These are books on CD that we listened to together
101- Big Bad Wolves at School by: Stephen Krensky illustrated by: Brad Sneed
Writing: A- Illustrations: A-
All wolves go to school to learn to be Big Bad Wolves. Rufus isn't any good at it. In the end his natural tendency to howl saves everyone who has been giving him a hard time. It is fun to see this side of the wolves.
102-Philadelphia Chickens by: Sandra Boynton
Writing: A Illustrations: A Music: A
If you have ever wondered what Snuggle Puppy sounds like as a song, this is for you. This book has 18 1/2 songs some of which may be books that you have read by Sandra Boynton. I wish I had this one for my very own.
103- The Napping House by: Aurey Wood illustrated by: Don Wood
Writing: A Illustrations: A
A classic. This book just keeps adding people or animals who are sleeping on the cozy bed. Kind of like the old lady who swallowed the fly. Easy for kids to catch onto.
104-If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by: Laura Numeroff illustrated by: Felicia Bond
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I'm sure you have read this before. If not, go and get it. It is a great book about what comes next. It is my favorite out of the many If You Give a.... books. I think that first is the best in this case.
105-If You Give a Pig a Pancake by: Laura Numeroff illustrated by: Felicia Bond
Writing: A Illustrations: A
Cute story with a pig wanting a pancake instead of a mouse a cookie.
106- If You Give a Moose a Muffin by: Laura Numeroff illustrated by: Felicia Bond
Writing: A Illustrations: A
Cute story with a moose instead of a pig or mouse. She really is creative with what happens in each story.
107- If You Take a Mouse to School by: Laura Numeroff illustrated by: Felicia Bond
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
Okay, this one is my least favorite. If you have a good thing, stick with it. The whole going to school didn't work as well as getting some sort of food. I think, however, that these books work better than all the shoot offs of Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you see?
P.S. The If You Give A books came in a treasury. It had music for each of the stories and cute activities to go with it. We love the songs at our house!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
books 88-100
88- A Plant Called Spot by: Nancy J. Peteraf Illustrated by: Lillian Hoban
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A
A little boy wants a pet. His family already has some pets, but they don't like him. His mother gets him a plant. To keep the other pets away from the plant, he plays with them nicely. In the end he has animal friends and his plant named Spot. This is a good one for talking about being nice to other peoples things so they are nice to yours.
89- Little Pink Pup by: Johanna Kerby
Writing: A- Photographs: A
This is a true story about a little Dachshund who takes care of a runt piglet. It is a fun read and in the end you see that the dog and pig are still friends even though the pig is HUGE compared to the dog.
90- Carlo Likes Colors by: Jessica Spanyol
Writing: B+ Illustrations: B+
A very simply drawn and written color book. On each page you try to find as many of one certain color as you can. My daughter enjoyed reading this to herself after we read it together once as all you really need to know are your colors and what the pictures are of.
91- The Peanut-Free Cafe by: Gloria Koster illustrated by: Maryann Cocca-Leffler
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A-
I thought this book could be really dull, but it turned out pretty cute. In a town where everyone eats peanut products for lunch, a girl moves in who is allergic. The teachers make it cool to eat peanut free by making a peanut- free cafe. It even gets a little boy to choose something new for lunch. A good book to talk about food allergies with.
92- The Lion King Adapted by: Justine Korman Illustrated by: Don Williams and H.R. Russell
Writing: A Illustrations: A
It would be hard to shorten the movie The Lion King into a book, but they did it rather well.
93-Pet Show by: Ezra Jack Keats
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
I don't like this one as much as Snow Day by Ezra Jack Keats, but it was a good read that I could read again. Archie can't find his cat for the pet show and ends up bringing a germ while someone else gets a ribbon for HIS cat. He is happy in the end.
94-You, Me and the Big Blue Sea by: Marie-Louise Fitzpatrick
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A
This book is really all in the illustrations. The writing at times is sticky to read. The mother thinks that they have taken a long journey on a boat with nothing exciting happening. The baby, on the other hand, sees all sorts of exciting things happening.
95-Good Day, Good Night by: Marilyn Singer illustrated by: Ponder Goembel
Writing: A Illustrations: A
This shows animals that are awake during the day on the left page and animals that are asleep during the day on the right page. A great book to talk about nocturnal animals with.
96- The Three Bears by: Byron Barton
Writing: A Illustrations: B+
A very nice and short version of The Three Bears in board book. The cut out pictures (or maybe just painted) are not spectacular. My girls wanted to hear it again and again.
97-Mermaid Dreams by: Mark Sperring illustrated by: The Pope Twins
Writing: A- Illustrations: A-
A cute book about a little girl who has ratty hair. She explains to her mother how she got fish and crabs in her hair. In the end, you find out that she really is a mermaid! A very cute and girly book.
98- Geraldine's Big Snow by: Holly Keller
Writing: A- Illustrations: A-
Geraldine knows it is supposed to snow soon. She watches and watches all day. It finally comes as she sleeps. She goes sledding the next day. This is a nice book about snow and isn't too long which makes it a good one for little kids.
99- A Small Dog's Big Life- Around the World with Owney by: Irene Kelly
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A-
This book needs to be read to children with a longer attention span than my 4 1/2 year old. The letters are long (I thought the author could have cut some out, hence the B+). The book is based on a true story about a dog from the 1890's who traveled around with the postal service all around the world. Interesting story, but for kids in elementary.
100-Reading Makes You Feel Good by: Todd Parr
Writing: A Illustrations: B+
A great book that talks about how amazing reading is. I'm just not crazy about the illustrations.
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A
A little boy wants a pet. His family already has some pets, but they don't like him. His mother gets him a plant. To keep the other pets away from the plant, he plays with them nicely. In the end he has animal friends and his plant named Spot. This is a good one for talking about being nice to other peoples things so they are nice to yours.
89- Little Pink Pup by: Johanna Kerby
Writing: A- Photographs: A
This is a true story about a little Dachshund who takes care of a runt piglet. It is a fun read and in the end you see that the dog and pig are still friends even though the pig is HUGE compared to the dog.
90- Carlo Likes Colors by: Jessica Spanyol
Writing: B+ Illustrations: B+
A very simply drawn and written color book. On each page you try to find as many of one certain color as you can. My daughter enjoyed reading this to herself after we read it together once as all you really need to know are your colors and what the pictures are of.
91- The Peanut-Free Cafe by: Gloria Koster illustrated by: Maryann Cocca-Leffler
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A-
I thought this book could be really dull, but it turned out pretty cute. In a town where everyone eats peanut products for lunch, a girl moves in who is allergic. The teachers make it cool to eat peanut free by making a peanut- free cafe. It even gets a little boy to choose something new for lunch. A good book to talk about food allergies with.
92- The Lion King Adapted by: Justine Korman Illustrated by: Don Williams and H.R. Russell
Writing: A Illustrations: A
It would be hard to shorten the movie The Lion King into a book, but they did it rather well.
93-Pet Show by: Ezra Jack Keats
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
I don't like this one as much as Snow Day by Ezra Jack Keats, but it was a good read that I could read again. Archie can't find his cat for the pet show and ends up bringing a germ while someone else gets a ribbon for HIS cat. He is happy in the end.
94-You, Me and the Big Blue Sea by: Marie-Louise Fitzpatrick
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A
This book is really all in the illustrations. The writing at times is sticky to read. The mother thinks that they have taken a long journey on a boat with nothing exciting happening. The baby, on the other hand, sees all sorts of exciting things happening.
95-Good Day, Good Night by: Marilyn Singer illustrated by: Ponder Goembel
Writing: A Illustrations: A
This shows animals that are awake during the day on the left page and animals that are asleep during the day on the right page. A great book to talk about nocturnal animals with.
96- The Three Bears by: Byron Barton
Writing: A Illustrations: B+
A very nice and short version of The Three Bears in board book. The cut out pictures (or maybe just painted) are not spectacular. My girls wanted to hear it again and again.
97-Mermaid Dreams by: Mark Sperring illustrated by: The Pope Twins
Writing: A- Illustrations: A-
A cute book about a little girl who has ratty hair. She explains to her mother how she got fish and crabs in her hair. In the end, you find out that she really is a mermaid! A very cute and girly book.
98- Geraldine's Big Snow by: Holly Keller
Writing: A- Illustrations: A-
Geraldine knows it is supposed to snow soon. She watches and watches all day. It finally comes as she sleeps. She goes sledding the next day. This is a nice book about snow and isn't too long which makes it a good one for little kids.
99- A Small Dog's Big Life- Around the World with Owney by: Irene Kelly
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A-
This book needs to be read to children with a longer attention span than my 4 1/2 year old. The letters are long (I thought the author could have cut some out, hence the B+). The book is based on a true story about a dog from the 1890's who traveled around with the postal service all around the world. Interesting story, but for kids in elementary.
