Ramona the Pest by Beverly Cleary (1968). Illustrations by Tracy Dockray. 211
pages.
I first read Ramona the Pest when I was a beginner reader. I loved the Ramona books, and reading Ramona the Pest a second time, I understand why. Ramona perfectly captures what it is like to be young. She misunderstands her teacher, she tries to be good and has a hard time, and she is excited about losing her first teeth. There is nothing out of the ordinary that happens in Ramona the Pest, but that is what makes it such a compelling story. Cleary’s writing is simple but not boring. My biggest complaint is the illustrations. To my knowledge, they have been added in the most recent additions. It is obvious that they are new to the book. Instead of adding to the text, they seem to be added to make the story look more current by showing pictures of characters in current styles (for example, instead of having a backpack for kindergarten, Ramona wears a messenger bag). The style of these pictures gets a little confused, as well. Some of the illustrations almost look Japanese-inspired. This does not really match the story at all.
My One Hundred Adventures by Polly Horvath (2008). 260 pages.
My One Hundred Adventures was the first book I ever read by Polly Horvath, and it was good enough for me to try and read everything she has written. It is the story of Jane, who decides one summer that she will have one hundred adventures. While she does manage to have a lot of adventures, the story is also about her growing up. Horvath’s descriptions are gentle in their best moments. While a lot of crazy events are happening, nothing seems over the top or too fantastical. I particularly loved how the summer was divided by what berries are ripe—it shows how connected Jane is to her house and the land around her. Overall, this is a beautiful book about growing up.
Superfudge by Judy Blume (1980). 178 pages.
Superfudge is the story of a boy, Peter, who is going through a lot of life changes during fifth and sixth grade. First, his parents tell him that they’re having a new baby. Then, his family decides to leave New York City for a year and live in New Jersey. While the book is called Superfudge, the narrator is actually Fudge’s older brother. Blume’s descriptions of the change in Peter’s life feel very real. To anyone who is growing up, this is a great book to read. Not all changes seem good at first, but Blume shows that sometimes it is good to have a new adjustment to life. My one issue with the book is that because it covers about a year and half of time, it comes across a bit choppy. This could be good for a child reading one chapter at a time, because each chapter can stand alone, but for a longer reading, it is a bit disjointed at times.
Smiles to Go by Jerry Spinnelli (2008). 248 pages.
Smiles to Go is the story of Will. It begins when he learns that protons actually die. It was previously thought that they never expired, and this discovery rocks his world. What I loved about this book is that the reader gets to completely see into Will’s head (who is the narrator). Sometimes Spinnelli uses short, choppy sentences. At other times, he uses run-on sentences. The change in sentence structures allows the reader to understand the different emotions that Will feels instead of Spinelli telling the reader how Will feels.
Holes by Loius Sachar (1998). 233 pages.
I have nothing bad to say about Holes. In fact, it was one of my favorite books for years. What Sachar does best in this story is that he is able to pull seemingly minute details together to form a cohesive story. The fact that Stanley’s last name is his first name backwards is important, as is the fact that a famous outlaw robbed his great-grandfather. Most chapters are short, which is effective in making the reader want to read just one more. Overall, it definitely deserved the Newbery Medal
The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart (2007). 486 pages.
I loved The Mysterious Benedict Society. With the “Emergency” occurring around the world, only four children can save humanity from being controlled by the evil Mr. Curtain. I love that each child is completely different from one another, but they all need each other in order to “save the day.” 486 pages seems like a long book for a child to read, but Stewart is able to captivate his audience by filling each chapter with plenty of action.
The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander (1964). 217 pages.
What works really well with The Book of Three is that it is set in its own time and place and never feels outdated. Alexander creates the world of Prydain, which is under attack by a Horned King. Taran, a young assistant pig-keeper, is a boy who has to help save his world from being destroyed. While Alexander creates a complex world, he never adds too many details (like Tolkien) that would make the story too complicated for younger readers. I am sure that many young fantasy-lovers will become engrossed in this series.
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis (1950). 189 pages.
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a story that many children will cherish. While it invokes strong Christian imagery (such as Aslan’s death and resurrection), the story is much more than that. Talking animals, an evil White Witch, a never ending winter; these are all images that will be remembered. Lewis’ story is timeless; what child wouldn’t want to find an entry to another world? The original illustrations are great; they are fun to look at while reading, but they are not detailed enough to ruin the way the reader pictures Narnia to be.
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman (2008). 307 pages.
What if ghosts were real? In The Graveyard Book, ghosts are real, and not all bad. In fact, they help raise the orphan, Nobody Owens as their own. The illustrations go rather well with the story, as they are done in wispy grays and blacks. The biggest issue I have with this book is that it is a bit dark and scary. It even starts off with a big illustration of a knife. This may frighten some children, but the story itself really is age-appropriate and not too gory. Despite its dark feel, The Graveyard Book is a great story overall.
The Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis (2000). 224 pages.
The Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963 is a great piece of historical fiction about race during the 1960s. What makes this book so great is that many people (no matter their race) can relate to the Watson family. Instead of it being written about the “other,” a poor Black family that is repeatedly tormented because of their race, it is written about the “Weird Watsons,” a middle-class Black family from the North. When the family is confronted by racism, they are surprised as much as the reader. This is a great book for someone who is interested on a different perspective on race during the 1960s.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Book Review : Non-Fiction, Folk Tales, Poetry
Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein (1974). 166 pages.
This book was a favorite growing up, and rereading it, I can understand why. Shel Silverstein delivers in writing poetry that children understand. Not all of them make sense, and most of them are quite silly, but no one can deny the fact that these poems are fun. The line drawings that accompany them just add to the fun. For example, in a poem about writing from inside a lion, there is a large drawing of a peaceful-looking lion with a hand coming out of its mouth, attempting to write. The fact that the pages are simple (there is usually only one poem with an illustration per page) enhances each poem’s individual brilliance.
Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse (1997) 227 pages.
A ten-year-old girl that I know who loves writing poetry has repeatedly told me that this is her favorite book. I now understand why. In her poetry, Hesse both tells the story of a young girl who loves playing the piano and the sad events of the Dust Bowl. This story would not be told as effectively in prose. The continued use of “dust” helps guide the story and show the reader how dust controlled many part of these people’s lives. I also really enjoyed reading about Billie Jo. Her character was very believable and heart breaking. I felt myself rooting for her during the entire story—rooting for her to play the piano despite having burnt hands. Overall, this story in free verse was beautifully told.
Amelia Lost by Candace Fleming (2011). 108 pages.
Amelia Lost is the story of the amazing woman pilot, Amelia Earhart. It is fantastically designed. It goes back and forth between Earhart’s disappearance and her biography. To distinguish between the two, the parts about her disappearance have a gray background and the parts about her life have a white background. What I loved about this book is that even though I know the story about her disappearance, Fleming made Earhart’s story exciting. She often ended each chapter on “cliffhangers,” making me want to read the next chapters to find out what happened next. Another part that I loved about this book is that Fleming provided plenty of photographs and text boxes explaining different technical parts of the story (such as radio communication). This helped clear up any confusing plot parts. Overall, this book does a great job at telling about the life of Amelia Earhart in an exciting manner.
Marching For Freedom by Elizabeth Partridge (2009). 62 pages.
Marching For Freedom tells the story of the March on Montgomery, Alabama for equal voting rights for African Americans. I can honestly say that this story made me a little emotional. Partridge tells the story from the point of view of children—the stories of individual children involved in the march are told along with a broader scope of the events. What really got me emotional was the use of photographs along with the text—as I would read the stories of brave individuals, the photographs included helped give a face to the movement. Some of these photographs were quite stirring—for example, some photographs showed police brutality while others showed African Americans praying together. Overall, both the stories of children and the accompanying photographs helped to make this book both informative and emotional.
The Girl Who Married the Moon by Joseph Bruchac and Gayle Ross (1994). 122 pages.
I absolutely loved this book. The authors took 16 stories from Native American tribes and divide them by region. Reading each story, one can tell that they should be read aloud. I like that Bruchac and Ross really kept the oral tone of the tales, for example, he would start each with some variation of “Let me tell you this story,” which keeps it conversational. I also really appreciated that Bruchac and Ross took one theme (coming of age stories for girls) and picked each story to fit the theme. It allows the reader to see how different tribes respond to the same theme.
The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tale by John Scieszka (1992).
Illustrated by Lane Smith. 56 pages.
The Stinky Cheese Man is a fun book to read. Anyone who grows up learning fairy tales and folktales and has a good sense of humor would love this book. Scieszka and Smith take well-known stories and turn them upside down (for example, the Gingerbread Man becomes a Stinky Cheese Man). The illustrations and text are perfect together. The text changes size and shape and illustrations creep into pages. This book’s one negative, however, is that it requires the readers to be “in” on the stories. If someone did not know the traditional stories that Scieska’s stories are based on, she would not get most of the jokes.
Rapunzel by Paul O. Zelinsky (1997). 34 pages.
Paul Zelinsky’s version of Rapunzel is absolutely beautiful. Each illustration looks like its own Renaissance painting, richly illustrated with a lot of pigment in each color. The text is simple and straight to the point. It does not get stuck on giving any more background information than necessary, which is extremely helpful if one were to read it aloud. I also really appreciated that Zelinsky gave detailed source notes, giving the reader insight as to where he found different versions of the Rapunzel story.
This book was a favorite growing up, and rereading it, I can understand why. Shel Silverstein delivers in writing poetry that children understand. Not all of them make sense, and most of them are quite silly, but no one can deny the fact that these poems are fun. The line drawings that accompany them just add to the fun. For example, in a poem about writing from inside a lion, there is a large drawing of a peaceful-looking lion with a hand coming out of its mouth, attempting to write. The fact that the pages are simple (there is usually only one poem with an illustration per page) enhances each poem’s individual brilliance.
Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse (1997) 227 pages.
A ten-year-old girl that I know who loves writing poetry has repeatedly told me that this is her favorite book. I now understand why. In her poetry, Hesse both tells the story of a young girl who loves playing the piano and the sad events of the Dust Bowl. This story would not be told as effectively in prose. The continued use of “dust” helps guide the story and show the reader how dust controlled many part of these people’s lives. I also really enjoyed reading about Billie Jo. Her character was very believable and heart breaking. I felt myself rooting for her during the entire story—rooting for her to play the piano despite having burnt hands. Overall, this story in free verse was beautifully told.
Amelia Lost by Candace Fleming (2011). 108 pages.
Amelia Lost is the story of the amazing woman pilot, Amelia Earhart. It is fantastically designed. It goes back and forth between Earhart’s disappearance and her biography. To distinguish between the two, the parts about her disappearance have a gray background and the parts about her life have a white background. What I loved about this book is that even though I know the story about her disappearance, Fleming made Earhart’s story exciting. She often ended each chapter on “cliffhangers,” making me want to read the next chapters to find out what happened next. Another part that I loved about this book is that Fleming provided plenty of photographs and text boxes explaining different technical parts of the story (such as radio communication). This helped clear up any confusing plot parts. Overall, this book does a great job at telling about the life of Amelia Earhart in an exciting manner.
Marching For Freedom by Elizabeth Partridge (2009). 62 pages.
