Classic Picture Book: Brave Irene

Every two weeks my girls and I go to the library and check out an enormous pile of books (though I do encourage the girls to store them in one place it can get awfully difficult to keep track of them all!). I am often surprised by the amount of picture books that they bring home and dismiss relatively quickly -- I keep a close eye on these things and take note of the books that they want to read again and again.

One of the books that they can't get enough of is the picture book classic Brave Irene, by William Steig. Perhaps best known today as the author of the original Shrek!, Steig hits the nail on the head with this sweet picture book -- and in my capacity as a "girl book" reviewer, I see tremendous value in this story. Why do my girls like this picture book so much? I think they can see themselves in the main character, Irene.

Irene is a good daughter, who must deliver a dress that her sick mother has made for the duchess. On the way to the duchess' house, Irene encounters a fierce snowstorm. The storm becomes a character in the story that battles against Irene's equally fierce determination. But just when the storm seems ready to declare victory, Irene's ingenuity shines through and she finds her way past the trouble.

Steig's illustrations bring Irene to life, and I love the writing especially as Irene shouts at her nemesis, the wind. But my favorite part is the end, when we see so clearly the love between Irene and her mother.

This book makes a great gift from one generation to the next -- my own mother sent my oldest daughter a copy several Christmases ago. It's a wonderful story of adventure, hope and determination -- a wonderful message to send to any girl.

Young Adult Pick: Follow the Rules of the Road

If you are a young adult (or know one) in search of an author who is consistently producing great books -- you can't go wrong with Joan Bauer. Her skilled writing, entertaining plots, and funny, human characters will pull you in and leave you wanting more.

This inspiring writer (read her story) has eight young adult novels under her belt. I haven't read them all, but one that I adored was Rules of the Road. This book introduces the nearly 6 foot, 16 year old Jenna Boller and follows her on a road trip with her boss, the indomitable Mrs. Gladstone, from Chicago to Dallas.

I think any teenager can relate to Jenna, who feels most comfortable when she's working in her sales job at a shoe store. According to Jenna,

"I succeeded here. I made money here. I didn't feel big, awkward, and lost. I felt successful. I helped people. They looked to me instead of away."

The introduction of Jenna's family members (including her alcoholic father), and her quirky co-workers make this story sing with realism. The humor is perfect, the emotions are true -- the writing flows on the page in a fast-paced rhythm. You'll find yourself routing for Jenna every step of the way.

As a writer, I am a great admirer of Ms. Bauer's skill -- and as a mother of girls I appreciate that her books present teenagers in a positive light. There's a wonderful message in this book of hope in spite of adversity -- and Jenna emerges as a strong, compassionate human being. When considering the kinds of books I want my girls reading when they hit the teenage years, I will absolutely encourage them to read Joan Bauer.

I think you'll love these books -- give them a try -- and let me know what you think when you're done....

Enjoy!

Classic Books for Girls: Meet Trixie Belden

I first picked up a Trixie Belden book when I was about nine years old. The book had belonged to my mom when she was a girl. Now, after discovering a new edition at the bookstore, I'm passing on this great character to a third generation. My girls love Trixie!

This summer we read the first of the series, The Secret of the Mansion, by Julie Campbell as a read aloud at bedtime. Although my nine year old loved the character and plot, my seven year old enjoyed the story just as much.

In the first book a mystery involving a hidden treasure and a creepy old house is solved by Trixie, and her new best friend, Honey Wheeler. Girls can't help but get pulled into this adventure, as the girls uncover clues and constantly find themselves on the edge of danger.

Parents and girls will take note of the freedom Trixie is allowed (a midnight horseback ride?) that is all but obsolete these days -- remember, the original was written in the late 40s. But girls will love the story and they will relate to Trixie, who is both curious, independent, kind and respectful --personality traits that never go out of style.

If your girl is an independent reader, give her a copy of Trixie Belden -- think of it as a younger version of the Nancy Drew books with a tomboy-ish main character as opposed to the prim and proper Nancy. If you have an early reader who longs for adventure, read this one to her out loud, you'll have her on pins and needles waiting for the ending.

Girls will love reading this series -- and will no doubt pass on these stories to their kids!

On a side note, school starts around here tomorrow. My wish for my girls and all girls going off to school this year -- may your brains be filled with useful knowledge, your hearts be filled with kindness and caring and your imaginations continue to soar! And of course, may you discover many great books!

Picture Book Pick: You're Gonna Love Knuffle Bunny!

I really do try to stick to recommending books that will specifically appeal to girls -- but there will be occasional books in this blog that EVERYONE should love, no matter what!

