Wishing for Tomorrow:  The Sequel to A Little Princess, by Hilary McKay, and with illustrations sprinkled throughout by Nick Maland, continues where the original classic left off. It begins with a short summary of the original story, but quickly sets the tone of the story to come. The events that happen when the heroine, Sara, leaves Miss Minchin’s Seminary and the remaining girls takes on an amazing new story, but containing the classic feel of the original story.

See Saw Girl, by Linda Sue Park, is an eye-opening historical fiction about a young nobility-born Korean girl in the seventeenth century. Her life is restricted to living behind the walls of her residence until her arranged marriage when she grows a little older. The author includes historical background, and a bibliography, located in the back of the book.

Modern Fairies, Dwarves, Goblins & Other Nasties: A Practical Guide by Miss Edythe McFate, by Lesley M. M. Blume, and wonderful pen and ink drawings by David Foote, is full of magical essence of these smallish sprites as the author delves deep into their many adventures and mischievous behaviors. There are prequel warnings and explanations prior to each tale with follow-up notes and further help in order to better understand their actions or reactions.

Fablehaven: Keys to the Demon Prison, by Brandon Mull, is the last installment of the popular Fablehaven series involving Seth and Kendra. They must travel a great distance where they are in search of the keys to the demon prison before the evil Sphinx recovers the five artifacts.

Out Of My Mind, by Sharon M. Draper, brilliantly presents the viewpoint of fifth grader Melody as she deals with cerebral palsy. Even though she can’t walk, talk or even write, she can’t seem to let her classmates know that she’s really smart. When she is finally able to communicate, the story showcases her brilliance and versatility.

Woods Runner, by Gary Paulsen, concerns thirteen-year-old Samuel as he lives in the wooded and uncivilized area of frontier America and the Redcoats, along with the Iroquois, who are in battle with the Patriots. When Samuel returns to his cabin from the underbrush, he sees his parents captured and taken prisoner and he must follow them in order to save their lives. Mr. Paulsen places a short historically accurate account at the end of each chapter that parallels what Samuel just did or experienced.

The Doom Machine, by Mark Teague, is set in the year 1956 and young Jack is up early delivering newspapers when he sees a giant flying saucer land nearby.  And so begins a tale that moves fast and is filled with adventure and humor – and terrific illustrations by Teague.

The Birthday Ball, by Lois Lowry, and illustrated by Jules Feiffer, is the perfect book for humor and good storytelling. Princess Patricia Priscilla is excited for her upcoming sixteenth birthday, but her parents have invited the most boring and foolish suitors. But – she has thought of another brilliant idea to break the strict rules and make this the ball beyond belief!

The Night Fairy, by Laura Amy Schlitz, and illustrated by Angela Barrett, is a magical story with wonderful undertones of perseverance and of overcoming great difficulties. This beautifully written story encompasses a realm of fairies that live and fly by night. The colorful pictures add to the enchantment of this story.

Tentacles, by Roland Smith, has cousins traveling with their scientist uncle in search of a giant squid. But they are about to find much more than they bargained for! Reader beware: this is a book that’s very hard to put down!

The Dreamer, by Pam Munoz Ryan, and illustrated by Peter Sis, is an extraordinary and enthralling tale of the childhood of poet, Pablo Neruda. This stirring story jumps off the page with both word and art. This celebration of language and the collaboration of the illustrations, will surely linger long after putting down the book.

Seven Keys of Balabin, by Paul Haven, takes place in a country similar to Afghanistan and is full of adventure and mystery. Twelve-year-old Oliver is about to set out on a mystifying adventure as he tries to discover what happened to a store owner who apparently has been kidnapped. But he is also about to unravel a 500-year-old mystery during his adventure.

The Cardturner, by Louis Sachar (who also wrote the bestseller “Holes”), has seventeen-year-old Alton becoming a cardturner for his blind Uncle Lester when playing bridge. This might sound like a boring subject to write a book about but this author has an uncanny talent to spin the most incredible tales – and make the reader become completely mesmerized.

African Acrostics:  A Word in Edgeways, by Avis Harley, and photographed by Deborah Noyes, has unique and beautiful poems and pictures. The acrostic wordplay makes this a willing book to enjoy, savor and learn from. Check out the “Nature Notes” and more acrostic information located at the back of the book.

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon, by Grace Lin, won this year’s Newbery Honor award and exemplifies the importance of family, honor and friendship. Young Minli, whose family is very poor, loves to listen to her father’s tales of the Jade Dragon and the Old Man on the Moon who knows all of the answers to life’s questions. When she sets off to find the Old Man she begins an adventure rich in language, adventure and colorful illustrations.

The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg, by Rodman Philbrick, is a historical fiction book that takes place back in the turbulent 1860’s when runaway slaves were being helped by the “Underground Railroad”. Twelve-year-old Homer is living in terrible conditions under the rule of “…the meanest man in the entire state of Maine…”. But his life is about to change when he runs away.

