Review: If I could keep you little...

If I could keep you little...

Those words alone just grabbed the attention of every parent, grandparent, and pretty much anyone who's had their heart captured by the beautiful innocence of a child. Those eyes wide open to the world and looking up at you with all of the trust and love they can muster. Those first wobbly steps and choppy blending of sounds as they begin to give words to their surroundings. These moments remind me of a simpler time, a time of exciting firsts. You know, that magical time before kids learned the words, NO or WHY NOT.

When I was offered the chance to review Marianne Richmond's new book If I could keep you little... I was immediately reminded of those sweet firsts with each of my kids. So, of course I said yes.

I expected to tear up while reading it, which I did, but not for the reasons I thought. Marianne does a great job preserving those milestone memories with her words and her own illustrations. She also helps you recognize that there are more memories to come, and each is as important to our children as those very first moments are to us. That's a great message, because if given the actual choice, we would not want to hold our children back from becoming the strong, independent, and hopefully happy people they are meant to be.

I love this book and think it would make an excellent addition to any family's library. But don't just take my word for it. Here's what other reviewers are saying...

If I Could Keep You Little...

Thanks for stopping by and happy reading.

Kristin :)

* If I Could Keep You Little... by Marianne Richmond was published in November, 2010 by Sourcebooks. This copy was given to me by a publicist to be considered for review. No payments or promises of positive reviews were exchanged. My review is my own opinion of the book.

Review: Sea Escape by Lynne Griffin

Earlier this year, I was lucky enough to meet Lynne Griffin in Boston and hear all about her new release, Sea Escape. The story and the excitement in her voice had me hooked even before I knew she had a review copy with her. I left the Saturday Saloon, on that Wednesday afternoon, with great writing advice, a copy of Sea Escape, and a smile.

Sea Escape is a moving story about family and finding yourself. Lynne Griffin blends the past with the present seamlessly by using love letters written by the main character, Laura's parents. Through these letters, which had been tucked away for years, Laura learns the true history of her family; memories, secrets, heartbreak, and all.

In the beginning of the story you can sense the strains that exist between each character. Laura's need to please and break the emotional wall that her mother lives behind and brother's complete turn away from them both has blinded her to her own family's problems. Laura's mother, Helen suffers a serious stroke and every one's lives are thrown into chaos.

Laura feels out of control. She tries to take care of everyone, her children, husband, distant brother, and be there for her mother. As Helen's health slips, so does Laura's grip on reality. The love letters, which at first filled her with guilt to read, slowly become her escape.

My favorite part of this story is that it was inspired by real love letters written by the author's parents, which gives this story a true beating heart. Lynne Griffin's expertise in family studies is evident in the dynamics between the characters. She captures the subtle strains that exist in families and the ongoing desire to find resolution to life long issues. Sea Escape will keep your attention and your heart until the last page.

More information about Lynne Griffin and her other books can be found on her website.

Review: Ways To Live Forever by Sally Nicholls

I came across this novel, or I should say, I was intrigued by the summary my 12 year old son gave about it. He was doing a report for school and was explaining Sam's story. Later that night, after the report was finished and my kids had gone to sleep, I picked up the book. I knew it was sad and I honestly had no intentions of reading it. I was just kind of curious.

First page starts with Sam's list about himself.

1. My name is Sam.
2. I am eleven years old.
3. I collect stories and fantastic facts.
4. I have leukemia.
5. By the time you read this, I will probably be dead.

I did not put the book down until 1:00 AM, and only did then because I had finished it. This book moved me, it made me smile at times, and cry at many other times. I knew I had to do a review, both to share this story with others and to put words to all of the emotions it touched in me.

Ways To Live Forever is written from Sam's point of view. This also makes it all the more heartbreaking. He knows what his fate is, as do his parents, but the way we know this is through his observations. His father trying to avoid all talk and act like everything will be OK. His mother, nervous and overwhelmed with it all. His little sister tormenting one second and clinging to him the next. The time frame is just a few months, but the writing allows you see glimpses into their past and future of this family. You forget they're fictional.

What I liked:

The story was told by Sam, a child. It's done so well that we know and can feel what almost everyone around him was thinking and feeling just by the ways they acted around him.

What I disliked:

The one character that I wanted to know more about was Sam's tutor, Mrs. Willis. I thought she was one of most important characters. Without her Sam would not have started his book and his family would have slowly died along with him, all stuck in their solitary ways of dealing or avoiding his illness. She allowed him to ask anything and then, instead of answering, prompted him to find the answers for himself.