One of these books is Knuffle Bunny, by a perennial favorite of mine, Mo Willems.

Who can resist the cherubic face of sweet little Trixie as she ventures out with her father to the laundromat toting her best friend in the world -- Knuffle Bunny.

Trixie's hilarious baby talk will have kiddos rolling in the aisles -- as well as her sheer panic when she realize that her beloved Knuffle Bunny is missing!

Parents will giggle at the frustration of Trixie's worn-out Dad as he tries to figure out what is wrong with the kid.

When they head home and Mom points out the obvious ("Where's Knuffle Bunny?") the trio head back to the laundromat and a hilarious search ensues.

The simple, adorable illustrations are wonderful, with real photographs ingeniously incorporated into the scenes. Your kids will love poring over them and then they'll cheer when the search is over and Trixie finally utters her first real words ....

Can you guess what they are?

Kids who still have a favorite snuggly toy will relate to this book, as will adults who know that if that toy ever gets lost -- it's going to be a bad, bad day.

You will enjoy reading this book -- regardless of age or gender -- better yet, let your kiddos act it out for you -- I bet they'll put on quite a show!

Activity Books: I Absolutely Must Recommend This Book Now

I think that Lauren Child is a genius. From her creative website, to her fabulous characters to her hilarious dialogue, this artist and creator of the adorable Lola (also a cartoon on the Disney Channel) can count me as one of her biggest fans.

This week's activity book pick is based on Child's Charlie and Lola series. Even the title, I Absolutely Must Do Coloring Now or Painting or Drawing (Charlie and Lola), leaves you with no doubt as to how much fun you'll have when you open this book.

Coloring books have always bored my children, but the appeal of this particular book is that the pages are only half-illustrated. Prompts are given to finish the illustrations. For example, "Lola has invited a martian over for tea and he's drinking her pink milk through one of his mouths." Lola is already on the page, with a spot open between her and her brother Charlie. That's where your child can draw the multi-mouthed martian drinking pink milk.

This book is perfect for young children, offering more complete illustrations than Doodles (see previous post) by Tamo Gori but still allowing a lot of room for imagination.

I adore Child's simple, funny illustrations, which contain bits of actual photographs and other materials mixed in. And no matter how old you are -- every girl will enjoy Lola, who has a mind of her own and a soaring imagination. Who else can play hopscotch with the solar system and ask you to color in "ever so sparkly, really very spotty, completely stripy planets"?

Your girls will love this activity book ... it's my favorite and my best activity book ever!

Happy coloring or painting or drawing,

Christina

Princess Academy: For Girls Who Dream Big

If you're looking for a book that will transport you to another world, try Princess Academy, by Shannon Hale.

You might think that this sounds like a fairy tale book filled with withering princess-types -- all waiting for their Prince Charming, but it is not. The main character, Miri, is from a mountain town where all the inhabitants work in the local quarry harvesting a precious stone called linder. Miri is small compared to the other teenagers in her village, and, to her great frustration, is forbidden by her father to work in the quarry.

Miri's fight to "be useful" to her family and village is sidetracked one day when an important visitor comes to town. The priests of the country's royal family have decided that the wife of the crown prince will come from Miri's small, unrefined village. A mandate is sent down that all the girls between 12 and 17 must attend a Princess Academy. The future princess will be selected in a year's time from this group of girls.

Miri and her friends are shocked, but they follow the order and each begins to see that the world is much bigger than they could have imagined. Miri's transformation, as she learns to read and wrestles with the notion that she may want to be the princess after all, is wonderfully portrayed

A suspenseful twist at the end will have you at the edge of your seat, and you will be cheering for each of the girls as they discover how to get what they really want from their lives.

Miri is a main character that girls can relate to, she's independent, funny, sensitive, smart, sweet and strong -- you'll be routing for a sequel after you read Princess Academy -- a great book for girls! Recommended ages: 5th grade on up....

Next on my list from this award-winning author (Princess Academy was a 2006 Newbery Honor Book): The Goose Girl -- I'll let you know what I think!

Enjoy and have a great weekend!

Sahara Special: A Great Book for Every Girl

This is one of the books that I'd recommend to every girl between the ages of 11 and 14. Every girl should read it, but especially those who love to write and/or read. I also recommend this book to every writer I know, because it really is the story of an artist's journey.

Penned by the gifted author Esme Raji Codell, Sahara Special tells the story of a young girl who gets labeled by her school as a "special education" student.

Codell, however, makes sure that we, the reader, know better. We know that Sahara is misunderstood, sad, confused and lonely, but she does not belong in the hallway being tutored by the special ed teacher.

