The Awesome Book of Bible Stories for Kids

Author: Sandy Silverthorne
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
(August 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736929231

Book Description:

Award-winning writer and illustrator Sandy Silverthorne pairs biblical accounts with contemporary technology and culture. The result is a hilarious and informative blend of Bible lessons and modern-day applications. Kids ages 6 to 12 will instantly relate to Bible characters and eternal truths presented from a twenty-first-century kid’s perspective. Stories are introduced with improbable questions that will draw young readers in and stimulate their thinking. For example, what if…

• Noah’s ark was a cruise ship?
• Gideon vs. the Midianites was replayed as a video game?
• Nehemiah’s rebuilding of Jerusalem was featured on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition?

These comical illustrations and thoroughly up-to-date retelling of Bible stories will captivate young minds and hearts while maintaining the integrity of the characters and message.

 

My thoughts:

 

How many times have we read Bible stories to our kids and had their attention wonder because they just couldn't relate to the Old Testament/New Testament people? The Awesome Book of Bible Stories for Kids tells Bible stories in ways a child/teenager can identify. It gives them what-if scenarios in modern everyday life terminology. I can imagine this book being appreciated in home Bible study and in the church/youth group setting alike.  Comical, yet informative, just what kids like! Thank you to Harvest House Publishing for my review copy.

Happyface

Author: Stephen Emond
Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Reprint edition (June 14, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0316040991

Book Description:

Cute girls dig him. He has his own fan club

But he wasn't always this awesome. He used to be Mr. Comic Book, a resident of Lonelyland. So when he swtiched schools, he slapped on a grin and went from big nerd to big shot.

Meet Happyface. This is his journal.
This unique combination of text and fully integrated art follows the journey of a dorky, quiet, artsy kid as he reinvents himself after moving to a new town, where he's nicknamed Happyface. Peek in his journal and see the world through his hilariously self-deprecating eyes as he learns to shed his comic-book-loving, computer-game playing ways. Join him as he makes new friends, tries to hide from his messy past, forgives the people who have hurt him most, and ultimately learns to face the world with a genuine smile.

My thoughts:

Happyface is not your typical book. It is unique with numerous illustrations and artwork. It is a good, positive read for boys. The only issue I have with Happyface is the small print which may be a turn-off for some kids. Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my review copy.

The Duff (Designated Ugly Fat Friend)

Author: Kody Keplinger
Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Poppy (June 7, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0316084247

Book Description:

Seventeen-year-old Bianca Piper is cynical and loyal, and she doesn't think she's the prettiest of her friends by a long shot. She's also way too smart to fall for the charms of man-slut and slimy school hottie Wesley Rush. In fact, Bianca hates him. And when he nicknames her "the Duff," she throws her Coke in his face.

But things aren't so great at home right now, and Bianca is desperate for a distraction. She ends up kissing Wesley. Worse, she likes it. Eager for escape, Bianca throws herself into a closeted enemies-with-benefits relationship with him.

Until it all goes horribly awry. It turns out Wesley isn't such a bad listener, and his life is pretty screwed up, too. Suddenly Bianca realizes with absolute horror that she's falling for the guy she thought she hated more than anyone. And eventually, through this realization, Bianca begins to see how harmful her unhealthy way of dealing with her problems has been, and finds a way to confront them head on.

My thoughts:

Most teens are driven by self-destructive ideas of image and place. Duff is one of those books that address these issues and puts them into perspective for young people...girls and boys alike. The author has written a story that is a must-read. It is well-written, frank, realistic, fast moving, and compelling. Conclusion: we may admire what we see as perfection in our peers; what we don't see is our own special unique self. Absolutely worth the read.  Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my review copy.

Pretend You Love Me

Author: Julie Anne Peters
Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers;
Reprint edition (May 10, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0316127418

Book Description:

In this fresh, poignant novel, Mike is struggling to come to terms with her father's suicide and her mother's detachment from the family. Mike (real name: Mary Elizabeth) is gay and likes to pump iron, play softball, and fix plumbing. When a glamorous new girl, Xanadu, arrives in Mike's small Kansas town, Mike falls in love at first sight. Xanadu is everything Mike is not -- cool, confident, feminine, sexy.... straight.