The Search for Wondla, by Tony DiTerlizzi, is the beginning of a new series that will thrill the reader. The author of the Spiderwick series has created a new  tale about a story set in the future with twelve-year-old Eva Nine who has been raised by a robot. The author has masterly illustrated two toned pictures as well as incorporated some new elements in this book. With the use of a webcam, there are several augmented reality pictures that add to Eva’s dimension.

The Red Pyramid, by Rick Riordan, is his new series, much like his thrilling “Lightening Thief” series, but this book is set in Brooklyn, New York. This page-turner begins with an explosion except this time the mythical gods are Egyptian.

Let’s start with some outstanding and enlightening new pop-up books. Wild Oceans: A Pop-Up Book with Revolutionary Technology, by Lucio and Meera Santoro, is a book that makes learning fun. This extraordinary pop-up book features pull down flaps and smaller corner pop-ups that are loaded with information about our deepest frontier. Each page has a large pop-out that includes deep water fish and blue whales.

How about a pop-up that you can create yourself? Pop-Up:  Everything You Need to Know to Create Your Own Pop-Up Book, by Ruth Wicking, and illustrated by Frances Castle, helps teach the major components of making parts pop-out. The engineering incorporated in making the pop-ups to work are all included here. You will learn how to make a dragon, a castle and a jungle pop-up. This is the perfect family book to work together to create these projects!

Robert Sabuda is one of my favorite paper engineers and he continues to produce better and better pop-ups. Beauty & the Beast is his latest endeavor. The classic tale is told through Sabuda’s signature style with large, glorious pop-ups along with the small corner pop-ups that include several mini pages. He stays true to the classic story by demonstrating the importance of inner beauty.

My other favorite paper engineer, Matthew Reinhart, often collaborates with Sabuda and when they get together: magic happens. Gods & Heroes is their most recent joint effort and once again this is another great pop-up masterpiece!  These two engineers continue to surprise, instruct and entertain. The subjects include mythological gods from Greece, Egypt and China. It’s just as amazing to see these extraordinary pop-ups fold back into the book!

Big Frog Can’t Fit In, by Mo Willems, is a pop-up book about attempting to fit in. Frog is so big that he sticks out of the book. All attempts seem to fail until good friendship steps in. This is delightful and defrogful.

How the World Works:  A Hands-on Guide to Our Amazing Planet, by Christiane Dorian, and illustrated by Beverley Young, includes lively facts about the lifelines to living on earth. By popping out, twisting, opening or pulling tabs, you are about to learn about sunlight, water and air and how it affects us all.

Amazing Pop-Up Big Machines, by Robert Crowther, is the perfect book for that truck enthusiast! Each giant pop-up includes a pouch with interactive activities or flaps to open. This book is great fun!

And for the little lady in the family, My Little Pink Princess Purse, by Stephen T. Johnson, is the extra thick book for her. Included in this cherry and cheery book are interactive cardboard shapes, sweet smelling items, and items only meant for the little princess in your home.

The following books are interactive with the activity packaged on the cover of each book. These are all made by Klutz. The Hand Book: Explore the Handiest Part of Your Body, by Pat Murphy, is the perfect book for the scientist / doctor in your family. There is a life size plastic skeletal hand that you can assemble along with 18 activities that motivate kids to learn about their bones and hands. Doctor Frankensketch’s Monster Drawing Machine, by the editors of Klutz, is a drawing book where you can pick and choose parts of monsters to draw with the two colored pencils included. And another drawing book, Doodle Journal:  My Life in Scribbles, by Karen Phillips, and illustrated by Elise Gravel, is just waiting for you to fill the cleverly decorated spaces with your scribbles. The Truth About My Name:  and What it Reveals About Me!, by Karen Phillips, is packaged with five charms for you to personalize and includes information about how you sign your name and if your parents picked the right name for you. Doodlewire, by the Klutz editors, includes bendable spiral wires waiting to take shape. The book includes easy-to-follow instructions for the possible animal to shape. Headbands & Hairstyles, by Eva Steele-Saccio, includes three hair bands, ribbon, sequin and glue. Also included is advice on hair brushing and hairstyles.  Glossy Bands: Stretchy Bracelets to Share with your Friends, by the Klutz editors, includes enough materials to make 14 different bracelets.

And lastly, here are two books to make movies. Make Your Own Music Video, by Kaitlyn Nichols, is filled with ideas and unique ways to display your music. It includes a giant green screen and links to download backgrounds. This is also by Klutz. And Movie Maker, by Surridh Hassan, Tim Grabham and Dan Reeve, and illustrated by Garry Parsons, includes a director’s handbook, a CD full of interesting sound effects and various animation aids.

The First Christmas: A Changing-Picture Book, by Sophy Williams, is the retelling of Baby Jesus with clever flaps that open and change the pictures in an over-sized book. The illustrations are beautifully painted in soft pastels.