Marching For Freedom tells the story of the March on Montgomery, Alabama for equal voting rights for African Americans. I can honestly say that this story made me a little emotional. Partridge tells the story from the point of view of children—the stories of individual children involved in the march are told along with a broader scope of the events. What really got me emotional was the use of photographs along with the text—as I would read the stories of brave individuals, the photographs included helped give a face to the movement. Some of these photographs were quite stirring—for example, some photographs showed police brutality while others showed African Americans praying together. Overall, both the stories of children and the accompanying photographs helped to make this book both informative and emotional.
The Girl Who Married the Moon by Joseph Bruchac and Gayle Ross (1994). 122 pages.
I absolutely loved this book. The authors took 16 stories from Native American tribes and divide them by region. Reading each story, one can tell that they should be read aloud. I like that Bruchac and Ross really kept the oral tone of the tales, for example, he would start each with some variation of “Let me tell you this story,” which keeps it conversational. I also really appreciated that Bruchac and Ross took one theme (coming of age stories for girls) and picked each story to fit the theme. It allows the reader to see how different tribes respond to the same theme.
The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tale by John Scieszka (1992).
Illustrated by Lane Smith. 56 pages.
The Stinky Cheese Man is a fun book to read. Anyone who grows up learning fairy tales and folktales and has a good sense of humor would love this book. Scieszka and Smith take well-known stories and turn them upside down (for example, the Gingerbread Man becomes a Stinky Cheese Man). The illustrations and text are perfect together. The text changes size and shape and illustrations creep into pages. This book’s one negative, however, is that it requires the readers to be “in” on the stories. If someone did not know the traditional stories that Scieska’s stories are based on, she would not get most of the jokes.
Rapunzel by Paul O. Zelinsky (1997). 34 pages.
Paul Zelinsky’s version of Rapunzel is absolutely beautiful. Each illustration looks like its own Renaissance painting, richly illustrated with a lot of pigment in each color. The text is simple and straight to the point. It does not get stuck on giving any more background information than necessary, which is extremely helpful if one were to read it aloud. I also really appreciated that Zelinsky gave detailed source notes, giving the reader insight as to where he found different versions of the Rapunzel story.
Book Reviews: Early Readers
Frog and Toad are Friends by Arnold Lobel (1970). 64 pages.
Frog and Toad are certainly a dynamic duo. This book contains five short stories of the two best friends’ adventures. Actually, “adventures” is too strong of a word, as Frog and Toad don’t do too much. They lose buttons, try and get out of bed and tell each other stories. Despite the fact that the stories seem like they should be mundane, Frog and Toad are so quirky that the stories become fun. Not only that, Arnold Lobel’s mostly brown and green illustrations enhance each tale. I mean, who wouldn’t want to see what a Toad looks like standing on his head?
We Are in a Book! by Mo Willems (2010). 57 pages.
I really enjoy Willems’s Elephant and Piggie series. They are short, simple books with simple illustrations, but lots of character. In We Are in a Book! Elephant and Piggie become self aware that they are being read. While this can come across contrived, Willems pulls this off with lots of fun. We Are in a Book is a great read-along book. The characters laugh about making the reader say funny words (like “banana”) aloud, making the reader a part of the book experience. Not since Kilgore Trout met Kurt Vonnegut Breakfast of Champions have I enjoyed characters realizing that they, indeed, are in a book.
Little Bear by Else Homelund Minarik and illustrated by Maurice Sendak (1957). 67 pages.
Little Bear includes four sweet stories about a young bear. Each story is pretty simple for early readers, yet creative and engaging. One of my favorite parts of the Little Bear stories is that Mother Bear is so loving to her son, yet also has a sense of humor in playing along with his games. Theirs is a sweet, uncomplicated relationship. Sendak’s illustrations definitely add to the stories. The mostly black-and-white illustrations that include a splash of color let the reader into the imagination of the story. For example, the reader gets to see what Little Bear imagines when he believes he is flying to the moon, even though he really just jumped off of a small tree. This is a classic that should be included in early reader collections.
Frog and Toad are certainly a dynamic duo. This book contains five short stories of the two best friends’ adventures. Actually, “adventures” is too strong of a word, as Frog and Toad don’t do too much. They lose buttons, try and get out of bed and tell each other stories. Despite the fact that the stories seem like they should be mundane, Frog and Toad are so quirky that the stories become fun. Not only that, Arnold Lobel’s mostly brown and green illustrations enhance each tale. I mean, who wouldn’t want to see what a Toad looks like standing on his head?
We Are in a Book! by Mo Willems (2010). 57 pages.
I really enjoy Willems’s Elephant and Piggie series. They are short, simple books with simple illustrations, but lots of character. In We Are in a Book! Elephant and Piggie become self aware that they are being read. While this can come across contrived, Willems pulls this off with lots of fun. We Are in a Book is a great read-along book. The characters laugh about making the reader say funny words (like “banana”) aloud, making the reader a part of the book experience. Not since Kilgore Trout met Kurt Vonnegut Breakfast of Champions have I enjoyed characters realizing that they, indeed, are in a book.
Little Bear by Else Homelund Minarik and illustrated by Maurice Sendak (1957). 67 pages.
Little Bear includes four sweet stories about a young bear. Each story is pretty simple for early readers, yet creative and engaging. One of my favorite parts of the Little Bear stories is that Mother Bear is so loving to her son, yet also has a sense of humor in playing along with his games. Theirs is a sweet, uncomplicated relationship. Sendak’s illustrations definitely add to the stories. The mostly black-and-white illustrations that include a splash of color let the reader into the imagination of the story. For example, the reader gets to see what Little Bear imagines when he believes he is flying to the moon, even though he really just jumped off of a small tree. This is a classic that should be included in early reader collections.
Book Recommendations! Part One: Picture Books
SO I know it's been awhile since the last time I updated with book reviews, but I have the motherload right here! Some of you know that last summer I started a master's program at Simmon's College. Last semester I took a class on children's literature and had to make a reading journal, so here it is!