After her teacher discovers heartbreaking letters to her father (who has run out on the family), Sahara is sent to the school counselor's office where the counselor produces a jam-packed file. In the words of Sahara herself, the file...

"...is "the history of me. No, not the history. A history. A history that didn't include when me and my mom go to the bookstore. I can pick any book I want, even in hardcover. That's the way it's always been. We never have much money, but Mom doesn't blink when the numbers ring up. She hands over the big bills like she was buying milk or eggs, something we just can't do without."

Sahara is smart, but what she needs is for her mother to buck the system (she does) and she needs a teacher who believes in her.

Enter Miss Pointy (short for Poitier). She's a system-bucker herself, and sees the magic and promise that lies in Sahara. Miss Pointy has her own brand of magic -- she's the kind of teacher that every kid should have at least once in their educational life.

As the school year moves along, we get to watch Sahara heal and grow, make friends and convince herself that she is more than the daughter of a father deserted his family. She is a writer!

This is the kind of book that will leave a mark on everyone who reads it. Every character comes alive and the sweet relationships between Sahara and her mom, her teacher and her friends are unforgettable. Suitable for 4th graders on up, this book is a treasure.

I promise, if you pick up Sahara Special, you won't want to put it down until the pages run out.

Enjoy!

Chapter Book Pick: Your Hooligans Will Love Roxie!

Full of adventure and suspense, Roxie and the Hooligans, by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, is one of our family favorites.

It seems to me that this book is a tribute to every kind of girl -- girls who are self-conscious (Roxie has ears that stick out), girls who are teased (she is pestered by a group of bullies -- the Hooligans), girls who long for adventure (Roxie's uncle is a famous explorer), girls who are independent, and girls who are heroes.

Easy enough for an early independent reader (3rd grade), the story begins with a playground battle that ends with Roxie and the Hooligans trapped in a dumpster and stranded on a deserted island via a garbage barge. Roxie must use the knowledge she's acquired from Lord Thistlebottom's Book of Pitfalls and How to Survive Them, a favorite book which Roxie has all but memorized.

Perhaps the most important tip in the book, is Don't Panic, a concept that is put to the test when the desert island ends up being inhabited not only by Roxie and the Hooligans, but by two bumbling thieves as well.

Although this is a book that can be enjoyed independently, we've had so much fun reading it aloud! I highly recommend sitting down with the kiddos and giving it a try -- the most fun is when the kids begin to recognize the cues and step in with the "Don't Panic" warning that is prevalent throughout the book.

This sweet story of courage, triumph and friendship is filled with humor and captivating illustrations by Alexandra Boiger. Enjoy this book by prolific author Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, it's great family time reading -- and let me know what you think when you are done!

Enjoy your Tuesday,

Christina

Picture Book Pick: On Meadowview Street

Think Green. It's a motto our daughters know by heart. But as a parent I can't help wondering -- by the time they reach adulthood, what will be the state of our environment?

For now, as our children are prompted to reduce, reuse, and recycle, I recommend reading On Meadowview Street, a lovely picture book by author/illustrator Henry Cole.

The premise of this story may be difficult for some adults to handle -- young Caroline and her family move into a new house on a suburban street where everyone's house and yard look identical. But when Caroline decides to protect a flower she's found in her new yard, she suddenly has a miniature wildflower preserve on her hands. When she finds another beautiful flower nearby, what does she do?

Why, she expands the boundaries of her preserve, of course.

Parents may have a hard time finding this story believable -- my own family lives in a subdivision loaded down with restrictions. But when Caroline's father gives in to her plan -- and puts the lawn mower up for sale -- what beleagured homeowner won't take a moment to proclaim an internal "Hip, hip, hooray!?"

This picture book is precious -- my girls loved it and immediately wanted Daddy to start digging them a frog pond. Alas, that was the heartbreaking moment when I had to explain to them that we aren't allowed to put a pond in our front yard. Their big eyes stared at me, forlorn.

"Would we if we could, Mom?" my little one asked.

"You bet," I said, kissing the top of her head. I think tomorrow we'll head to the nearest nature preserve and see what we've been missing.

Our children are amazing -- who doesn't believe that they don't have what it takes to change the world? Allow them to imagine the possibilities -- read On Meadowview Street.

Have a great day!

Christina

Activity Books: Banish the B-word!

Sometimes the most creative children (there's a pretty creative one sitting next to me at this very moment) are the first to utter those words that every adult loathes: "Mommy, I'm bored!"

In many cases, my daughter is able to come up with an activity on her own -- for example, "I'm going to build a cow!" -- which she did, last weekend -- don't ask.

