Super-Sized Slugger a novel by Cal Ripken Jr. review

Thirteen year old Cody has a difficult adjustment when he moves from Wisconsin to his new home in Baltimore.  Being a "big guy" is tough for Cody and he worries if he will fit in at his new school.  Cody does have an incredible talent for baseball and he can't wait to try out for the local team, the Orioles. This adds more trouble when he vies for the same position as Dante, the school bully. The coach recognizes Cody's natural ability and places him at third base making Dante not only an unhappy teammate but classmate as well.  After showing the team what he can do on the field, Cody is finding it easier to make friends. Unfortunately, it is not as easy to get along with Dante.  Jessica, a neighbor girl who has spunk and an incredible sports talent herself, stands up to Dante when he threatens Cody one day at school. Cody and Jessica soon build a strong friendship that will include helping to solve a mystery. There is a rash of thefts occurring at the middle school by some inside or outside thieves and Cody has a strange suspicion of who it might be.  With everything happening all at once, Cody must prove to his classmates that the new kid in town can be more than meets the eye.

I think this is another great book from the Cal Ripken, Jr. series that could appeal to either boys or girls.  Just like in Hothead, this second book is full of sports lingo and subtle messages that kids can identify with but also adds the twist of a mystery. The main characters of Cody and Jessica are positive role models when it comes to standing up for yourself and for others.  Jessica jumps in and takes on Dante when the situation gets out of hand, showing courage to be a strong voice instead of being a quiet witness.  Cody also proves to the others they shouldn't judge a book by its' cover with his athletic ability and positive attitude. When trying to solve the theft ring, this part of the story had some good suspense and action to keep the reader engaged until the end. The story wraps itself up with a championship game that is full of excitement and expresses the importance of teamwork.  I also connected to many things mentioned in the storyline because I live in Wisconsin. There were many references to the City of Milwaukee and the Brewers, Prince Fielder, Ryan Braun ( yeah, MVP!), Miller Park Stadium and our local newspaper The Journal/Sentinel. I think that sparks excitement and great interest for kids when an author uses realistic references they know about and can relate to.  This book was quick and fast-paced and a good fit for a reluctant reader as well. I hope to see more books in the future about the team and its' characters because they could make for many positive learning experiences for its readers. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 10-13.~

Title: Super-Sized Slugger a novel by Cal Ripken, Jr.
Author: Cal Ripken, Jr. with Kevin Cowherd
Pub. Date: March 2012, Hyperion
Genre: middle grade, realistic fiction
Hardcover, 183 pgs.



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One Two That's my Shoe review

 

When a mischievous puppy runs off with his owner's shoe, it's a race from one to ten to get it back again! Over the teddy bears and out the door, readers can rollick along with the canine trickster and count the scenery along the way. (goodreads summary)


Here is a fun counting book with a twist to the One Two, Buckle my Shoe verse to share with your little one. As the story begins, the playful dog steals his girls shoe and off he goes as she chases him trying to get it back. The illustrations are in simple primary color but visually large enough and with an added touch of nostalgic feel to them.  Big numbers are in the corners of each page with the same number of items matching for a great learning to count experience. Although text is quite simple, it offers a great combination of rhyming words and counting making this a new fun and silly read for toddlers and preschoolers. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 2-4.~

Title: One Two That's My Shoe!
Author: Alison Murray
Pub. Date: June 2012, Hyperion
Genre: picture book
Hardcover, 32 pgs.

Bear Says Thanks review

Bear has come up with the perfect way to say thanks—a nice big dinner! When Bear decides to throw a feast, his friends show up one by one with different platters of delicious food to share. There’s just one problem: Bear’s cupboards are bare! What is he to do?(goodreads summary)






Poor Bear...he is so bored when all of a sudden he comes up with the best idea! A feast he will share with his friends. But how can he make a feast when his cupboards are empty. As his friends show up with the most delectable treats, Bear may soon realize that he just might have something to share after all.

