Grandparent's Day, 2006
The following reviews were presented in our 2006 Grandparent's Day feature.
Reviews
Albert's Gift for Grandmother
Barbara Williams
Illustrated by Doug Cushman
Grandmother Turtle is visiting Albert's family to celebrate her birthday. As each of the family members presents her with homemade presents, Albert wishes that he could
show skateboard tricks like his brother, or make a beaded bracelet like his sister, or bake a cake like his mother, or build a foot stool like his father. Even his efforts to make a cup of dandelion tea are thwarted by his mother who says she will make tea for everyone to have with the cake. Too bad she did not notice his desire to give something of himself to his grandmother - "...get down before you fall and break your shell" is meant as a safety precaution but comes across as a "you cannot do it" statement. Poor Albert feels very sad as he watches the rest of the family with grandmother. He is so sad that he really wants his blankie (and to suck his thumb) but knows that he will be teased by his siblings and that his parents will say that he is too big to hold onto a blankie. This thought process prompts him to part with his precious blankie as a "special" present for his grandmother who has said several times that she is cold. This sacrifice satisfies him and he reassures his grandmother: "I don't need it anymore because I'm a big turtle now and I go to kindergarten." Grandmother thanks him profusely, "What a thoughtful, generous gift." This will serve well for those parents and child care givers who are encouraging "graduating" from the need of a blankie. I, myself, am not sure at what age this is really necessary, but recognize that public thumb sucking and blankets are sources of ridicule for children. Cheerfully illustrated by Cushman, children will observe excellent role models for gift giving - homemade gifts or those truly from the heart are often the very best. 2006, Candlewick, Ages 5 up, $16.99. Reviewer: Sheilah Egan (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7636-2097-1
ISBN: 978-0-7636-2097-4
Angel's Grace
Tracey Baptiste
Thirteen-year-old Grace and her happy, popular younger sister are spending the summer in Trinidad with their grandmother. Early on, Grace sees a blurred photo in her aunt's album of a man with the same butterfly birthmark as hers. Her mother has always told her it is an angel's touch. Her father is always angered by any discussion of it. Grace determines to find the mystery man and discover her true identity, having long-perceived herself as the family outcast who does not even look like anyone else. Through the twists and turns of the people and streets of Trinidad, Grace works on unraveling the mystery, accompanied by her new friend and emerging love interest, Raj. There are roadblocks, too, from a family unsure whether Grace is ready for the truth. The warm, colorful setting adds richness to the story and educates young readers about the culture of Trinidad--the food and drink, such as soursop ice cream and freshly made passion fruit juice, the music and celebrations, and the lilt and cadence of the language, including Spanish words and vivid phrases like "crocus bag people." The island is an excellent backdrop for Grace's life, filled with the good, the bad, the funny, and the sad. In the end, while Grace's birth father is gone, she understands where she comes from and is also better understood by her own family. 2005, Paula Wiseman Books/Simon and Schuster, $15.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Kathryn Erskine (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Children's Books 2005: One Hundred Titles for Reading and Sharing, 2005; New York Public Library; United States
ISBN: 0-689-86773-5
Arthur and the Minimoys
Luc Besson
From an original idea by Céline Garcia
Translated from the French by Ellen Sowchek
Four years ago, Arthur's grandfather disappeared. One moment, he was out in the garden; the next moment, he was gone. Now, it looks like Arthur's grandmother is going to lose her property. But her devoted grandchild is determined not to let that happen. He will not let the malevolent Davido foreclose on the property. But what can a ten-year-old boy do? The natural starting point seems to be the stories Arthur's heard of his grandfather's travels in Africa among the Bogo-Matassali warriors and the Minimoys. After all, did not Grandma say that Arthur's grandfather had received a gift of rubies from the Minimoys? Did not she also say that he buried it in the garden? After a day's digging produces no results, Arthur realizes he may just need to search further and dig deeper than he had ever expected. It just may be that the treasure is not in the garden he knows, but in the garden he would know if he were a Minimoy. It just may be that Arthur needs to figure out how to transform himself into a Minimoy--a creature less than one inch tall--in order to save all that is most precious to him. He had better do it quickly; the destruction of the farm is set to begin in 72 hours, and if Arthur is not back to his usual shape by then, he is sure to be destroyed, too. The tension mounts. The stakes are high. But maybe, just maybe, the determined Arthur will be able to find out what happened to his beloved grandfather in the process. Luc Besson's story, based on an idea by Céline Garcia, involves many classic elements of the hero tale, including leaving home with the intent to return, pulling a sword from a stone, and working with an exotic people for a cause. Librarians and parents alike are warned that this book ends right in the thick of things. Readers are sure to feel quite frustrated if they do not have immediate access to its sequel. 2002, HarperCollins, $15.99 and $16.89. Ages 9 to 13. Reviewer: Heidi Hauser Green (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-06-059623-6
ISBN: 0-06-059624-4
The Bear Hug
Sean Callahan
Illustrated by Laura J. Bryant
Sheri Bell-Rehwoldt (Children's Literature)
Every Sunday Cubby walks to Grandpa Bear's house for lessons on how to be a bear. Cubby gets tips on proper growling, fishing ("It's all in the wrist," says Grandpa Bear), swimming, and hunting. And in the winter, Grandpa Bear shows Cubby the finer points of hibernating. But the "best thing" is when Cubby tries to wiggle out of Grandpa Bear's bear hug. "Nobody ever gets out of the Bear Hug," warns Grandpa Bear as he chases young Cubby. But Cubby, who knows this game well, vows, "I'm gonna wiggle, wiggle, wiggle my way out!" And then he "giggles, giggles, giggles" when he does. Though slight, this engaging story does what it is intended to: it reminds readers of the important relationship between grandpas and grandcubs. This book is a loving read and the humorous, kid-friendly watercolor paintings aptly draw readers--both young and old--into the fun. Though this is Sean Callahan's first book, he says he bear hugs his two daughters daily. 2006, Albert Whitman & Company, $15.95. Ages 1 to 3.