Some other reviews of Ways To Live Forever:

Livemint.com

keris.typepad.com

Ways To Live Forever by Sally Nicholls was published in September 2008 by Authur A. Levine Books. It is listed for readers ages 9 - 12, although I think older kids would get a lot out of this story also.

Thanks for stopping by. I'd love to hear your opinions on this book.

Kristin : )

Review: Hailey Twitch is Not a Snitch by Lauren Barnholdt

Hailey Twitch is the typical second grader. She likes the friends she has and doesn't want any more. So when her teacher pairs her up with Addie Jokobeck she is not happy. For one thing, she wanted to be partners with Antonio or Russ. For another, Addie Jokobeck was a lover of rules and Hailey didn't think that loving and following all rules sounded very fun. To make her day even worse, Antonio was paired up with Natalie, the meanest girl in school. She was going to loose her friend to Natalie and be stuck making boring old french fries and following all the rules with Addie. Hailey was having a bad day.

Sitting in her room, trying hard not to stomp or yell about her bad day, Hailey hears something in her toy castle. What could it be? It's a tiny sprite named Maybelle. She was banished to live in Hailey's castle until someone made a wish for fun, which Hailey did. The problem is, Maybelle was banished because she didn't know how to be fun. She would be stuck living in the toy castle forever if she didn't find a way to help Hailey have fun.

This is a cute story about how children can be short sighted when it comes to friends sometimes. She thinks that the only way to be a friend is to boss them around. She quickly finds out that doesn't work. She also thinks friends don't tell on each other, so when Maybelle starts causing trouble, thinking it will be fun, Hailey takes the blame. Hailey has a lot to learn and gets in a lot of trouble before she learns it.

What I liked:

Hailey is spunky and makes mistakes, like most 2nd graders, but she also learns important lessons about friendship, sharing, and doing things for others.

What I disliked:

The ending was abrupt. It left us wondering what happened with Maybelle. Maybe we will need to get the sequel to find out? My daughter has already said yes to that possibility.

A few other reviews of Hailey Twitch is Not a Twitch:

Keep Reading to Your Child

Cindy's Love of Books

Hailey Twitch is Not a Snitch by Lauren Barnholdt and illustrated by Suzanne Beaky was published on May 1, 2010 by Sourcebooks. It is listed as chapter book for children 9 - 12 years old. I think some younger readers would love this story too.

Thanks for stopping by,

Kristin : )

Review: Uptown by Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant

Avery Lyons leads an exciting life of world travel. She has learned to live simply so that she could uproot and move on at a moments notice. A phone call from home brings her back to Harlem, New York, and closer to the family and issues that fueled her far away journeys.

Her mother, Forestina was in a serious accident. Avery assumed she could breeze in, make her expected appearance and be gone before any of her long buried past could be brought back to life. She was wrong. Her mother did not recover from her injuries and she had to find out from the last person she wanted to see, her cousin Dwight.

Avery should have known it would not be easy to avoid Dwight and all of the past they shared. It wasn't just the close proximity of their houses growing up, or the fact that their mothers were both sisters, that connected them. They were as close as siblings, friends even, until Dwight went to college. Something happened then that ripped a hole between them that would last for 20 years. Avery must find a way to come to terms with her past, but she has to learn how to stay still long enough. This means coming to terms with all that has been accepted and rejected by her and others in her family.

Uptown is a powerful drama that pits politics, wealth, and greed against loyalty, family, and pride.

What I liked:

Avery was a strong, independent woman, but still able to eventually look deeper at herself. She took responsibility for her own mistakes and accepted some blame for the way things turned out. Dwight, on the other hand, seemed strong, but was actually weak. As much as I wanted to hate him the authors did a good job of making him human enough for me to read on. In a strange way, the whole Dominatrix thing did that the best. He could live with the things he was doing because he was already punishing himself.

What I disliked:

There were scenes that dragged a bit for me. Admittedly, the high stakes real estate world is so far from the life I live or usually read about. My own inexperience in this field kept me from connecting with the story during those points. But the strength of Avery's character and the desire to find out what happens to her and the family pulled me back.

Uptown by Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant was published in March of 2010 by Touchstone, a division of Simon & Schuster.

A few different reviews* of Uptown:

apooobooks.com

Seattle PI Books

*This is something new I'm trying in reviews. I will offer a few other links to reviews of the same book. Since reading and reviewing are so heavily swayed by our own opinions, why not offer a few more. I'd love to know if you think this helps you in your decision to read a book or if it does not.

Thanks,

Kristin : )

Bo Obama: The White House Tails

Bo Obama, if you don't already know, is the First Dog at the White House. Not the first dog to ever live there, but a member of the Presidential family. His owners are none other than President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle, and daughters Malia and Sasha. He is an adorable Portuguese Water Dog and the narrator of this story told in Graphic Comic form.