Another sweet and simple book from the popular Bear series that gives its reader a true feeling of generosity and friendship. As the friends bring a dish to pass around, Bear offers a heartfelt "thanks" for all their kindness. The story has wonderful rhyming text and the pictures are in warm autumn colors. As you look at each page, there are cute and gentle expressions from its many characters adding that touch of softness the story gives. I love the message it sends about sharing and gratitude, especially at this time of year.  Bear learns that even though he has no food to offer the others, he has his own special qualities that the friends are thankful for as well.  This is a great book to cozy in with and count your own blessings.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 2-7.~

Title: Bear Says Thanks
Author: Karma Wilson, illustrated by Jane Chapman
Pub. Date: September 2012, Margaret  K. McElderry Books
Genre: picture book
Hardcover, 40 pgs.


Other Great Books in the Bear Series to enjoy:

       

Judy Moody and the Bad Luck Charm review

Judy does seem to have the best luck ever lately. Especially since the lucky penny in her pocket came from the penny making machine.  It helps her win at the prize claw (not once but three times) and also win the highest score at bowling. She just knows it will get her the big spelling bee win for a trip to Washington D.C. to represent her classroom. But just as luck would have it, she mistakenly drops her penny in the worst imaginable place and all the magic seems to disappear.

Judy Moody is one of my favorite series for grades 2-4.  As always, one thing leads to another making this an entertaining and funny read.  Sometimes it is just nice to have a book to read that puts a humorous spin on things.  This story moves quickly along from having good luck to not having good luck, a trip to Washington D.C.  to babysit a pig, the realization of  a friendship and answers the question; does good luck really need to come from an object? It also offers a nice description of Washington D.C. for kids who have never been there and a wonderful connection for kids who may have. When Judy and her brother Stink babysit for Jessica's pig at the hotel, this makes for an entirely new adventure for the two to work out.  Just like in the other books, Judy's character is definitely spunky and has a bit of sass to her throughout the storyline. She does make for a lighthearted character full of spirit though.  The illustrations are just as fun and is an added touch to the story.  Kids will find a chuckle or two after reading another one of Judy's adventures. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 7-9.~

Title: Judy Moody and the Bad Luck Charm
Author: Megan McDonald , Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
Genre: fiction, middle grade
Pub. Date: August 2012, Candlewick
Hardcover, 157 pgs.

Sky Color review

Marisol loves to paint. So when her teacher asks her to help make a mural for the school library, she can’t wait to begin! But how can Marisol make a sky without blue paint? After gazing out the bus window and watching from her porch as day turns into night, she closes her eyes and starts to dream. . . . (goodreads summary)





From her love of painting and drawing to her creative clothes, Marisol considers herself a true artist. But she hits a stumbling block when she is unable to find the blue paint she wants for the sky color on her class mural.  Sometimes we just need to let children know that it is "okay" to think outside the box and this story is a wonderful example of finding inner creativity and problem solving.  It offers children the opportunity to explore the concept: what if you didn't have a certain item or thing, what could you use in place of it?  The illustrations are simple but beautiful, with a hint of color in just the right places adding to its' artistic expression.  I could see this book fit as an inspiring gift with a box of art supplies for a budding young artist or maybe even a teacher. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-8.~

Title: Sky Color
Author: Peter H. Reynolds
Pub. Date: August 2012, Candlewick
Genre: picture book
Hardcover, 32 pgs.

Too Tall Houses review

Owl and Rabbit are good friends and live in two small houses next to each other. They are perfectly happy . . . until Rabbit's garden gets in the way of Owl's view. So Owl builds his house a little taller. Only that blocks the sun from Rabbit's vegetables. So Rabbit builds his house taller. And soon it's a house-building frenzy and the two now not-so-good friends have the two tallest houses in the world!(goodreads summary)




Rabbit and Owl are happy living side-by-side and sharing the same hill with one another. Until Rabbit's garden grows so big that it blocks Owl's forest view. Of course, Owl complains and decides to build a bigger house. Rabbit then complains because Owl's new house blocks the sun for his garden.  And so, the story grows from there with each one trying to out do the other.  This was a cute story on getting along with others and what being competitive will do to a friendship. It had a warm, fall color tone to each page adding to the already gentle and eye pleasing illustrations.  There is a bit of whimsy to the topic of disagreements and finding an alternate solution that works for everyone involved. In the end, learning to work out a problem brings together the two friends and shows that friendship is really more important than having the tallest house. It opens up a great opportunity for discussion either in the classroom or home. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~

Title: Two Tall Houses
Author: Gianna Marino
Pub. Date: September 2012, Viking Juvenille
Genre: picture book
Hardcover, 40 pgs.