ISBN: 978-0-8075-0596-0
ISBN: 0-8075-0596-X
Bumpety Bump
Pat Hutchins
A little boy sits in his grandfather's wheelbarrow taking a ride--bumpety bumpety bump--while the little red hen follows. What is the little hen up to? The boy picks tomatoes, lettuce, onions, beans, and cucumbers. Meanwhile, the hen continues to watch everything the boy does. At the end of this charming story, the hen finally stops following him. The boy finds the hen sitting proudly on her nest, having laid an egg. A well-known artist who received the Kate Greenaway Award in 1974, Hutchins enchants readers with her wonderfully crafted illustrations, which are accompanied by rhythmical language. 2006, Greenwillow Books/HarperCollins Publishers, $15.99. Ages 3 up. Reviewer: Suzanna E. Henshon, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
Hutchins, winner of England's 1974 Kate Greenaway Award, cleverly engages readers through this sweet and simple plot. In this first person narrative, a little boy and his grandfather work together on the farm. The grandfather pushes the boy in a wheelbarrow as they ride "bumpety, bump" through the fields, digging up potatoes, carrots, and onions and picking beans, lettuce, cucumbers, and strawberries. The boy notices that a little red hen is following them. He proudly shows the hen how he can pick the vegetables and ride "bumpety bump, bumpety bump, up and down". When the two are done harvesting, the little boy notices that the hen has gone to the shed where she shows them what she can do, for she has laid an egg. Through simple repetition and parallel construction, Hutchins' stanzas read like song lyrics and her colorful and cheery illustrations show the produce growing both above ground and the roots below. It is a timeless tale that is sure to make children smile. 2006, Greenwillow Books/HarperCollins Publishers, $15.99 and $16.89. Ages 3 up. Reviewer: Elizabeth Sulock (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-06-055999-3
ISBN: 0-06-056000-2
But I Don't Want to Be a Movie Star
Margaret Pinder
Fifteen-year-old Katriona Shaw can think of loads of things she would rather do than spend the whole, entire summer with her famous actress grandmother, Noni Waters. Yet when her parents have to attend a conference and her grandfather, who normally watches over her, suffers an injury, that is exactly what she has to do. So "Kat" leaves her cool skater friends, the guy she likes, and her hip teen lifestyle behind in England and heads for stuffy old Palm Springs, California, home of the unnaturally leathered and chronically boring. Despite her every effort to have a miserable time and avoid Noni as much as humanly possible, Kat is drawn into her grandmother's life and the drama that surrounds it. Noni Waters is an aging actress in a less-than-tolerant Hollywood, but she used to be quite "something" back in the day. Nowadays she spends her afternoons lolling by the pool, martini in hand and a wide-brimmed hat protecting her alabaster skin from the sun, while waiting in vain for a long-promised movie role to materialize. Noni hangs on every phone call with such desperation that she repeatedly drinks to excess and finds herself unconscious in the most unusual places. It is during one of these "binges" that Noni sprains her ankle--and of course this happens just as she is finally contacted by the long-awaited Sam Schneider, the film's director. Fearing that Sam will refuse to cast her with her injury, she sobs uncontrollably until her staff comes up with a solution: Kat will pretend to be Noni and meet with Sam Schneider in her place. Now, Noni and Kat do not quite see eye-to-eye on much. Noni is a woman of classic style, always perfectly groomed, and a lady in every sense of the word. Kat, on the other hand, would prefer to skate away the days wearing a cap and loose fitting clothes that make her grandmother cringe. So, as you can imagine, the transformation from Kat to Noni is quite a laugh indeed. While a bit far-fetched, the novel is sweet and the characters are all very likeable. Young teens will enjoy reading about Kat's journey and her transformation from skater girl to glamour queen, as well as the relationships she develops along the way. Will Kat be successful in her big acting debut? Will she get the guy? Readers will have to dig in to find out. 2006, Dutton Children's Books, Ages 12 to 15, $15.99. Reviewer: Emily Cook (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-525-47634-2
La carta de Paula
Christianne C. Jones
Ilustrado por Zachary Trover
Ttraducción, Carlos Ruíz
In a few pages we learn a lot about Paula. She sees that everyday her mother goes to the mailbox and always has mail waiting for her. Nevertheless, there is never anything for Paula. She finally decides that in order to receive mail she must first be the one to write. She decides to send her grandparents a letter. She does not only write them a long letter, she also draws a picture. She gets the envelope and postage and takes her letter to the post office. Then the waiting begins. Days go by and no letter for Paula. Where is her letter of reply? Ultimately, Paula receives more than a letter back. In elementary Spanish, this Red Level book from the "Read-It! Readers En Espanol" series deals with taking action and waiting in a way a child will understand. The simple cartoon illustrations do not get in the way of the subject matter but rather accentuate the points it is trying to get across. 2006, Picture Window Books/Capstone Press, $19.95. Ages 4 to 6. Reviewer: María E. Gentle (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-40481-687-9
Daniel and His Walking Stick
Wendy McCormick
Illustrated by Constance R. Bergum
Sheilah Egan (Children's Literature)
Endearing stories like this one run the risk of becoming too sentimental but Ms McCormick tells this lovely story with admirable straightforwardness and grace. Jesses' parents try to fill the gap she feels from not having grandfathers by telling her stories about her Grandpa Jack ("who died before I was born.") and her Grandpa Ray (who "gave me a bath and tickled my earlobes and sang me songs about the sea"). The gentle watercolor illustrations tell us more of their stories through the pictures on the dresser and those decorating the walls. As the story line unfolds, Jesse and her parents travel to the lakeside vacation spot of her mother's youth. There they meet Mr. Daniel Stockton, an elderly gentleman who had actually known Grandpa Ray. Daniel begins to share his close observance of nature with Jesse as they walk around the lake. She responds to his subtle lessons and soon inquires if a person can "have three grandpas?" Daniel assures her that that would be just fine and the reader instantly understands the bond between the generations is a deep one built on trust and shared experiences that will serve as treasured memories. Jesse has admired Daniel's walking stick from the moment of their first meeting and before she returns to the city he helps her to find one to take home for herself. Jesse's use of the walking stick in the city setting reflects how Daniel used his in the countryside: to measure the depth of the water in the gutter (Daniel had measured the creek's depth), to point out details of the walk, and things observed (like a passing airplane). The series of illustrations that depict these passages are beautiful extensions of the text. The reader can predict that Daniel and Jesse will have many more wonderful experiences together and the happy smiles on her parents' faces tell us that they are delighted that Jesse has found a "third grandfather." 2005, Peachtree, $15.95. Ages 3 to 6.