100-Reading Makes You Feel Good by: Todd Parr
Writing: A Illustrations: B+
A great book that talks about how amazing reading is. I'm just not crazy about the illustrations.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Books 80-87
80- Happy Birthday, Little Pookie by Sandra Boynton
Writing: A Illustrations: A
You know I love her. I like her Pookie books. I had no idea she had a series. Very cute.
81- Night-Night, Little Pookie by: Sandra Boynton
Writing: A Illustrations: A
Read the above. The point of the book is explained by the title. Love her books!
82-Give The Dog a Bone by: Steven Kellogg
Writing: B Illustrations: A
This is a silly version of This Old Man. It was tricky to read because I wanted to sing it to the song, but that didn't always work. That is why I only gave it a B.
83-I'll See You in My Dreams by: Mavis Jukes illustrated by: Stacey Schuett
Writing: B Illustrations: A
This is another serious book. It is about an uncle who is about to die. I know these books are good to have, but they are not my favorite to read. This one was confusing too as it was difficult to tell when it was a dream and when it was real.
84- The Dog Who Saved Santa by: True Kelley
Writing: A- Illustrations: A-
Santa's dog has to take over because Santa is lazy. No one likes it so they get Santa on a self help program after which he behaves like the Santa we all know and love. Cute, but not a must have.
85- Twelve Terrible Things by: Marty Kelley
Writing: C Illustrations: A-
I really disliked this book. Kids may like it though. It is a list of twelve terrible things. I didn't like some of the things that were terrible (going to the dentist, grandma pinching cheeks and being a new kid at school). The last page is pretty silly though (stinky socks).
86- The King's Stilts by: Dr. Seuss
Writing: C+ Illustrations: A
You may wonder why we keep reading Dr. Seuss books when I dislike them so. Well, I let my kids choose some of the books and they pick him. I think because the covers are so bright. Anyway, my main complaint with this book is the length. WAY to long for a picture book. Okay story about a king who likes to walk on stilts. It makes him happy and a better ruler because he has fun. When they are taken away, the kingdom suffers. They are soon found and returned to him and the appropriate people punished.
87- Oh, the Places You'll Go! by: Dr. Seuss
Writing: A- Illustrations:A
I actually like this Dr. Seuss book quite a bit. A very good story to build you up, but not too long and it flows. Yeah for a good one!
Writing: A Illustrations: A
You know I love her. I like her Pookie books. I had no idea she had a series. Very cute.
81- Night-Night, Little Pookie by: Sandra Boynton
Writing: A Illustrations: A
Read the above. The point of the book is explained by the title. Love her books!
82-Give The Dog a Bone by: Steven Kellogg
Writing: B Illustrations: A
This is a silly version of This Old Man. It was tricky to read because I wanted to sing it to the song, but that didn't always work. That is why I only gave it a B.
83-I'll See You in My Dreams by: Mavis Jukes illustrated by: Stacey Schuett
Writing: B Illustrations: A
This is another serious book. It is about an uncle who is about to die. I know these books are good to have, but they are not my favorite to read. This one was confusing too as it was difficult to tell when it was a dream and when it was real.
84- The Dog Who Saved Santa by: True Kelley
Writing: A- Illustrations: A-
Santa's dog has to take over because Santa is lazy. No one likes it so they get Santa on a self help program after which he behaves like the Santa we all know and love. Cute, but not a must have.
85- Twelve Terrible Things by: Marty Kelley
Writing: C Illustrations: A-
I really disliked this book. Kids may like it though. It is a list of twelve terrible things. I didn't like some of the things that were terrible (going to the dentist, grandma pinching cheeks and being a new kid at school). The last page is pretty silly though (stinky socks).
86- The King's Stilts by: Dr. Seuss
Writing: C+ Illustrations: A
You may wonder why we keep reading Dr. Seuss books when I dislike them so. Well, I let my kids choose some of the books and they pick him. I think because the covers are so bright. Anyway, my main complaint with this book is the length. WAY to long for a picture book. Okay story about a king who likes to walk on stilts. It makes him happy and a better ruler because he has fun. When they are taken away, the kingdom suffers. They are soon found and returned to him and the appropriate people punished.
87- Oh, the Places You'll Go! by: Dr. Seuss
Writing: A- Illustrations:A
I actually like this Dr. Seuss book quite a bit. A very good story to build you up, but not too long and it flows. Yeah for a good one!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Books 75-79
75- Danny and the Dinosaur by: Syd Hoff
Writing: A - Illustrations: A-
A classic I Can Read Book. Danny finds a dinosaur at the museum and they hang out together all day long. Fun and silly. A good read.
76-Pedro, His Perro, and the Aphabet Sombrero by: Lynn Rowe Reed
Writing: ? Illustrations: B+
I really can't put a grade for writing on this one because I have a problem that keeps me from seeing the book for what it is. I don't like feeling stupid. Reading books that have words in Spanish make me feel stupid. I don't speak Spanish. This book does have a pronunciation guide in the back which is nice, if I felt like spending the time to sound all the words out.
The story is cute though. A boy gets a sombrero and it is plain. He adds something for each letter of the alphabet to it and then it is HEAVY.
77-Let's Dig It! by:Lara Bergen Illustrated by: David Shannon, Loren Long and David Gordon
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I'm confused why sooooo many people helped with such a little book. It is cute though. A pay loader digs himself into a deep hole and must be saved by his friends.
78-B is for Bagpipes-A scotland Alphabet by: Eve Begley Kiehm illustrated by: Alexa Rutherford
Writing: A Illustrations: A-
I have to be honest and say that I didn't read all of the words in this book. It has two parts. A part that a little kid could sit through and then 3 or 4 more paragraphs to give more information for an adult or older child. I just read the basics. It was fun to learn a bit more about Scotland and the pictures are nice (I gave it an A- because the people look a little odd).
79- Russell the Sheep by: Rob Scotton
Writing: A Illustrations: A
It seems this author has a series of Russell books and I am now excited to look for them. They are just silly! Russell can't sleep. He counts all he can, but can't fall asleep. Finally he counts sheep (imagine that) and falls asleep just as everyone else wakes up. Did I mention it is cute?
Writing: A - Illustrations: A-
A classic I Can Read Book. Danny finds a dinosaur at the museum and they hang out together all day long. Fun and silly. A good read.
76-Pedro, His Perro, and the Aphabet Sombrero by: Lynn Rowe Reed
Writing: ? Illustrations: B+
I really can't put a grade for writing on this one because I have a problem that keeps me from seeing the book for what it is. I don't like feeling stupid. Reading books that have words in Spanish make me feel stupid. I don't speak Spanish. This book does have a pronunciation guide in the back which is nice, if I felt like spending the time to sound all the words out.
The story is cute though. A boy gets a sombrero and it is plain. He adds something for each letter of the alphabet to it and then it is HEAVY.
77-Let's Dig It! by:Lara Bergen Illustrated by: David Shannon, Loren Long and David Gordon
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I'm confused why sooooo many people helped with such a little book. It is cute though. A pay loader digs himself into a deep hole and must be saved by his friends.
78-B is for Bagpipes-A scotland Alphabet by: Eve Begley Kiehm illustrated by: Alexa Rutherford
Writing: A Illustrations: A-
I have to be honest and say that I didn't read all of the words in this book. It has two parts. A part that a little kid could sit through and then 3 or 4 more paragraphs to give more information for an adult or older child. I just read the basics. It was fun to learn a bit more about Scotland and the pictures are nice (I gave it an A- because the people look a little odd).
79- Russell the Sheep by: Rob Scotton
Writing: A Illustrations: A
It seems this author has a series of Russell books and I am now excited to look for them. They are just silly! Russell can't sleep. He counts all he can, but can't fall asleep. Finally he counts sheep (imagine that) and falls asleep just as everyone else wakes up. Did I mention it is cute?
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
books 69-74
69- Swim by: Eve Rice illustrated by: Marisabina Russo
Writing: B+ Illustrations: B+
A nice book, but not thrilling or anything. It is about a dad who takes his daughter swimming every weekend. That is really it. So if you have a kids who is scared of swimming, it might be good.
70- Tale of a Tadpole by: Barbara Ann Porte illustrated by: Annie Cannon
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
This book goes over how a tadpole turns into a toad. It is nice because it does it differently from other books I've read. The girl has a tadpole as a pet and is excited to see it change into a frog. She then finds out that it is really a toad.
71- Tomorrow's Alphabet by: George Shannon illustrated by: Donald Crews
Writing: A Illustrations: A
A very creative alphabet book. It takes something like wheat and says that is for the letter F (tomorrow's flour). It was a little tricky for my daughter who is just trying to learn her letters, but I think it would be great for kids who have a firm grasp on the alphabet already.