In Bo Obama: The White House Tails, Bo tells about his history and how he ended up becoming the newest member of the Obama family. He also explains what it's like living in the White House. The story then goes on to discuss all of the pets that have lived in the White House through out history.

I recognized some, like Socks Clinton and Millie Bush, but there were some very interesting pets. President James Buchanan had a dog, two bald eagles, and a herd of elephants as pets. The elephants were a gift from the King of Siam.

Bo Obama: The White House Tails was written by Paul J. Salamoff, the artwork was done by Keith Tucker, and the lettering by Wilson Ramos Jr. It was published by BLUEWATER COMICS

This is a great way to bring non fiction to kids. They love the Graphic Comic style and adding the first person narration of today's First Dog, Bo will only add to the appeal. I think this would make a great addition to any school or home library. It teaches children history and entertains them.

Let me know if you have or plan to purchase this book. I am also curious about what you think about the new trend in nonfiction Graphic Comics.

Thanks,

Kristin : )

Female Force: Stephenie Meyer

This is a must have addition if you are a die hard Twilight fan. Female Force: Stephenie Meyer is a biographical Graphic Comic narrated by, can you guess? Yup, a vampire.

You get a look into Stephenie's past, her family, and what made her decide to write in the first place. Something I didn't know was that Twilight was originally titled Forks. After the town of Forks, Washington where the novel takes place. It was later changed to Twilight with the help of her Literary Agent.

It didn't take long for Twilight mania to sweep the nation and it's still going strong with book sales and movie deals. I wouldn't be surprised to see this Graphic Comic become a collector's item.

There is also a history of Forks, Washington included in the back. It covers everything you want to know about town filled with fictional vampires.

Female Force: Stephenie Meyer was written by Ryan Burtan, artwork was done by Dave MacNeil (Penciler), Kirsty Swan (Colorist), and Jaymes Reed (Letterer). The History of Forks section was written by Darren G. Davis and Matt Bellisle.

Please let me know if you have or plan to purchase this book.

Thanks,

Kristin : )

And the winner is...

Thanks to all who stopped by to read my review of The Beautiful Dead. One of you brave commenters has won my review copy of the book and a signed copy of my book, The Truth Lies in the Dark.

I won't keep you guessing any longer. The winner is...

Melissa

Congratulations. I will mail both books to you as soon as you email the address you would like them sent to.

Thanks again everyone.

Kristin : )

Book Tour: The Beautiful Dead

Beautiful Dead: Book 1- Jonas is the first story in a new YA series by Eden Maguire. I'll have to admit, initially I had a hard time with the whole limbo idea of being caught between life and death. I was worried that it would promote more recklessness in teens who haven't fully grasped mortality. Then I remembered that this book was not written for me, a mom of teenagers and tweens. This book was written for them.

Once I faced that simple fact reading became easier and more enjoyable. By the end I loved the story and found that instead of encouraging recklessness in teens it actually offered insight into losing someone close. And yes, a nice cushion between that loss and having to let go. That is not such a bad thing.

The story begins with the tragic deaths of 4 teenagers (Jonas, Arizona, Summer, and Pheonix) in less than a year. Everyone at Ellerton High is devasted, especially Darina. Her boyfriend Pheonix was the most recent loss. She begins to see the deceased teens. Are these sightings just figments of her grieving mind or was she chosen to help them find out the truth about their deaths?

Darina learns that the teens are part of a group called the Beautiful Dead. They each have only 1 year to discover the mysteries behind their deaths. She must come to grips quickly with both her own grief and the unbelievable miracle that has brought part of Pheonix back to her. Jonas only has a month left to his time in limbo and Darina is the only one that help him find the answers he needs to pass on to a peaceful eternity.

I finished this book looking forward to the next in the series, Beautiful Dead: Book 2 - Arizona. Eden Maguire writes about the intensity of feelings teenagers experience with respect and understanding. I think this series will be very popular.

If you have read Beautiful Dead or plan to I'd love to hear your opinions. For more reviews you can check out the Blog Tour schedule posted on the Teen Fire website. Other blog stops today are Bookalicious and the Portland Books Examiner.

You've made it to the end of my review. Now it's GIVEAWAY time!! That's right, one lucky commenter will receive my review copy of Beautiful Dead: Book 1- Jonas. And...

Yup, there's more...

As an added bonus I will also send a signed copy of my book, The Truth Lies in the Dark along with the copy of Beautiful Dead. 2 books! All you have to do is leave a comment below and you could be the winner.

