger Winter". Tamar is the essence of "a great read."

Black & White (Board Books)

By Tana Hoban, Tana Hoban
$7.99
ISBN-13: 9780061172113
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Greenwillow Books, 1/2007
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Many may be familiar with Tana Hoban's classics: Black on White and White on Black which have been very popular first books for infants for years. But apparently, even they could be improved. This new format opens up to show all the pictures at once - perfect to set into the crib or bassinette. For the very, very young. A great baby present.

Caddy Ever After (Hardcover)

By Hilary McKay
$15.95
ISBN-13: 9781416909309
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Margaret K. McElderry Books, 6/2006
Other Editions of this Title
This is the fourth in the series of books about the delightful, slightly dysfunctional , but always entertaining Casson family. Each of the children has a hand in this story, however, the grand finale belongs to Caddy, the oldest, who plans to marry Alex instead of her old flame "Michael darling". Sometimes even the biggest mistakes pay off. You will smile your way through this book. Ages 8-12.

The Little Red Hen (Hardcover)

By Jerry Pinkney, Jerry Pinkney
$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780803729353
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Dial Books for Young Readers, 5/2006
This is an old story about a hard-working hen and her lazy friends. Retold and beautifully illustrated by Jerry Pinkney, it will certainly gain new fans in the picture book crowd.

The Mice of Bistrot Des Sept Freres (Hardcover)

By Marie Letourneau, Danielle Reed Baty
$15.95
ISBN-13: 9780974930367
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Tanglewood Press, 6/2006
The Bistro may be named for the 7 brothers who work there, but it is the sister, Petite Michelle, who saves the day when the French Culinary Judge Alfred le Whisk comes to judge their famous cheese soup. The unusual illustrations and the smattering of French sprinkled throughout the book make it a delightful and educational reading experience. Michelle, with her quiet confidence is a great role model for young readers. AND if you go to the publisher's website, you can get the recipe for the best cheese soup ever. Just ask the French judge.

Vincent's Colors (Hardcover)

By The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Vincent van Gogh
$15.99
ISBN-13: 9780811850995
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Chronicle Books, 9/2005
Van Gogh describes the colors in some of his most famous paintings. A lovely book that can gently introduce this artist to a young audience.

Under the Persimmon Tree (Hardcover)

By Suzanne Fisher Staples
$17.00
ISBN-13: 9780374380250
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR), 8/2005
Other Editions of this Title
Najmah is an 11 or 12 year old Afghan girl who must flee her beloved home. She manages to get to Pakistan and into a school run by an American woman who has become a Muslim. The details about life in the Afghan mountains, in refugee camps, and in Peshwar, along with insights into the Muslim religion, and life under the Taliban are presented seamlessly as part of this very believable story. Kids will learn a lot and do so painlessly. This is a timely, important book that you can't put down.

Flat Stanley (picture book edition) (Hardcover)

By Jeff Brown, Scott Nash
$17.99
ISBN-13: 9780061129049
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: HarperCollins, 9/2006
This book was first published more than 40 years ago and it's great to see that the re-illustrated version makes the story even more accessible to kids. A bulletin board falls on Stanley and he becomes quite flat - only 1/2 inch thick! He feels perfectly fine - only very thin. This proves to be helpful in some situations, but not great for the long haul. Stanley's brother comes up with a solution and saves the day - although you wouldn't want to "try this at home". A great story for the 4 to 8 set.
Carol

Saint Iggy (Hardcover)

By K. L. Going
$17.00
ISBN-13: 9780152057954
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Harcourt Children's Books, 9/2006
Other Editions of this Title
Despite the fact that Iggy has been kicked out of school, hangs out with Mo (a sweet druggie), is searching for his Mom who has left him, and avoids going home so he doesn't have to deal with his drunk father, he really is a saint. Iggy will get into your heart and stay there. The 12-14 year-old who loves contemporary fiction will be consumed by this book.
Carol

Sylvester and the Magic Pebble (Paperback)

By William Steig, William Steig
$7.99
ISBN-13: 9780671662691
Availability: On Our Shelves Now
Published: Aladdin, 4/1987
Other Editions of this Title
One wouldn't think that this old favorite could be improved upon. Sylvester has been restored so that the colors are brighter and it includes Steig's wonderful Caldecott acceptance speech. If there is anyone who doesn't own this book, now is the time to get it!

