2015 Roundup

It has been a busy end of the year. October is a busy month for me and I thought once November came I could post more. But of course as the saying goes "the best laid plans....often go awry".  

 My News Years Resolution is to post more in 2016 as there are so many books I missed talking about this year. 

As soon as Christmas was over the end of year lists started appearing. So I thought I would do a Roundup of some of my favorite books  of 2015.  I always recommend books I like or think others would like but these seem to have a much more memorable feel about them.  

Here they are in no particular order:

Waiting by Kevin Henkes this is the book I gave my nephew for Christmas.  So sweet!

A Curious Tale of the In-Between by Lauren DeStefano great Gothic ghost story for all....

Planting a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and illustrated by Peter H Reynolds a beautiful book that teaches kindness....

Nightbird by Alice Hoffman a perfect book for young readers (or anyone)...I just loved it.

Little Humans by Brandon Stanton great book to look at often....love the photographs....

This is just a small sample of some of the books I recommended in 2015. I hope anyone who has read my blog has found it enjoyable and useful.....I know I enjoy writing about the books I find.  To that end I would also like to recommend my favorite "grown-up" book that I have read this year, it is also by Alice Hoffman.....

The Marriage of Opposites by Alice Hoffman was so wonderful I had trouble picking up another book to read.  Her writing is as magical as the stories she writes about. I highly recommend it!

I hope everyone has a wonderful New Years and that the next year brings much joy!  Happy Reading!

Nightbird by Alice Hoffman

Nightbird by Alice Hoffman is one of those books that stays with you for a long time.  It is a middle grade reader that I feel any grown up would love.  I read it in one day and loved it.  Usually I recommend a book knowing that it will appeal to a certain audience.  I generally need to like the book but even if I don't I usually know it will fill a need for a certain reader.  This is not the case here.  This is a book I wish had never ended...a story that is timeless.

I have always read Alice Hoffman books.  Her last few grown up novels I have loved....I am actually reading her most recent novel The Marriage of Opposites as I write this.  Beyond that I have loved her YA titles too....the best being Green Angel a book that I still see vividly in my mind.

I now have a new favorite....today's book Nightbird.  Like I said I read it one afternoon. It is more a middle grade novel than YA but that doesn't matter to me.  I always feel like books don't really have an age range.  Middle grade, YA or adult as long as I am reading a good story it doesn't matter.  That is how I felt when I read Nightbird.  From the first moment I started reading I  was drawn into the world of the main character "Twig"....she sort of reminded me of myself at her age.  I loved to read and kept mostly to myself.  This was a book I would have devoured when I  was young.  Alice Hoffman has written a book that feels like it could have taken place at any time. It doesn't pinpoint an era so the reader has the freedom to see just the characters and the moment of the story not the when of the story.  It really took be back to being a twelve year old reading in the backyard on a summers day.

I love how Alice Hoffman injects magic in her stories.  It is such a subtle magic that we can almost feel like it is real.  The world she has created here is warm and inviting a world I didn't want to leave. I realize I haven't given a description of what it is about and there is a reason for that.  This book is all about emotion and feelings.  The joy I felt when reading it....but as I have said before I am not a reviewer....I recommend books that should be read.  I don't want to give a review that tells you the story because the reader should find that out for themselves.  I am just here to say that it should be read....especially if you love a good mystery with a bit of fantasy thrown in....a story with great characters that will stay with you forever.  I literally cried when it was over because it so reminded me of how books made me feel when I was young....to go back to that time even for a moment was a joy.

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

I know today's book is not necessarily a new title but I just finished reading it and wanted to share my thoughts.

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs is considered a Teen Novel.  I think it is much more than that.  I had heard about it but never read it.  Most recently learned that there is a sequel which I hope to read soon.  There is also a film being made with Tim Burton directing.  I stumbled across it in the library and at the last minute added it to my stack of books to check out.

I loved this book.  This is the kind of book I would have read and loved when I was a child/teenager.  The story starts out like any other teenage angst kind of story but quickly develops into the best kind fantasy story.  The kind that makes a reader feel that it could be true.  The characters are wonderful, I really loved the main character Jacob because he sounded like a typical teenage boy.

A long time ago I was part of a panel for the Children's Book Council called Not Just For Children Anymore.  As part of the panel we had to read a selection of children's books ~mostly young readers and Teen novels.  Once we were finished we then set out to decide whether or not "grown-ups" would enjoy them as well as children.  This book would have been on top of my list.  I really loved how Mr Riggs wove his story around an array of old photographs.  The photographs themselves are so interesting to look at that I  too would have wondered how they were made and if they were real.