72- Inside Outside Upside Down by: Stan and Jan Berenstain
Writing: A- Illustrations: A-
I guess it is okay not to have complete sentences in beginner books. This book mostly has statements anyway. Brother bear goes inside a box, which goes outside the door, and into town. In the end he gets back home and is able to tell his mother that he has been inside, outside and upside down. My daughter laughed and laughed.
73- A Box Can Be Many Things by: Dana Meachen Rau Illustrated by: Paige Billin-Frye
Writing: A Illustrations: A
For being an easy reader, this is really written well. The kids get a box and turn it into most of the things we think of using a box for. In the process the box gets shredded, but the kids still find something to make out of it.
74-Oh My Baby Bear! by: Audrey Wood
Writing: A Illustrations: A-
Not my favorite Audrey Wood book, but it is still much better than a lot of picture books. The baby bear has to start to do things by himself. His parents teach him how, and the next day he can do it all (I wish it were that easy!). He is no longer baby bear, but little bear. Luckily little bear can still be tucked into bed. Maybe I should read this to my daughter more so she can become more independent.
Writing: B+ Illustrations: B+
A nice book, but not thrilling or anything. It is about a dad who takes his daughter swimming every weekend. That is really it. So if you have a kids who is scared of swimming, it might be good.
70- Tale of a Tadpole by: Barbara Ann Porte illustrated by: Annie Cannon
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
This book goes over how a tadpole turns into a toad. It is nice because it does it differently from other books I've read. The girl has a tadpole as a pet and is excited to see it change into a frog. She then finds out that it is really a toad.
71- Tomorrow's Alphabet by: George Shannon illustrated by: Donald Crews
Writing: A Illustrations: A
A very creative alphabet book. It takes something like wheat and says that is for the letter F (tomorrow's flour). It was a little tricky for my daughter who is just trying to learn her letters, but I think it would be great for kids who have a firm grasp on the alphabet already.
72- Inside Outside Upside Down by: Stan and Jan Berenstain
Writing: A- Illustrations: A-
I guess it is okay not to have complete sentences in beginner books. This book mostly has statements anyway. Brother bear goes inside a box, which goes outside the door, and into town. In the end he gets back home and is able to tell his mother that he has been inside, outside and upside down. My daughter laughed and laughed.
73- A Box Can Be Many Things by: Dana Meachen Rau Illustrated by: Paige Billin-Frye
Writing: A Illustrations: A
For being an easy reader, this is really written well. The kids get a box and turn it into most of the things we think of using a box for. In the process the box gets shredded, but the kids still find something to make out of it.
74-Oh My Baby Bear! by: Audrey Wood
Writing: A Illustrations: A-
Not my favorite Audrey Wood book, but it is still much better than a lot of picture books. The baby bear has to start to do things by himself. His parents teach him how, and the next day he can do it all (I wish it were that easy!). He is no longer baby bear, but little bear. Luckily little bear can still be tucked into bed. Maybe I should read this to my daughter more so she can become more independent.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Books 63-68
63- Don't Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late! by Mo Willems
Writing: A Illustrations: B
I haven't ever read any of these Pigeon books. The illustrations made me think it would be lame. Really, they are just simple. My daughter has so much fun telling the pigeon what to do. The pigeon wants to stay up and has a conversation with the reader about it. He begs to stay up and gives reasons and yawns. The reader has to tell him to go to bed. It can be confusing the first time you read it though because it seems that there are things the author wants you to say. All in all I really liked this and will check out some of the other ones.
64- A Tree is Nice by: Janice May Udry illustrated by: Marc Simont
Writing: A Illustrations: A
This is a Caldecott Medal winner from 1956. This just talks about how nice trees are and has beautiful pictures.
65- and tango makes three by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell illustrated by: Henry Cole
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
I had mixed feelings about this book. It helps to know that the story is a true story and isn't trying to tell your kids that being a family with two daddies is the way to go. So these two penguins in the Central Park Zoo love each other and don't pay attention to the girl penguins. They make a nest and sit on a rock, but nothing happens. Then another set of penguins have two eggs, but will only take care of one. The male penguins get it and raise the chick. They are good daddies and can be seen today at the zoo.
66- Ella Sarah Gets Dressed by: Margaret Chodos-Irvine
Writing: A Illustrations: A
This is a Caldecott honor book. Ella wants to wear a funky outfit. Her mother, father and sister try to convince her otherwise (which I think is lame for a girl of her age, I figure you let them wear what they want). Ella decides to get dressed by herself. She looks crazy, but so do her friends who come over for tea!
67- The Ant and the Grasshopper retold and illustrated by: Amy Lowry Poole
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
This is the traditional story of the ant and the grasshopper. It is set in China. I don't think it is my all time favorite version of this book.
68- My Little People Farm- A lift-the-flap playbook by:Doris Tomaselli Illustrated by: Thompson Bros.
Writing: A Illustrations: A
For a lift-the-flap book, this is great. It goes over lots of concepts for young readers.
Writing: A Illustrations: B
I haven't ever read any of these Pigeon books. The illustrations made me think it would be lame. Really, they are just simple. My daughter has so much fun telling the pigeon what to do. The pigeon wants to stay up and has a conversation with the reader about it. He begs to stay up and gives reasons and yawns. The reader has to tell him to go to bed. It can be confusing the first time you read it though because it seems that there are things the author wants you to say. All in all I really liked this and will check out some of the other ones.
64- A Tree is Nice by: Janice May Udry illustrated by: Marc Simont
Writing: A Illustrations: A
This is a Caldecott Medal winner from 1956. This just talks about how nice trees are and has beautiful pictures.
65- and tango makes three by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell illustrated by: Henry Cole
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
I had mixed feelings about this book. It helps to know that the story is a true story and isn't trying to tell your kids that being a family with two daddies is the way to go. So these two penguins in the Central Park Zoo love each other and don't pay attention to the girl penguins. They make a nest and sit on a rock, but nothing happens. Then another set of penguins have two eggs, but will only take care of one. The male penguins get it and raise the chick. They are good daddies and can be seen today at the zoo.
66- Ella Sarah Gets Dressed by: Margaret Chodos-Irvine
Writing: A Illustrations: A
This is a Caldecott honor book. Ella wants to wear a funky outfit. Her mother, father and sister try to convince her otherwise (which I think is lame for a girl of her age, I figure you let them wear what they want). Ella decides to get dressed by herself. She looks crazy, but so do her friends who come over for tea!
67- The Ant and the Grasshopper retold and illustrated by: Amy Lowry Poole
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
This is the traditional story of the ant and the grasshopper. It is set in China. I don't think it is my all time favorite version of this book.
68- My Little People Farm- A lift-the-flap playbook by:Doris Tomaselli Illustrated by: Thompson Bros.
Writing: A Illustrations: A
For a lift-the-flap book, this is great. It goes over lots of concepts for young readers.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Books 60-62
60- My Very First Mother Goose edited by Iona Opie illustrated by Rosemary Wells
Writing: N/A Illustrations: A
This is the most comprehensive Mother Goose books I have come across. Who knew there were soooo many rhymes. It is 104 pages of great illustrations to all the favorite rhymes and many lesser known rhymes. It is nice and big too which makes it nice for a crowd.
*61- Pajama Time by Sandra Boynton
Writing: A Illustrations: A
Another winner by Sandra. If you want to know the tune, get Philadelphia Chickens and learn it. This one works without knowing the tune though. A fun going to bed book that everyone should have that shamefully I do not own yet.
62-How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night? by Jane Yolen and Mark Teague
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I am not a fan of dinosaurs (gasp) and haven't been since I can remember. This book makes learning dinosaur names bearable for those of you like me. It also talks about the right way to go to bed which is always nice to reinforce.
Writing: N/A Illustrations: A
This is the most comprehensive Mother Goose books I have come across. Who knew there were soooo many rhymes. It is 104 pages of great illustrations to all the favorite rhymes and many lesser known rhymes. It is nice and big too which makes it nice for a crowd.
*61- Pajama Time by Sandra Boynton
Writing: A Illustrations: A
Another winner by Sandra. If you want to know the tune, get Philadelphia Chickens and learn it. This one works without knowing the tune though. A fun going to bed book that everyone should have that shamefully I do not own yet.
62-How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night? by Jane Yolen and Mark Teague
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I am not a fan of dinosaurs (gasp) and haven't been since I can remember. This book makes learning dinosaur names bearable for those of you like me. It also talks about the right way to go to bed which is always nice to reinforce.