Ready for Pumpkins review

Hercules, a classroom guinea pig, has a revelation when he watches the first graders grow plants from seeds. He wants to grow things, too! And during summer vacation (spent with the teacher's dad), he gets his chance. With the help of a friendly rabbit, Herky prepares the soil, carefully plants pumpkin seeds, and waits. And waits, and waits. One of the most important things he learns about gardening is patience. It's very hard to go back to school when fall comes--especially because his pumpkins aren't quite ready yet. (goodreads summary)


Hercules has a good life living with Miss MacGuffey's first grade class! One day, he notices the children are growing plants and Hercules decides he wants his own garden too. When he goes home for summer vacation, he puts his growing plan into action. With some pumpkin seeds and help of a new friend, Hercules learns just how tricky growing a garden can be. As told from Hercules' perspective, this cute and charming story is a wonderful tale not only about the planting process but also learning to have patience as well. With the wisdom and guidance from his new friend Daisy, he finds it takes awhile for good things to grow and learns ways to pass the time. The watercolor illustrations are gentle and eye pleasing. There is so much to see on each page as Hercules' seed grows into something special for the new school year. I hope there will be many more witty stories about Hercules in the future.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~

Title: Ready for Pumpkins
Author: Kate Duke
Genre: picture book
Pub. Date: August 2012, Knopf Books
Hardcover, 40 pgs.

 

The Brides of Rollrock Island review

On remote Rollrock Island, men go to sea to make their livings—and to catch their wives. The witch Misskaella knows the way of drawing a girl from the heart of a seal, of luring the beauty out of the beast. And for a price a man may buy himself a lovely sea-wife. He may have and hold and keep her. And he will tell himself that he is her master. But from his first look into those wide, questioning, liquid eyes, he will be just as transformed as she. He will be equally ensnared. And the witch will have her true payment. (goodreads summary)



Misskaella, the sea-witch was not a beauty herself.  But she did have the power to bring beauty in the form of a sea-wife summoned from the seals of the ocean and beaches for the men of Rollrock Island.  They knew of her magic and for a price could have the most beautiful woman for their own.  The men rolled up the seal skins that were shed and stored them in a locked closet preventing the women from ever going back to their original form and returning to the sea.  As the temptation grew stronger from man-to-man, to be with these perfectly beautiful and obedient beings, the women of the island slowly left for the mainlands. Marriages were broken apart, families separated and women were rejected as outcasts as the sea-wives were brought one-by-one by Misskaella's magic. As generations passed, the only ones inhabiting the island were men, sea-wives and their sons.  Did this bring them the happiness they imagined it would?  Little do they know that Misskaella will profit in more ways than one as she stands by watching her revenge unfold so easily.

I wasn't sure how I felt after I read this story... The writing evoked so many feelings and emotions that it took a while for me to realize that "yes",  I think I did like it after all.  Based around Selkie folklore, it definitely was not a light hearted story and actually had me feeling gloomy and sad throughout.  It was almost like being on a small island that rains constantly for days and days, waiting for the sun to peek out any moment now. The setting and time were not clear but I was able to come up with my own image through good character description, descriptions of life on the island and vocabulary like "lad" and "mam" for mom. The story unfolds with Misskaella's childhood. She knew that she was different and that difference lead her to become the magical sea-witch. Each chapter is then based on a specific individuals point-of-view and how their story circles around Misskaella's magic and the consequences of choices. The sea-wives were truly unhappy and always felt the longing of the sea although they stayed committed to their new life. What I took away most from the story were questions like: what was true happiness, how far will one go for happiness and most of all what things would we do for love? One son in particular who has a strong bond for his sea-mam shows great courage to do the unthinkable that changes many lives on the island. There were several pages in the chapters that I found myself reading over again to try and connect with the story and understand it. The story and writing style is unique but once I finally got to the main climax, it captured my attention to get to the end of the book quicker.  This book is a dark, folklore tragedy and will not be for every reader.  Sometimes you walk away with uncertain feelings that will stay with you for a few days. This book will do that to its' reader. I felt haunted and not sure I will be able look at a seal without being reminded of this book. But then again, good writing is suppose to stick with its' reader and will give me something to talk about over coffee.   I think this is a "just right book" for a mature reader over 16 as it does have some sensuality.~