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963). 48 pages.
There is no doubt in my mind that Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are deserves
the popularity it has received over the past fifty years. Max, a “Wild Thing,” is sent to
bed without his supper, which grows into a forest that brings him on an adventure. While
the text is quite sparse, any more words would take away from Sendak’s imaginative
illustrations. This is the perfect type of book to read aloud to a group pretending to
be “wild things.” Anyone who is the parent of a wild child, or anyone who at one point
was a bit “wild” will appreciate this book,
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson (1955). 64 pages.
Harold and the Purple Crayon is the perfect book to read with an imaginative child.
With sparse illustrations, a child is able to see what can be done with one simple purple
crayon. What is especially enjoyable is that while Harold is creating his adventure, not
even he knows where he is going to end up! As this is a small-sized book, it might be
difficult to read to a large group of children, but can be the perfect fit to read along with a
creative child with an open imagination.
Millions of Cats by Wanda Gag (1928). 32 pages.
This book is a classic for a reason! Wanda Gag’s simple illustrations beautifully
complement the story of an old man looking to find the perfect cat for his lonely wife.
This book is humorous; instead of just picking one cat for his wife, the old man is unable
to choose so brings home millions of cats. Then, still not knowing how to choose, he
leaves it up for the cats to decide, who all fight and end up eating each other. Well, all
except one, a scrawny kitten who did not think he was pretty enough. Although this tale
gets a little violent, Wanda Gag’s illustrations brings the reader away from the darker
side of the story and creates an enjoyable reading and looking experience.
Corduroy by Don Freeman (1968) 32 pages.
Corduroy is the sweet story of a stuffed bear just wanting a home and a little girl who
makes all of his dreams come true. It includes illustrations that have a simple palette—
using variations of reds and greens and browns, but not prime colors. This story really
resonates with a reader who has given a home for a special stuffed animal. Corduroy is
not perfect, he has been in the store for too long and he even has a missing button, but
Freeman shows that even “damaged goods” deserve love. My favorite part of this story
was the ending—a little girl who sees him brings all of her money to give him a home. It
is such a warm ending to a sad story that the reader ends with a good feeling.
Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans (1939). 48 pages.
Madeline is the bravest girl in the old house in Paris, until Miss Clavel wakes up to
her crying from a case of appendicitis. While the story is simple, this book deserves is
Caldecott Honor. The story is very enjoyable to read aloud – most pages have only a
few lines on them, which rhyme. The fact that there is such little text on the page leaves
plenty of space for Bemelmans’ fantastic illustrations. Some pages he only uses black,
white and yellow, which keep the illustrations simple yet recognizable. On other pages
he goes all out in his use of color. On those pages (most notably when Madeline takes an
ambulance to the hospital) one gets lost in the illustrations. Madeline is a fantastic book
that will continue to stay around for years to come.
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick (2007). 523 pages.
Brian Selznick did an amazing job at seamlessly integrating text and illustrations. At times, I forgot whether I was reading or watching. What really enhanced his use of text and illustrations was that the story continued in illustrations, without the text describing what happens in the pictures. This would be a great book for reluctant readers. It is long yet not overwhelming, since many of the pages are illustrations. Finishing a book like this would be a big accomplishment to children who do not read much, and it could give them a boost in self-confidence to read more.
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963). 48 pages.
There is no doubt in my mind that Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are deserves
the popularity it has received over the past fifty years. Max, a “Wild Thing,” is sent to
bed without his supper, which grows into a forest that brings him on an adventure. While
the text is quite sparse, any more words would take away from Sendak’s imaginative
illustrations. This is the perfect type of book to read aloud to a group pretending to
be “wild things.” Anyone who is the parent of a wild child, or anyone who at one point
was a bit “wild” will appreciate this book,
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson (1955). 64 pages.
Harold and the Purple Crayon is the perfect book to read with an imaginative child.
With sparse illustrations, a child is able to see what can be done with one simple purple
crayon. What is especially enjoyable is that while Harold is creating his adventure, not
even he knows where he is going to end up! As this is a small-sized book, it might be
difficult to read to a large group of children, but can be the perfect fit to read along with a
creative child with an open imagination.
Millions of Cats by Wanda Gag (1928). 32 pages.
This book is a classic for a reason! Wanda Gag’s simple illustrations beautifully
complement the story of an old man looking to find the perfect cat for his lonely wife.
This book is humorous; instead of just picking one cat for his wife, the old man is unable
to choose so brings home millions of cats. Then, still not knowing how to choose, he
leaves it up for the cats to decide, who all fight and end up eating each other. Well, all
except one, a scrawny kitten who did not think he was pretty enough. Although this tale
gets a little violent, Wanda Gag’s illustrations brings the reader away from the darker
side of the story and creates an enjoyable reading and looking experience.
Corduroy by Don Freeman (1968) 32 pages.
Corduroy is the sweet story of a stuffed bear just wanting a home and a little girl who
makes all of his dreams come true. It includes illustrations that have a simple palette—
using variations of reds and greens and browns, but not prime colors. This story really
resonates with a reader who has given a home for a special stuffed animal. Corduroy is
not perfect, he has been in the store for too long and he even has a missing button, but
Freeman shows that even “damaged goods” deserve love. My favorite part of this story
was the ending—a little girl who sees him brings all of her money to give him a home. It
is such a warm ending to a sad story that the reader ends with a good feeling.
Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans (1939). 48 pages.