I used to know someone who loved to take photographs.  He had rigged his own darkroom in a small bathroom in the house.  He also liked to experiment with his photos.  I remember one photo of what appeared to be  a young girl with a small person standing on her hand.  To create this illusion he said was all in the development. When I saw the photos in Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children I was reminded of the photos I saw when I was young.  Like I said I have always been fascinated by old photos.....they are glimpse into the past.  I wish this book had been around when I was young because it would have been one of my favorites.  I can't wait to read the sequel Hollow City.  These are must have books for anyone who loves a bit of fantasy tinged with spookiness....

Monsters Eat Whiny Children by Bruce Eric Kaplan

My new job keeps me very busy that I hadn't realized it is over a month since I posted last.  We are getting ready for our big season which is Halloween.  The next month and a half will be lots of late nights and busy days. Lot of Halloween and scary products are in our shops which includes lots of books.  My favorite book that came into the shop, although not a new book,  is today's pick.

Monsters Eat Whiny Children written and illustrated by Bruce Eric Kaplan is the story of some monsters who capture some children but then can't decide how best to "prepare" them for a monster meal.  This is supposed to be a cautionary tale for children but I have sold quite a few to grown ups giving who were going to give it  to other grown ups. I love how the monster's are even whinier than the children. I also love the illustrations which are quirky and fun.  I wouldn't give this to really young children as they might take the monster part to heart but I know a few teenagers I could give this too....

Books For Presidents Day~

For Presidents Day I thought I would recommend one new book one  and older book for kids to read.  The first book is an introduction for a young child about Abraham Lincoln while the second is a a great book that talks about some early American icons including a President and to be honest is the kind of book an adult will enjoy too.

I Am Abraham Lincoln by Brad Meltzer and illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos is the third picture book biography for young children in a series that so far includes I am Amelia Earhart and I am Rosa Parks.  I like the series because they make history accessible to the youngest among us but not in a way that is patronizing.  The Abraham Lincoln book will hopefully be the first of many stories children will read about the most popular United States President.  For ages 4-8.

John, Paul, George & Ben written and illustrated by Lane Smith is one of my favorite Lane Smith books.  While it is a story about John Hancock, Paul Revere, George Washington and Ben Franklin most adults will get the wink to a certain British band we all know and love.  I have always loved how Lane Smith can create a book not just for children but one that grown ups will like.   This is also a great book to introduce early American icons to a younger audience....One of the best parts is the section at the end called "Taking Liberties".... it goes story by story and tells whether it is true or false....a great little teaching aid. This book is also intended for 4-8 year olds but I am sure an older child would learn just as much....

Flashbook Tuesday: blues journey by Walter Dean Myers and illustrated by Christopher Myers

Recently I have been sorting  the many books I have collected through the years and couldn't believe how many I have that have been signed by the author or illustrator.  Some are inscribed to me personally and some are just signed....either way it is an impressive amount.  Today's book is just one of the many books that I have inscribed to me personally. As I flipped through the book I realized it would make a perfect book to recommend at any time but especially during Black History Month.

blues journey by Walter Dean Myers and beautifully illustrated by Christopher Myers is the story of the African American experience told through poetry and the history of the blues.  Mr Myers poems have the same rhythm as a blues melody.  This is a picture book for an older child to read and learn about the "blues".  The poems are mix of complex and simple thoughts regarding love and life.  I love how the son's images match his father's words to make a visual impact for the reader.  I would give this to an older child even as old as High School or even an adult who loves music and history.  It is a great teaching tool for students to learn a different perspective of African American history.

Side note that is a bit interesting (at least to me)....Walter Dean Myers and my sister Ann E. Burg have both been nominated for an NAACP Image Award this year in the Literature Category for   Outstanding Literary Work- Youth / Teens:  Mr Myers for his book Invasion and my sister for her book Serafina's Promise.  Such a small world.....

This is an inscription I treasure:

The OK Book by Amy Krouse Rosenthal illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld

As the new year starts we are always thinking how to better ourselves.  It is the time of year we all try new things.  Today's book suggestion is for those who want to continue to learn new things without worrying about being an expert.  Just experiencing something new can be a great New Years resolution!

The OK Book by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld is a wonderful book that tells a child (or anyone) that it is not a bad thing to just be "OK" at somethings.  Sometimes we need to try many things before we can be great at anything.  I love the simple text and illustrations....sometimes simplicity is more powerful than a complex story with detailed pictures.  This is a great book for children to learn with but it is also a perfect book to give as a graduation present too.  I would even give this to a grownup who is trying to figure out their life....


