The Mighty Miss Malone, by Christopher Paul Curtis, centers around twelve-year-old Deza living with her dear devoted family during the Great Depression in the Mid West.  When her father loses his job, he heads to Michigan while his wife continues her job back in Indiana. Soon after, she loses her job and now the family is left homeless. However, through all of the tremendous challenges and difficulties her family faces, including racial tension, Deza’s family remains strong and committed to each other. The story is superbly written with a storytelling style connecting one event to the next and with great fluidity.

Where Do You Stay?, by Andrea Cheng, is a compelling story of loss and recovery when eleven-year-old Jerome, who tells this drama, deals with the loss of his single mother’s sickness and ultimately her death.  He has to adjust to moving in with his mother’s sister who is also saddened by this death.  His aunt plans to adopt him, but Jerome still feels alone and misses his mother, his home and his familiar surroundings. This story reads with poetic prose as Jerome ultimately discovers an older neighbor who loves music as he does and helps Jerome navigate his life back on course finding beauty in the rhythm of life.

The Diary of Patsy, a Freed Girl, (I Thought My Soul Would Rise and Fly) Mars Bluff, South Carolina 1865, from the “Dear America” series, by Joyce Hansen, follows young Patsy as she and the other slaves living at Davis Hall can now leave after their emancipation during the Reconstruction Era. But she finds that slave life is still strongly tied to the plantations, as her life changes very little.  She overcomes much in her life as she teaches herself to read and write and begins to help other slaves on the plantation. Patsy suffers difficulty growing up as she limps, stutters and is extremely shy, but education helps her lot in life tremendously. This story is told (as with all in this series) through diary entries, but don’t let that mislead – the story flows with much emotion and drama.  And check out the historical information found at the back of the book.

Black & White, The Confrontation Between Reverend Fred L. Shuttlesworth and Eugene “Bull” Connor, by Larry Dane Brimner, is an account of one of the most crucial and difficult times during the civil rights movement during the 1950’s and 1960’s. Reverend Shuttlesworth, an African-American minister, was striving to end segregation in Birmingham, Alabama. Eugene “Bull” Connor was the Commissioner for Public Safety and was not about to let Blacks make any kind of change in the city even though it would improve their lives. This historical account is riveting and full of photographs making this a must for ages twelve and older.

Just as Good: How Larry Doby Changed America’s Game, by Chris Crowe, and beautifully painted in acrylic by Mike Benny, tells about an important time in African American history when not only Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier when he signed to play in the National League, but Doby signed 11 weeks later to play in the American League. Doby doesn’t have the notoriety (of Robinson), but his outstanding ability while playing for the Cleveland Indians helped validate that race should not prevent any and all who want to play this sport. Young Homer tells the story of the first game in the World Series with Cleveland. He loves playing baseball, even though he’s been turned down to play on the Little League team because of the color of his skin. The story showcases Homer and his family listening to the game, back in 1945, on the radio. The paintings are full page spreads depicting this era. Be sure to check out the historical notes found at the back of the book.

Never Forgotten, by Patricia C. McKissack, and artistically painted with acrylic and watercolor on bristol board by Leo and Diane Dillon, is this year’s Coretta Scott King Author Honor Award book. This powerful story is told in verse and begins with a young black boy being kidnapped and sold into slavery. Each poem tells a compelling story of the events to this family’s ancestors and the bond that holds them all together. The iconic cover illustration begins the tale with the strength of the father holding up his infant son for all to see.

What Color is My World?  The Lost History of African-American Inventors, by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Raymond Obstfeld, and ingeniously illustrated by Ben Boos and A. G. Ford, is an overlarge book with flaps that open to reveal commentaries of young Ella as she humorously writes reflections on lesser-known African American inventors. The book reads like an adventure as Ella and her brother learn about these inventors from a handyman. The book is well documented and the children’s interactions with the handyman keep the entire book entertaining and enjoyable to read.

The last two picture books are based on true events and both deal with the struggles and segregation of the 1960’s. Both of these books would be a good introduction to open discussions with younger children. They are:  White Water, by Michael S. Bandy and Eric Stein, and beautifully painted by Shadra Strickland, and Belle, the Last Mule at Gee’s Bend, by Calvin Alexander Ramsey and Bettye Stroud, and gloriously painted by John Holyfield.

Let’s begin with pop-up and interactive books. Super Science:  Feel the Force!  Full of Pop-up Physics Fun!, by Tom Adams, and ingeniously illustrated by Thomas Flintham, is packed with inventive and interesting facts that are sure to spark even the most reluctant scientist in your family. Learn about basic science elements and principles which include electricity, gravity and friction. There are also pull-tabs, small booklets and open flaps included.