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Giverny Book Award Winner 2006 Children's Science Picture Book United States
ISBN: 1-56145-330-7
Fora the Fairy
Tony Bradman
Illustrated by Emma Carlow
Flora, a young fairy girl, is taken to her grandparent's house for a visit. The problem is that Flora is afraid of their cat, Rufus. She does not like the way he stares at her and follows her around. Her mother still makes her go and at first the cat is nowhere around. But when he does come into the house, Flora screams and asks her grandfather to lock Rufus outside. Once outside, the cat follows the family around the house by looking in the windows--making Flora feel bad about having him put outside. Her grandparents come up with the idea of turning Flora into a cat so she can see why Rufus does all of the things that scare her. The plan works and when she is turned back into a fairy girl again, Flora becomes friends with Rufus. Bright, crayon-drawn pictures become interactive with the text through the use of speech bubbles. The book is geared towards younger students but may be used as independent reading for upper-primary grade students as well since it contains three chapters--each one building on the information of the previous chapter(s). This is a "Green Bananas" book in the "Bananas" series. 2005, Crabtree Publishing Company, $14.97 and $4.95 Ages 4 to 6. Reviewer: Angela Olkey (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7787-1022-6
ISBN: 0-7787-1022-X
ISBN: 978-0-7787-1038-7
ISBN: 0-7787-1038-6
GrandLoving: Making Memories with Your Grandchildren A World Away...or Next Door
Sue Johnson and Julie Carlson
Foreword by Ann Ruethling
The authors have collected excellent, concrete advice for grandparents as well as lots of games and activities to enjoy with grandchildren of all ages. Grandparenting has evolved through the last few decades. Now many grandparents are physically fit and much more involved in the lives of their grandchildren than was the norm of past generations. This book will serve well to help parents make the transition to becoming grandparents. Chapter headings include: "The Postpartum Visit" (do not show up unannounced - communication and consideration is of the utmost importance), "Love Across the Miles" (phone calls, little things in the mail, books shared on tape and video, e-mail, and YES, faxes - send notes and drawings back and forth!), "When the Grandchild Comes to Visit," "Visiting Your Grandchild" (learn the rules of their household - bedtime is not the time for wild games), "Heartfelt Holidays and Family Traditions," "More Mailbox Treasures" (these ideas would work for traveling parents as well), "Caring for Your Grandchildren and Helpful Resources" (local maps to the doctor's office, preschool, library, etc. are invaluable), "Looking Ahead: Tweens, Teens, and Beyond" (some grandparents are better with babies and some enjoy older children more but all should keep the connections close so that families do not drift apart as the young ones grow up). The bibliography of books to share with grandchildren is a real treasure and includes lots of different kinds of resources from a wide variety of experts such as T. Berry Brazelton and Ellen Galinsky. Full of wonderful ways to exhibit unconditional love, this title will be an excellent resource for grandparents in all situations--near, far, or even "adopted." It is all about the love, the most valuable gift of all. 2006 (orig.1996), Heartstrings Press, Adult, $18.95. Reviewer: Sheilah Egan
ISBN: 0-9675349-6-8
ISBN: 978-0-96753439-6-1
The Grandma Book
Todd Parr
Sheilah Egan (Children's Literature)