A book you may not see in your library
*59- The Jolly Postman or Other People's Letters by Janet and Allan Ahlberg
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I have loved this book since elementary school when a teacher read it to us and then we did a unit on letter writing. It probably really is at your library, but if it isn't, I understand. There are removable parts in this book. At each character's house there is a letter from another fairtale character. Goldilocks invites Little Bear to her birthday party, you meet the Big Bad Wolf and you also meet the Giant from Jack and the Beanstalk. Kids love to open up the next letter. Just keep it up high and read it together if they are too young. Did I mention that I love this book?
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I have loved this book since elementary school when a teacher read it to us and then we did a unit on letter writing. It probably really is at your library, but if it isn't, I understand. There are removable parts in this book. At each character's house there is a letter from another fairtale character. Goldilocks invites Little Bear to her birthday party, you meet the Big Bad Wolf and you also meet the Giant from Jack and the Beanstalk. Kids love to open up the next letter. Just keep it up high and read it together if they are too young. Did I mention that I love this book?
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Books 55- 58
55- The missing Piece Meets the BIG O by Shel Silverstein
Writing: A Illustrations: B-
This has very simple drawings which are appropriate for the book, but they aren't amazing which is why I didn't give them an A. The missing piece is like a piece of pie missing from a circle. He tries to find someplace to fit and in the end becomes okay all by himself. This is a good book about being who you want to be and not having others complete you.
56-Father Bear Comes Home by: Else Holmelund Minarik illustrated by: Maurice Sendak
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A-
These books are a little slow for my interest and my daughters. If I were going to have her read a whole series of I Can Read type books I would choose Henry and Mudge. Much more fun.
57-Swine Divine by Jan Carr illustrated by Robert Bender
Writing: C Illustrations: B
This book is kind of random I think. You think the pig is going to go to the fair and then be killed, but then it gets its picture taken. Then it gets sick of that and runs away. Just not the best story line ever.
58- Bear Dreams by Elisha Cooper
Writing: A- Illustrations: B+
Little bear doesn't want to hibernate. He plays with other animal friends and then falls asleep in the end. Pretty basic and not very thrilling, but a nice book to talk about hibernation with.
Writing: A Illustrations: B-
This has very simple drawings which are appropriate for the book, but they aren't amazing which is why I didn't give them an A. The missing piece is like a piece of pie missing from a circle. He tries to find someplace to fit and in the end becomes okay all by himself. This is a good book about being who you want to be and not having others complete you.
56-Father Bear Comes Home by: Else Holmelund Minarik illustrated by: Maurice Sendak
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A-
These books are a little slow for my interest and my daughters. If I were going to have her read a whole series of I Can Read type books I would choose Henry and Mudge. Much more fun.
57-Swine Divine by Jan Carr illustrated by Robert Bender
Writing: C Illustrations: B
This book is kind of random I think. You think the pig is going to go to the fair and then be killed, but then it gets its picture taken. Then it gets sick of that and runs away. Just not the best story line ever.
58- Bear Dreams by Elisha Cooper
Writing: A- Illustrations: B+
Little bear doesn't want to hibernate. He plays with other animal friends and then falls asleep in the end. Pretty basic and not very thrilling, but a nice book to talk about hibernation with.
Monday, October 11, 2010
books 45-54
*45- Barnyard Dance by: Sandra Boynton
Writing: A Illustrations: A
If you haven't read Sandra Boynton books, you are missing out! She has clever books with a nice rhythm to them. Barnyard Dance! is one of my favorites.
46- The Owl and The Pussy Cat and other silly-time tales by:Edward Lear
illustrated by: Chuck Reasoner
Writing: B Illustrations: A
Edward Lear lived quite a while ago (he died in 1888) and his stories are still nice to read. They do have a lot of nonsense, so maybe he is the inspiration for Dr. Suess! I enjoyed the first and last story in this book, but the middle one didn't float my boat.
47- My Backpack by: Eve Bunting illustrated by: Maryann Cocca-Leffler
Writing: A Illustrations: A
Eve Bunting almost always does a good job. She has a nice flow in this book about a little boy and his new backpack. He packs everything he can in it to keep it from getting lost including, his dad's glasses, his mom's keys and his brother's socks. You can bet they aren't happy about that and soon he is found and told that he can not do that with his backpack.
48- My Bag and Me! by: Karen Farmer illustrated by: Gary Currant
Writing: B Illustrations: A
This book is all about being green and not using plastic bags while shopping at the store. At least you get a mini bag that can hold one small toy in it for your kid to take to the store.
*49- Princess Mia and the Big Smile by:Rachel Elliot illustrated by: Jacqueline East
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
This is a good reminder for parents that it is important to have fun and not be serious all the time, but it is also a fun story to read. I don't like the page breaks and line breaks sometimes because it makes it tricky to read aloud the first time. Princess Mia teaches her family that you can have fun and be silly in any situation.
50- On Beyond Zebra! by: Dr. Seuss
Writing: B Illustrations: A
You know how I feel about Dr. Seuss, but I read this book because my daughter picked it. It is an alphabet book that goes on with the alphabet after the letter Z. The thing is that it uses the letters A-Z to write the book so when it asks questions like how could you write Humpf-Humpf-a-Dumpfer without the letter Humpf I thought, "The way you just did!". I did find about five of the pages charming though.
51-The Pudgy Book of Mother Goose illustrated by: Richard Walz
Illustrations: A
This book only does one verse of each rhyme which can be helpful for very small children.
52-Not Until Christmas, Walter! by: Eileen Christelow
writing: A- illustrations: A
This is a clever book about a girl and her dog Walter. Walter eats all of the Christmas presents before Christmas. The girl gets VERY mad at him. She later gets lost and then found by Walter. They are friends again. Santa comes and gives him a bone, but the girl doesn't see Santa.
*53-Just what Mama Needs by: Sharlee Glenn illustrated by: Amiko Hirao
writing: A- illustrations: A
I got to meet the author of this book at a workshop. She even signed the book for me! Anyway, the book follows Abby as she dresses up every day. When she becomes something, her mother finds a way that it is just what she needs (the pirate Abby can help swab the deck a.k.a. the kitchen floor). In the end Abby is just Abby which is what her mama wants most of all! Very sweet book. There are some sentences that maybe could have been improved.
54- The Baby's Book of Baby Animals by: Kay Chorao
illustrations: A
This is a compilation of poems about baby animals that Kay Chorao illustrated. Beautiful illustrations. It can be a little long if you are reading the whole book, especially to a baby. You could just read a few pages though because each page is complete.
Writing: A Illustrations: A
If you haven't read Sandra Boynton books, you are missing out! She has clever books with a nice rhythm to them. Barnyard Dance! is one of my favorites.
46- The Owl and The Pussy Cat and other silly-time tales by:Edward Lear
illustrated by: Chuck Reasoner
Writing: B Illustrations: A
Edward Lear lived quite a while ago (he died in 1888) and his stories are still nice to read. They do have a lot of nonsense, so maybe he is the inspiration for Dr. Suess! I enjoyed the first and last story in this book, but the middle one didn't float my boat.
47- My Backpack by: Eve Bunting illustrated by: Maryann Cocca-Leffler
Writing: A Illustrations: A
Eve Bunting almost always does a good job. She has a nice flow in this book about a little boy and his new backpack. He packs everything he can in it to keep it from getting lost including, his dad's glasses, his mom's keys and his brother's socks. You can bet they aren't happy about that and soon he is found and told that he can not do that with his backpack.
48- My Bag and Me! by: Karen Farmer illustrated by: Gary Currant
Writing: B Illustrations: A
This book is all about being green and not using plastic bags while shopping at the store. At least you get a mini bag that can hold one small toy in it for your kid to take to the store.
*49- Princess Mia and the Big Smile by:Rachel Elliot illustrated by: Jacqueline East
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
This is a good reminder for parents that it is important to have fun and not be serious all the time, but it is also a fun story to read. I don't like the page breaks and line breaks sometimes because it makes it tricky to read aloud the first time. Princess Mia teaches her family that you can have fun and be silly in any situation.
50- On Beyond Zebra! by: Dr. Seuss
Writing: B Illustrations: A
You know how I feel about Dr. Seuss, but I read this book because my daughter picked it. It is an alphabet book that goes on with the alphabet after the letter Z. The thing is that it uses the letters A-Z to write the book so when it asks questions like how could you write Humpf-Humpf-a-Dumpfer without the letter Humpf I thought, "The way you just did!". I did find about five of the pages charming though.
51-The Pudgy Book of Mother Goose illustrated by: Richard Walz
Illustrations: A
This book only does one verse of each rhyme which can be helpful for very small children.