Snip Snap!: What's That? (Hardcover)

By Mara Bergman, Nick Maland
$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780060777548
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Greenwillow Books, 4/2005
An alligator is coming. Are the kids scared? You bet they are! For ages 2 and up, this is a scary book that nonetheless teaches kids to deal with their fears. A great read-aloud.

Ready or Not: An All-American Girl Novel (Hardcover)

By Meg Cabot

ISBN-13: 9780060724504
Availability: Out of Print
Published: HarperCollins Publishers, 8/2005
Other Editions of this Title
This is a sequel to An All-American Girl in which Samantha saved the life of the President and then went on to fall in love with his son. Now Samantha is trying to figure out how to deal with a slightly odd-ball teenager, and questioning what exactly she is ready for! The main thing is that she is HILARIOUS no matter what she's doing. Although the content is mature, this book will be much appreciated by the slightly older YA crowd.

Permanent Rose (Hardcover)

By Hilary McKay
$16.99
ISBN-13: 9781416903727
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Margaret K. McElderry Books, 5/2005
Other Editions of this Title
Oh joy of joys! Hilary McKay has written another book about the wonderful Casson family. This time the focus of the book is Rose, the eight year old we remember with such affection from Indigo's Star and Saffy's Angel. Rose befriends an unlikely boy and is on the hunt for her friend Tom who has gone off to America in the last book. Meanwhile Saffy is determined to find her biological father, resulting in a huge surprise for everyone. Even if you haven't read the previous books, it's easy to cat on to the story

Oscar's Half Birthday (Hardcover)

By Bob Graham, Bob Graham
$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780763626990
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Candlewick, 5/2005
Oscar, the baby of the family is 6 months old and it's a perfect excuse for an outing. The family goes on a picnic and winds up celebrating with many strangers--although Oscar winds up falling into the dog's snacks. The details of Graham's illustrations and his insight into family life are just delightful. Bet you can't read this book without smiling.

A Hundred and One Days (Hardcover)

By Asne Seierstad

ISBN-13: 9780465076000
Availability: Out of Print
Published: Basic Books, 4/2005
Other Editions of this Title
As in her popular The Bookseller of Kabul, Asne Seierstad immerses herself in the action. This time it's in Iraq during the days just before the U.S. troops arrive and for a short time after. Her Scandinavian perspective on the war is refreshing in its objectivity. She works hard to report the reactions of the local folks as best she can in a country which does not allow its citizens to speak freely. The complexity of the political situation is illuminated and the solutions are hard to come by. Although at times it is clear that this is a translation, it is well worth reading to get a more balanced view of the Iraqi war.

Once Upon a Time, the End (Asleep in 60 Seconds) (Hardcover)

By Geoffrey Kloske, Barry Blitt
$17.99
ISBN-13: 9780689866197
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 8/2005
What a hoot! Did you ever fall asleep reading a bedtime story to a young child? Well, this book will help avoid premature snoozing on the reader's part and encourage it for the listener. Kloske has simply summarized the usual stories with a very funny twist that will entertain all involved in the nighttime ritual. Children who are familiar with "normal" stories will really enjoy this delightful "retelling." Why did the chicken cross the road? To go to sleep. Ages 4 to 8.

Lost and Found (Hardcover)

By Oliver Jeffers, Oliver Jeffers
$16.99
ISBN-13: 9780399245039
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Philomel Books, 1/2006
Other Editions of this Title
A penguin shows up at the boy's door and he goes to a lot of trouble to get him back to the South Pole where he lives, only to discover that the penguin really just wanted to be with the boy. The bold illustrations and spare text makes it a perfect book for younger children. Parents will love it as well!

Jethro Byrd, Fairy Child (Paperback)

By Bob Graham, Bob Graham
$6.99
ISBN-13: 9780763626976
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Candlewick, 5/2005
Other Editions of this Title
Annabelle and Sam are the only ones in their family who can see fairies that have landed in a tiny ice cream truck in their backyard. Maybe their Mon and Dad are just not paying attention? This is a wonderful book for young children who invent their own fairies. Bob Graham just always seems to get it right.

I See a Kookaburra!: Discovering Animal Habitats Around the World (Hardcover)

By Steve Jenkins, Robin Page
$16.00
ISBN-13: 9780618507641
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 5/2005
Other Editions of this Title
Habitats illustrated is the only way that Jenkins can do it! From the desert to the jungle (and lots in between), each unique environment hides a bunch of animals that kids can search for. They are revealed on subsequent pages, complete with information about each in the back. Great for kids of all ages.