Madeline is the bravest girl in the old house in Paris, until Miss Clavel wakes up to
her crying from a case of appendicitis. While the story is simple, this book deserves is
Caldecott Honor. The story is very enjoyable to read aloud – most pages have only a
few lines on them, which rhyme. The fact that there is such little text on the page leaves
plenty of space for Bemelmans’ fantastic illustrations. Some pages he only uses black,
white and yellow, which keep the illustrations simple yet recognizable. On other pages
he goes all out in his use of color. On those pages (most notably when Madeline takes an
ambulance to the hospital) one gets lost in the illustrations. Madeline is a fantastic book
that will continue to stay around for years to come.
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick (2007). 523 pages.
Brian Selznick did an amazing job at seamlessly integrating text and illustrations. At times, I forgot whether I was reading or watching. What really enhanced his use of text and illustrations was that the story continued in illustrations, without the text describing what happens in the pictures. This would be a great book for reluctant readers. It is long yet not overwhelming, since many of the pages are illustrations. Finishing a book like this would be a big accomplishment to children who do not read much, and it could give them a boost in self-confidence to read more.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Christie's Picks
Hello! It's been awhile. Mark and I recently decided to start something new in the Children's Room, Christie's Picks and Mark's Picks. I have spent a large part of my life in book "research" (meaning, carrying books with me everywhere and reading them any spare moment I can find) so why not share my favorites with those who are looking for new books.
My first list is five books for twelve year olds. They are a mix of books that I read when I was twelve and books that I have read in the past year or two.
Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
The perfect book for any free spirit, or someone who strives to be one.
Under Sea, Over Stone by Susan Cooper
A classic tale of the battle between good and evil, centered around the quest of three siblings to find the Holy Grail.
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi
A great adventure story at sea about a very daring girl!
The Name of This Book is Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch
This quirky and hilarious book is about two children who are on a mission to solve the mystery of a missing magician.
Redwall by Brian Jacques
In the first book of an amazing series, animals have to protect the peaceful Redwall Abbey from an evil one-eyed rat.
How many of these books have you read? What books would you add to the list?
My first list is five books for twelve year olds. They are a mix of books that I read when I was twelve and books that I have read in the past year or two.
Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
The perfect book for any free spirit, or someone who strives to be one.
Under Sea, Over Stone by Susan Cooper
A classic tale of the battle between good and evil, centered around the quest of three siblings to find the Holy Grail.
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi
A great adventure story at sea about a very daring girl!
The Name of This Book is Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch
This quirky and hilarious book is about two children who are on a mission to solve the mystery of a missing magician.
Redwall by Brian Jacques
In the first book of an amazing series, animals have to protect the peaceful Redwall Abbey from an evil one-eyed rat.
How many of these books have you read? What books would you add to the list?
Friday, December 31, 2010
New Year's Eve
Happy New Year! So, one of my three resolutions in the new year is to keep track of every book I read in 2011. I will be curious to see how many books this is. I'm guessing that I read about 200 books a year. That sounds like a lot, but I read a lot of children's books that only take a night to read. I read every day for about two to three hours, but sometimes I don't read at all for a few days. We shall see.
I just read the first five books of the Chronicles of Narnia over the past few days. I am a bit surprised that kids take to them like they do because I find the enjoyment for me is in the little details. I read a biography of Lewis and many of his colleagues at Oxford thought he was the most well-read man in history. And so when I read his story about a battle, or how a dragon acts, it rings true and of erudition and knowledge. I guess kids would pick up on that as well. And one thing that is over-arching among all the books that I'm sure kids love as much as I do is the sense of moral goodness. In a profound way too, that you don't find in modern life too much. I think it is the religious nature of the goodness that makes it so full and the religious mythology that gives it an interesting back story and fullness.
So much power in Lewis' writing and nobility and whimsy and fun. My first book of 2011 will be Voyage of the Dawn Treader.
Once I'm done with that I'm going to dash through Waiter Rant. I picked it up today in Newburyport. (You probably don't know this but as a member of the Eternal Book Guild I am obligated to buy a book in every book shop I enter).
I've read about the first 50 pages of Waiter Rant and it is good. But I pretty much know everything in the book from the other restaurant and cookbooks I've read. He really should have made the book a personal narrative about why he fell into waitering and how he can't get out. That is the most interesting part of the book. Silly stories about bad customers and bad tippers are mildly fun, but do not a book make.
Then back to Narnia. By the way, hordes of Manchester By the Book blog readers : January 2011 is C.S. Lewis month in our store, meaning we have his books displayed and discounted, and we a having a cocktail party on January 29th at 7 p.m. which we be Lewis themed. You can ask me about the Eternal Book Guild at the party, but I doubt if I will tell you.
I just read the first five books of the Chronicles of Narnia over the past few days. I am a bit surprised that kids take to them like they do because I find the enjoyment for me is in the little details. I read a biography of Lewis and many of his colleagues at Oxford thought he was the most well-read man in history. And so when I read his story about a battle, or how a dragon acts, it rings true and of erudition and knowledge. I guess kids would pick up on that as well. And one thing that is over-arching among all the books that I'm sure kids love as much as I do is the sense of moral goodness. In a profound way too, that you don't find in modern life too much. I think it is the religious nature of the goodness that makes it so full and the religious mythology that gives it an interesting back story and fullness.
So much power in Lewis' writing and nobility and whimsy and fun. My first book of 2011 will be Voyage of the Dawn Treader.
Once I'm done with that I'm going to dash through Waiter Rant. I picked it up today in Newburyport. (You probably don't know this but as a member of the Eternal Book Guild I am obligated to buy a book in every book shop I enter).
I've read about the first 50 pages of Waiter Rant and it is good. But I pretty much know everything in the book from the other restaurant and cookbooks I've read. He really should have made the book a personal narrative about why he fell into waitering and how he can't get out. That is the most interesting part of the book. Silly stories about bad customers and bad tippers are mildly fun, but do not a book make.