Thanks for stopping by and good luck.

Kristin : )

* My review copy of Beautiful Dead was sent to me by a publicist from Sourcebooks. There was no payment nor promise of a positive review exchanged.

Holiday Review: Horrid Henry's Christmas by Francesca Simon

Horrid Henry lives up to his name the latest book. His target this time is Christmas.

Horrid Henry's Christmas by Francesca Simon and illustrated by Tony Ross is a humorous look at a not so funny topic, bad behavior. It's a chapter book aimed at children from age 7 - 10.

This edition contains four stories that will have you shaking your head and laughing out loud.

Horrid Henry's Christmas Play Henry gets a part in the Christmas play, but he decides it's not a big enough part. When he adds his own lines he makes a mess of the play and of his teacher's nerves.

Horrid Henry's Christmas Presents Henry has done something really horrid this time. He has used or eaten all of the Christmas gifts he had for his family. What will he do now? You won't believe what he comes up with. The poems to his parents are hilarious.

Horrid Henry's Ambush It's Christmas Eve and Henry is worried that he won't get the presents he wants. He comes up with a horrid plan to capture Santa, so he can have ALL of the toys for himself. The outcome is not what he imagined, but well deserved.

Horrid Henry's Christmas Lunch At last, it is Christmas Day. It's time to exchange gifts. Henry is surprised that no one seems to like his horrid, last minute gifts. He urges his parents to read their poems out loud, while he beams with pride over the fact that he found so many great words that rhyme. They are not as pleased with the words he chose.

These stories are fun to read but also serves as a model for children of how not to act. My 10 year old daughter and I read this together. She was giggling and laughing out loud through out the book. I think most kids love reading stories like this because they get to watch another child (although fictional) act in all of the inappropriate ways that they are taught not to in real life.

Thanks for stopping by and hope you and your little ones have a great holiday season.

Kristin : )

* Horrid Henry's Christmas was given to me by a publicist of Sourcebooks Jabberwocky. It will be donated to a public school or a non profit childcare program. For more information see the book disclosure to the right of my blog.

Mrs. Claus Explains It All...just in time for Christmas

Tis' the season for giving and spending time with our friends and family. Christmas means different things to different people. It's rooted in history as the birth of Jesus Christ and for many religions it remains a holy day. The holiday has evolved over time and now is celebrated by many people, regardless of religious belief or background. But no one knows the magic and excitement of this season like children. This is what (for me anyway) the holiday is all about. Seeing the wonder and awe in a child's eyes as they look at the tree all lit up and the presents wrapped neatly underneath on Christmas morning is truly a magical thing. It's the time when fantasy snuggles up with reality in front of the fireplace and creates a kind of hope in children that only exists this time of year. They hope that Santa will come and leave them gifts and good cheer for being good all year. Well, for the month of December anyway :)

This is also the time of year for questions about Santa and how the magic is made. For those parents of children with inquiring minds I have the Christmas book for you.

Mrs. Claus Explains It All

Mrs. Claus Explains It All by Elsbeth Claus and illustrated by David Wenzel answers the real questions many children ask about Christmas. Things like, How does Santa do it all in one night? and How can Santa get in if I don't have a chimney?, and many more. This is the inside scoop, because who knows more about the holiday and the man in red than his wife, Mrs. Claus. She even reveals some personal things I didn't know, like the fact that Santa is actually very health conscious and exercises everyday.

This book is written with the young child's imagination in mind and the illustrations help bring that to life. The illustrator David Wenzel's art work can also seen in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Robert L. May and in J.R.R. Tolkien's graphic rendition of The Hobbit.

Mrs. Claus Explains It All makes a great addition to any family's holiday reading list.


On a personal note:

I read this book to my two younger children, ages 10 and 11. They are at that tender age when other kids say there is no such thing as Santa. If your kids have already hit that point, this book may not be for you. But if you are a parent who believes in preserving the innocence and magic of Christmas and Santa in your children for as long as possible then this is a must have.

I'm not saying my kids don't believe, they all do (even my teenagers). Santa lives in the heart and the imagination. That is something I have always taught my kids. If they don't believe that then Santa really doesn't exist and we wouldn't bother making Christmas morning so special. I want them to be able to share that magic with their own children one day...later, in the future...much later ;)

Thanks for stopping by and hope you take the time to share your favorite Christmas book with me.

Kristin : )

CONNECT THE DOTS is coming!!