In this ode to grandmas, Parr has dismissed stereotypes and focused on the essence of experiencing the best that the child/grandma relationship has to offer. An experienced teacher described helping her 4th grade class write poetry about their grandmothers. She was listing words like rocking chair, knitting, and napping when her students began to protest that their grandmothers did not do any of those things. Parr also recognizes that today's grandmas are quite capable of dancing, working, driving (slow and fast), as well as loving (to distraction) their grandchildren. His uncluttered line art is as colorful as ever and his observations are equally as astute as in his previous books. Grandmas are a source of unending delight for their grandchildren--as are grandchildren for their Nanas, Nonnas, YaYas, Grammies, Grannies, Grandmommas, Mimis, Grams, Memaws, Nunnys, Omas, Bube, Ninis, or whatever name gets invented by the first grandchild. It is obvious that Parr adored and adores his own grandmothers (the book is dedicated to them) and his book gives children a concrete look at this loving, nurturing relationship that every child should get to enjoy--either through their own families or the "adoption" of a grandmother. Mine loved me and I love my grandchildren--this book is a celebration of all aspects of my own experience and I truly hope YOURS. Classroom readings of this paean to loving will result in great discussions and excellent writing prompts at all age levels. 2006, Little Brown and Company, $9.99. Ages 2 up.
ISBN: 0-316-05802-5
Grandma, It's for You
Harriet Ziefert
Illustrations by Lauren Browne
Lulu is a creative young girl who wants to give her Grandma the "best present" ever. After she tries on a variety of outfits-she has to be ready to fashion the "most beautiful present her grandma has ever seen"-she proceeds to scrounge in her mother's closet and discovers an old straw hat. Lulu loves to accessorize, and since Grandma loves accessories, too, this plain hat is going to be the basis for her present. Lulu's gray tabby cat is a close observer of all of Lulu's art process: gathering colorful leaves, feathers, flowers, tulle, ribbon, and a necklace. After much gluing, snipping, and taping, Lulu questions "Beautiful?" Then she reexamines her present to discover that while the brim is "perfect," the top is "still very plain." This plain spot is quickly adorned with a bird's nest (the cat's expression is one of pure delight). "Beautiful" is her pronouncement upon contemplating the last addition. While Lulu eagerly awaits Grandma's arrival, gray tabby snatches the bird's nest and quickly escapes. And, as for Grandma, "Beautiful!" is her smiling reaction to Lulu's splendid gift. Oh, yes, the cat has a wonderful time examining the nest and the empty shells left behind by the former occupants-the ultimate in recycling. Parents and teachers will enjoy using this cheerful, loving book as an introduction to a "creative-use-of-found-materials" art project. 2006, Blue Apple Books/Handprint Books, Ages 4 to 9, $15.95. Reviewer: Sheilah Egan (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-59354-109-0
ISBN: 978-1-59354-109-5
Grandma's General Store: the Ark
Dorothy Carter
Pictures by Thomas B. Allen
In 135 pages, Carter does a remarkable job of introducing us to a warm, loving family caught in difficulties of the times. Pearl is five and Prince is seven when the story opens. They dash happily between the comfort and love of their parents, to the fun and learning provided by their wise and nurturing grandmother in her home and general store. Then suddenly troubles floods into the life of the sweet family. Their father loses his job at the saw mill because of the depression and becomes sullen and angry. Only moving north to find work and self-respect will heal him. The children are left to live with their grandmother, who fends off hurricanes and the KKK with equal measures of strength and calm. The author's genius comes in delivering homespun truths through stories, and always keeping the child's perspective while revealing the adult's terror in a subdued way. 2005, Farrar, $16.00. Ages 8 to 10. Reviewer: Susie Wilde (Children's Literature).