But sometimes, when the weather doesn't cooperate, or she can't think of anything to do, or I can't think of anything for her to do -- and I can't take one more minute of Webkinz or Nintendo or Spongebob -- we rememember Doodles: A Really Giant Coloring and Doodling Book.

This thick activity book, by Taro Gomi [of Everyone Poops (My Body Science Series)fame] is a wonderful find whether your child is an enthusiastic artist, or just likes to dabble in drawing. My daughter, who is only moderately interested in drawing, will always willingly pick up this book.

Consisting mostly of partially drawn doodles (for example two elephants face each other under the title "Make them the saddest possible colors" or two sketched restaurants with the assignment "Decorate two restaurants -- one nicer than the other"), a child will not want for doodling ideas -- EVER!

This art book gets the creative juices flowing -- which is what everyone wants for the children they love. Doodles is well worth the investment for a guaranteed return of hours of fun and creativity. It makes a great gift as well!

Perfect for early readers through 6th graders -- but even doodling grownups may want to join in the fun!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Christina

A Note from the Author!

Thanks to Eleanora E. Tate, for checking the blog and for sending me these comments:

Dear Christina,

Thank you so much for your kind words about Celeste's Harlem Renaissance. I was so surprised to hear from you and went quickly to your blog. Character and setting are two of my favorite literary elements, and Celeste, my main character, grew so quickly, from beginning to end of her journey. Didn't she have some twists and turns! My Discussion Guide for Celeste's Harlem Renaissance is on my website.

Eleanora E. Tate, author.
http://www.eleanoraetate.com

Celeste's Harlem Renaissance: A Trip to Remember

I love historical fiction and couldn't wait to crack the spine of Celeste's Harlem Renaissance by Eleanora E. Tate.

This book paints a vivid picture of African-American life in the 1920's, both in segregated Raleigh, North Carolina and in New York City's Harlem, but it's real strength is in its wonderful characters, especially 13-year old Celeste.

When her father leaves for an extended stay at a tuberculosis sanitarium (where victims of this highly contagious disease were sent to convalesce), Celeste begins a memorable journey from Raleigh to stay with her Aunti Val in Harlem. Armed with Dede (her precious violin) and her schoolbag, she heads north.

Tate does a brilliant job of getting us inside Celeste's head, where childhood fears are battling her desire to grow up and experience the world outside of Raleigh.

Once she arrives in Harlem, Celeste is full of hope for an eventual family reunion back home. As the months wear on, however, she realizes the improbability of this plan as her beloved Aunti turns out to be a less than perfect guardian.

A whole cast of fascinating, well-developed supporting characters surround Celeste as she embarks on this journey from girlhood to womanhood. You'll learn to love Aunt Society, laugh with Miss D., and enjoy Celeste's ever-growing circle of friends.

As her character evolves, we see Celeste learn to take care of others with kindness and empathy and still find the power within to follow her dreams. In her world, where characters fall into the category of either "butterfly" or "rock", she is determined to be both -- to spread her wings as a butterfly and be a rock to those she loves.

Celeste is the kind of girl I want my own girls to be -- a smart, compassionate dreamer -- who is also a wee bit sassy. You'll love her and her story!

*This book is recommended for 5-8th graders. One scene involves Celeste getting her period, so adults might want to be on hand to answer questions for younger readers.

Mo Willems: For New Readers and Wannabe Actresses

My Easy Reader pick of the day was found by my 7 year old in our local library. She's a huge fan of the wonderful author/illustrator Mo Willems (of Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! fame), so I wasn't surprised when she selected two books from his Elephant and Piggie series.

In Today I Will Fly!, Piggie is determined to take off into the wild blue yonder, but his elephant friend Gerald is a big party pooper who thinks Piggie is off his rocker.

Of course, Piggie is extremely determined and does indeed find a way to take off. The hilarious dialogue between the two friends is classic Willems, and is continued in My Friend is Sad (Elephant and Piggie) another book from the same series.

In this book, Piggie tries to help Gerald cheer up, but, despite Piggie's memorable attempts, Gerald is still sad. At the end of the book, kids are reminded how much nicer it is to share fun with a friend.

Aside from the sweet, funny text, this book offers a kind of "script" that kids will love to act out. The back and forth between Piggie and Elephant makes for great reading practice for early readers and you'll find that even older kids (like my 9 year old) are more than willing to get in on the action.

I think Mo's books are brilliant in this way -- for picky or reluctant readers they are a great way to have some fun and practice reading aloud at the same time.