Tom Lichtenheld has some great activities to do using this book on his website....enjoy!

Amy Krouse Rosenthal also has a video of the book as read by her son...so fun!

The Smallest Gift of Christmas written and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds

The Smallest Gift of Christmas written and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds brings back memories of some Christmas mornings from when I was a kid.  How many times did I  have an idea of what I wanted only to be a bit disappointed.  The expectations were always grander than reality.  I love how the main character, Roland, makes wish after wish for the biggest present he can get. How he comes to realize that maybe small is perfect after all.  Didn't we always do the same...always wishing. I love how beautifully Mr Reynolds tells the story in his simple phrasing and wonderful illustrations.  The message is not a new one but it is one that all children (and some adults) need to be reminded of once in awhile.  I teared up at the last image....such a perfect story to read at this time of year. This is the perfect story time book.  This is also the kind of book that can be given as a family gift....even if there are no children in the house...

The Dwarf in the Drawer: A Mischievous Parody by L. Van King illustrated by Chuck Gonzales

Today is Bring your Child to a Bookstore Day.  It is a great way to instill a love of reading in your child's life.

I thought I would do a really fun book for today.  It is considered a parody so it isn't necessarily a "children's" book although it does come with a cute plush.  I sometimes like to do a book that a grown up would appreciate while still being cute for children.

The Dwarf in the Drawer: A Mischievous Parody by L. Van King with illustrations by Chuck Gonzales is a clever attempt to counter the sticky sweetness of a certain book about a certain elf.  The Dwarf in the Drawer doesn't need to be hid nor does he report back to Santa what anyone is doing.  He is a bit lazy---love the line about Colbert---but charming too in his own way.   This is for the parent or grown up who is tired of hiding a certain elf and just wants to relax a bit for the holiday's.( I have nothing against a that "certain elf" but he reminds me too much of Christmas ornaments I had as a child...ones that I hid at the back of the tree because they were a little creepy---but that was just me.)  This is a fun book that is great to read on a night when you  are just too tired to do anything but sit and snuggle.

The Wizard of Oz: The Official 75th Anniversary Companion by Jay Scarfone, William Stillman, Caren Marsh-Doll

Since the holiday season has officially begun I thought I would recommend a book for the whole family.  I loved watching the Wizard of Oz on TV when I was young.  It is one of my favorite memories growing up.  In fact I loved it so much it took me years to read the actual book.  When I did read it --- one slow Saturday night in the bookstore----I was amazed that except for a few details (silver shoes instead of ruby slippers and a few different  characters) the film was pretty close to the book.

The Wizard of Oz: The Official 75th Anniversary Companion by Jay Scarfone, William Stillman and Caren Marsh- Doll is a commemorative collectible book that has new stories from cast and crew plus beautiful stills from the film and previously unpublished information and photos from the making of the film.  This is a must have for any Wizard of Oz fan.  

If there is a child who loves the movie this would be a great time to introduce the original Frank L. Baum book....here is one my favorite editions that I have written about before:

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by Frank L. Baum and illustrated by W.W. Denslow

There is also this favorite of mine that I wrote about from the master Pop-Up artist Robert Sabuda:

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by Frank L. Baum art by Robert Sabuda 

These make great gifts and would be a wonderful way to help with Small Business Saturday tomorrow....bookstores are like home to me which makes me think of Dorothy her famous line:

"There's no place like home...." 

Dot by Randi Zuckerberg illustrated by Joe Berger

Dot by Randi Zuckerberg  and illustrated by Joe Berger is the story of a little girl who loves all her technological gadgets.  How many of us know a child who is so much better at programming the DVR (I was going to say VCR--which dates me) or setting up apps on our phones.  I know I had to have my nephew upgrade my phone for me because I couldn't figure it out.  This is a cute picture book with an adorable new character who is sure to charm parents and children alike.  I like the illustrations because they have a retro feel but are obviously very contemporary.  I like the message of making time to go outside and play but still understanding that most children gravitate to computers etc.  This is a great book for the inquisitive child in your life.

Oh and the author Randi Zuckerberg has also written a book for grown-ups called Dot Complicated: Untangling Our Wired Lives--- on the same subject---and apparently she is the sister of Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook fame.  So I guess who better to help us use technology and social media without losing sight of the world around us.

100 Ghosts: A Gallery of Harmless Haunts by Doogie Horner

Today's book isn't necessarily a children's book...it would be safe to say it isn't one at all but it is a book for all ages....and that means kids.