Prince and Pearl's parents go north to Philadelphia to look for a better life, leaving the children in Florida with Grandma. Grandma holds the fort in a little store she calls "the Ark," and the children are to help her run it. In this Depression-era story, the Ark is a gathering place for a community beleaguered not only by hard times but also by the oppression of Jim Crow laws and the ever-looming power of the Klan. Pearl, five, is the narrator of Carter's tenderly-drawn story. She is a thoughtful and plucky protagonist, with the unerring voice of a child who does not miss much. Grandma is purely delightful Whether worrying about the kids' schooling, puzzling through the difficult task of explaining voting to Pearl, or "raving and ranting like a wild woman," she is the kind of nuanced, multifaceted character you hope you will meet again, whose life continues in the mind after the last page has turned. Carter offers up small details of daily life, carefully researched and woven into the fictional narrative. They are more than just background and context, however. They are delicate touches, gifts lovingly served up. Grandma's headache powders and Sloan's liniment are the material culture, the very stuff of the period, and they are so deftly placed that they transport us there as if we ourselves were going home to the Ark. Soft, expressive charcoal drawings add warmth and luster to the story. 2005, Farrar Straus Giroux, $16.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Uma Krishnaswami (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Children's Books 2005: One Hundred Titles for Reading and Sharing, 2005; New York Public Library; United States
ISBN: 0-374-32766-1
Grandma's Hurrying Child
Jane Yolen
Illustrated by Kay Chorao
Maddy's relationship with her grandmother has been a close one ever since the day the girl was born. Now, she asks to hear that story again, so Grandma pulls Maddy into her lap and begins the tale. It was ten days before the birth was expected when Maddy's mother felt the baby coming. Three states away, Grandma got the call and immediately launched into action. She packed a quick bag, grabbed her knitting, and headed for the train. As Grandma hurried towards the hospital, Maddy was doing some hurrying of her own. In her apparent eagerness to be born, Maddy reveals herself to be a "hurrying child," and all around her--from her mother and father to the doctors and nurses at the hospital--hurry, too, to meet her. But, as shown in the illustrations, no one is actually hurrying quite so much as Grandma, who arrives just in time to wrap the baby in her newly-knitted blanket and give her freshly-born face a loving kiss. Children like to hear stories about their birth. Jane Yolen's tale is a sweet account of one child's entry into the world that will give parents and children (or grandparents and children) who share the book an opportunity to talk about the day they met, too. Kay Chorao's soft illustrations are warm with a nostalgic glow. Given all of the "hurrying" in the story, they have a reassuring feel to them. 2005, Gulliver/Harcourt, $16.00. Ages 2 to 6. Reviewer: Heidi Hauser Green (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-15-201813-1
The Grandpa Book
Todd Parr
"All grandpas like to tell you stories." Parr's celebration of grandpas holds many truths and lots of love. He explores the relationship of children with their grandfathers in his usual straightforward text aptly embellished with his strikingly colorful, uncluttered line drawings. The grandpas of this book are actively engaging with their beloved grandkids; taking them to the park and to school, making them laugh, and hugging them a lot. We also see a variety of grandpas: some who like to walk, some who like to drive (a wheelchair), some who send cards, some who live with grandmas, some live with friends in retirement villages--all of whom love their grandchildren. The art for the "like to tell you stories" double-page spread shows a fish in the balloon above grandpa's head--yet another example of Parr's astute observations of real life--just like the stories my dad loved to tell my children. Everyone should have a Papa, Granddaddy, Granpa, Grump, Pop, Poppi, or Grandy in their life--either through family ties or the "adoption" of one. All children can benefit from their grandpa's experiential wisdom and love. Sharing this book with a classroom will stimulate lots of discussion and will serve as an excellent writing prompt for all age levels. 2006, Little Brown and Company, $9.99. Ages 2 up. Reviewer: Sheilah Egan (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-316-05801-7
Grandpa's Little One
Billy Crystal
Illustrated by Guy Porfirio
While this is quite obviously a lovingly written and warm story of appreciation for a grandchild who is celebrating a first birthday, there are several problems with the book. Billy Crystal is a talented man who puts his heart into this work. Nevertheless, there are times when comics striving to be serious hit that tripwire of sentimentality and the result is maudlin rather than meaningful. The rhyme here is often forced and uneven, and some of the birthday scenes are not compatible with the child's age. A one year old does not discover and play with her toes; They are old news to a baby who can crawl or walk around and find all sorts of new and exciting things in her world. Name recognition will lead to the book being purchased by adults who are looking for a present for a one year old and the story will appeal to some parents and sentimental grandparents. A CD of Billy Crystal reading the story is included. 2006, HarperCollins, All Ages, $16.99 and $17.89. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-06-078173-4
ISBN: 0-06-078174-2
ISBN: 978-0-06-078173-6
ISBN: 978-0-06-078174-3
Happy Birthday, Hero!