SO, It's December and my friend and fellow author, Denise Robbins is at it again. The 3rd book of her techno-romantic thriller series is being released this month. I had the pleasure of reading her first two, It Happens in Threes and Killer Bunny Hill. These are some steamy reads for sure and packed with suspense. When Denise mentioned doing something fun for the release of Connect the Dots, I jumped at the chance to help out!

I know you were all sent here to find an answer to a question on Denise's blog about Connect the Dots. So feel free to look around. It's a little like playing Where's Waldo? Except there is no lanky guy running around with elfish clothes... or is there? ;)

Here's why I can't wait for Connect the Dots to be released.

It Happens in Threes is the 1st book in Denise's series. We meet Ruby, a confident woman who is as comfortable behind a computer as she is wearing nothing at all, and Michael, an undercover agent for the government. Ruby and Michael have different reasons for ending up in the same place. She is escaping a relationship gone bad and he is searching for an ex partner.

Things heat up quickly between Ruby and Michael, but it's too dangerous for them to be together. When it becomes clear that Ruby is in danger Michael calls his trusty friend and bodyguard, Jake to keep an eye on Ruby. Jake is good, but no match for Ruby.

The twists and turns in the plot are not the only thing that will get your blood pumping in this story.

Killer Bunny Hill, the 2nd book in the series, keeps the action going. In this one we meet Samantha, who isn't sure who she is, and Max, an agent who works under Michael. In the opening scene Samantha is attacked and left for dead on Max's doorstep. Max nurses her back to health only to find she has lost her memory. Max needs to find his brother, but he doesn't know if he can trust this dangerously hot woman to help him or if she is partly responsible for his brother's disappearance.

Again, good ole Jake is called on to save the day. Unfortunately it is him that gets saved, by Samantha. Max and Samantha have the right amount of hot and cold to keep you flying through the pages.

So, anyone seeing a pattern? The reason I can't wait for Connect the Dots to be released is the main character is Jake. The nice guy finally gets his girl, or does he? This is what I want to know. I happen to have an inside scoop that Jake is Denise's favorite hero, so I'm going to guess that he does get the girl. But, then again, Denise may want to keep him all to herself. You just never know. And since you made it this far you are now rewarded. The name of the pizza restaurant is Waldo's (No lanky man in elfish clothes). It was named after it's owner, retired fighter pilot Waldo Pepper. Good luck!

Here's your next dot in the Connect the Dots book tour. On Wednesday go to http://emmaleighreed.blogspot.com/ and find the answer to this question...

"What game does the heroine play in Connect the Dots whenever she is at her computers doing work?"

Thank you for stopping by. Don't forget to stop back at Denise's Blog to tell her your answers. Good luck!

Kristin : )

CBRS extended: Dezzer the Gasser by Lorraine Florido and Illustrated by John Ewing

Dezzer the Gasser by Lorraine Florido is a laugh out loud story about a baby's extreme flatulence. Yup, that's right...GAS!

When Dezzer was born his family was so happy to welcome the first boy. His 2 older sisters, mom, and dad couldn't wait to bring him home. It didn't take long for everyone to figure out that there was something very unique about Dezzer. He was a gasser!

Not your cute pooter; no he could clear a room of people and furnishings with one blast. His family loved him so, but were finding his explosions hard to ignore. Word and aroma of Dezzer's problem spread fast through the town. His family decided a vacation was what they needed. A big bad bear had other plans for them. Dezzer surprises everyone by using his pungent powers to save the day.

Dezzer the Gasser is Lorraine Florido's first children's book. She has since written a humorous chapter book titled, Hugo the Punk. The illustrator, John Ewing worked on a Walt Disney Studio creative team that produced many memorable feature films like; Sleeping Beauty, The Jungle Book, Winnie the Pooh and more. Together they have crafted an vividly hilarious story sure to tickle any child's funny bone.

An added bonus is the author generously donates a portion of book sales toward college scholarships for children of breast cancer victims and survivors. More information about Lorraine Florido and her books can be found on the Dezzer the Gasser website.

This was a cute story that takes an unpleasant bodily function to the extreme. While I was writing the review I gave the book to my kids to read. They were giggling and laughing the whole time. It is sure to be popular with kids of all ages. I know some adults who would get a laugh out of it too.

If you have read Dezzer the Gasser or plan to please stop back and share your opinion of it.

Thanks,

~ Kristin : )

Casey and Bella Go Green by Jane Lovascio & Autumn Varca

I have talked about these cute pups a lot. They are two of my daughter's favorite characters. She loves the books and was able to meet the real Casey and Bella, along with Jane Lovascio at this year's BEA09 in New York City. That's not the only reason I love sharing these books with everyone. This series and yearly writing contests that author Jane Lovascio offers to children also makes them conversation worthy. If you missed my previous reviews and contest news you can find them through the following links.