Christmas in the Time of Billy Lee, by Jerdine Nolen, and illustrated by Barry Moser, is a sweet story about Ellie and her three wishes for her struggling family. Her wishes, along with the beautiful paintings, evoke the magical aura of this well done story.

Great Joy, by Kate DiCamillo, and beautifully painted by Bagram Ibatoulline, is a simple but powerfully told story with pictures that evoke the emotions of compassion and charity. A young girl is about to perform in her church Christmas play but she’s been watching the organ grinder and his monkey outside her window through the many cold nights – and her concern grows. The atmospheric paintings induce this feeling of love and kindness.

The Christmas Giant, by Steve Light, is a bright little story about a giant and his little elf friend who make wrapping paper for Santa. When they are asked to grow a tree for Santa, problems ensue and they must work together to figure out how to solve their dilemma. A few of the pages have several pages with wordless pictures that cleverly move the story along. The ink, pen and pastel drawings give an old fashioned effect.

It’s Christmas, David!, by David Shannon, continues with the “David” picture books where David makes wrong choices by peeking at up-opened gifts and sneaking cookies and much more. The anticipation of all the trappings of Christmas has David getting caught making bad decisions. The Kindergarten-like drawings by the author add to the atmosphere of a young child and his decisions.

Little Tree, by E. E. Cummings, and illustrated by Deborah Kogan Ray, is a reissue by the celebrated author about young siblings who find a small, bare tree in a tree lot and take it home to decorate. This beautifully painted story fills the reader with the true message of Christmas.

Christmas is Here, illustrated by Lauren Castillo, with words from the King James Bible, begins with a family coming upon a large crèche while walking down a street. Then only text begins by quoting from the Book of Matthew and illustrating the events of what happened when Baby Jesus was born. The watercolors and ink pictures fill each page.

Fletcher and the Snowflake Christmas, by Julia Rawlinson, and brightly illustrated with pastels by Tiphanie Beeke, is a cute little story about Fletcher, a fox, who is worried about how Santa will find his new home. His little family just moved and he doesn’t think Santa knows where he now lives. But Christmas morning he discovers a nice surprise.

The next two books are geared for ages nine and up. The Christmas Genie, by Dan Gutman, tells of a meteorite crashing into a 5^th grade classroom and a real genie appearing. But problems begin when the genie gives the class just one wish together and they can’t decide what that will be. This hilarious story is also very entertaining and great fun to read.

The Adventures of Santa Paws, by Nicholas Edwards, includes two stories in one. “Santa Paws” has this homeless puppy becoming a hero when he rescues a family from a burning building and also a child from drowning. “The Return of Santa Paws” has the puppy and his new owners flying to New England when the plane crashes in a remote wilderness. Both stories are definitely page-turners.

White Christmas, from the song written by Irving Berlin, and beautifully illustrated by Michael Hague, is a great celebration of this classic song. The attention to detail on the full page paintings are glorious and with the complete score located at the back.

Ivy Loves to Give, by Freya Blackwood, is the perfect book depicting the joy of giving. Young Ivy loves giving but must learn to give correctly and also learn how to receive honorably. The simple watercolors parallel the simple text giving a strong message of giving and receiving.

The Christmas Eve Ghost, by Shirley Hughes, teaches tolerance and acceptance. A widowed mother must work on Christmas Eve and tells her children not to go next door as they don’t belong to the same church. But the children get frightened and end up going to their neighbor’s house where they discover that the neighbor is kind and trusting. The ink and watercolors are a nice fit with the story.

And for baby, here are two small board books about Christmas.  It’s Christmas Time!, by Salina Yoon, is a clever book with six interchangeable disks that you can take out of each page and slide into the next. The brightly colored, foil-covered disks help each page become an interactive and entertaining page.

Christmas Shapes, by Nancy Davis, has press-out pieces that toddlers can take out and put back as they turn the pages and see new basic shapes. The final pages fold out to double the size.

Count Down, by Deborah Wiles, is an historical fiction about the 1960’s. This riveting story includes all of the major facets that evoked, involved and deeply affected our lives during that decade. Eleven-year-old Franny is living near Andrews Air Force Base where her pilot father is stationed. She thinks her older sister is a spy and her younger brother greatly desires to become an astronaut. Her struggles with her best friend, her father (who is often away on missions), and the rest of the family show life deeply rooted in the ‘60’s. Her story intersects history by connecting air-raid sirens and drills, President Kennedy’s TV speech about the Cuban missile crisis and bomb shelters.  There are also many photographs, newspaper clippings, quotes and more that depict the era. Be sure to read the author’s notes at the back of the book. The cover is a perfect setting for the book: a picture of a 45 rpm record. This book is a definite Newbery candidate.

Born to Fly, by Michael Ferrari, is another historical fiction set during World War II and eleven-year-old Bird feels like she was born to fly. Her friendship with a Japanese American, along with the turmoil of the day, set the stage for this page-turner as the coming adventures and suspense will thrill the reader. Also check out the author’s notes located in the back of the book.