52-Not Until Christmas, Walter! by: Eileen Christelow
writing: A- illustrations: A
This is a clever book about a girl and her dog Walter. Walter eats all of the Christmas presents before Christmas. The girl gets VERY mad at him. She later gets lost and then found by Walter. They are friends again. Santa comes and gives him a bone, but the girl doesn't see Santa.
*53-Just what Mama Needs by: Sharlee Glenn illustrated by: Amiko Hirao
writing: A- illustrations: A
I got to meet the author of this book at a workshop. She even signed the book for me! Anyway, the book follows Abby as she dresses up every day. When she becomes something, her mother finds a way that it is just what she needs (the pirate Abby can help swab the deck a.k.a. the kitchen floor). In the end Abby is just Abby which is what her mama wants most of all! Very sweet book. There are some sentences that maybe could have been improved.
54- The Baby's Book of Baby Animals by: Kay Chorao
illustrations: A
This is a compilation of poems about baby animals that Kay Chorao illustrated. Beautiful illustrations. It can be a little long if you are reading the whole book, especially to a baby. You could just read a few pages though because each page is complete.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
WAY BEHIND
I know! I will try to catch up. We have been busy, busy, busy trying to get a refinance on our home. Now I need to read like 6 books a day. I can do this! It is a good goal.
Books 40-44
40- Splish, Splash, Spring by: Jan Carr illustrated by: Dorothy Donohue
writing: A- illustrations: A
Paper cut outs for illustrations. A fun rhyming book about spring coming.
41- The Very Best Daddy of All by: Marion Dane Bauer illustrated by: Leslie Wu
writing: A illustrations: A
This book shows wild animal daddies helping their kids, but the words all apply to human children too. In the end the boy says HIS daddy is the best daddy of all. Very sweet and can also be used to identify animals and their babies.
42- The Bag I'm Taking To Grandma's by: Shirley Neitzel illustrated by: Nacy Winslow Parker
writing: A illustrations: B
Some people may be annoyed by the repetitive nature of this book. I like it for my 4 year old because she "helps" me read it. A little boy wants to take EVERYTHING to his grandma's house. It is made in a list with a picture taking the place of the thing he brings (such as a picture of a bunny instead of the word bunny). By the end there is a list of 7 things he is taking and his mom comes in. She makes him put things back and pack clothes. He says he doesn't have room for clothes.
My daughter says: "Cool because he takes too many things."
43- Gray Wolf Pup by: Doe Boyle illustrated by: Jeff Domm
writing: A illustrations: A (beautiful!)
I don't know why this wasn't in the nonfiction section. It tells a lot about how a wolf pack works and what happens when a wolf pup disobeys and gets too far away from home. If your kid loves wolves, this is a book for him/her.
44- The Three Bears Holiday Rhyme Book by: Jane Yolen illustrated by: Jane Dyer
writing: A- (some sticky parts in the poems) illustrations: A
This book goes through most holidays in a year and has a poem for each. I was confused when it kept talking about Goldie in the poems until I realized it was Goldilocks. Great book for teachers.
writing: A- illustrations: A
Paper cut outs for illustrations. A fun rhyming book about spring coming.
41- The Very Best Daddy of All by: Marion Dane Bauer illustrated by: Leslie Wu
writing: A illustrations: A
This book shows wild animal daddies helping their kids, but the words all apply to human children too. In the end the boy says HIS daddy is the best daddy of all. Very sweet and can also be used to identify animals and their babies.
42- The Bag I'm Taking To Grandma's by: Shirley Neitzel illustrated by: Nacy Winslow Parker
writing: A illustrations: B
Some people may be annoyed by the repetitive nature of this book. I like it for my 4 year old because she "helps" me read it. A little boy wants to take EVERYTHING to his grandma's house. It is made in a list with a picture taking the place of the thing he brings (such as a picture of a bunny instead of the word bunny). By the end there is a list of 7 things he is taking and his mom comes in. She makes him put things back and pack clothes. He says he doesn't have room for clothes.
My daughter says: "Cool because he takes too many things."
43- Gray Wolf Pup by: Doe Boyle illustrated by: Jeff Domm
writing: A illustrations: A (beautiful!)
I don't know why this wasn't in the nonfiction section. It tells a lot about how a wolf pack works and what happens when a wolf pup disobeys and gets too far away from home. If your kid loves wolves, this is a book for him/her.
44- The Three Bears Holiday Rhyme Book by: Jane Yolen illustrated by: Jane Dyer
writing: A- (some sticky parts in the poems) illustrations: A
This book goes through most holidays in a year and has a poem for each. I was confused when it kept talking about Goldie in the poems until I realized it was Goldilocks. Great book for teachers.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Books 37-39
37- Day Out With Daddy by: Stephen Cook
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I REALLY LIKE this book. I had never read it before. The mom goes out of town so the kid gets a day with his dad. He thinks everything is great and special. They eat poorly and stay up late and the mom says they had so much fun she may never leave again (I took this to mean, Wow! The house is a mess! Why did I leave you two alone?).
38- Arthur's Valentine by: Marc Brown
Writing: A Illustrations: B (What can I say? I like the new look Arthur has now)
This is nice just like every other Arthur book. Not as long as Dr. Seuss, but longer than some books. Arthur has a secret valentine and he guesses the wrong person to give a mushy valentine to. He gets his secret valentine back in the end.
39- Santa and the Three Bears by: Dominic Catalano
Writing: A Illustrations: A-
This was a nice twist on the three bears story. Instead of Goldilocks going into their house, the three bears go into Santa's house. It is a fun Christmas book and also great for a retelling of The Three Bears.
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I REALLY LIKE this book. I had never read it before. The mom goes out of town so the kid gets a day with his dad. He thinks everything is great and special. They eat poorly and stay up late and the mom says they had so much fun she may never leave again (I took this to mean, Wow! The house is a mess! Why did I leave you two alone?).
38- Arthur's Valentine by: Marc Brown
Writing: A Illustrations: B (What can I say? I like the new look Arthur has now)
This is nice just like every other Arthur book. Not as long as Dr. Seuss, but longer than some books. Arthur has a secret valentine and he guesses the wrong person to give a mushy valentine to. He gets his secret valentine back in the end.
39- Santa and the Three Bears by: Dominic Catalano
Writing: A Illustrations: A-
This was a nice twist on the three bears story. Instead of Goldilocks going into their house, the three bears go into Santa's house. It is a fun Christmas book and also great for a retelling of The Three Bears.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Books 34- 36
34- Did I Ever Tell You How Lucky You Are? by: Dr. Seuss
Writing: B- Illustrations: A
Okay, here is my dirty little secret, I don't care for Dr. Seuss. There, I wrote it. His books are very often too long and I distinctly remember not enjoying many of them when I was little. I especially hated them when I was trying to read because he makes up words. So, there I was trying to sound out a word and the word didn't even exist! It is good for those who learned phonetics, but not the whole word approach which I am convinced is how I was taught. Anyway, this book doesn't disappoint on my pet peeves. Too long, and words I had trouble pronouncing until I figured out what they were supposed to rhyme with and I feel like I am a fairly good reader. Good meaning to the story though, there are always people worse off than you. Maybe they own a whole library of Dr. Seuss books and luckily you don't. :)
35- Will You Still Love Me? by: Jean-Baptiste Baronian illustrated by: Noris Kern
Writing: A Illustrations: A
The little polar bear in this book thinks his parents do not love him anymore. He tries to find out why and finally decides to ask his parents. It turns out a baby is on the way and he finds out that his parents will love both of them with all of their hearts. A good book for right now in our family and pretty pictures.
36- Look! Look! Look! by: Nancy Elizabeth Wallace with Linda K. Friedlaender
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A
Cut paper illustrations are nice. This book would be great for an art class. Three mice find a post card of a famous painting and learn all sorts of things about it (there are colors in a picture, lines in a picture and shapes in a picture). Not the best writing to move it along, but creative enough to make it more interesting than just an art lesson.
Writing: B- Illustrations: A
Okay, here is my dirty little secret, I don't care for Dr. Seuss. There, I wrote it. His books are very often too long and I distinctly remember not enjoying many of them when I was little. I especially hated them when I was trying to read because he makes up words. So, there I was trying to sound out a word and the word didn't even exist! It is good for those who learned phonetics, but not the whole word approach which I am convinced is how I was taught. Anyway, this book doesn't disappoint on my pet peeves. Too long, and words I had trouble pronouncing until I figured out what they were supposed to rhyme with and I feel like I am a fairly good reader. Good meaning to the story though, there are always people worse off than you. Maybe they own a whole library of Dr. Seuss books and luckily you don't. :)
35- Will You Still Love Me? by: Jean-Baptiste Baronian illustrated by: Noris Kern
Writing: A Illustrations: A
The little polar bear in this book thinks his parents do not love him anymore. He tries to find out why and finally decides to ask his parents. It turns out a baby is on the way and he finds out that his parents will love both of them with all of their hearts. A good book for right now in our family and pretty pictures.