Casey and Bella reviews

Casey and Bella Writing Contest

Casey and Bella are at it again! This time their adventures are even more special because this is the first book to come out of the Casey and Bella Writing Contest. That's right, this book was co-authored by 10 year old, Autumn Varca. Jane not only welcomed Autumn's help in this book, but she also included her original contest entry in the back of the book. I can imagine how exciting this is for her. Congratulations Autumn and Jane!

Now to the book.

The playful pups find a new adventure and new friends in Casey and Bella Go Green. They meet an environment friendly mouse named Melvin. While helping him take out the trash they run into a group of animals who all belong to a group called KONC, which stands for Keep Our Neighborhoods Clean. Co-author Autumn introduces readers to her own pets. Spaz, her tabby cat, and her boxer Rocky are members of KONC. The group takes Casey and Bella to a recycling center to show how glass, plastic and paper is recycled and how it benefits the earth and all of us.

Casey and Bella Go Green is a great story to introduce recycling to children and it lists different ways to conserve energy and water. It sends the message that even the small things each person does can help to make the future brighter and cleaner for everyone.

As always, Jane takes her role in the communtiy seriously and dedicates this book to Autism Speaks. For more information about the books, Jane Lovascio or the Casey and Bella Writing Contest go to http://www.caseyandbella.com/ .

The Casey and Bella Writing contest is open to all 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students and ends April 15, 2010. I have encouraged the librarian at my children's school to bring this creative contest to the whole school. It's a fun way to get kids actively involved in reading and writing.

I would love to know if you decide to have your children or school enter.

Thanks for stopping by,

~ Kristin : )

CBRS: The Pink Locker Society by Debra Moffitt

Attention parents, caregivers, school teachers, and counselors: Are you looking for a book that helps preteens and tweens understand and deal with physical and emotional changes? One that looks at the time in a child's life before they are exposed to sexual activity and substance abuse issues? If your answer is yes, The Pink Locker Society is for you!

The Pink Locker Society (also known as PLS) by Debra Moffitt is a story about 4 girls, (Kate, Jemma, Piper, And Bet) who are chosen as new members of a secret society. They are expected to help other girls by answering their questions about changing feelings and body issues. Most of the questions involve the common things on most girls' minds; the PBBs (Periods, Boys, Bras). The problem the girls encounter is, how do they help other girls with issues that they are just learning about themselves?

In order to provide the best and most accurate information they research every topic they are asked about and are surprised with how much they learn along the way. But this book covers much more than body changes and first crushes. There are also important lessons about friendships and Internet scams.

The Pink Locker Society by Debra Moffitt was inspired by actual questions asked by tween and teens on a website with the same name.

http://pinklockersociety.org/

This website was developed by the creators of http://kidshealth.org/ to provide a safe haven for kids to feel comfortable about asking questions and getting accurate and straight forward answers. It is directed at kids, but can be a great resource for parents and teachers as well. A great way to find out what your kids are concerned about and to get some ideas on how to answer if you are asked similar questions.

I finished this book with a few questions in mind and thought what a great idea it would be to ask the author on line. We are both on Twitter, so I decided why not do a TwitterView. If you are on Twitter you can view the whole interview by entering this hash tag into the SEARCH box on your Twitter home page. #TV-PLS (It stands for TwitterView-PinkLockerSociety)

Please enjoy my TwitterView with Debra Moffitt, also known as @PinkLockerSociety

KCBOOKS: Q1. Are there more adventures planned for The Pink Locker Society?

PinkLockerMom: Yes, I'm working on book 2 now. The first one was periods, bras, and boys. This one is a lot about BOYS!

PinkLockerMom: Often, they [girls] don't feel comfortable talking to their moms. For instance, they're scared to say they have a boyfriend.

KCBOOKS: Q2. What issues, other than boys, would you want to cover in future books?

PinkLockerMom: Friendships are very important.I'd like to help girls get beyond the drama & know that friendships change. It's normal.

KCBOOKS: Great point, esp. when boys get involved. Changes occur in friendships & it is normal.

PinkLockerMom: Re: Boys have questions too... Here's a blog post from a boy. 51 girls were happy to help. http://bit.ly/B0sB7

KCBOOKS: Boys on PLS website goes w/Q3. Do you think the girls [in the book] might recruit a boy to encourage more male participation? #TV-PLS

PinkLockerMom: A boy in the PLS? Not sure they'd give him full member status. But he would be a great advisor.

KCBOOKS: yes and could make a great tie in w/the girls having their first group crush & how to handle it.