Flush (Hardcover)

By Carl Hiaasen
$16.95
ISBN-13: 9780375821820
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Knopf Books for Young Readers, 9/2005
Other Editions of this Title
Well, he's done it again! Hiasson knows how to write for kids! This is a Florida-based story about a family working to prevent a gambling ship from dumping raw sewage into the ocean. The action never stops, and the characters (even the minor ones) are quirky, entertaining, and very real. Hard issues of family life and the environment are faced head on. This will be a sure winner for the kids' audience, much like Hoot was--and for some of us adults too. Ages 9 to 12.

The Egyptology Handbook: A Course in the Wonders of Egypt (Hardcover)

By Emily Sands, Dugald A. Steer
$12.99
ISBN-13: 9780763629328
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Candlewick, 11/2005
Egyptology now has a companion for all those kids who couldn't get enough form the first book. It's a concise history of Egypt completely with marvelous drawings and stickers. Totally kid friendly.

Eat Your Peas, Ivy Louise (Hardcover)

By Leo Landry
$12.00
ISBN-13: 9780618448869
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 5/2005
Other Editions of this Title
Ivy Louise has a great time with her peas on her high chair tray. They perform all kinds of circus acts to entertain her and then she helps them avoid the inevitable--a perfect solution for them and her. You'll have to read it to figure it out!

Captain Arsenio: Inventions and (Mis)adventures in Flight (Hardcover)

By Pablo Bernasconi
$16.00
ISBN-13: 9780618507498
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 5/2005
Other Editions of this Title
Although this is a picture book, it is really meant for older kids (6 and up) who have a scientific bent. What fun as Captain Arsenio tries all kinds of ways to fly--including bundling a bunch of canaries together! The illustrations are spectacular.

Caramba (Hardcover)

By Marie-Louise Gay
$17.95
ISBN-13: 9780888996671
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Groundwood Books, 9/2005
Caramba is a cat who can't fly in a world where flying felines are the norm. Although he gets all kinds of help and encouragement, flying is just impossible. But Caramba discovers another, very unique talent. Gay's illustrations and gently story are quite appealing and just the thing for the apprehensive among. Ages 3 to 5.

Incantation (Hardcover)

By Alice Hoffman

ISBN-13: 9780316010191
Availability: Out of Print
Published: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 10/2006
Other Editions of this Title
What do you know about Jews in Spain in 1500?? Alice Hoffman takes us inside the story of the Marranos, who were Jews forced to take on the identity of Christians during the Spanish Inquisition. Estrella, an adolescent girl, grows up in complete ignorance of the true heritage of her family, but learns quickly through great tragedy. Yet it is the confidence that her family has in her that gives her the strength to start a new life. Alice Hoffman's beautiful writing brings this period of history to life. Recommended for young adults.
Carol

Bea and Mr. Jones (Hardcover)

By Amy Schwartz
$13.95
ISBN-13: 9780152058111
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Harcourt Children's Books, 9/2006
Other Editions of this Title
Wouldn't it be fun to go to your Mom or Dad's work and actually do their job? And what if your Mom or Dad went to kindergarten instead of you! Bea, and her Dad, Mr. Jones, switch places and are both very happy doing so. This reprint of an old favorite is a delight for kids and parents. Ages 4 and up.
Carol

Skinner's Drift (Paperback)

By Lisa Fugard
$19.99
ISBN-13: 9780743273336
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 days
Published: Scribner, 3/2007
Other Editions of this Title
Eva is returning to Skinner's Drift, her former home in South Africa after 10 years of self imposed exile. She is visiting her dying father with whom she has a very turbulent and complicated relationship. Told from the point of view of many of the characters, secrets and terrors within the family and the country slowly reveal themselves in this atmospheric work. This book brings to mind Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight and for fans of Alexandra Fuller or those who appreciate wonderful fiction, this is a great find.
Carol

Hattie Big Sky (Hardcover)

By Kirby Larson
$15.95
ISBN-13: 9780385733137
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 9/2006
Other Editions of this Title
Hattie is an orphan cared for by family and friends until she is 16 when an uncle that she's never met leaves her a 320 acre "claim" in Montana. The only stipulation is that she must fence a large part of the property and plant 40 acres. When this is accomplished she will own the land. Set in 1917, World War I lurks in the background as farmers are required to donate to the Defense Fund and native Germans are considered enemies. For Hattie, hard work, learning how to farm, making great friends and learning about her inner strengths make moving to Montana a very enriching experience. Readers will find Hattie Big Sky a wonderful escape. For the 8 to 12 crowd.
Carol
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