Title: The Brides of Rollrock Island
Author: Margo Lanagan
Pub. Date: September 2012, Knopf Books for Young Readers
Genre: fantasy, young adult
Hardcover, 305 pgs.
Originally published as Sea Hearts

Rocket Writes a Story review

Rocket loves books and he wants to make his own, but he can't think of a story. Encouraged by the little yellow bird to look closely at the world around him for inspiration, Rocket sets out on a journey. Along the way he discovers small details that he has never noticed before, a timid baby owl who becomes his friend and an idea for a story. (goodreads summary)






I loved the first book How Rocket Learned to Read and this is such a wonderful addition for teaching the reading and writing process. The cute little yellow bird is back as Rocket's teacher and encourages him to sniff out some new words. It combines the love of reading and learning to write a story when Rocket shows interest in writing his own after finding many new words for the word tree.  He's on the right track on how he wants to write his story but finds it is more challenging than he thought once he sits down to write.  He eventually learns how to find his inspiration and when he does writes the best story of a newly found friend . The illustrations are once again colorful, bold and full of cute expression.  Yellow bird is so gentle and encouraging with her tender words, she makes writing a story sound like fun instead of a chore.  A wonderful book to help kids become inspired about reading and writing! I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7.~

Title: Rocket Writes a Story
Author: Tad Hills
Genre: picture book
Pub. Date: July 2012, Schwartz & wade
Hardcover, 40 pgs.


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Mom, it's my First Day of Kindergarten review

It's a child's first day of kindergarten, but who is worried about all the new people and the different things he'll meet--the child? No! The mother. In a refreshing reversal of roles, the child takes it upon himself to comfort and reassure his mother that everything will be fine, she'll get used to him going to big-kid school, and yes, he is ready for the first day of kindergarten. (goodreads summary)




As the last days of summer come to an end, we focus on getting our kids ready for the many new transitions of a new school year.  We understand how nervous and anxious they can be about these changes and parents can feel the exact same way inside. This book is a cute and charming take on the first day of kindergarten jitters that will help both parent and child prepare for their special day.

Mom is worried that her son will be okay at the "big kid's school" but the little boy is totally confident about his first day responding with; "Mom, don't worry. I'll be fine, I am already five!"  How many times have I heard that over the years.........We usually find books where the child is the one with nervousness or fears and the parent is the reassuring calming voice.  But in this story, the shoe is on the other foot and roles are reversed. The watercolor illustrations nicely depict the emotions and feelings of the boy and mother with size and color.  In the beginning, mom is small and the color of blue in comparison to the boy who is larger and full of excitement.  I connected with the mom's wondering: do we have all the needed supplies, will they eat all their lunch or go hungry and getting in the extra goodbye hugs and kisses at the door.  My kids are middle and high school age and I still carry those worries every year.  I feel it is good to let your child know that you too feel nervous about school starting.  This book makes a nice read-aloud together and offers a great opportunity to share your feelings with one another making the transition easier on both parent and child. Since some school districts seem to be adding 3K and 4K, this would also be a good fit for those younger ages as well.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7.~

Title: Mom, it's my First Day of Kindergarten!
Author: Hyewon Yum
Genre: picture book
Pub. Date: July 2012, Frances Foster Books
Hardcover, 40 pgs.