White Crane, (first book in the Samurai Kids Series), by Sandy Fussell, and with illustrations sprinkled throughout by Rhian Nest James, shows how a young boy with only one leg can become a samurai warrior. The story is exciting and draws upon the feuds Japan has had throughout history.  The ink and pencil drawings give a definite Japanese flair.

I Fooled You: 10 Stories of Tricks, Jokes and Switcheroos, collected and edited by Johanna Hurwitz, has a compilation of ten short stories with the theme: “I Fooled You”.  Some of the stories promote honesty with a twist to a familiar fairy tale as demonstrated in the take off of “The Billy Goats Gruff”, others have familiar characters attempting to fool each other as in the Judy Moody story that includes her brother Stink. There’s even a comic style wordless story that was my favorite.

Operation Yes!, by Sara Lewis Holmes, is one of a kind because it uplifts, rejuvenates good-will and promotes kindness and helping others. The story takes place on an old run-down school near a North Carolina Air Force Base. The difficulties and hardships of these military families are addressed as these sixth graders deal constantly with moving from school to school. The real core and heart of this story lies with the teacher who lifts them up with her positive spirit. But it’s the kids who become the bearer of goodness when their teacher’s brother is seriously injured in Afghanistan.

Rules to Rock By, by Josh Farrar, has sixth grader Annabelle evolving with her beloved music as she moves with her family to a new state. Her musician parents are very involved in recording and somewhat neglecting their family. Annabelle now has to form a new band, deal with new school bullies and keep her family together.

War Games, by Audrey and Akila Couloumbis, is a novel based on true events. Greece is home to young Petra as he plays and works around his rural farm prior to the breakout of World War II. His family grew up in America but when the Germans invade their country, the commander comes and lives at Petro’s house. The family must keep secret that they know English and lived in America. This exciting and insightful story sheds light on the difficulties and courage of the resistance effort during the war.

Faith, Hope, and Ivy June, by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, is a story much like the classic story of the “Country Mouse and the City Mouse”. Ivy June lives in a poor rural Kentucky dwelling and Catherine lives in Lexington in an affluent part of the city. When they exchange places and spend two weeks in the other’s family house, they learn much, appreciate much more and respect the differences of others by story’s end.

The Princess Plot, by Kirsten Boie, has recently been translated from German into English and is the first in this new series.  Fourteen-year-old Jenna has just tried out for a movie role and is surprised when she is selected.  When the movie company flies her to be on location in a distant country, she soon discovers that she is actually sitting in for a princess whom she looks like and whom also has run away. She soon discovers that this country is at civil unrest and she is about to put her life on the line.

See Saw Girl, by Linda Sue Park, is an eye-opening historical fiction about a young nobility-born Korean girl in the 17th century. Her life is restricted to living behind the walls of her residence until her arranged marriage when she grows a little older.  At that point it’s then restricted to the confines of her husband’s house. Twelve-year-old Jade wants desperately to see the outside world and finds a rare opportunity when a ship near her village runs aground. The author expertly weaves this historical tale to keep the reader interested, while informed. There’s also historical background and a bibliography located in the back of the book.

Roland Wright:  Future Knight, by Tony Davis, and with illustrations sprinkled throughout by Gregory Rogers, is a delightful beginning chapter book and the first in a planned series featuring young Roland who desires to become a knight. The year is 1409 and he’s born into a life of his father’s livelihood, but he is able to overcome the odds with honesty, resilience, courage and perseverance, as well as some humorous attempts as he strives for knighthood. This delightful new series has winsome pen and ink drawings throughout

A Faraway Island, by Annika Thor, is a story of struggle, separation and ultimately overcoming difficult challenges. It’s 1939 and two Jewish sisters from Austria have been sent to Sweden as an asylum from the Nazis. Their parents are detained while obtaining visas and this detainment takes much longer than imagined so the story is about how the sisters manage life in a foreign country. The twelve-year-old sister has a very strict and cold foster parent while the younger sister finds life in Sweden much easier. The author’s note in the back is a must read.

Chancey of the Maury River, by Gigi Amateau, is a horse story about Chancey who has recently been moved to live at the Maury River Stables. Upon his arrival, he was bone thin, old and weary and in great need for someone to care and love him. When Claire finds him at the stables, she is also in great need for love as her parents are divorcing. This story is rich in the healing of hearts and souls through the love of an animal.

Wishing for Tomorrow:  The Sequel to A Little Princess, by Hilary McKay, and with illustrations sprinkled throughout by Nick Maland, continues where the original classic left off. It begins with a quick summary of the original story, but quickly sets the tone of the story to come. The events that happen when the heroine, Sara, leaves Miss Minchin’s Seminary and the remaining girls take on a completely invigorating and amazing new story, but containing the classic feel of the original story. This book is full of nuances, emotional content and breathtaking passages. It’s quite remarkable that a sequel to a book such as “A Little Princess” can be as great, but it truly is!  And the pictures help set the old fashioned ambiance.