PinkLockerMom: Exactly. In book 2, something just like that is brewing up!

KCBOOKS: oooo...we just got a sneak peak! Can't wait to see how it's handled.

KCBOOKS: My last question involves something I worry about as a mom. Internet safety. Between child predators & scams, there are real dangers.

KCBOOKS: Q4. PLS touched on computer safety & scams. Today's tweens live in a tech world. Are there plans to cover these issues more?

PinkLockerMom: RE: Internet safety, I agree. That's why we put a subtle message in the book. Don't want to overdo bc kids will tune out.

PinkLockerMom: I think kids see the Internet/texting like we viewed the phone. It just IS. But we do need to help them be safe.

I had a lot of fun talking with Debra over Twitter. I hope to do more interviews like this in the future. I would love to hear what you think about the book, the website, and the Twitterview.

Thanks for stopping by. Keep in touch.

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series: Pingo by Brandon Mull

Pingo by Brandon Mull and illustrated by Brandon Dorman is sure to be the next best selling children's book. It is packed with creativity, imagination, and mischief. The book is geared toward children in grades K-3, but I think younger would enjoy having it read to them and it makes a great book for older children to share with siblings or school reading buddies.

Have you ever had an imaginary friend, or have you known someone who did? It still makes me smile to see a child chatting excitedly and running around an imaginary world with friends unseen to anyone else. In Pingo, Brandon Mull asks an interesting question. What happens when your imaginary friend becomes your imaginary enemy? Mull's creative humor, combined with Brandon Dorman's artistic talent, answer this question perfectly. This is the children's literacy equivalence to the classic imaginary friend gone bad movie, Drop Dead Fred.

Chad and Pingo are the best of friends. The exciting adventures they share are limitless. But when Chad thinks he is too old for an imaginary friend he finds the trouble Pingo can cause is just as limitless. This is a cute, laugh out loud story about the importance of friendship and imagination.

Pingo is not the first book the Brandons (Mull & Dorman) have worked on together. Mull is the author of the New York best selling series Fablehaven; of which Dorman also illustrated.

Pingo is not yet released, but is currently on sale and available for pre-order on Amazon. The expected release date is August 5, 2009.

http://www.amazon.com/Pingo-Brandon-Mull/dp/1606411098

Let me know if you get this book. My family loved it and know you and your children will too.

Thanks,

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series: Hoop-la the Hippo by Patti Madison

Hoop-la the Hippo by Patti Madison and illustrated by Niki Vukadinover is a new ebook geared for young children. It has three elements sure to make it a big hit with kids; cute story, important message, and actively involves the reader.

The Story:

Hoop-la the Hippo is worried about his weight. He begins watching what he eats and exercising. Hoop-la quickly becomes obsessed with becoming thinner. One day he realizes that, although he is skinny, he is not happy and he does not feel well either.

The Message:

This is a very cute story for today's children, who are becoming more self aware much younger. It shows that while eating right and exercising help you stay healthy, too much can make you sick. Children need to learn proper nutrition and what are normal amounts of physical activity for their bodies and minds to run their best.

Active Involvement:

Children are given two options with this book; they can choose to read it themselves or have it read to them. When reading it themselves the cursor can be used to point to harder or unknown words and they will be read out loud. This is a great way to promote independence and confidence while building the reader's vocabulary. If the child chooses to have the book read to them they decide when they are ready to move on to the next page and can stop the reader at any time.

Another excellent way this book encourages involvement is by offering a quiz at the end. The child is asked to answer a few questions about the story which test their ability to comprehend and recall events and help them make more meaningful connections with the story. This aspect makes it a great addition to a classroom or home schooling environment, since mastering these skills is a building block to becoming a stronger reader.

Ebooks are becoming more popular with adults on the go. This is also a great format for children, not to replace traditional books but to enhance their reading experiences. They can be enjoyed with parents or alone if the parents are juggling other household or work responsibilities. The hands on active involvement make these ebooks feel more like a video game to young children. They will want to read the stories over and over.

You and your child can preview and purchase Hoop-la the Hippo and other popular ebooks by going to http://www.wizz-e.com .

Are your children reading ebooks already? Tell me what your family or students think of them? Let me know what you think of Hoop-la the Hippo and the other unique stories on the website.

Thanks,

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series

City of Hamburgers by Mike Reiss and illustrated by Xeth Feinberg is sure to spark the imagination and the appetite.

It's bedtime for Jeffrey, which means it's also time for another one of Grandma Greta's stories. Jeffrey loved his grandma, but did not want to hear another story about fairies, princesses, slippers, and kisses.