My thoughts:

Well written with good character development.

Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my review copy.

The Midnight Palace / Review

Author: Carlos Ruiz Zafon
Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 304 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
1 edition (May 31, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0316044733

Book Description:

In the heart of Calcutta lurks a dark mystery....
Set in Calcutta in the 1930s, The Midnight Palace begins on a dark night when an English lieutenant fights to save newborn twins Ben and Sheere from an unthinkable threat. Despite monsoon-force rains and terrible danger lurking around every street corner, the young lieutenant manages to get them to safety, but not without losing his own life. . . .

Years later, on the eve of Ben and Sheere's sixteenth birthday, the mysterious threat reenters their lives. This time, it may be impossible to escape. With the help of their brave friends, the twins will have to take a stand against the terror that watches them in the shadows of the night--and face the most frightening creature in the history of the City of Palaces.

My thoughts:

The Midnight Palace is a good old-fashioned ghost story set in Calcutta in the 1930's. I found it to be a bit darker than the author's previous, The Prince of Mist, even though they do share the same gothic, supernatural overtones. The Midnight Palace is intense and kept me turning pages all evening...just what I would expect in a novel of this genre. Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my review copy.

The Prince of Mist / Review

Author: Carlos Ruiz Zafon
Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Reprint edition (April 12, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0316044806

Book Description:

A mysterious house harbors an unimaginable secret...
It's wartime, and the Carver family decides to leave the capital where they live and move to a small coastal village. But from the minute they cross the threshold of their new home, strange things begin to happen. In that mysterious house still lurks the spirit of Jacob, the previous owners' son, who died by drowning.

With the help of their new friend Roland, Max and Alicia Carver begin to explore the strange circumstances of that death and discover the existence of a mysterious being called the Prince of Mist--a diabolical character who has returned from the shadows to collect on a debt from the past. Soon the three friends find themselves caught up in an adventure of sunken ships and an enchanted stone garden--an adventure that will change their lives forever.

About the Author:

Carlos Ruiz Zafón is the author of six novels, including the international phenomenon The Shadow of the Wind. His work has been published in more than fifty countries, and honored with numerous awards. He divides his time between Barcelona, Spain, and Los Angeles, California.

My thoughts:

Three friends get caught up in a mystery that will forever shadow their lives. This is a novel that will appeal to young and mature readers alike. I found it to have the Victorian gothic overtones of strange old houses, mysterious graveyards, and haunting characters--supernatural elements that make reading fun and exciting. Thanks to Hachette Book Group for my review copy.

God Made The Dinosaurs! / Review

Author: Todd Aaron Smith
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Hardcover: 10 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
(July 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736938435

Book Description:

What’s more fun than exploring the exciting land of long ago? This colorful, inviting board book shows children ages 0-3 the wonders of God’s amazing creation—the dinosaurs.  Engaging characters welcome little ones to consider all the different sizes, shapes, and habits of one of the most unique creatures to roam the earth.

This brief encounter with dandy dinosaurs is sized for curious little hands and made to endure many rounds of reading. Each turn of the page is a simple reminder to parents and kids alike that big or small, God made us all.

My thoughts:

As a grandmother I am always looking for childrens books about God. This cardboard book is perfect for my 10 month old grandson. It is very colorful with simple sentences and is small enough for little hands to hold. I also like how it introduces him to God and His creation. The illustrations are delightful, too!

(Thank you to Harvest House Publishers for my review copy.)

Me...Jane by Patrick McDonnell / Review

Author: Patrick McDonnell
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
(April 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780316045469

Book Description:

In his characteristic heartwarming style, Patrick McDonnell tells the story of the young Jane Goodall and her special childhood toy chimpanzee named Jubilee. As the young Jane observes the natural world around her with wonder, she dreams of "a life living with and helping all animals," until one day she finds that her dream has come true.

One of the world's most inspiring women, Dr. Jane Goodall is a renowned humanitarian, conservationist, animal activist, environmentalist, and United Nations Messenger of Peace. In 1977 she founded the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI), a global nonprofit organization that empowers people to make a difference for all living things.

