Monday, November 26, 2012




Myth-Busting Columbus
 M-BC300.jpg


Kelly Bakshi has brought to light, the question of who came to this country first.  Although we celebrate the travels and discoveries of Christopher Columbus, Ms. Bakshi has raised many questions in this book for children to contemplate.  As a teacher herself, she has not enforced her research or beliefs in her written pages, but merely laid out the facts that lead children to come to their own conclusions. 

This book is an educational read for children, a tool for teachers, content for librarians, and a guide for parents.  Kelly Bakshi has written this book of history with twists and turns that will intrigue any student.   The pictures and illustrations are sure to capture the attention of both children and adults.

Christopher Columbus; where did he go, what did he do, and why did he do it?  What happened to him in the end?  It’s all here.  After each segment there are questions that children can ponder, and apply their own critical thinking. 

Five ***** stars plus.    Great Book!

This book was reviewed by Susan Hornbach, author of children’s literature.
                  

Sunday, November 18, 2012



Magical Matthew

MagMat2x3-100Magical Matthew is an entertaining story that will draw children into the yarn. As they read they will find themselves wanting to acquire Matthew’s abilities.  This child has a special uniqueness that brings help to others.  Matthew enjoys making others happy with his unique powers, but finds he does have some limitations when trying to help his friend.  Matthew finds disappointment in what he thinks he has lost, but then realizes new gifts he does possess. His special new gifts reflect in the older boy he has become. 

The story has a bit of a twist and surprise that involves Matthew’s baby sister.  This is a wonderful book for children of many ages, as it is a fun read for younger children, as well as children a bit older.  The story reflects how a child can feel secure in telling an adult a secret, and also how things can change as they grow older.  It shows a child, that growing up does not mean you lose what you had as a younger child, but that you have found new treasures to add to your already beautiful and unique you.

Magical Matthew will not disappoint, and would be a wonderful addition to any child’s library. The author Penelope Anne Cole, has included in her creative story, valuable life lessons to help children trust in those who love them, and to move smoothly to their next level in life.  The illustrations by Kevin Collier are colorful, expressive to the story in detail, and will certainly engage children in an enjoyable read.  Magical Matthew shows love in all his actions. 
 This book is a keeper, with five *****.

Magical Matthew was reviewed by Susan Hornbach, author of children’s literature

Saturday, November 3, 2012

ChAr300 




CHANCES ARE

Academic Wingshttp://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/chances-are.htm
by Sue Bangert-Wood, artist Jack Foster
An entertaining alphabet book with unusual animals doing zany things, aardvarks, komodo dragons, and many more incredible creatures. The comical illustrations will capture the imagination while building reading skills at many levels. Also included are activities for parents/teachers to do with children.   




DG300 

 

DOODLE GIRL

by Jennifer Bond-Reed, artist Jack Foster
Rachel loves to doodle on walls, on her school books, and on her back pack. Anywhere Rachel can doodle she does, but it gets her into big trouble. She tries to draw and color in other places. She learns she can mix colors and make more colors. Suddenly, Rachel’s doodling becomes a lot more fun! 


Educational page, too.


 

MAGICAL MATTHEW hardcover & softcover                

Littlest Angelshttp://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/matthew.htm
by Penelope Cole, artist Kevin Collier
Matthew has a secret. He fixes things magically. Matthew secretly uses his magic to fix things for his family and friends.  Later, he expands his magical good deeds by fixing things in his neighborhood. Matthew’s friend, Lily, suspects something.  Matthew must decide whether to tell her the truth or not.




 

ONCE THERE WAS A MONSTER

Littlest Angelshttp://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/monster.htm
by Marilee Crow, artist Jack Foster
Every child at some point in their lives has a fear of monsters. Through charming, funny rhyme, see how one child conquers her fear of the monster in her room. Read what happens when the child finds out that monsters have fears too. 





 

THE SMILING BURRO  English 

 (Spanish Edition-coming soon)

by Mary Vela Esparza, artist Mike Motz
A tiny burro shows up at a little boy’s house and becomes a real asset to the family. The day he disappears, they never expect to see him again until he prances in one dark spooky night.