A conversation about Grandma Greta's unique accent leads to a new story; the true story of her childhood in Hamburg, Germany. As she shares what life was like for her and her fellow Hamburgers, Jeffrey's imagination creates a humorous view. When she tells how she met his grandfather who was from Frankfurt, Germany, Jeffrey pictures her (a Hamburger) and him ( a Frankfurter) getting married. Now Jeffrey can not wait for Grandma Greta to tell the next "real life" story.

This is a cute book that shows two very different point of views of the same story. Children of all ages will be laughing at how Jeffrey visualizes his grandmother's story of growing up in Germany. Many adults may recognize the author Mike Reiss as the longtime writer of The Simpsons and as contributing writer for some popular children's movies; Ice Age (1 & 2), Horton Hears a Who to name a few.

For more information or to purchase City of Hamburgers by Mike Reiss please follow any of the following links.

http://www.amazon.com/City-Hamburgers-Mike-Reiss/dp/159299346X

http://www.inkwaterpress.com/

My kids and I were laughing out loud reading this book. I would love to hear what you think of it. If you have or plan to purchase City of Hamburgers tell me about it.

Thanks,

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series: Davy Brown Discovers His Roots by Keely Alexander & Velani Mynhardt Witthoft

Davey Brown Discovers His Roots by Keely Alexander & Velani Mynhardt Witthoft and Illustrated by Manuela Pentangelo is the perfect book for parents and teachers who want to teach children the importance of our history. It sends a powerful message about understanding different backgrounds and cultures with realistic examples of what makes America the "melting pot".

Davy has been given an assignment; to create a family tree of flags showing his roots. How could he do that? He has no roots. He is simply an American, just as his parents are and their parents before them. Many of his classmates and friends have exciting adventures to share about how their families came to America. Each with many different flags representing the far away and exotic lands that they and their ancestors came from. How could he present a project with only one flag on his tree? If he doesn't finish the assignment he can not play baseball. That is not an option, since he is the star pitcher for the Ballard Vikings and the big game was coming up.

Project day comes and, as expected Davy's friends present their exciting, scary, and inspiring stories. Davy tries to make up a story, but his teacher stops him and gives him another chance to research his true history. What he finds not only amazes his classmates but surprises Davy. He learns an important lesson spoken best by Franklin D. Roosevelt, "Remember, remember always that all of us, and you and I especially, are descended from immigrants and revolutionists."

The authors did a great job of representing the diversity that is America. Davy represents the typical adolescent American; disconnected from history, unmotivated, and a little self centered. He learns not only that he has a rich history beyond his American descendants, but to also appreciate and sympathize with others.

This is a must have book for classrooms of all ages, but especially for grades 3-6 when American history, diversity, and world awareness are covered in more detail. I can't wait to take Davy Brown Discovers His Roots to the teachers I have worked with in my town.

Davy Brown Discovers His Roots can be purchased, or additional information can be found by following any of the following links.

http://www.amazon.com/Davy-Brown-Discovers-His-Roots/dp/1601310536/

http://www.bigtentbooks.com/

Autographed copies available from http://www.keelyvelani.com/

Leave me a comment if you have or plan to purchase this book. I am interested in hearing what you think.

Thanks,

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series: Learn Along With Lily

Learn Along With Lily by Donna McNaughton and illustrated by Mike Motz is a collection of short poems featuring Lily, the happy little goat. Each poem is a new adventure that teaches children about the world around them. With Lily they will learn about colors, numbers, shapes, opposites, their bodies, family and community members, animals from the zoo, the farm, and even undersea and so much more. Lily opens a new world of imagination to children while demonstrating manners and kindness.

Learn Along With Lily was awarded the 2009 Teacher's Choice Award by Learning Magazine and was a Best Books Award finalist with USA Book News. It combines rhyming with education in a way that young children can understand and enjoy. A great resource for parents, teachers, librarians, and home schoolers looking for an excellent addition to their preschool or kindergarten curriculum.

More information about the author Donna McNaughton and Lily can be found at the following websites.

http://www.raindropbooks.com/

http://www.learnalongwithlily.com/

Learn Along With Lily can also be purchased on Amazon by following this link:

http://www.amazon.com/Learn-Along-Lily-Donna-McNaughton/dp/0979967708

If you have this book or plan to purchase it, please stop back and let me know what you and the children you share it with think. My 9 year old daughter loved reading it and has asked if she can bring to school to read to her Reading Buddy. Her school pairs up older students (grades 4-6) with younger students (grades K-3) to read books each week. She can't wait to share Learn Along With Lily.