With anecdotes taken directly from Jane Goodall's autobiography, McDonnell makes this very true story accessible for the very young--and young at heart.

About the author:

Patrick McDonnell is the creator of the Mutts comic strip, which recently celebrated its fifteenth anniversary, as well as several bestselling children's books including Wag!, The Gift of Nothing, Just Like Heaven, South, Hug Time, and Art. He has been hailed as "the next Charles Schulz."

Patrick sits on the board of directors of the Humane Society of the United States, with a deep concern for the environment and animal welfore, and has won numerous awards for both Mutts and his animal welfare work. He is the co-creator of Guardians of Being with Eckhart Tolle. He lives in New Jersey with his wife, Karen, their formerly feral cat, MeeMow, and their newly adopted terrier, Amelie.

My thoughts:

Who could NOT love this children's book? It is just delightful. This lovely story of Jane Goodall as a child is filled with colorful illustrations. It is sure to melt the heart and inspire readers of all ages. I absolutely loved it and will share it with my grandchildren. 5 BIG STARS*****!!

Where The Mountain Meets The Moon

Author: Grace Lin
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Reprint edition (April 12, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0316038636

Book Description:

This Newbery Honor book features magic, adventure, friendship, and even a dragon who can't fly!

In the valley of Fruitless Mountain, a young girl named Minli lives in a ramshackle hut with her parents. In the evenings, her father regales her with old folktales of the Jade Dragon and the Old Man on the Moon, who knows the answers to all of life's questions. Inspired by these stories, Minli sets off on an extraordinary journey to find the Old Man on the Moon to ask him how she can change her family's fortune. She encounters an assorted cast of characters and magical creatures along the way, including a dragon who accompanies her on her quest for the ultimate answer.

Grace Lin, author of the beloved Year of the Dog and Year of the Rat, returns with a wondrous story of adventure, faith, and friendship. A fantasy crossed with Chinese folklore, Where the Mountain Meets the Moon is a timeless story reminiscent of The Wizard of Oz. Her beautiful illustrations, printed in full-color, accompany the text throughout. Once again, she has created a charming, engaging book for young readers.

My thoughts:

I thought this would be a book for children only, but found on reviewing it that it appeals to all ages. It is beautifully written; magical; elegant; lyrical; an enjoyable read. Many are saying this will become a children's classic--I agree.

(Thank you to Hackette Book Group for my review copy.)

Smells Like Dog

Author: Suzanne Selfors
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Reprint edition (April 12, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780316043977

Book Description:
Meet Homer Pudding, an ordinary farm boy who's got big dreams-to follow in the footsteps of his famous treasure-hunting uncle. But when Uncle Drake mysteriously disappears, Homer inherits two things: a lazy, droopy dog with no sense of smell, and a mystery.

Why would his uncle call this clumsy dog his "most treasured possession?" And why did he put a gold coin on the dog's collar?

And who will continue Uncle Drake's quest-to find the most coveted pirate treasure in the world?

Join Homer, his sister Gwendolyn, and Dog on an adventure that will test their wits and courage as they leave their peaceful farm and head into a world where ruthless treasure hunters hide around every corner. Where they discover that Dog has a hidden talent and that treasure might be closer than they ever imagined...

My thoughts:

Great read for boy or girl age 9 through 14.

(Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my review copy.)

THE TIME-TRAVELING FASHIONISTA

Author: Bianca Turetsky
Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 272 pages
Publisher: Poppy (April 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0316105422

Book Description:

What if a beautiful vintage dress could take you back in time?
Louise Lambert has always dreamed of movie starlets and exquisite gowns and longs for the day when she can fill the closet of her normal suburban home with stylish treasures. But when she receives a mysterious invitation to a vintage fashion sale in the mail, her once painfully average life is magically transformed into a time-travel adventure.

Suddenly onboard a luxurious cruise ship a hundred years ago, Louise relishes the glamorous life of this opulent era and slips into a life of secrets, drama, and decadence. . . .

Dreamy and imaginative, The Time-Traveling Fashionista features thirty full-color fashion illustrations to show gorgeous dresses and styles throughout history.