36- Look! Look! Look! by: Nancy Elizabeth Wallace with Linda K. Friedlaender
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A
Cut paper illustrations are nice. This book would be great for an art class. Three mice find a post card of a famous painting and learn all sorts of things about it (there are colors in a picture, lines in a picture and shapes in a picture). Not the best writing to move it along, but creative enough to make it more interesting than just an art lesson.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Books 24- 33
*24- Officer Buckle and Gloria by: Peggy Rathmann
Writing: A Illustrations: A
We just got this book in the mail from grandma and had it checked out from the library! It is a classic and my daughter LOVES to read it over and over. Officer Buckle tells saftey tips. When he gets a dog, Gloria, to come with him, Gloria steals the show. It is fun to look for different things each time you read the book.
25- Busy Toes by: C.W. Bowie illustrated by: Fred Willingham
Writing: A Illustrations: A
This is a nice fast book. All about toes and the things they can do. Squish in things, play in things etc. Cute for what it is.
26- Zen Ties by: Jon J Muth
Writing: A Illustrations: A
All Zen books are a little deep, and long. Great pictures though. Mostly a book for adults.
27-It's My City! A Singing Map by April Pulley Sayre illustrated by: Denis Roche
Writing: B Illustrations: A
Do you remember on Sesame street when they go one way in the city and then remember it backwards to get back home? This book reminds me of that. It is written like a song, so I had a hard time reading it without know how the melody was supposed to go. It is a nice skill for kids to have to find their way to places though.
28-The Fire Cat by: Esther Averill
Writing: A- Illustrations: B+
This is another I can Read Book. The cat is a stray cat and then becomes a fire cat at the fire station. He can even go down the pole. It has three "chapters" so it can be kind of long in one sitting. It is entertaining though.
29-Fenton and the Magic Bag by:Ruth Lerner Perle illustrated by: Judy Blankenship
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
This is an Alpha Pets book, so it is out to teach a lesson. I actually really liked the lesson in this one. Fenton takes everything with him to the fair to help him be safe and won't try anything because he may get hurt. He gets a magic bag from a fortune teller that is small and helps him to be brave. When he opens the bag in the end, there is a picture of himself and he finds that he is a very powerful little guy and that he can do anything.
30-Hannah and Jack by: Mary Nethery illustrations by: Mary Morgan
Writing: A Illustrations: A
Hannah has to leave her cat Jack at home while she goes on vacation. She misses him so much, she can't do anything without him. She then decides to send him postcards and starts having fun. This is cute and would be good if you have to leave a pet at home and your kids are worried about it.
31- The Boy of Steel by: Ray Negron illustrations by: Laura Seeley
Writing: B Illustrations: A-
I really didn't like this book, although I see value in it. A little boy has cancer and gets to be a bat boy for the Yankees. It is a good oprotunity to discuss difficult subjects with your kids, but it is a confusing book to read.
32- A Visitor for Bear by: Bonny Becker illustrated by: Kady MacDondald Denton
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I WANT THIS BOOK! Bear doesn't allow people to visit him, but the mouse keeps on popping up. Finally, bear lets mouse stay and realizes he likes to have visitors, he had just never tried having one before.
33- Gathering a Northwoods Counting Book by: Betsy Bowen
Writing: A Illustrations: B
If you think, "Oh! A counting book! This will be fast!" You are wrong. With each number there is a paragraph about something that happens in the Northwoods. I think this would be a great book to remake with kids about your own home/town in like first or second grade.
Writing: A Illustrations: A
We just got this book in the mail from grandma and had it checked out from the library! It is a classic and my daughter LOVES to read it over and over. Officer Buckle tells saftey tips. When he gets a dog, Gloria, to come with him, Gloria steals the show. It is fun to look for different things each time you read the book.
25- Busy Toes by: C.W. Bowie illustrated by: Fred Willingham
Writing: A Illustrations: A
This is a nice fast book. All about toes and the things they can do. Squish in things, play in things etc. Cute for what it is.
26- Zen Ties by: Jon J Muth
Writing: A Illustrations: A
All Zen books are a little deep, and long. Great pictures though. Mostly a book for adults.
27-It's My City! A Singing Map by April Pulley Sayre illustrated by: Denis Roche
Writing: B Illustrations: A
Do you remember on Sesame street when they go one way in the city and then remember it backwards to get back home? This book reminds me of that. It is written like a song, so I had a hard time reading it without know how the melody was supposed to go. It is a nice skill for kids to have to find their way to places though.
28-The Fire Cat by: Esther Averill
Writing: A- Illustrations: B+
This is another I can Read Book. The cat is a stray cat and then becomes a fire cat at the fire station. He can even go down the pole. It has three "chapters" so it can be kind of long in one sitting. It is entertaining though.
29-Fenton and the Magic Bag by:Ruth Lerner Perle illustrated by: Judy Blankenship
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
This is an Alpha Pets book, so it is out to teach a lesson. I actually really liked the lesson in this one. Fenton takes everything with him to the fair to help him be safe and won't try anything because he may get hurt. He gets a magic bag from a fortune teller that is small and helps him to be brave. When he opens the bag in the end, there is a picture of himself and he finds that he is a very powerful little guy and that he can do anything.
30-Hannah and Jack by: Mary Nethery illustrations by: Mary Morgan
Writing: A Illustrations: A
Hannah has to leave her cat Jack at home while she goes on vacation. She misses him so much, she can't do anything without him. She then decides to send him postcards and starts having fun. This is cute and would be good if you have to leave a pet at home and your kids are worried about it.
31- The Boy of Steel by: Ray Negron illustrations by: Laura Seeley
Writing: B Illustrations: A-
I really didn't like this book, although I see value in it. A little boy has cancer and gets to be a bat boy for the Yankees. It is a good oprotunity to discuss difficult subjects with your kids, but it is a confusing book to read.
32- A Visitor for Bear by: Bonny Becker illustrated by: Kady MacDondald Denton
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I WANT THIS BOOK! Bear doesn't allow people to visit him, but the mouse keeps on popping up. Finally, bear lets mouse stay and realizes he likes to have visitors, he had just never tried having one before.
33- Gathering a Northwoods Counting Book by: Betsy Bowen
Writing: A Illustrations: B
If you think, "Oh! A counting book! This will be fast!" You are wrong. With each number there is a paragraph about something that happens in the Northwoods. I think this would be a great book to remake with kids about your own home/town in like first or second grade.
Friday, September 17, 2010
books 20-23
20- Mister Dog By:Margaret Wise Brown Illustrated by: Garth Williams
Writing: B+ (Not my favorite of hers) Illustrations: A
A dog belongs to himself and gets to do what he wants. He meets a boy who belongs to himself and they decide to live together. This is not a book I hate to read, but I don't look forward to it either. Sometimes it seems like a stream of consciousness.
My daughter says: "I like it when he finds the boy."
21- Puppies For Sale By: Dan Clark Illustrated by: Jerry Dillingham
Writing: A Illustrations: A
This is NOT really a children's book. It is a Chicken Soup for the Soul story with pictures. A boy with a disability chooses to get a dog with a disability so they can understand each other. A sweet story, but kind of hard to explain to little kids.
22- Sammy The Seal By: Syd Hoff
Writing: A- Illustrations: A-
An I Can Read book, so it isn't the most fabulous book ever, but it is cute and worth reading again and again. I remember reading it when I was little and loving it. Sammy gets to have one day out of the zoo. He learns lots of things and is happy to go home in the end.
23- Cathy Is Company By: Joan Lexan Illustrated by: Aliki
Writing:A Illustrations: How can you say anything but an A for Aliki?
I have a new appreciation for this book because the main character is Cathy (my mother-in-laws name) who visits her cousin Barbara (my mother's name). What a coincidence! It also tells you that this book is from the '60's. It is all about a sleepover and all the things that go with it. At the end you find out that the girls live next door to each other! Cute book!
Writing: B+ (Not my favorite of hers) Illustrations: A
A dog belongs to himself and gets to do what he wants. He meets a boy who belongs to himself and they decide to live together. This is not a book I hate to read, but I don't look forward to it either. Sometimes it seems like a stream of consciousness.
My daughter says: "I like it when he finds the boy."
21- Puppies For Sale By: Dan Clark Illustrated by: Jerry Dillingham
Writing: A Illustrations: A
This is NOT really a children's book. It is a Chicken Soup for the Soul story with pictures. A boy with a disability chooses to get a dog with a disability so they can understand each other. A sweet story, but kind of hard to explain to little kids.