Amazing Pop-Up Trucks, by Robert Crowther, is an over-sized book with five fascinating trucks that seem to explode off the page as you open each double page. Each truck includes interesting facts and a photograph of the vehicle.

The Great Global Puzzle Challenge with Google Earth, by Clive Gifford, and packed with in-credible detailed illustrations by William Ings, teaches you how to navigate through google to find coordinates on maps by combining both book and google to locate destinations. These destinations are somehow connected to the next search and each page is also filled with details of that city/area which the reader needs to discover to continue the search. This book is great fun through the various discoveries!

Puppies and Kittens and Other Pop-Up Pets, by one of my favorite paper engineers: Matthew Reinhart, is one in a series of pop-up books that are finally constructed for tiny hands. The pop ups are made of thicker and simpler construction enabling young children to enjoy them.

Razzle-Dazzle Ruby, by Masha Dyans, is an interactive story full of wheels to turn, tabs to pull or open and pop-ups.  Also, Ruby is surrounded with glistening snow that turns her day into magic.

Now for some classic reissues, and featured compilations, check out these outstanding books. The Chronicles of Harris Burdick (14 Amazing Authors Tell the Tale) based on the story by Chris Van Allsburg, has some of the best children’s authors incorporating Allsburg’s wordless and mysterious story into their own tales. Some of these renowned authors include Lois Lowry and Jon Scieszka. This book just may spark the author in you.

The Family Storybook Treasury:  Tales of Laughter, Curiosity and Fun, compiled by Hough-ton Mifflin Harcourt, is a compilation of beloved classic children’s stories and poems. This over-sized and colorful picture book includes stories from “Curious George”, “Martha Speaks” and “Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel”.

The Giver:  The Gift Edition, by Lois Lowry, has been reissued and packaged into this special edition along with thirteen new extraordinary illustrations by famed Bagram Ibatoulline.  Also in-cluded in this Newbery winner is an introduction and her 1994 acceptance speech for this coveted award.

The Annotated Phantom Tollbooth and The Phantom Tollbooth, by Norton Juster, and illustrated by Jules Feiffer, are two books celebrating the 50th-anniversary of this classic story. The annotated version has notes and an introduction by Leonard S. Marcus and brilliantly expresses a commentary alongside the story.  Both books are perfect gifts for an avid reader this Christmas.

The rest of the books are activity books that involve arts and crafts and are great fun to make and create. The following books are published by Klutz.

The Marvelous Book of Magical Horses, by Eva Steele-Saccio, includes six paper horses that you can decorate with colorful wings, stickers and more.

Brilliant Bead Rings, by Anne Avers Johnson, has simple instructions, beads of many colors and sizes and flexible wire to make easy, pretty rings.

Pom-Pom Monster Salon, by April Chorba, includes bright yarn, easy to follow instructions and decorations to make fun and funny pom-pom monsters.

Friendship Pixies, by Karen Phillips, includes bendable wire, colorful raffia for clothing and sparkly yarn hair to make your magical pixies.

Ribbon Bangles, by Eva Steele-Saccio, includes plain plastic bracelets along with bright ribbon and beads to make pretty bangles.

Kids Cooking is a perfect introduction of simple recipes for the youngest kitchen helper. In-cluded are colorful plastic measuring spoons.

Twisted Critters: The Pipe Cleaner Book shows fast and easy twisting and curling to make all kinds of animals, bracelets and more. There are dozens of brilliant pipe cleaners included.

The last two books are published by Simon & Schuster:  Green & Groovy Crafts: Fairy Crafts, by Pam Abrams and Jenny Wilson, has everything you need to make a fairy life. “Fairy Fashion”, “Fairy Furniture” and “Crowns & Headdresses” are just a few chapters. Included are ribbon, glitter, felt and more.

Pink Princess Party Cookbook, by Barbara Beery, includes six different types of princess parties along with recipes that go right along with the themes which are : “Snowflake”, “Spa”, “Garden”, “Mermaid”, “Enchanted Pony” and “Pink Princess” parties.

The Flint Heart, by Katherine and John Paterson, and magically painted by John Rocco and adapted from Eden Phillpott’s 1910 story, is an exciting foray into magic, fairies and adventure.  A very old relic that possesses power of control and greed is suddenly unearthed after being hidden deep in the ground for thousands of years.  A farmer, and loving family man, is completely changed for the worse when this talisman is found and so the adventures into the realm of magic begin. The husband/wife collaboration utilized the genius and humor of the original story while creating a tighter, more exciting, storyline. The colorful pictures sprinkled throughout are a perfect match.  This book would be a perfect bedtime story by reading a chapter every night.