My Thoughts:

What young lady hasn't dreamed of living in a Cinderella world of beautiful clothes and luxury? In The Time-Traveling Fashionista dreams come true.

The star of our book, Louise Lambert, receives a mysterious invitation which propels her back into time--into a world of glamour and drama; a world in which she finds herself in the lap of luxury. How does she respond?

This is a well-written, fairy-tale story that I think every young woman will enjoy reading as much as I did. I also absolutely loved the many beautiful full-page fashion illustrations.

(Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my review copy.)

Dewey the Library Cat

Author: Vicki Myron
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 224 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Reprint edition (April 12, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9780316068703

Book Description:
Now everyone's favorite library cat can inspire a new audience of young readers with his story of courage and love. Like the hardcover, this paperback edition of the middle-grade adaptation of New York Times bestseller Dewey features an 8-page photo insert of the Dew!

In the tradition of Marley: A Dog Like No Other, this is the story of a cat who was more than a pet, and the amazing effect he had on the people around him. Abandoned in a library book drop slot in the dead of winter, this remarkable kitten miraculously endured the coldest night of the year. Dewey Readmore Books, as he became known, quickly embraced his home inside Spencer's public library, charming the struggling small town's library-goers, young and old. As word of Dewey's winning tail, or rather his tale, spread, the library cat gained worldwide fame as a symbol of hope and proof positive that one small cat could change a town, one reader at a time.

My Thoughts:
A kitten is dropped into a book return slot at the local library. It is found tucked into a corner, under one of the books. Scared, weak, and cold, it is nursed back to health by library friends.

This is the true story of a handsome, orange male tabby named Dewey; his love for the library and everyone around him. Everyone also loves Dewey. The story takes the reader through Dewey's life and adventures and ends with his death, which is handled in a gentle and inspirational way by the author.

I am passing this book on to my granddaughter who loves cats. I think she will love Dewey.

(Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my review copy.)

The Duck Song / Review

Author: Bryant Oden
Illustrations: Forrest Whaley
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 31 pages
Publisher: Flinders Press;
1st edition (September 1, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0984395598

Book Description:

A determined duck pleads for grapes at the most unlikely of places: a lemonade stand. The story and song in this comical, musical picture book will delight both adults and children, who can play the song aloud with the touch of a button on the cover while learning important lessons about persistence and compassion. A music CD featuring 12 original children’s songs is included.

About the Author
Bryant Oden is a former child care counselor, a supervisor at a treatment center for children, and an ESL teacher at the college level. He has written more than 70 children’s songs. He lives in Boulder, Colorado. Forrest Whaley directs and animates movies, with more than 115 million views to his videos on YouTube. He lives in St. Louis, Missouri.

My Review:
This is a delightful children's book about a duck who loves grapes, with lots of brilliant color and nice illustrations. The volume also comes with an audio CD which includes 12 original songs. This would make a great holiday gift.

(Thank you to the author for my review copy.)

The Lost City of Atlantis (Traveling Trunk Adventure 2)

Author: Benjamin Flinders
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 133 pages
Publisher: Flinders Press
(September 1, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0984395555

Book Description:

The Traveling Trunk Adventure series follows two brothers who find themselves scattered across history, from the New World to the Great Wall of China. Each chapter book includes an educational component and a daring mix of comedy, peril, and timeless values.

When brothers Ethan and Dallin are transported back to the ancient city of Atlantis, they find that Poseidon’s wrath has been kindled—something of his has been stolen and he will destroy the entire city to get it back. Together the boys seek to unravel the mystery, all while escaping from a three-headed dog and his master, outwitting a corrupt magistrate, and battling a slithering thief from the Underworld. Along the way to discovering what Poseidon seeks—as well as finding a way back home—they also make new friends and work to reunite an enslaved girl with her father.

My Review:
This second book in the Traveling Trunk Adentures series is just as exciting as the first, Pirate Treasure. 8-12 year old readers should enjoy the adventures of two brothers, Ethan and Dallin as they travel throughtout history in their magic trunk. The stories are well-written and creative. The two book series would make an excellent birthday or holiday gift.

(Thank you to the author for my review copy.)