Then back to Narnia. By the way, hordes of Manchester By the Book blog readers : January 2011 is C.S. Lewis month in our store, meaning we have his books displayed and discounted, and we a having a cocktail party on January 29th at 7 p.m. which we be Lewis themed. You can ask me about the Eternal Book Guild at the party, but I doubt if I will tell you.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Looking for the perfect holiday gift?
Look no further! Manchester by the Book is here for you. Here are a few hand-picked (and gorgeously photographed) selections!
Also, at the bottom of this post we've compiled list of a few of our rarer items. If you're seeking for a serious gift for a lover of literature, you've come to the right place.
If you see anything you're interested in or would like to request more information about a book, just email or call us!
Don't forget that Manchester By the Book will wrap your gift for FREE!
Here's how to reach us:
by way of the internet - manchesterbythebook@gmail.com
&
by way of the telephone - (978) 525-2929
Also, at the bottom of this post we've compiled list of a few of our rarer items. If you're seeking for a serious gift for a lover of literature, you've come to the right place.
If you see anything you're interested in or would like to request more information about a book, just email or call us!
Don't forget that Manchester By the Book will wrap your gift for FREE!
Here's how to reach us:
by way of the internet - manchesterbythebook@gmail.com
&
by way of the telephone - (978) 525-2929
Doctor Dolittle's Garden by Hugh Lofting
$17.50
Sheep Puppet
$18
For the lover of animals! The Dr. Dolittle series is a fun series and the old hardcover editions are very attractive gifts!
Misty of Chincoteague by Marguerite Henry$25
Horse Puppet
$30
Give someone a childhood favorite! This beautiful copy of "Misty of Chicoteague" is a first edition.
The Heart is a Lonely Hunter by Carson McCullers
$45
This is a really wonderful book that comes highly recommended by the entire staff of Manchester By the Book. Although we have a few editions, the one pictured is a facsimile of the First Edition. It comes with a lovely slip cover and, in my humble opinion, would be very aesthetically pleasing with a crimson bow.
$45
This is a really wonderful book that comes highly recommended by the entire staff of Manchester By the Book. Although we have a few editions, the one pictured is a facsimile of the First Edition. It comes with a lovely slip cover and, in my humble opinion, would be very aesthetically pleasing with a crimson bow.
Rabbit is Rich by John Updike$15
Give the gift of a local author! Manchester By the Book has many first editions and signed copies of the works of John Updike. This one, "Rabbit is Rich" is a first edition hardcover.
The Once and Future King by T.H. White$10
This copy of T.H. White's classic tale of King Arthur, "The Once and Future King" contains all four books ("The Sword in the Stone," "The Queen of Air and Darkness," "The Ill-Made Knight," and "The Candle in the Wind.") It is the perfect book for the lover of fantasy and myth.
Mitten Strings for God by Katrina Kenison$11.95
For mothers in a hurry! This brand new SIGNED copy of Katrina Kenison's "Mitten Strings for God" is the perfect gift for mothers, new or old.
Nancy Drew and the Clue in the Jewel Box by Carolyn Keene.$25
A great gift to remind someone of their childhood (or to give to a child!) We have many different copies of the Nancy Drew series. Pick your favorite edition!
Andre the Giant: a Legendary Life
$8
This is a flawless gift for your most massive friend!
On Dreams by Freud$5
The Interpretation of Dreams
$10
Dreams by Jung
$8.95
For the psychological scholar or the interpreter of dreams!
Boston's Gold Coast by Joseph Garland$25
Old Homes of New England: Historic Houses in Clapboard, Shingle and Stone
$35
The North Shore is the perfect place to live, why not celebrate it in a gift?
The Book of Tea by Kakuzo Okakura
$12.95 (new)
This is a classic book about Japanese Teaism and Tea culture. Okakura touches on philosophical traditions ranging from Taoism to Zen Buddhism. The Book of Tea is a celebration of tranquility and simplicity. Also, Okakura was friends with Isabella Stewart Gardener, which proves that he was (at the very least) cool.
Mr. Boston: Official Bartender's Guide
$5
Do you need to send a polite but firm hint to your friend that serves Pabst Blue Ribbon at every dinner party? Then this is the perfect gift! Ring in the New Year with gallons of Nashville Eggnog instead of a cooler of watery brews! The whole party will thank you.
Mushroom Cookery by Helmut Ripperger
$17.50
This is a First Edition cookbook printed in 1941. Serious mushroom cooks will be thrilled to find this gem in their stocking. The recipes range from Hungarian Mushroom Soup to Chinese Stuffed Mushrooms. There is a dish for every shroomy palate!
$12.95 (new)
This is a classic book about Japanese Teaism and Tea culture. Okakura touches on philosophical traditions ranging from Taoism to Zen Buddhism. The Book of Tea is a celebration of tranquility and simplicity. Also, Okakura was friends with Isabella Stewart Gardener, which proves that he was (at the very least) cool.
Mr. Boston: Official Bartender's Guide
$5
Do you need to send a polite but firm hint to your friend that serves Pabst Blue Ribbon at every dinner party? Then this is the perfect gift! Ring in the New Year with gallons of Nashville Eggnog instead of a cooler of watery brews! The whole party will thank you.
Mushroom Cookery by Helmut Ripperger
$17.50
This is a First Edition cookbook printed in 1941. Serious mushroom cooks will be thrilled to find this gem in their stocking. The recipes range from Hungarian Mushroom Soup to Chinese Stuffed Mushrooms. There is a dish for every shroomy palate!
Organic Gardening by Maria Rodale
$10
Organic Gardening by Geoff Hamilton
$8.95
Is your neighbor's compost pile coming dangerously close to ruining your friendship? Then give the gift of Organic Gardening. This gift sends the message that you approve of his or her passion for GREEN, but you will only endure the rotting matter if they use it to grow something delightful.