The Fast and the Furriest, by Andy Behrens, is a hilarious story about twelve-year-old Kevin and his dog. Kevin’s football pro dad wants him to play football but Kevin would rather watch TV with his dog. But interesting and unique events are about to spur both dog and master into amazing feats that will confound even Kevin’s dad.

Julia Gillian (and the Dream of the Dog), by Alison McGhee, and with illustrations sprinkled throughout by Drazen Kozjan, is the third book in this wonderful series. Julia is in sixth grade and is experiencing the challenges of friendship, school and her beloved dog. Her tremendous support of family, friends and school help her through the hardest of times. You don’t need to read the previous two books to keep abreast of this delightful story. However, after reading this book, chances are you will want to read “Julia Gillian (and the Art of Knowing)” and “Julia Gillian (and the Quest for Joy)”.

My Brother Abe: Sally Lincoln’s Story, by Harry Mazer, is an enlightening story about Lincoln’s older sister and her relationship with Lincoln as they grew up. The facts that are portrayed through this moving story take place in both Kentucky and Indiana as the family moves from their farm to a much more isolated location. The author takes liberties with Abe’s sister as there is little known about her, but you learn much about his upbringing and family life in this interesting historical fiction.

See Saw Girl, by Linda Sue Park, is an eye-opening historical fiction about a young nobility-born Korean girl in the 17th century. Her life is restricted to living behind the walls of her residence until her arranged marriage when she grows a little older.  At that point it’s then restricted to the confines of her husband’s house. Twelve-year-old Jade wants desperately to see the outside world and finds a rare opportunity when a ship near her village runs aground. The author expertly weaves this historical tale to keep the reader interested, while informed. There’s also historical background and a bibliography located in the back of the book.

Roland Wright:  Future Knight, by Tony Davis, and with illustrations sprinkled throughout by Gregory Rogers, is a delightful beginning chapter book and the first in a planned series featuring young Roland who desires to become a knight. The year is 1409 and he’s born into a life of his father’s livelihood, but he is able to overcome the odds with honesty, resilience, courage and perseverance, as well as some humorous attempts as he strives for knighthood. This delightful new series has winsome pen and ink drawings throughout

A Faraway Island, by Annika Thor, is a story of struggle, separation and ultimately overcoming difficult challenges. It’s 1939 and two Jewish sisters from Austria have been sent to Sweden as an asylum from the Nazis. Their parents are detained while obtaining visas and this detainment takes much longer than imagined so the story is about how the sisters manage life in a foreign country. The twelve-year-old sister has a very strict and cold foster parent while the younger sister finds life in Sweden much easier. The author’s note in the back is a must read.

Chancey of the Maury River, by Gigi Amateau, is a horse story about Chancey who has recently been moved to live at the Maury River Stables. Upon his arrival, he was bone thin, old and weary and in great need for someone to care and love him. When Claire finds him at the stables, she is also in great need for love as her parents are divorcing. This story is rich in the healing of hearts and souls through the love of an animal.

Wishing for Tomorrow:  The Sequel to A Little Princess, by Hilary McKay, and with illustrations sprinkled throughout by Nick Maland, continues where the original classic left off. It begins with a quick summary of the original story, but quickly sets the tone of the story to come. The events that happen when the heroine, Sara, leaves Miss Minchin’s Seminary and the remaining girls take on a completely invigorating and amazing new story, but containing the classic feel of the original story. This book is full of nuances, emotional content and breathtaking passages. It’s quite remarkable that a sequel to a book such as “A Little Princess” can be as great, but it truly is!  And the pictures help set the old fashioned ambiance.

The Fast and the Furriest, by Andy Behrens, is a hilarious story about twelve-year-old Kevin and his dog. Kevin’s football pro dad wants him to play football but Kevin would rather watch TV with his dog. But interesting and unique events are about to spur both dog and master into amazing feats that will confound even Kevin’s dad.

Julia Gillian (and the Dream of the Dog), by Alison McGhee, and with illustrations sprinkled throughout by Drazen Kozjan, is the third book in this wonderful series. Julia is in sixth grade and is experiencing the challenges of friendship, school and her beloved dog. Her tremendous support of family, friends and school help her through the hardest of times. You don’t need to read the previous two books to keep abreast of this delightful story. However, after reading this book, chances are you will want to read “Julia Gillian (and the Art of Knowing)” and “Julia Gillian (and the Quest for Joy)”.

My Brother Abe: Sally Lincoln’s Story, by Harry Mazer, is an enlightening story about Lincoln’s older sister and her relationship with Lincoln as they grew up. The facts that are portrayed through this moving story take place in both Kentucky and Indiana as the family moves from their farm to a much more isolated location. The author takes liberties with Abe’s sister as there is little known about her, but you learn much about his upbringing and family life in this interesting historical fiction.