Pie, by Sarah Weeks, takes place during the 1950’s and involves a mystery, indulgent town residents, a cat, and of course mouthwatering pies. When Alice’s pie-baker extraordinaire, Aunt Polly, dies the town that was made famous by her pies goes into a baking frenzy. The secret piecrust recipe was bestowed to Aunt Polly’s cat which Alice also inherited and which makes her the sole heir to the famous and highly sought-after recipe. The jealousy and onslaught of bad behavior by not only the town, but by Alice’s own mother (who felt betrayed by not getting the recipe for herself), heightens when the cat is kidnapped, or catnapped, and Alice and her friend must solve the dilemma before the town falls apart.  There is much humor throughout the book and most importantly, there are yummy pie recipes sprinkled throughout as well.

Small Acts of Amazing Courage, by one of my favorite historical fiction authors:  Gloria Whelan, is set in India post World War I and fifteen-year-old Rosy loves all aspects of the country from the vivid bright colors to the scents of jasmine and spices.  Her military father doesn’t want her to blend with the culture and especially with its people.  But she doesn’t comply as she is best friends with a daughter of one of the servants and enjoys patronizing the busy bazaar. Trouble finds her when she helps save a baby’s life by hiding him in a bedroom.  Many issues of segre-gation and treatment of the British and Indians are brought to light in this fascination look into the pre-independence of India.

The Dagger Quick, by Brian Eames, will have you on the edge of your seat or ship or wherever you happen to be while reading this terrific adventure. The year is 1678 and Kitto is living a life on land with a daily schedule of helping his family make ends meet even with his disability – a clubfoot. When his seafaring uncle, Capt. William Quick, visits life changes for Kitto. His father dies and his stepmother and brother are kidnapped by a ruthless pirate who is in search for a treasure that he believes Uncle Williams has knowledge of the whereabouts. This page-turner will hold you all the way to the end – just don’t get thrown overboard!

The Romeo and Juliet Code, by Phoebe Stone, is a look into disrupted British children as parents sent them to safety and away from the bombing in London during World War II.  Felicity has been sent to live with her father’s family while her parents go to Portugal on secret business.  She soon discovers that her Uncle and other relatives seem very mysterious and she’s about to set out to solve these mysteries, as well as discover why her parents are in Portugal. She also becomes friends with an eccentric cousin who’s recovering from polio. There’s much for one to learn about the hardships of the war and the value of family in this well written story.

Beyonders:  A World Without Heroes, by Brandon Mull, has thirteen-year-old Jason, along with his newly found friend, Rachel, attempting to return to his home in Colorado as he’s been trans-ported to the magical world of Lyrian. This page-turner is Mull’s new series that includes amazing twists and turns all along the way.  The second book is planned to be published in March.

Kat, Incorrigible, by Stephanie Burgis, is a story about twelve-year-old Kat who lives in early nineteenth century England. She is attempting to help her sisters as she recently has discovered she has magical abilities to help thwart her stepmother’s wishes to marry them off to the highest bidder. This story showcases a girl with spirit, intelligence and courage to help her older sisters achieve their destiny. This is the first book in a planned series.

Here are two new books by favorite and award-winning author, Gary Paulsen. Liar, Liar invokes a path of fibs and tales as fourteen-year-old Kevin finds himself deep in a web of lies that eventually traps him. He lies to get out of schoolwork and at home. But his little four-year-old brother finally brings him back to the truth. Flat Broke continues the story about Kevin only this time he’s using his creative ingenuity to make money. But the big problem here is he doesn’t think about the people he steps on or the illegal practices he uses to make the buck. Eventually, his entrepreneurial world cracks and his learning curve takes a giant step upwards. The chapter headings are a tongue-in-cheek look at how he believes he’s achieving his ultimate goal.

The Accidental Hero, by Matt Myklusch, is an adventure that will whisk you away from the onset, and carry you to far off lands. Jack lives in an orphanage but that soon changes when a robot from his favorite comic book attempts to destroy him and another rescues him.  He is transported to a hidden island that he soon discovers is his real world.  There is much for Jack to discover and make right in this new life and his perseverance and special powers pay off. This is especially good for boys and reluctant readers.