100 Ghosts: A Gallery of Harmless Haunts by Doogie Horner is one of the sweetest and quirkiest books (pun intended because it is published by "Quirk Book")  I have seen in a long time.  It includes 100 images of different kinds of ghosts.....all that are just a sheet with holes for eyes and different captions.  There is a "shy" ghost (no eye cutouts) and even a Star Wars character (can you guess which one?)  Oh and the introduction is hysterical.  All in all a book for all ages.  A book to leave on a table and pick up when you feel the need for a scarily good giggle.  Makes a great gift for those hard to please people in your world.

That is Not a Good Idea! by Mo Willems

I love when I find a book that will appeal to both a child and an adult.


Mo Willems presents That is Not a Good Idea! is a funny new book by the Caldecott author of all the Pigeon, Knuffle Bunny and Piggie books.   What I loved about this book is the how it is supposed to be like an old silent movie.  It is all dialogue with repetitive phrases which makes it a great story time/read aloud book.  It has a bit of dark humor about it so parents might want to read it first before reading it to their children.  Most kids won't mind the somewhat surprise ending but some kids might be sensitive.  I actually think this is one of those books that would make a great gift for a grown up to enjoy.  

Flashback Tuesday: Night of the Gargoyles by Eve Bunting illustrated by David Wiesner

Happy Birthday David Wiesner!  In honor of this Caldecott winner's birthday I thought I would reach back and recommend one that I have always loved.  It is a bit of scary and somber book that is probably not suited for the very young but I find it a great read aloud with wonderful illustrations.

Night of the Gargoyles written by Eve Bunting and illustrated by David Wiesner is a magical story of statues coming to life.   According to the publisher it is meant for ages 9 and up but there are a few younger children I know who can handle this kind of scariness.  I have always been fascinated by gargoyles.   There have been quite a few books about gargoyles for children through the years, even a series or two, but this has always been my favorite.   I think because I have always liked fantasy I loved the idea of magical creatures coming to life after the sun goes down.   Growing up and visiting NYC with my father I marveled at the statues on the uppermost floors of old buildings.   Even when I worked in the city I loved to look at the buildings across from mine with their fearsome sculptures standing watch.   I love the rhythm of Eve Buntings words which make it a great story time book.   Most of all I love the illustrations.  The mere fact they are black and white charcoal drawings makes them timeless.   The detail is amazing and wondrous.   I have always loved his artwork but this holds a special place in my heart.   This is a book for all ages and a must for anyone who loves mystery and fantasy in their lives.    

Flashback Tuesday: Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Paterson

I don’t often write about Young Reader Books but during a Labor Day barbecue, a friend’s daughter mentioned she still had to complete her summer reading project. My little friend is one heck of a soccer goalie and like many kids, would rather play sports than read. I teased her because she only had a few days left - but  I also began thinking about the Newbery Award winning book my little friend had just read.

Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Paterson is a book about sibling rivalry. The narrator of the story, Sara Louise, is jealous of her twin sister, Caroline. If Sara Louise is ever to grow up and become her own person, she must must break free and let go of her resentment towards Caroline.  

I know a few siblings in a similar situation.  The older sibling has always been the favored one while the younger sibling struggled to make her way in the world. Although the parents loved each child equally, the older one was more talented, more accomplished. 

 My little friend doesn’t understand sibling rivalry.  She has a great sense of self and seems to get along with her siblings. I too never felt that way. I have always loved my siblings and have been proud of their accomplishments. I knew my parents loved us all equally.  In fact my Mother always said we were all her favorites....  

In the book  Jacob Have I Loved, Sara Louise learns to find her way without burning bridges or becoming selfish.   She breaks free of her sister's shadow and becomes a better person in the end.  

My young friend is still in the process of growing up and perhaps, the final revelations may be lost on her.   Jacob Have I Loved is the kind of children's book that isn't just for children. Young Reader books such as this one are sometimes best understood when shared with a caring adult!

The Lonely Book by Kate Bernheimer illustrated by Chris Sheban

Sometimes I come across books that at first glance seems to be catering to a specific audience.   I read books that scream ----library or teacher books.  What I mean by that is sometimes an author, consciously or unconsciously writes a book that speaks to librarians or teachers sometimes to parents more than children.   When I first saw today's book  that is what I first thought.....but I was soooo WRONG.