The Day Ray Got Away, by Angela Johnson, and illustrated by Luke LaMarca, is a creatively picturesque book about a bright, yellow balloon as he and other large balloons get ready for a balloon parade.  But he states at the beginning that “This is the day”. He is ready to break free of his ropes as the parade gets underway. The brilliant acrylic paintings fill the pages and Ray’s gleaming smile will likely become the reader’s smile as well.

Animal House, by Candace Ryan, and brightly painted by Nathan Hale, is a fun word play about a boy who is told by his teacher, Mrs. Nuddles, that he belongs in a zoo due to his wild imagination.  He states that he lives in a “gorvilla” and that he has a “vulchair” “drooling ever since Mrs. Nuddles came into the room.” The pictures, ingenious illustrations and word usage may spark some ingenuity on your own – which continues on both inside covers.

The Gentleman Bug, by Julian Hector, celebrates the love of reading as Hector, a bookworm,  enjoys reading everywhere he goes. He’s about to meet another bug, the librarian, who also loves reading. The wonderful detailed pictures give the ambiance of yesteryear.

Mr. Elephanter, by Lark Pien, is elephant-chanting and a most delightful and wistful story about a smiling Mr. Elephanter who goes to the “elephantery” where he takes care of the cutest tiny elephants. He makes, bakes and plays with these adorable little critters and when they need discipline, he does so with a gentle hand. The pencil and watercolors are a perfect fit, and don’t forget to check out the inside covers where the story begins and ends.

Disappearing Desmond, by Anna Alter, has young Desmond, a cat, who doesn’t like to be noticed ever:  not in school, not at recess, not even while on a field trip. But it’s all about to change when an insightful rabbit notices him reading her favorite book and asks to join him.  Now he likes being noticed and he sets out to find other disappearing students. The message is clear here with the importance of helping others feel part of a group. The vibrant acrylic pictures fill each page.

A Pig Parade is a Terrible Idea, by Michael Ian Black, and illustrated by Kevin Hawkes, will have you pondering how these paltry pigs parade when in reality they eat their uniforms, stomp on their horns and much, much more. Hawkes’ hilarious renderings of these pinkish pigs doing all sorts of unwilling things will have you pontificate what would be better. I especially like the cover showing a large drum with a pig’s snout breaking through!

Clever Jack Takes the Cake, by Candace Fleming, and illustrated by G. Brian Kars, will surely inspire a tale or two of your own after reading this invigorating story.  Jack is too poor to take the young princess a present so he decides to bake her a cake.  He cleverly trades ingredients that he needs to make a most succulent cake.  But as he travels along the way, animals and a troll eat it almost completely.  He sadly tells the princess what became of her cake and how she responds will have all who read or listen adoring this story. The gouache and pencil drawings adeptly add imagination to each page.

Don’t Slam the Door!, by Dori Chaconas, and illustrated by Will Hillenbrand, has a puppy running through a door setting off pandemonium. This action sets off a cumulative reaction as it wakes up the cat that unravels Ma’s knitting yarn and on and on. Will the house ever be the same? This fun rhyming tale begs to be read aloud. The expressions of each person or animal affected are most comical.

Too Pickley!, by Jean Reidy, and illustrated by Genevieve LeLoup, is a simple story about simply being too picky. The fun rhyming text has a variety of two word phrases that describes how a fussy little boy feels about his food. “Too crunchy, too licky, too stringy, too sticky!” Each vibrantly colored page has a different background color making items discussed pop-out at you.

Little Gorilla, by Ruth Bornstein, is a reissue that was first published back in 1976.  Young Gorilla is loved by all, but as he grows and changes he wonders if he’ll still be loved. This cherished classic is loved by all, especially the colored pencil drawings of the animals in the jungle.

And lastly, Speckle the Spider, by Emma Dodson, is filled with maps, flaps and pull-outs for tiny hands to enjoy while reading about a spider who is ready for an adventure.  The more he travels, the more he receives attention, but is this what he wants?  The acrylic and ink illustrations, along with the interactive flaps, make Speckle’s adventure a great one.

Ghoul Strike!, by Andrew Newbound, finds twelve-year-old Alannah in the midst of searching for her parents who went missing over 3 years ago while searching for ghosts. Now, it seems that Alannah has similar psychic powers passed on to her as she can see these ghostly encounters. She is about to go head-first into a discovery that will almost throw her off course. The humor and banter between her and the other characters throughout this book make this mystery lighter and funny.

Among the Ghosts, by Amber Benson with delightful illustrations sprinkled throughout by Sina Grace, embroils Noleen in a conflict unknown to anyone else while staying at an old boarding school. She befriends ghosts in an area near a burned-out dormitory and soon discovers that these ghosts are unwillingly disappearing and she must find out why in order to put a stop to it.

Modern Fairies, Dwarves, Goblins & Other Nasties: A Practical Guide by Miss Edythe McFate, by Lesley M. M. Blume, and wonderful pen and ink drawings by David Foote, is most likely going to be one of my favorite books of the year! Ms. Blume has captured the magical essence of these smallish sprites as she delves deep into their many adventures and mischievous behaviors. There are prequel warnings and explanations prior to each tale with follow-up notes and further help in order to better understand their actions or reactions.