Listening for Lions review

Thirteen-year-old Rachel Sheridan is left an orphan after influenza takes the lives of her missionary parents in British East Africa in 1919. National Book Award-winning author Whelan crafts a wickedly delicious story of treachery and triumph, in which one young woman must claim her true identity in order to forge her own future and transform herself from victim to heroine. (goodreads summary)




Rachel lives in British East Africa among the Kikuyu and Masai. She lives a happy and simple life with her father who is the doctor at the Mission Hospital and her mother a teacher. Rachel explores the wild nature around her and takes in its' beauty at every wakeful moment. At night, she listens for the lions roar and can feel their strength and freedom. Her nearest neighbors, the wealthy Pritchards from England live on the next plantation a few miles away. They live a very charmed and different life from Rachel's family. The 1919 influenza outbreak has rapidly taken millions of lives all over the world and is now spreading to the local African cities and farms. The epidemic quickly reaches Tumaini, the Mission Hospital where Rachel calls home. Sadly, both her parents become victims of the influenza within weeks of the outbreak. The Pritchards offer to take her in as the hospital closes leaving her with many questions about her future. It soon becomes obvious that the Pritchard's generosity is not all that seems to be. They plan a devious and sinister plot for money forcing Rachel with the choice of either joining them in their deceit or be sent to the nearest orphanage with an uncertain future. She finds herself travelling miles away from Africa to a new and unfamiliar place to help carry out with the lies and greed, only to keep the hope in her heart of someday returning back to her homeland.

This book hooked me from the very first page! I quickly found myself drawn into the setting and the characters with the beautifully written details.  The story was rich with diversity and culture giving me clear images of a place and time I have never been to.  Rachel knew she was a willing participant in the scheme along with the Pritchard's. Instead of feeling she was a victim, she takes personal responsibility for her choices.  It sends the message of right vs. wrong and letting your conscious guide you. The storyline kept building with every chapter and each one I kept waiting for the truth to come out.   She finds courage one day to make the right choice and a very happy outcome in doing so follows.  As the years go by, Rachel grows to be a young woman and again must make choices that are different than what her heart tells her. Her dreams and determination to return to Africa to finish her parent's work was inspiring. She faced many obstacles for a young girl in that era but throughout the entire story she always stays true to herself.  I especially liked how the author included many words throughout the book from Rachel's native language, Swahili.  A glossary was thankfully added at the end to decode any confusing and new vocabulary words in this unfamiliar language. I found myself constantly reading until the end, placing myself in Rachel's shoes and wondering if I would be able to handle the many situations she faced with the strength and maturity as she had. All in all, I entirely believe that Listening for Lions is worthy of it's National Book Award and I think this is a "just right book" for ages 10 and up.~

Title: Listening for Lions
Author: Gloria Whelan
Genre: historical fiction, middle grade
Pub. Date: October 2006, Harper Collins
Hardcover, 195 pgs.

Crafty Chloe review

Fancy Nancy meets Martha Stewart in Crafty Chloe, the adorable DIY star of a new picture book series!When another girl has already purchased the most perfect birthday gift for Chloe’s friend Emma, Chloe decides she’ll make a present—something you can’t buy in a store. But crafting isn’t easy, and it’s beginning to look like she won’t have a great idea in time. Fortunately, with a good doodle session and a whole lot of glitter to inspire her, Chloe figures out just the thing to save the day—and with a little help from her trusty glue gun, she just might save a friendship, too! (goodreads)




 

Chloe has tried soccer, video games and dancing.  As hard as she tries, neither of these activities seem to fit her. Instead, what she's good at is making stuff....she can make outfits out of a shirt, coffee filter flower hats and just about anything if there are googly eyes! When Chloe is invited to her best friend Emma's birthday party, she wants to give her the perfect gift.  She learns that another girl has already purchased the same one and must decide to find Emma something else.  She needs to put her thinking cap on and with a little creativity whip up something special.  

This was a delightful story that had valuable lessons added on giving.  Not only is crafting fun and creative but a homemade gift from the heart can be something extra special. I loved the humorous illustrations and subtle coloring to each page. As a crafter myself, I connected with one illustration of frustrated Chloe trying to figure out what to make.  When an unexpected mishap occurs on the way to the party, Chloe gives in a big way that teaches how good it feels to truly give from her heart. It makes for a great conversation about giving to others and how to be a good friend.  The last page of the book lists a website with directions for all the fun crafts illustrated throughout the story.  I'm looking forward to reading what Chloe has up her sleeve in a next book!  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7.~

Title: Crafty Chloe
Author: Kelly DiPucchio, illustrated by Heather Ross
Genre: picture book
Pub. Date: February 2012, Anteneum Books for Young Readers
Hardcover, 40 pgs.