Pirate Treasure (Traveling Trunk Adventure / Review

Author: Benjamin Flinders
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 111 pages
Publisher: Flinders Press
(September 1, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0984395547

Book Description:
The Traveling Trunk Adventure series follows two brothers who find themselves scattered across history, from the New World to the Great Wall of China. Each chapter book includes an educational component and a daring mix of comedy, peril, and timeless values.

When a cursed treasure chest transports two children, Ethan and Dallin, back in time and into the New World, they find themselves aboard not just any ordinary ship, but on a merchant vessel transformed into a renegade pirate ship that same morning. Mistaken as thieves, the brothers must use their wits and humor to navigate the dark secrets of the brig, to survive walking the plank, to learn how to talk, fight, and hurl insults like a pirate, and solve the mystery that turned Captain Black Bart into a wannabe pirate. Yet even if they can save the pirates from themselves, they still must unravel the curse that brought them there and figure out how to get back home.

My Review:
A great tale of adventure for young readers. Easy to read with nice illustrations.

(Thank you to the author for my review copy.)

The Yellow Hummer

Author: Ivet Graham Morgan
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 34 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press (February 25, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1432747843

Book Description:
A broken Christmas, a saddened child and a heartbroken grandmother are the elements of this touching story for beginning readers which shows that people are always more important than things.

(Thank you to the author for my review copy.)

Is There A Monster Over There?

Author: Sally O. Lee
Paperback: 36 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace (February 13, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1450531024

Book Description:

Ms. Lee's latest book, "Is there a monster over there?" tells the story of Mabel (and her cat, Tiffany) who are afraid of monsters. Mabel thinks they are hiding under her bed or in her closet. One day, she decides to face the monster, and she learns an important lesson about overcoming fears.

My Review:
This book is about Mabel, her cat Tiffany, and Mabel's fear of monsters. It is a story that most children can identify with. I read "is there a monster over there?" to my 3 year old granddaughter, which she seemed to like, although I don't believe she fully understood it at this time. The illustrations are delightful, though, and the story is captivating.

(Thank you to the author for my review copy.)

Make That a Table For Seven / Review

Author: Angie and Storm Davis

Hardcover: 20 pages
Publisher: AuthorHouse (February 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1449072739

Book Description
"Make That a Table for Seven" is a story about two bears left in the woods looking for a home. Ferbie and Peppie are scared and alone and do not think anyone really wants them. One night before dinner, there is a knock at the Grizzly's door, and there stands Ferbie and his sister Peppie. The Grizzly Family is immediately drawn to these two lonely cubs and offer them their home. The Grizzly children, Zeus, Smoo, and Princess, are excited to share their family and have another brother and sister. It is a story, based on real life events, of love, rescue, and redemption from lonely places to safe places. It is about a family expanding in number and love. It is a story that challenges us all to be the hands and heart of God to children in need.

My Review:

This story of unconditional love and acceptance is well-told and highly recommended.

(Thank you to the authors for my review copy.)

For Faithful Friends / Review

Author: Marilyn E. Randall
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Lulu.com (October 17, 2009)
Ages: 4-11 years
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0557100410

My Review:

Written in verse, this is the story of a turtle who is hiding because of the fear he feels inside. He is frightened of almost everything in life; scared all the time. His only friend is a little mouse who visits him everyday and gives him some wise advice that helps him find faith, meaning in life, and the courage to live fully. Well-written and beautifully illustrated by the author, this book is a must read for a timid child or anyone who enjoys a meaningful story with lots of heart.

(Thank you to the author for my review copy.)

Stop It!

Author: Sally O. Lee

Paperback: 36 pages
Publisher: BookSurge Publishing (October 26, 2009)

Ages: 4-7 years
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1439261148

My Review:

Stop It! is the story of Anabel and her brother, George, the bully. Every time Anabel wants to play nicely, George is there to cause a little chaos. He seems to always want to make Anabel unhappy! Something happens, though, which causes George to rethink his negative actions.

This is a short, easy to read, children's book which is well-written, and illustrated by the author. I highly recommend it for young children.

(Thank you to the author for my review copy.)