The Wish Stealers, by Tracy Triva, involves sixth grader, Griffin, the moment she accepts a box of what she thinks are lucky pennies given to her by a mysterious old woman. She is now officially a “wish stealer” as these pennies were stolen from a wishing fountain and bad wishes are going to come from them. Griffin sets out to change this predicament and break the curse.

Fablehaven: Keys to the Demon Prison, by Brandon Mull, is the last installment of the popular Fablehaven series and it won’t disappoint you as it’s every bit as exciting and nailbiting as the prior books. The same brother and sister duo, Seth and Kendra, must travel a great distance where they are in search of the keys to the demon prison before the evil Sphinx recovers the five artifacts.

The Search for Wondla, by Tony DiTerlizzi, is the beginning of a new series that will thrill the reader. The author of the Spiderwick series has created a new story set in the future about twelve-year-old Eva Nine who has been raised by a robot. Now, she is forced for the first time to go aboveground where she has never been before. She has never seen another human but believes there must be more like her. Her most treasured item is a piece of cardboard with a young girl, an adult, a robot and the words “Wondla” on it. She is about to encounter many unusual friends and foes as she treks across this new horizon. The author has masterly illustrated two toned pictures as well as incorporated some new elements in this book. With the use of a webcam, there are several augmented reality pictures that add to Eva’s dimension.

The Heart of Glass, by Vivian French, is the third installment to the “Five Kingdoms” series following “The Bag of Bones”. Ms. French continues the story of Gracie Gillypott and Prince Marcus, but this day they are going to watch dwarves. Princess Marigold has different ideas for Prince Marcus as she has her heart set on his. Throw in some trolls, a goblin and some noisy bats along with a powerful heart of glass and you’ve got a hilarious and thrilling adventure!

Oracles of Delphi Keep: The Curse of Deadman’s Forest, by Victoria Laurie, is the second in this series and suffice it to say that you will love this series. The first book begins along the coast of England where a castle houses orphans. When a brother and sister find a treasure box, their exciting adventure unfolds with monsters, mythical creatures and even a portal to another country. This second book continues the sibling’s quests and is compared to the Chronicles of Narnia.

Enchanted Glass, by Diana Wynne Jones, begins when Andrew inherits his grandfather’s large house and property. The property houses ghosts, and even a giant, but it’s about to receive an orphan who has problems of his own with the supernatural. Andrew takes this young boy in and the ghostly presence heightens immediately.

Alpha Oops! H is for Halloween, by Alethea Kontis, and illustrated by Bob Kolar, is the hilarious sequel to “AlphaOops! The Day Z Went First” by the same author and illustrator.  I loved the first book for its creative aspect of an alphabet book that doesn’t go in the traditional alphabet order, and this book doesn’t disappoint! In fact, it might even be better because it’s so innovative.  “Z” begins by saying that “H” needs to kick things off and letters begin showing up on stage in their cleverly cloaked costumes that go along with their initial sound. The hilarious asides exclaimed by letters off stage are interesting, and even unusual, unknown words that are defined by the text. The letter “B” continues to try to find the right costume throughout, but here’s my word for “B” and this book: brilliant!

Bones, by award-winner Steve Jenkins, will have you looking at your hands and feet much more closely as the ever brilliant author/illustrator enlightens all to the skeletons of the world. There are skeleton parts of femur bones, rib cages and even a double page fold-out of a snake skeleton. The last double page fold-out is of the most important skeleton: you. The cover of a large human skull heads readers in the right direction. This is a definite Caldecott candidate!

Trick or Treat, Old Armadillo, by Larry Dane Brimner, and illustrated by Dominic Catalano, evokes a southwestern feel throughout, along with text with intermittent Spanish. Old Armadillo is awaiting his friends to come trick-or-treating to his house in their scary costumes. But they are in for a surprise when he opens his door. The darkened pastels emit a Halloween southwestern flair. Look for the cactus with a cut-out jack-o-lantern face. You’ll find a glossary for the Spanish words in the front of the book.

Big Scary Monster, by Thomas Docherty, is a teachable story about a big blue beast who likes to scare all of the smaller animals on his mountain. When he decides to go down the mountain to find others to scare, he learns an important lesson.  The bright watercolors fill the pages as does the large blue monster.

Always Listen to Your Mother, by Florence Parry Heide & Roxanne Hide Pierce, and illustrated by Kyle M. Stone, has a pleasing child who obediently asks his mother if he can go meet the new neighbors. He soon discovers that this ghoulish looking new neighbor and his mother have different ideas of keeping a house clean. The mixed-media illustrations brilliantly and humorously show the extreme differences of these two boys.  The contrast in both boys’ living conditions make for a very funny story.