22- Sammy The Seal By: Syd Hoff
Writing: A- Illustrations: A-
An I Can Read book, so it isn't the most fabulous book ever, but it is cute and worth reading again and again. I remember reading it when I was little and loving it. Sammy gets to have one day out of the zoo. He learns lots of things and is happy to go home in the end.
23- Cathy Is Company By: Joan Lexan Illustrated by: Aliki
Writing:A Illustrations: How can you say anything but an A for Aliki?
I have a new appreciation for this book because the main character is Cathy (my mother-in-laws name) who visits her cousin Barbara (my mother's name). What a coincidence! It also tells you that this book is from the '60's. It is all about a sleepover and all the things that go with it. At the end you find out that the girls live next door to each other! Cute book!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Books 17-19
17- Ace Lacewing Bug Detective by David Biedrzycki
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A-
This is great for bug lovers and mystery lovers. Probably best for kids in first grade as they may get the jokes in it better than my 4 year old. The story brings in lots of different bugs which are fun to point out. Sometimes the story gets a little bogged down. I was also bugged (ha, ha) with the lack of legs that some of the insects had. Bees should have 6 legs, not four.
My daughter: Asked to read it again and again
18-Sneezy Louise by Irene Breznak illustrated by Janet Pedersen
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I wouldn't mind having this one at my house. It follows Louise who has a bad day sneezing on things and getting told to cover her mouth. It was a rotten day. In the end, he parents make it all better. Cute pictures and it teaches to cover your mouth when you sneeze without being too preachy.
19- Ordinary Mary's Extraordinary Deed by: Emily Pearson illustrated by: Fumi Kosaka
Writing: A Illustrations: A
This is a pay it forward book. It looks at ordinary Mary doing one nice thing. If the person she does a nice thing for does a nice thing for 5 other people, by the time that happens 15 times, every person on earth will have had a nice thing done for them. A hard concept to understand for a kid, but the author makes an interesting book about it which my daughter immediately wanted to read again.
Writing: B+ Illustrations: A-
This is great for bug lovers and mystery lovers. Probably best for kids in first grade as they may get the jokes in it better than my 4 year old. The story brings in lots of different bugs which are fun to point out. Sometimes the story gets a little bogged down. I was also bugged (ha, ha) with the lack of legs that some of the insects had. Bees should have 6 legs, not four.
My daughter: Asked to read it again and again
18-Sneezy Louise by Irene Breznak illustrated by Janet Pedersen
Writing: A Illustrations: A
I wouldn't mind having this one at my house. It follows Louise who has a bad day sneezing on things and getting told to cover her mouth. It was a rotten day. In the end, he parents make it all better. Cute pictures and it teaches to cover your mouth when you sneeze without being too preachy.
19- Ordinary Mary's Extraordinary Deed by: Emily Pearson illustrated by: Fumi Kosaka
Writing: A Illustrations: A
This is a pay it forward book. It looks at ordinary Mary doing one nice thing. If the person she does a nice thing for does a nice thing for 5 other people, by the time that happens 15 times, every person on earth will have had a nice thing done for them. A hard concept to understand for a kid, but the author makes an interesting book about it which my daughter immediately wanted to read again.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Books 9-16
I know I'm already behind, but I will catch up and then fall behind again and that is okay!
9- Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come! By: Nancy Carlson
Writing: A- Illustrations: A- (It is frustrating when you feel like you could draw about as well... but in reality, I couldn't)
This is a good story for any kid who is nervous for the first day of school. It talks about how you do things at school that you do at home already. I'd read this again, when I want my daughter to be excited about Kindergarten.
My daughter says: Nothing because she is still asleep, so no info from her this time. :)
10- Who's Awake in Springtime? by: Phillis Gershator & Mim Green illustrated by: Emilie Chollat
Writing: C Illustrations: A-
I really didn't care much for this book. I understand why people thought it should be published, it has a pattern and looks at different animals which is big for picture books, but I just thought it was lame. There, you got a negative post finally!
11- Christmas Is Coming by: Anne Bowen Illustrated by: Tomek Bogacki
Writing: B+ Illustrations: B-
Okay, so I met this lady at a writers confernce once. She was over my group and heard my story I'm writing and such. She is a pleasant lady, but when I have found her books, I haven't been wild about them. This is a story where a little girl tells her baby brother (who must have been born the day after Christmas because he can walk) what to look forward to about Christmas. It is described well and has a good feel about it. I just don't want to read it over and over again which is something that I think a good picture book should make you want to do.
*12- The Picture Book of Cats by: Yoko Imoto
Writting: A Illustrations: A
This is a very basic book. It reminds me of the Babies book by Gyo Fujikawa but about cats. I got this when I was a little girl and have loved it ever since. I love cats so that is part of it. So if your kid loves cats and cute drawings of cats, this is the book for you!
13-Here Comes Peter Cottontail! by: Steve Nelson & Jack Rollins illustrated by: Pamela R. Levy
Writing: It is the song Petter Cottontail... I guess I'll give it an A since everyone sings it at Easter.
Illustrations: A
This book has the song playing in the background. The melody is either way to high or a little low for a female voice. The pictures are nice watercolors as far as I can tell. My girls love this one and will look at it over and over. I think because of the music.
*14- Smudge by Julie Sykes and Jane Chapman
Writing:A- Illustrations: A-
This is a favorite at our house. The dog Smudge wants to get away from a rain shower. He tries to get in the house through a cat door, and well, you can guess what happens! Cute illustrations too.
*15-On the Night You Were Born by Nancy Tillman
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
This is a lovely book which tells the story of how wonderful each baby is when they are born. How each one is special and wonderful. It also explains some mysteries like why polar bears are always asleep at the zoo. Most of the writing is beautiful, but I find it a bit stick at some spots. The illustrations are neat. I think they use computer graphics in with drawings. Look for words in the pictures.
16- Preschool to the Rescue by: Judy Sierra illustrated by: Will Hillenbrand
Writting: A Illustrations: A
I REALLY liked this book. I don't think I've seen this same story over and over again in other books. At first you think trucks and cars are getting stuck in the mud. In the end preschoolers come and rescue them. How? you may ask. They are toys stuck in the mud and the kids are pretending! I hope you still like it even though I ruined the surprise for you. I think it will still surprise the kids.
9- Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come! By: Nancy Carlson
Writing: A- Illustrations: A- (It is frustrating when you feel like you could draw about as well... but in reality, I couldn't)
This is a good story for any kid who is nervous for the first day of school. It talks about how you do things at school that you do at home already. I'd read this again, when I want my daughter to be excited about Kindergarten.
My daughter says: Nothing because she is still asleep, so no info from her this time. :)
10- Who's Awake in Springtime? by: Phillis Gershator & Mim Green illustrated by: Emilie Chollat
Writing: C Illustrations: A-
I really didn't care much for this book. I understand why people thought it should be published, it has a pattern and looks at different animals which is big for picture books, but I just thought it was lame. There, you got a negative post finally!
11- Christmas Is Coming by: Anne Bowen Illustrated by: Tomek Bogacki
Writing: B+ Illustrations: B-
Okay, so I met this lady at a writers confernce once. She was over my group and heard my story I'm writing and such. She is a pleasant lady, but when I have found her books, I haven't been wild about them. This is a story where a little girl tells her baby brother (who must have been born the day after Christmas because he can walk) what to look forward to about Christmas. It is described well and has a good feel about it. I just don't want to read it over and over again which is something that I think a good picture book should make you want to do.
*12- The Picture Book of Cats by: Yoko Imoto
Writting: A Illustrations: A
This is a very basic book. It reminds me of the Babies book by Gyo Fujikawa but about cats. I got this when I was a little girl and have loved it ever since. I love cats so that is part of it. So if your kid loves cats and cute drawings of cats, this is the book for you!
13-Here Comes Peter Cottontail! by: Steve Nelson & Jack Rollins illustrated by: Pamela R. Levy
Writing: It is the song Petter Cottontail... I guess I'll give it an A since everyone sings it at Easter.
Illustrations: A
This book has the song playing in the background. The melody is either way to high or a little low for a female voice. The pictures are nice watercolors as far as I can tell. My girls love this one and will look at it over and over. I think because of the music.
*14- Smudge by Julie Sykes and Jane Chapman
Writing:A- Illustrations: A-
This is a favorite at our house. The dog Smudge wants to get away from a rain shower. He tries to get in the house through a cat door, and well, you can guess what happens! Cute illustrations too.
*15-On the Night You Were Born by Nancy Tillman
Writing: A- Illustrations: A
This is a lovely book which tells the story of how wonderful each baby is when they are born. How each one is special and wonderful. It also explains some mysteries like why polar bears are always asleep at the zoo. Most of the writing is beautiful, but I find it a bit stick at some spots. The illustrations are neat. I think they use computer graphics in with drawings. Look for words in the pictures.