The Lonely Book by Kate Bernheimer and illustrated so sweetly by Chris Seban brought me back to the books of my childhood.   I loved books just like the little girl in the story does.   As I read it I realized that it isn't a story time book but a "read by yourself in a quiet corner"  book....

It reminded me of two of my favorite books:  The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton (which I apparently have talked about before but have never written about it.) and The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams. I love how it is the little girl's father who brings her to the library.   I love how the story and pictures flow.   This is a book that has a classic feel but at the same time seems new and refreshing.   I would give this book to any child who loves to read.  I think this is the perfect book for grown ups too....the ones who always felt that books were their best friends...

Forgive Me, I Meant to Do It: False Apology Poems by Gail Carson Levine and illustrated by Matthew Cordell

I can't believe it is April already...spring is such a wonderful time of year.   In honor of poetry month I thought I would start out with a really fun new book by a well loved author.  I have  always liked Gail Carson Levine.  She has a way of stating things in the most sardonic way.  Her new book is no exception.

Forgive Me, I meant to Do It: False Apology Poems by Gail Carson Levine and illustrated wonderfully by Matthew Cordell is a book of poems based on the classic poem "This is Just To Say" by William Carlos Williams.   She even goes so far to credit him by including the poem with an explanation at the end of he book.

Normally I like to teach children to be nice.   I think the best thing we can teach kids today is to be kind to one another.   That being said I know that children tend to have a bit of a mean streak about them.   How many times have we demanded they apology to someone knowing full well that they may say the words....but don't really mean it.   I think this book is a great way to show them we are on to them and that we understand.

 I love how she uses fairy tale and nursery rhyme characters that all kids can recognize, since they aren't real non-apologies then there really is no harm in them.   Knowing that this is a great teachable book, Harpercollins has created a fantastic downloadable Teachers Guide for use in the classroom.

As much as this a great book for teachers to read to kids, I know quite a few adults who would get a kick out of the poems.  The illustrations remind me of Edward Gorey and his  "The Gashlycrumb Tinies"---and I know of one friend who would appreciate that.

So this is a great new book to help celebrate Poetry Month...albeit in a fun and sarcastic way....

The Cloud Spinner by Michael Catchpool; illustrated by Alison Jay - Hardcover - Random House

The Cloud Spinner by Michael Catchpool; illustrated by Alison Jay - Hardcover - Random House is a wonderful new book that teaches children  to not be greedy.   I love this story of a a little boy who weaves beautiful clothes out of clouds but never uses too many clouds until he is asked to do more.  This is a wonderful story of how excess can be destruct.  Michael Catchpool weaves (pun intended) a magical new fable that teaches without being preachy. As for the illustrations  I have  said this before but I am a huge fan of Alison Jay.   I just love her illustrations and these do not disappoint.   I really love her color palette and the way she complements the text.   This is a must have new classic ----for everyone.

Happy Birthday Bette Bao Lord!

It has been a while since I posted....freak October snowstorms can certainly throw off anyone's timing.  

Today is Bette Bao Lord's birthday....so many know her from her book In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson  which is wonderful but not the book I think of when I hear her name.

When I was young and had started reading voraciously I would grab any book that we had on our bookshelves.   One day I discovered a book that was my sister Ann's and was mesmerized by it.   It was Bette Bao Lord's first book as told to her by her sister Sansan called Eighth Moon: The True Story of a Young Girl's Life in Communist China.   I loved this book, I didn't really understand communism I just knew that it was about a beautiful little girl who got left behind and the struggles that she had.   I loved Sansan and always wondered (and still do) what happened to her.   I know that the book is basically out of print  but I think it should be back in print. It still has lessons to teach the world today.  Every student who is learning about China and communism should be required to read it.   It would also make a great companion piece to In the Year of the Boar so that children can see the juxtaposition of two sisters and how different their lives were.   Eighth Moon is one of my fondest book memories....

Reference Sunday: National Geographic Kids Halloween Book of Fun

My neighbor across the street loves Halloween.  Every year the display on his lawn grows and grows.   This year it startled me even more when I got home one night and saw a huge blow up of Dracula staring over at me.   Apparently he decorates the inside of his house even more than the outside.....gotta love it when people are that enthusiastic about a kid's holiday!

National Geographic Kids Halloween Book of Fun by the National Geographic Society would be the perfect book for my neighbor.  It has loads of fun activities and games plus it has costume ideas and tips for having a great party. It has something for every child in the house (or grownup) no matter what their age.   I love the section that talks about spooky myths.....I even learned a few things.

This is a great book to have fun with at this time of year.....a must have Halloween book for the spooky in all of us!