You'll never laugh so hard as when the kiddos in your life imitate an elephant who is imitating a robot! Now that is entertainment.

Enjoy this series -- it gets two thumbs up from my own little early reader -- and two more from me!

One Dark Night: A Picture Book Tale of Friendship

I love One Dark Night, a picture book by rhyme and rhythm master author Lisa Wheeler. It's a fun book to read aloud and a great plot for girls who like a little suspense with their storytime.

Mouse and Mole live in a "wee little house, in a wee little hole," while a beastly bear lives nearby in a "BIG GIANT lair." When the two tiny friends happen to leave their home One Dark Night, they face their fear of the mysterious woods together.

Meanwhile, BIG bear is tromping around his lair, seemingly impatient and very, very hungry. The tension builds as Mole and Mouse realize they are lost in the woods. Mouse must climb a tree where he spies a cave with a light on inside. Bear emerges from the cave, hungry as ever, fed up and baring his big teeth.

Mouse and Mole tremble in fear as they listen to the strange "SNARL-SNUFF-A-SNUFF" coming their way.

Will Bear find the good friends and gobble them up whole?

Kids will love this tension and the meter of the rhymed text that leads to a very satisfying ending. (Don't worry, no rodents were harmed in the making of this entertaining, well-written picture book).

With sweet illustrations by Ivan Bates, girls will be cooing over the depictions of Mouse and Mole (oooh, they are so cute!).

If you can pull off a tiny woodland animal voice (consider sucking on a helium balloon), you'll be even better off.

Enjoy One Dark Night, this is a guaranteed "Read it again, Please!" book that is sure to become a favorite in your house.

Esperanza Rising: A Story of Hope

There's not a girl I know who doesn't love a story packed with adventure, tragedy, and of course, HOPE. That sums up the absorbing, beautifully written Esperanza Rising, by Pam Munoz Ryan.

Ryan, a prolific author who also penned Becoming Naomi Leon and Riding Freedomhas vividly recreated Esperanza's life of privilege on her father's beloved ranch in Aguascalientes, Mexico.

A tragedy on her 13th birthday alters Esperanza's life forever, and the lives of those she loves. She suddenly finds herself, her mother and three former servants en route to America fleeing from the evil hearted-uncles trying to steal her father's land.

Once in the new country, Esperanza realizes that her pampered lifestyle is gone forever, and that she will now be forced to work very hard. The difficult lives of migrant farmers in Depression-era California are described in great detail through the eyes of Esperanza.

Mix in the tension of a blossoming romance, the illness of her mother, and Esperanza's determination to see her Grandmother again, and you've got an unforgettable story. There's no putting this novel down once you start, it is an engaging tale from the very first lines to the uplifting ending.

As Esperanza's name (meaning "hope" in Spanish) suggests, even in the bleakest of situations, there is still a chance for a better life. Even when all seems lost, there is still family, independence, strength and hope.

Give Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan a chance, you won't regret it.

Read Aloud? Parent's are encouraged to read this book aloud to 3rd graders and up.
Recommended Age Level: 5th through 9th grade.

I Love Lucy Moon

Lucy Moon is cool. She doesn’t think so, but I do. I think her story is too, as told in the book That Girl Lucy Moon, by Amy Timberlake.

The book starts with a storm rolling in – both literally and figuratively. Lucy is going through many changes. She’s gone from outspoken activist in her elementary school (she wears a hat made from hemp to support third world workers) to feeling like an invisible, voiceless sixth grader.

Add to this problem the fact that her adored photographer mother is leaving town for an assignment – and isn’t sure when she’ll be back. And Dad, well, Dad just isn’t sure how to deal with Mrs. Moon’s departure and Lucy’s questions.

Top that with Lucy’s latest cause: after a group of kids is arrested for sledding on Wiggins Hill, Lucy takes on the most influential woman in town, Miss Ilene Viola Wiggins. Lucy soon discovers that fighting this injustice is doing major damage to her reputation – and she begins to wonder if her battle is worth the trouble.

When even her best friend, Zoe, begins to doubt her – it seems as if Lucy’s whole world is falling apart. Will life ever return to normal for Lucy? Or will she have to change her definition of normal?

Thanks to the writing of Amy Timberlake, Lucy becomes as real as your own best friend and the town of Turtle Rock, Minnesota comes alive on the pages of the book. You’ll want to grab a warm blanket and a cup of cocoa before you settle down and pay a visit to Lucy’s world. I guarantee you won’t want to leave.

Girls everywhere will love That Girl Lucy Moon. I know I do.

Continued prayers for the victims of Wednesday’s Minneapolis bridge collapse and their families.