16- Preschool to the Rescue by: Judy Sierra illustrated by: Will Hillenbrand
Writting: A Illustrations: A
I REALLY liked this book. I don't think I've seen this same story over and over again in other books. At first you think trucks and cars are getting stuck in the mud. In the end preschoolers come and rescue them. How? you may ask. They are toys stuck in the mud and the kids are pretending! I hope you still like it even though I ruined the surprise for you. I think it will still surprise the kids.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Books 6-8
6- Ready, Set, Skip! by: Jane O'Connor illustrated by: Ann James
Writting: A Illustrations: A-
This is the same author that wrote Fancy Nancy. This book really would help someone who is having a hard time skipping. It is also in rhyme so it is fun to read.
My daughter says: "Oh, it's pretty!"
7- Mommy Mine by: Tim Warnes illustrated by: Jane Chapman
Writting: A Illustrations: A
Same illustrator as for "Bear Sleeps (or snores?) On". I like her art work. Of course her bear picture is the best. This is one of the more enjoyable mommy books. It has a lot of different kind of animals and it rhymes, so it is easy to read.
My daughter says: "Pretty cool!" (These thoughts are soooo deep today!)
8- Tangerines and Tea My Grandparents and Me by: Ona Gritz illustrated by: Yumi Heo
Writting: B- Illustrations: B
This is an alphabet book, but not a traditional one. That is okay with me, but it was hard to pick out which letter you were on to be looking for. Maybe it would be better with older kids so you could ask them which words on that page started with that letter. Not really one I want to read again and again.
Writting: A Illustrations: A-
This is the same author that wrote Fancy Nancy. This book really would help someone who is having a hard time skipping. It is also in rhyme so it is fun to read.
My daughter says: "Oh, it's pretty!"
7- Mommy Mine by: Tim Warnes illustrated by: Jane Chapman
Writting: A Illustrations: A
Same illustrator as for "Bear Sleeps (or snores?) On". I like her art work. Of course her bear picture is the best. This is one of the more enjoyable mommy books. It has a lot of different kind of animals and it rhymes, so it is easy to read.
My daughter says: "Pretty cool!" (These thoughts are soooo deep today!)
8- Tangerines and Tea My Grandparents and Me by: Ona Gritz illustrated by: Yumi Heo
Writting: B- Illustrations: B
This is an alphabet book, but not a traditional one. That is okay with me, but it was hard to pick out which letter you were on to be looking for. Maybe it would be better with older kids so you could ask them which words on that page started with that letter. Not really one I want to read again and again.
Monday, August 30, 2010
5
5- Elliot's Park: Haunted Hike By: Patrick Carman Illustrated by: Jim Madsen
Writting: A- Illustrations: A
This is an easy reader chapter book, but my daughter picked it out so I read it to her. It has a cute story where the squirrel scouts learn to not be afraid or play tricks on one another.
Writting: A- Illustrations: A
This is an easy reader chapter book, but my daughter picked it out so I read it to her. It has a cute story where the squirrel scouts learn to not be afraid or play tricks on one another.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Books 4-6
4- The Pudgy Book of Mother Goose- Illustrated by: Richard Walz
Illustrations: A-
This is a board book, but I'm going to count them since my youngest is 2. My 4 year old "read" this to me. It has all the classic ones and then one that isn't as well known (Wee Willie Winkie).
My daughter says: "It's fun because that's the easiest book. I can read it!"
5- Dora's Eggs- Written by:Julie Sykes Illustrated by: Jane Chapman
Writting: B+ Illustrations: A-
This is part of a Books are Fun series. I think they just use in house authors, which doesn't make it bad, but it isn't hugely creative. Dora goes around the barnyard trying to get other animal mothers to look at her eggs. They are all too busy and she decides her eggs aren't very nice. When her chicks hatch she finds they are as nice as she had hoped. This is a fun way to look at farm animals and their babies in a less traditional format.
My daughter says: "It's pretty fun. I like it when the chicks pop out."
6- Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?- Written by: Bill Martin Jr. Illustrated by: Eric Carle.
Writting: A Illustrations: A (he was after all the first of his kind)
I feel silly writing about this book. It is wonderful for kids because of the repitition. It also helps them with colors. My daughter also "read" this to me. I think Eric Carle is one of the best at cut outs because he paints his own paper so it is unique. I do not care for the additional books in this series. I think they should have stopped with just one of a good thing.
My daughter says: "I think it's pretty fun. I like when it says "Brown bear, brown bear, what do you see?"
Illustrations: A-
This is a board book, but I'm going to count them since my youngest is 2. My 4 year old "read" this to me. It has all the classic ones and then one that isn't as well known (Wee Willie Winkie).
My daughter says: "It's fun because that's the easiest book. I can read it!"
5- Dora's Eggs- Written by:Julie Sykes Illustrated by: Jane Chapman
Writting: B+ Illustrations: A-
This is part of a Books are Fun series. I think they just use in house authors, which doesn't make it bad, but it isn't hugely creative. Dora goes around the barnyard trying to get other animal mothers to look at her eggs. They are all too busy and she decides her eggs aren't very nice. When her chicks hatch she finds they are as nice as she had hoped. This is a fun way to look at farm animals and their babies in a less traditional format.
My daughter says: "It's pretty fun. I like it when the chicks pop out."
6- Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?- Written by: Bill Martin Jr. Illustrated by: Eric Carle.
Writting: A Illustrations: A (he was after all the first of his kind)
I feel silly writing about this book. It is wonderful for kids because of the repitition. It also helps them with colors. My daughter also "read" this to me. I think Eric Carle is one of the best at cut outs because he paints his own paper so it is unique. I do not care for the additional books in this series. I think they should have stopped with just one of a good thing.
My daughter says: "I think it's pretty fun. I like when it says "Brown bear, brown bear, what do you see?"
Monday, August 23, 2010
Books 1-3
1- Fancy Nancy- Written by Jane O'Connor, Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
Grade- Writting: A Illustrations: A
I'm sure a lot of people have read this book, especially if you have girls. Nancy loves to be fancy, but her family doesn't. She gives them lessons on being fancy and they have a fun night out. This book is a keeper because I can read it over and over again and I don't mind it. It makes me smile each time.
My daughter says: "I like the Christmas lights on her mirror." (I (Maren) think every kid should have Christmas lights in their rooms sometimes)
2- Me Too Iguana- Written by Jacquelyn Reinach, Illustrated by Richard Hefter
Grade- Writting: B Illustrations: C
This is a Sweet Pickles book which means it is written to be didactic. In this one, Iguana wants to look like everyone else and ends up looking ridiculous. In the end she learns to like being herself. The writting isn't anything to be excited about, but it gets the job done. The pictures are they same, they get the job done.
My daughter says: "I like when everyone pretended to be an Iguana."
3- Friday My Radio Flyer Flew- By Zachary Pullen
Grade- Writting A Illustrations: A
A little boy finds his dad's red wagon and makes it fly with his imagination. This has very few words and nice pictures.
My daughter says: "I like when they both fly."
Grade- Writting: A Illustrations: A
I'm sure a lot of people have read this book, especially if you have girls. Nancy loves to be fancy, but her family doesn't. She gives them lessons on being fancy and they have a fun night out. This book is a keeper because I can read it over and over again and I don't mind it. It makes me smile each time.
My daughter says: "I like the Christmas lights on her mirror." (I (Maren) think every kid should have Christmas lights in their rooms sometimes)
2- Me Too Iguana- Written by Jacquelyn Reinach, Illustrated by Richard Hefter
Grade- Writting: B Illustrations: C
This is a Sweet Pickles book which means it is written to be didactic. In this one, Iguana wants to look like everyone else and ends up looking ridiculous. In the end she learns to like being herself. The writting isn't anything to be excited about, but it gets the job done. The pictures are they same, they get the job done.
My daughter says: "I like when everyone pretended to be an Iguana."
3- Friday My Radio Flyer Flew- By Zachary Pullen
Grade- Writting A Illustrations: A
A little boy finds his dad's red wagon and makes it fly with his imagination. This has very few words and nice pictures.
My daughter says: "I like when they both fly."
Rating and posting
I will rate the book using a grading system A+ to F. I will rate the writting and the illustrations. I will also tell a little about the book, any of my thoughts on it and then a thought from my daughter(s) on it.
Let the challenge begin!
I have decided in my quest to be better about reading to my kids and my quest to write childrens books, that I should read 1,000 different picture books to my oldest daughter within the year (meaning by August 23, 2011). This only comes to 3 books a day on most days (because of course I will miss some). On this blog I will post what books we have read and any thoughts on them. For anyone who reads this besides myself, I hope you enjoy and find some new books to read with your children!
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