Mastering the Art of French Cooking
Julia Child
$89.95 (new)
This beautiful box set is the perfect gift for your B.C.F. (B.C.F. stands for Best Chef Friend, for those of you that don't have one.) Mastering the Art of French Cooking would also appeal to your M.S.S.F.F. (Meryl Streep Super-Fan Friend), as it is the book that appears in the hit movie Julie and Julia.
Julia Child
$89.95 (new)
This beautiful box set is the perfect gift for your B.C.F. (B.C.F. stands for Best Chef Friend, for those of you that don't have one.) Mastering the Art of French Cooking would also appeal to your M.S.S.F.F. (Meryl Streep Super-Fan Friend), as it is the book that appears in the hit movie Julie and Julia.
Searching for Sound: My Life with the Grateful Dead by Phil Lesh
$10
This book would make a perfect gift for your favorite deadhead. Searching for Sound is also perfect for the musical anthropologist man or woman in your life who's focused field of study is "bands that like bears."
Death of a Lady's Man by Leonard Cohen
$45 (first edition)
This book is incredible and this edition is hard to find. Please buy this book for me. I love you and I'll always be there for you. (your friend, Laura)
$10
This book would make a perfect gift for your favorite deadhead. Searching for Sound is also perfect for the musical anthropologist man or woman in your life who's focused field of study is "bands that like bears."
Death of a Lady's Man by Leonard Cohen
$45 (first edition)
This book is incredible and this edition is hard to find. Please buy this book for me. I love you and I'll always be there for you. (your friend, Laura)
RARE AND FANCY BOOKS:
Robert Penn Warren
New and Selected Poems : 1923-1985
First Edition and signed by Robert Penn Warren
$100
Joyce Carol Oates
Funland
Signed by Joyce Carol Oates. Limited edition of 150 copies. We have #17!
$105
also by Joyce Carol Oates
Invisible Woman : New and Selected Poems 1970-1982
Inscribed by Joyce Carol Oates to poet, essayist and editor Peter Davison.
$50
Margaret Thatcher
Statecraft : Strategies for a Changing World
Signed by Margaret Thatcher. Also signed and dated by Thatcher on a 'Certificate of Authenticity,' that is laid in.
$195
Edward Gorey
The Glorious Nosebleed : Fifth Alphabet
Signed by Edward Gorey.
$150
also signed by Gorey
The Curious Sofa By Ogdred Weary
$125
ALSO signed by Gorey
The Headless Bust : a Melancholy Meditation on the False Millennium
First Edition!
$95
John Barth
The Literature of Exhaustion and the Literature of Replenishment
Signed by John Barth and a Limited Edition Presentation Copy
$100
Anne Sexton
Transformations
First Edition, First Printing and signed by Anne Sexton and the illustrator!
$275
John Updike
The Afterlife and Other Stories
First Edition, First Printing and signed by John Updike.
$65
Maxine Kumin
Up Country : Poems of New England - New and Selected
Signed by Maxine Kumin
Edward Albee
The Wounding : An Essay on Education
Signed by Edward Albee and a First Edition.
$35
Willa Cather
Shadows on the Rock
Signed by Willa Cather and number 197 of 619 copies. First Edition.
$400
Tennessee Williams
Small Craft Warnings (book, script, 3 sheets of cast photos, and postcard of Play Preview invitation)
Inscribed by Tennessee Williams. Inscription states, "To Mario, With Love, Tennessee." Inscription is believed to be for Mario deMaria, who was a producer of the play. 35 photographs.
$450
Monday, October 11, 2010
Staff Pick: Christie
Travels With Charley
By John Steinbeck
Travels with Charley is exactly what it sounds like. John Steinbeck decides to go on a cross country trip with his dog Charley in order to rediscover America. It gives beautiful descriptions of all parts of America during the early 1960s. Overall, this book just gave me the same sort of wanderlust that Steinbeck seemed to have.
Young Adult Fiction 10/11/2010
The Trolls
by Polly Horvath
Not only does The Trolls have Polly Horvath's trademark humor, it ends on a serious note, which has kept me thinking about it days after I have read it. It is simple enough for middle schoolers to read, but older people can get something out of it as well. Well done, Polly Horvath, yet again.
Friday, October 8, 2010
JERRY SPINELLI!
The other day, we received mail from Jerry Spinelli himself! It was pretty awesome, and I think I am still reeling from it a bit.
This is what he sent:
His letter was a response to one we had sent a few months ago, proclaiming our love for all things Stargirl that included this picture to show that I loved Stargirl enough to get it tattooed on my arm.
He sent us temporary tattoos, for those who want to show their Stargirl love a little less drastically. All in all, it was awesome.
This is what he sent:
His letter was a response to one we had sent a few months ago, proclaiming our love for all things Stargirl that included this picture to show that I loved Stargirl enough to get it tattooed on my arm.
He sent us temporary tattoos, for those who want to show their Stargirl love a little less drastically. All in all, it was awesome.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Store Updates!
Hello All,
So much has happened since last entry. Our children's room got an amazing update - brand new wood floors! They look absolutely fantastic and make reading on the bean bag chairs even better. Here's a photo:
Not only did we get beautiful new floors, we just got a shipment in of new puppets! I spent a good chunk of time processing them today, and they are all so cute! My favorites? I think the octopus is pretty rad, and the turtle wearing a turtleneck is just kind of funny. We got in a bunch of new finger puppets as well - super sweet chicks, black woolly sheep, and more!