Zoe Quinn
Illustrations by Brie Spangler
Cute, talented Zoe Richards is obsessed with the comic book superhero, Lightening Girl, while her best friend, Emily, is into the fashion scene and trying out for the school play. Celebrating her twelfth birthday at her grandparent's house, Zoe is informed by Grandpa Zack about her own superhero mythology. Since the superhero gene sometimes skips a generation, Zoe's parents who are "Ordinaries" cannot be told of her abilities. Her mom is a social activist and her dad is a police detective. Grandpa, now a retired superhero, owns a dry cleaning store downtown. It is there that Grandpa secretly conducts Zoe's apprenticeship so that she can develop and control her super powers. According to the "Superhero Training Manual," Zoe is not allowed to use her super powers until she passes the first examination by the Superhero Federation. This short, easy to read book left me with more questions than answers. What is going on with Caitlen, their new classmate, and her rich, stylish aunt in the sports car? Who cut the rope to the stage light? Does any of this relate to the rash of robberies downtown? What is the relationship between Grandpa Zack and the author of Lightening Girl comics, Electra Allbright? Part of the "Caped 6th Grader" series. 2006, A Yearling Book/Random House, Ages 9 to 12, $4.99. Reviewer: Ann Sanger (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-440-42079-2
The Have a Good Day Café
Frances Park and Ginger Park
Illustrations by Katherine Potter
On the cover a Korean grandmother offers her grandson a tidbit from a steaming pot of chop chae: this is a story about food and immigration. Grandma has come from Korea to live with Mike and his parents, who drive each day into the city with their food cart full of American food to sell near a park. Grandma cooks Korean food and wishes she were back home. But when two other food carts appear nearby and profits begin to dwindle, Grandma and Mike have an idea. Together they cook up a Korean feast with noodles, vegetables and meat, adding soy sauce, sesame seeds and garlic for an enticing new menu. As the "Have a Good Day Cafe," the family food cart is a success again. Potter's bright pastels, giving both city and kitchen a softened, slightly flat look, are appealing in their gentle implication that all will be well in the end; Grandma's changing emotions are reflected in her smile, as is her relationship with grandson Mike. The Korean grandmother, like many immigrants to the U.S., makes a contribution to American culture as she finds her place in the family and her new country. For readers who can't resist the description of Korean dishes, a final page shows Korean characters, American pronunciations, and pictures for bibim bap, bulgogi, guk bap, chop chae and other delicacies mentioned in the text. Young chefs will need a Korean cookbook and some help to assemble and sample the savory feast. 2005, Lee and Low, Ages 4 to 8, $16.95. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-58430-171-4
ISBN: 1-58430-171-6
Herbie Jones and the Second Grade Slippers
Suzy Kline
Illustrated by Sami Sweeten
Herbie is a truly likeable second grader who is also a good friend, as this story proves. Mr. Schnellenberger has announced that kids may wear slippers while in his class-they all love it except Ray, Herbie's friend. Herbie eventually learns that Ray does not have a pair of slippers, but leave it to our second grader to come up with a creative and thoughtful solution. He tells his grandfather, who he often talks to long distance, about school and the slipper episode. Grandpa offers the ultimate compliment when he hears what Herbie did and tells his grandson that he wishes he was in second grade again so he could have Herbie as his buddy. This is a really positive story about friendship which should appeal to new readers. There are plenty of black-and-white illustrations to break up the text to provide content clues. 2006, Putnam/Penguin, Ages 5 to 8, $14.99.
Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-399-23132-3
ISBN: 978-0-399-23132-2
In Style with Grandma Antoinette
Judith Caseley
In Style with Grandma Antoinette explores the bounce and exuberant beauty of the grandmother/grandchild bond. At first Rosie is skeptical about helping Grandma at work. Work isn't fun, she believes. Then she enters the bright world of Haircraft where Grandma works her magic, snipping a summer 'do for one client, fixing the zebra-striped dye job of another. Rosie pitches in, bringing a soda (thereby earning her own tip) and finding a lost wig. With Grandma's wavy red hair, purple sweater and polka-dot bifocals, author/illustrator Judith Caseley has put a modern spin on the gray-haired, cookie-baking nanas of the past. But with her charming story and paintings, Caseley also shows that some things never change, especially the love between grandmother and child. 2005, Tanglewood Press, Ages 4 to 8, $15.95. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-9749303-4-2
It's Not Worth Making a Tzimmes Over
Betsy R. Rosenthal
Illustrated by Ruth Rivers
This is a delightful little book that does not take itself too seriously as it introduces Yiddish words to a new generation. Unfortunately, the words are not defined until the glossary at the end, and I am not sure that the context supplies enough hints as to their meanings. Grandma and Sara begin to make challah one summer morning, but Sara pours her orange juice into the bowl by mistake. "It's not worth making a tzimmes over," says Grandma, and shows Sara how to continue mixing the dough. Sara is a little over enthusiastic when she adds the flour, so Grandma's gray hair turns white (!), as does Sara's jeans, and by the time the dough is kneaded, they are both ready for a break. After badminton, they begin watching an old horror movie on TV. The Blob is one of Grandma's favorite movies, and she forgets all about the dough. But Sara has added too much yeast, and the dough overflows the bowl and begins to take over the kitchen--no, not only the kitchen, but the entire house, pushing its way into the yard and beyond--but, "It's not worth making a tzimmes over," says Grandma. They borrow a neighbor's computer and print out invitations and baking instructions so that the neighborhood can share the dough. Soon the smell of orange-flavored challah fills the air. A policeman gets involved when he sees and smells the neighborhood, so Grandma gives him bread and jam and the recipe as well. Finally Sara's mother gets home, and all ends happily. A list of Yiddish words with their meanings--and of course the recipe--adds to the fun. My only problem is with the drawings, and it is a very minor one--but everyone looks so very young. I am not sure that many grandmothers under age sixty would use Yiddish at all! But it is a fun story, recommended for anyone. 2006, Albert Whitman & Co, Ages 6 up, $15.95. Reviewer: Judy Silverman
ISBN: 0-8075-3677-6
ISBN: 978-0-8075-3677-6
Little Mamá Forgets
Robin Cruise
Pictures by Stacey Dressen-McQueen
In a story rich with the Spanish of her grandmother, Lucy tells us what her Little Mamá forgets and what she remembers. Lucy realizes her grandmother's memory is no longer reliable. Little Mamá may leave the toast to burn, forget how to tie her shoes, or not remember the way home. But she remembers so many things that for Lucy are more important--from giving hugs to how to dance and skip, along with tales of her life back in Mexico. And although she forgets that there are only five in the family for dinner, she has luckily remembered how to make enough of her tortillas to feed the relatives who arrive to join them. The compassion and warmth of the love Lucy shares with her grandmother join together in a story that will be particularly relevant to children whose grandparents begin to forget things. The endpapers are photo albums filled with dozens of "mounted" snapshots and greeting cards. They set the stage for this visual diary of the loving activities inside. The double-page spreads are filled with colorful patterned objects, which reflect the Mexican-American culture and include details of dress, markets, home, and more. Paints re-create the solidity of the family ties, the cohesiveness of the community, and above all, the love. There is a glossary of the Spanish included with pronunciation. 2006, Melanie Kroupa Books/Farrar Straus and Giroux, $16.00. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Booklist Book Review Stars, Jan. 1, 2006; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Delaware Diamonds, 2006-2007; Nominee; Kindergarten, First and Second Graders; Delaware
ISBN: 0-374-34613-5
Raisin and Grape
Tom Amico and James Proimos
Illustrated by Andy Snair
"Being a raisin means you have a lot of wrinkles. Grandpa must have a kazillion." That is the assessment of Grandpa by a young whippersnapper of a grape. But the grape likes his grandfather, the raisin, just the way he is-wrinkles and all. In fact, he thinks Grandpa's wrinkles are awesome. This is a clever notion that very easily could have been overdone, but the authors carry it off with humor. The little grape marvels at the number of candles on Grandpa's birthday cake, as he realizes "Grandpa's so old that he's been allowed to cross the big street for more years than I can count." When a gregarious prune plops down next to Grandpa on a park bench, the young grape says, "Time to go, Grandpa. I need a nap." Grandpa appreciates the boy for saving him from the talkative lady. The story is actually one of a warm and loving family for, as Grandpa points out, they're from the same vine. 2006, Dial/Penguin Group, Ages 4 to 8, $12.99. Reviewer:
Carolyn Mott Ford (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-8037-3091-8
Tangerines and Tea, My Grandparents and Me: an ABC Book
Ona Gritz
Illustrated by Yumi Heo
This alphabet book is appealing for many reasons. The storyline from A to Z deals with a boy and girl's visit to their grandparents' farm. Each alphabet letter is presented in alliterative rhyme with brevity and simplicity. No single letter of the alphabet shouts its name or is prominently displayed. Instead a phrase is offered in a stream of descriptive phrases about the farm visit, such as "the quiet of night with our quilts tucked in tight" or "an oak tree to climb one limb at a time." The illustrations are flat-painted pencil drawings varying in style from surrealistic to expressionistic. Many different patterns of backdrops make for a colorful visual feast on each page. A half-page note from the artist appears on the copyright page in which the approach and technique are explained. The fixed pigtails on the girl and the old-fashioned hairdo of the boy provide a distinctive look to the main characters. The whimsy of the illustrations and the rhythm of the text make this book unique among the number of alphabet books with which it will compete. 2005, Harry N. Abrams, $15.95. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Jacki Vawter, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
National Association of Parenting Publications Awards (NAPPA) Honor 2005 Preschool and Kindergarten United States
ISBN: 0-81095-871-6
Totally Toxic
Zoe Quinn
Illustrations by Brie Spangler
The novel in the series "The Caped Sixth Grader" follows the adventures of twelve-year-old Zoe Richards who shares an unusual secret with her Grandpa. Though she is often tempted to share that she is a superhero-in-training with those she loves, she cannot tell her politically active mother, her police officer father, her accident prone friend Howie, her best friend Emily, or her hopeful boyfriend Josh. When she is not getting into trouble with the Superhero Federation for using her powers to save her friends without proper authorization, she spends her time studying to pass her superhero test and going to school to preserve her social life. When her politically active mother believes that Mitchell Enterprises is dumping toxic materials into the Sweetbriar River, Zoe cannot resist investigating with her friends, Howie and Josh. Their investigations lead to several dangerous adventures and Zoe is forced to use her superpowers--at the risk of exposing her secret. The strong relationship between Zoe and her Grandpa (her "Super mentor"), the playful dialogue, the light-hearted character development ("I suppose all the superpowers in the world can't save a kid from being an out-and-out klutz every now and then."), and humorous situations contribute to an engaging plot. 2006, Yearling, Ages 9 to 12, $4.99. Reviewer: Jamaica Johnson Conner (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-440-42080-4
ISBN: 0-440-42080-6
Wishes for One More Day
Melanie Joy Pastor
Illustrated by Jacqui Grantford
The gentle pastel watercolor pencil illustrations compliment this tribute to a dearly loved grandfather. When Poppy dies unexpectedly, his grandchildren, Anna and Joey, are dismayed at not having had a chance to "say goodbye." As their mother begins to express her own grief at the loss of her father, the children actually help her to capture the important memories of Poppy's life with the entire family. It is important to see how gently both parents go about discussing Poppy's death. Mom asks Anna and Joey what they would have done if they had been granted one more day. Joey announces that he would have shared one more bowl of Matzah soup - they would make "sculptures" out of the Matzah balls. Anna wishes for a day to play checkers with Poppy once more - he was always so happy when "I won." Later the children settle down to make "lots more wishes" - it feels good to think about Poppy. Because Joey has not yet learned to write, he draws pictures and Anna writes down their "wishes": dancing while Poppy plays the piano, another chance to laugh at his "crazy party hat," camping in his backyard, toasting marshmallows together, painting pictures, going to the zoo, going fishing, playing pirates, and all sorts of wonderful things they had shared with each other. They run in to show their mom all of the pages they have created--Mom is moved to new tears as she examines the "book" they have made of all their "wishes." Mom tells them that all of the wishes are really memories to cherish. Anna says that she will just call them "wishes" as she makes a cover for the book. We see that the family is Jewish and that they have begun the traditional mourning process for the grandfather -- the illustrations show Aunt Susan covering the mirrors and the memorial candle is lit. We also hear about plans for spending time with Grandma while they receive family and friends to "comfort us with hugs and food" and "we'll all remember Poppy." Parents and care givers will find this book very useful in helping children cope with the loss of a grandparent...and maybe find a bit of solace for themselves, as well. 2006, Flashlight Press, Ages 5 up, $15.95. Reviewer: Sheilah Egan (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-972-92257-1
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Updated 8/25/06
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