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: The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare

Yesterday the ALA Youth Media Awards were announced.   For that reason I thought I would recommend personal favorite that won the Newbery Award back in 1959.  I don't usually talk about young readers or even teen books but every once in awhile I like to change it up a bit.  

The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare is a wonderful book that  brings back fond memories of long summer days and reading in the backyard.   The book cover I am showing is the exact book cover I had when I first read it.   The covers may have changed through the years but the story is timeless.   I was enthralled with the character of Kit and how she struggled to find her place in a new world that was so different from the world she grew up in. I loved the character of Mercy who even though she is disabled in body she was strong in mind and spirit.   Characters that are just as relevant today as they were when they were created.    This is the way I liked to learn history.  I always find it is easier to learn history through historical fiction.     Of course I also loved the fact that it was a bit of a love story but that is just the "girl" in me.   As I said so much of the story is applicable to our lives in the 21st century.  Even today people are suspicious of anyone who is different.  It takes a courageous person to stand up for truth and do what is right.   This is a classic and award winning book for a reason,  beautifully written and memorable.

Reference Sunday: US PRESIDENTS Oval Office All-Stars by Dan Green illustrated by Simon Basher

In honor of Inauguration Day I thought if would great to recommend a book on the Presidents of the United States.   There are quite a few on the shelves that have been updated to include the 2012 election but non as humorous and informative as today's book.

Basher History: US PRESIDENTS Oval Office All Stars created and illustrated by Simon Basher and written by Dan Green with Dr. Edward L. Widm a presidential historian is a great introduction to each of our United States Presidents.   I like that it is not overwhelming and tedious to read.   The information is  quirky and different.   I think children like to learn more than just the usual facts about anything.   While the illustrations are a bit cartoonish they do fit the style of the book.   I think this would be a great companion book to a more serious biographical book on the Presidents of the United States.   Sometimes kids need to see that not all history is just dry facts and figures.  

The Insomniacs by Karina Wolf illustrated by Brothers Hilts

While doing some work in the library I stumbled across the most enchanting new book.

The Insomniacs by Karina Wolf and illustrated by the Brothers Hilts (two actual brothers) caught my eye across the library floor.   First off I usually have trouble sleeping myself so the title drew me in, then it was the sweet Goreyesque illustrations that made me look more closely.   It was the most charming read.   Such a wonderful book that truly captivated me.     It has a nostalgic feel but with a modern sensibility.   I don't know what I love more the lyrical story or the mesmerizing illustrations.   I think this is a wonderful story time book that is also the perfect bedtime book.   I can see it being read during a pajama story time in the library or at bedtime with your little one.   This is a must have new book that has classic written all over it.  A must have book for any child's bookshelf and a perfect gift for families.

Baby Penguins Everywhere by Melissa Guion

Happy New Year!  I can't believe it has been awhile since I posted anything new.  Here is a new book that I just love.

Baby Penguins Everywhere written and illustrated by Melissa Guion is a wonderful new book by a new author.   As usual it was the very sweet cover illustrations that drew my attention (Who doesn't love "baby penguins").    When I finally looked at the book I marveled at it's sweetness.  This is a great story time book and if I was still in the bookstore I would have many opportunities to read it to children.   Besides the obvious "winter story time" I would also read it for "Mother's Day"  or even a "family" story time.   The message is subtle that even though a parent loves to be with their children they sometimes need to recharge themselves with a little alone time.   I know the feeling, while I love to be with my nieces and nephews it can be overwhelming sometimes and I relish my quiet time.

I also see this as a gift to new parents.   New parents can't imagine that they would want to spend any time away from their child they shouldn't feel guilty for wanting to have a bit of quiet time to themselves.  I now so many Moms who do so much with and for their children but at the same time relish the time when the house is quiet and they can sit and read a book alone.  

Melissa Guion has done a wonderful job with her first book ---- I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.  A must have new book for any family library!

Looking at Lincoln by Maira Kalman

I have been wanting to see the new movie from Spielberg about Lincoln but haven't gotten around to it.   My sister saw it and did nothing but rave about it.   It is amazing how Daniel Day Lewis really becomes his characters, my sister said he is fantastic in the role.   As with so many people Abraham Lincoln is one of my favorite Presidents.   I think I started to like him because my Mother loved him.   She used to tell me how she loved his face, that he always looked a bit sad but kind.   I was constantly bringing her books about him and by him.   One of the last books I ever got for her was a compilation of his speeches.  

Looking at Lincoln written and illustrated by the wonderful Maira Kalman is the perfect book for young children to help explain who Abraham Lincoln was.  This is a must have addition to the list of the many biographies for children of our 16th President.   Ms Kalman not only simply and succinctly tells the story of his life, she is also able to convey a more human figure.   I think because the narrator is a child who wants to know more about President Lincoln that we get a great sense of wonder.   This is a very special and fresh take on a historical figure who means so much to this country.   I would have loved to show it to my Mom.  

Flashback Tuesday: Hanukkah Moon by Deborah da Costa Illus by Gosia Mosz

Hanukkah Moon by Deborah da Costa and illustrated by Gosia Mosz is a great book to read at this special time of year.   When I initially came across this book I was thrilled because it showed a different side of the holiday.  It is a story that shows Hanukkah from a different cultural experience.  I love how the little girl Isobel is concerned that her Aunt from Mexico might not know how to celebrate Hanukkah like she is accustomed to.  Aunt Luisa proceeds to teach Isobel about the Hanukkah Moon and about the Hanukkah traditions from Mexico.   There are the usual Hanukkah elements such as latkes and chocolate coins.  I especially love the dreidel pinata filled with candy.   I great book to add anyone's holiday book shelf.


Happy Hanukkah or as "Aunt Luisa" teaches Isobel-- Feliz Januca!