You can check out the new and improved children's room TOMORROW when you come to our monthly Poetry Open Mic Night. In case you forgot, it is on October 2 at 7:30pm. If you can't come them, stop in anyways and ask about the other events coming up!See you soon,
Christie
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Staff Pick: Christie
Big Sur
By Jack Kerouac
Big Sur takes place ten years after On the Road. Kerouac is famous, hates it, drinks a lot, and is basically in self destruct mode. He decides to stay at Lawrence Ferlinghetti's cabin in Big Sur in order to stay away from his fans and booze. This results in a poem about the sea (which is at the end of the novel) and a mental breakdown.
Young Adult Fiction 9/15/2010
Savvy
by Ingrid Law
Mibs (short for Mississippi) has an unusual family. On each child's 13th birthday, they discover their savvy, that is, their special gift. One of her older brothers caused a hurricane on his 13th birthday and her mother's savvy is that she is absolutely perfect at everything. Mibs' 13th birthday is coming up but right before she finds out her savvy, her father (who is normal) gets in a terrible accident. Mibs (along with her brothers and new friends) decide to go on a long journey to reach her father and hopefully save him with her savvy.
Savvy is definitely a unique book. Ingrid Law uses "magic" without the story seeming too fantastical or unbelievable. Deep down, Savvy is really the tale of a girl growing up and learning about herself, along with learning about her special abilities. It's not shocking at all that this is on Oprah's Book Club Kids Reading List.
Early Readers 9/15/2010
Judy Moody and Stink: The Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt
by Megan McDonald
It's the summer, and Judy Moody and Stink are on vacation! They become part of a several day treasure hunt, where the winner gets to ride on a pirate ship!
This is a great story for young readers who are not quite ready for chapter books, but illustrated books are a bit too easy. It is fun to go on the adventure with Judy Moody and Stink and try and figure out the clues to the treasure along with them.
Children's Ilustrated 9/15/2010
Fairy Tale Timpa
by Michael Altan
Fairy Tale Timpa is Michael Altan's hilarious take on different fairy tales in comic strip form. Timpa (a red-spotted dog) discovers Pinocchio, Sleepy Beauty, and other favorite characters. Michael Altan's stories and are absolutely hilarious and incredibly absurd.
Seriously, I can't recommend this series any higher. I've been looking through each one and laughing hysterically. I think I know my next tattoo (hint: it's Altan's illustration of a sun eating ice cream).
Monday, August 30, 2010
Staff Pick: Christie
The River Why
By David James Duncan
The River Why is the story of Gus, the fishing genius son of two very different fishers. When Gus graduates high school, he decides to rent a cabin on the edge of a river and create an Ideal Schedule, a schedule that allows the most possible time for fishing. Eventually, Gus's life of just fish starts to drive him a little wacko. After an unusual experience, Gus opens his life to new friends, philosophy, and even love.
Young Adult Fiction 8/30/2010
The Canning Season
by Polly Horvath
I absolutely loved The Canning Season to the point that I stayed late at work one day in order to finish it. Horvath has a great blend of slapstick humor and offbeat storytelling that kept me totally engaged and laughing aloud. This book is one-of-a-kind, that's for certain. The one warning I would give is that there are some uses of swear words that some readers may be too young for.
Early Readers 8/30/2010
Ivy and Bean
by Annie Barrows and Sophie Blackall
Ivy and Bean is the start of a super fun series geared towards young girls. The two friends (that were never supposed to be friends) end up getting into funny predicaments and make up creative solutions to get out of them. This series is perfect for the young reader who is beyond illustrated books but not quite ready for chapter books.
Children's Illustrated 8/30/2010
Mr. Greedy
by Roger Hargreaves
Mr. Greedy loved to eat! The more he ate, the fatter he became. One day, after an exceptionally large breakfast, Mr. Greedy goes on an adventure where he is taught a lesson on being greedy.
Mr. Greedy is part of the quirky Mr. Men series by Roger Hargreaves. Each of the books tells a fun story with great illustrations. This is a great, quick read that is perfect for young readers!Books to Read Before You Graduate High School!
Several months ago, Mark and I (Christie) compiled this list of must-read books before high school graduation. Combined, we have read every single one and each has passed a rigorous test of time and quality. So, see what you have read, and come and pick up what you haven't! Or just come in and guess who contributed what to the list.
Books to Read Before High School Graduation
Jane Austen - Pride and Prejudice
Ray Bradbury - Fahrenheit 451
Ray Bradbury - Something Wicked This Way Comes
Albert Camus - The Stranger
Willa Cather - O Pioneers
Thomas Hardy - Tess of D'Ubervilles
Nathaniel Hawthorne - The Scarlet Letter
Ernest Hemingway - Old Man and the Sea
Aldous Huxley - Brave New World
John Irving - A Prayer for Owen Meany
Jack Kerouac - On the Road
Ken Kesey - One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
John Knowles - A Separate Peace
Harper Lee - To Kill a Mockingbird
Carson McCullers - The Heart is a Lonely Hunter
Carson McCullers - Member of the Wedding
Larry McMurtry - Lonesome Dove
Flannery O'Connor - The Complete Stories
George Orwell - 1984
George Orwell - Animal Farm
Ayn Rand - The Fountainhead
Erich Maria Remarque - All Quiet on the Western Front
Antoine de Saint-Exupery - The Little Prince
J.D. Salinger - Catcher in the Rye
J.D. Salinger - Nine Stories
Dodie Smith - I Capture the Castle
John Steinbeck - Of Mice and Men
John Steinbeck - The Grapes of Wrath
Dylan Thomas - The Collected Stories
J.R.R. Tolkien - Lord of the Rings
Kurt Vonnegut - Slaughterhouse-Five
T.H. White - The Once and Future King
Oscar Wilde - A Picture of Dorian Gray
P.G. Wodehouse - Carry On, Jeeves
Tom Wolfe - I Am Charlotte Simmons
Richard Wright - Black Boy
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