Scarum Fair, by Jessica Swaim, and illustrated by Carol Ashley, is a list of witty and somewhat chilling poems that are geared for ages eight and up. This rhyming fair includes a poem about “deadbeats” who play in a band while “the ghoul on the sax de-composes”. The illustrations of pen, ink and acrylics showcase beasts you’re unlikely to meet.

If You’re a Monster and You Know It, by Rebecca and Ed Emberley, has their trademark brilliant colors against a black background. This book is a take-off of the traditional song of “If You’re Happy and You Know It”, but the subject is a monster and there are some of the most fantastic and inventive beasts imaginable! By the end of this book, if you’re not singing along, you’re just not a monster!  You can also download the song and sing along.

Hubknuckles, by Emily Herman, and illustrated by Deborah Kogan Ray, was first written back in 1985. This somewhat frightening story tells about a family who awaits the ghost, Hubknuckles, who appears every Halloween. The first-person telling the story, Lee, has decided that the ghost is really her parents. But when she goes out to see the ghost, she’s in for a surprise. The graphite and pencil pictures give off an illusion of a ghostly appearance.

The Patterson Puppies and the Midnight Monster Party, by Leslie Patricelli, takes on the ever constant problem of children waking in the middle of the night because they are scared. Little Petra is scared every night until the rest of her family come up with a solution. The vivid acrylics make this family of dogs come to life in an anthropomorphized state of human characteristics.

The Red Pyramid, by Rick Riordan, is a brand new series, much like his fantastic “Lightening Thief” series, but this book is set in Brooklyn, New York. This page-turner begins with an explosion and the mythical gods that his new characters, Carter and Sadie, are dealing with are Egyptian. The adventures that follow are as exciting and thrilling as the author’s last series – and are humorous as well. Just give yourself enough time to read this book because you won’t want to stop!

Dying to Meet You (43 Old Cemetery Road), by Kate Klise, and illustrated by M. Sarah Klise, is the first in a planned series about a worn-out writer who moves to an old haunted house already inhabited by an abandoned boy, his cat and a very bossy female ghost. This house sets the stage for a very fun, funny and exhilarating story all told uniquely through letters, newspaper articles and drawings.

Brixton Brothers:  The Case of the Case of Mistaken Identity, by Mac Barnett, and with great illustrations sprinkled throughout by Adam Rex, is a case that’s waiting to be cracked. Twelve-year-old Steve Brixton is about to become a crime-fighting detective when he discovers some most unusual  and highly trained agents in the library!  Get ready for this page-turner from beginning to end!

Notes From a Totally Lame Vampire (Because the Undead Have Feelings Too!), by Tim Collins, and illustrated by Andrew Pinder, is a funny look into an untypical teen, Nigel, who’s also a vampire. And he’s not anything like the typical vampire being very slow and having little strength. The story is written from Nigel’s perspective and written in a journal fashion along with pencil drawings that match the storyline.

Something Upstairs, by Avi, is a thriller with an historical aspect. Twelve-year-old Kenny has just moved to Rhode Island where he finds that his house is haunted. He soon discovers that a ghost, whose name is Caleb, was a slave who lived over a hundred years ago and was murdered. Now Kenny is about to go back in time to try to solve this mystery. The events are constantly changing and are exciting all the way to the end.

A Zombie’s Guide to the Human Body, by Tom Becker and Mercer Mayer, is a non-fiction illustrated book looking inside the human body and all of the intricate and important parts and how they fit together. The complete layout of this amazingly kid-friendly book is so extraordinary and interesting that chances are everyone who opens it, will learn much, and read to the very end before putting it down!

Zombiekins, by Kevin Bolger, and illustrated by Aaron Blecha, is a hilarious story about a boy, Stanley, and the small stuffed bunny bear he buys at a yard sale. He’s about to discover that bunny bear isn’t just any normal stuffed animal but a zombie and so the adventure begins. There is a bit of unfortunate and inappropriate gross-out humor in the storyline, but the story is a fun and funny read that kids are sure to enjoy.

Customer RevNow for two early chapter books that might scare, or humor, ages six to eight. Ant and Honey Bee:  A Pair of Friends at Halloween, by Megan McDonald, and illustrated by G. Brian Karas, is a fun and funny beginning chapter book for the earliest readers of this venue. Ms. McDonald is an expert in moving a story along in the most interesting way. (She’s also the author of the popular “Judy Moody” series.)  Ant and Honey Bee are great friends and Ant is attempting to find a different pairing of costumes this year for both. The dialogue between both characters, and the humor and adventures that await them, is a great beginning for early readers. This is the first book in a planned series.

Andy Shane and the Barn Sale Mystery, by Jennifer Richard Jacobson, and illustrated by Abby Carter, has Andy getting ready to give Granny her un-birthday present when he realizes he has no money. But when he comes up with the idea to have a barn sale to get money he finds someone has stolen something of value during the sale. This story continues in the Andy Shane series with a number of repeating, fun and endearing characters.