The Bravest Woman in America, by Marissa Moss, and painted by Andrea U’Ren, is a picture book that celebrates the life of Ida Lewis who helped save over two dozen lives off the coast of Rhode Island. Her father was the lighthouse keeper during the mid-1900’s and he taught her all of the important aspects of keeping the harbor safe. She was only sixteen when she saved four young boys’ lives by rowing her small boat out through stormy seas and rescuing them. After her father died, she became the official lighthouse keeper helping guide many small boats and large ships to safety.  She was recognized by the press, Congress and the American Red Cross as the “bravest woman in America”. The paintings of the white-crested waves evoke the tumultuous difficulty of the rescues. Be sure to check out the author’s note about more of this hero’s life as well as a photo of her.  This book is good for ages seven and up.

Levi Strauss Gets a Bright Idea: A Fairly Fabricated Story of a Pair of Pants, by Tony Johnston, and brilliantly illustrated by Stacy Innerst, is a hilariously tall tale picture book about the possibilities of how this denim pant came to be. The text begs to be read aloud and reading it out loud will enable you to pronounce the western accent that dangles on every page! The full page spreads flow with color and Innerst even used old denim pants to paint on. This book is great fun to read to all ages.

Mr. Sam:  How Sam Walton built Wal-Mart and Became America’s Richest Man, by Karen Blumenthal, is an interesting chapter book geared for ages ten and up about how Mr. Walton built a retail empire with hard work, determination and ingenuity.  There are graphs, photos and charts that go right along with the book.

Marco Polo:  History’s Great Adventurer, by Clint Twist, is a very inventive look back at this great explorer with flaps, items in envelopes and maps aplenty!  The oversized book opens creatively with the cover opening in the middle.  There’s even a map included that shows how the Europeans viewed the flat world back in Polo’s time.  Kids of all ages will likely pour over this book again and again and it just might spark the explorer in your child.  And in this same format, William Shakespeare:  His Life and Times, by Kristen McDermott, Ph D and Ari Berk, Ph D, is one of the best introductions for kids to begin to understand this brilliant writer by seeing, reading and smiling at the many different elements of Shakespeare’s writing. There is much information found on the pages, on flaps and inside envelopes. This is a must for serious writers and both books are good for ages nine and up.

The Extraordinary Mark Twain (According to Suzy), by Barbara Kerley, and illustrated with digital media by Edwin Fotheringham, is an autobiography picture book with the help of Twain’s thirteen-year-old daughter, Susy, along with Kerley’s liberal interpretation of events that took place during Twain’s life. There are many journal entries inside flaps found throughout the book and the pictures fill both pages. There are also insightful directions of how to write a biography as well as a timeline found in the back. This book is good for ages nine and up.

Lost Boy: The Story of the Man Who Created Peter Pan, by Jane Yolen, and beautifully painted by Steve Adams, is a picture book that showcases J. M. Barrie and the many comparisons to his classic story about Peter Pan.  This biography tells about Barrie’s life as a child and as an adult.  There are some wonderful quotes from Barrie that are found at the bottom of several pages that correlate his life, experiences, friends and the storyline.  There’s a list of all the books written by Barrie found at the back of the book. This book is good for ages seven and up.

The Crossing:  Lewis & Clark’s Historic Journey Seen Through a Brand-New Pair of Eyes, by Donna Jo Napoli, and illustrated by Jim Madsen, is told through the eyes of the baby on the back of a cradleboard of his mother, Sacagawea. This beautifully painted picture book was rendered with digital media. The soft hues of golden browns, rich lavenders, vibrant blues and grassy greens fill the pages as you observe the wilderness, wildlife and skyline as these explorers crossed the country. The text is simple, yet powerful, in exclaiming all that surrounds young baby. And it’s also interesting to note time passing as baby grows. The author’s note, found at the back, makes this book good for all ages.

Janitors, by Tyler Whitesides, is a magical book about sixth grader, Spencer, and his side-kick, Daisy, who have just discovered a secret underworld society of janitors.  These custodians of cleaning are trying desperately to get rid of small creatures who seem to be draining the smart-ness out of kids. Spencer and Daisy are trying to alert the school about the huge dilemma that faces them but no one believes them. This book will have you looking at vacuums completely differently. This is the first book in an exciting new series geared for ages nine and up.

The Testimony Glove, by Kristen M. Oaks and JoAnne F. Phillips, and illustrated by Dan Burr, is a picture book geared for ages four through eight that contains a white glove. This glove represents the Holy Ghost. Each finger tip has a small colorful picture that can be reapplied with Velcro. These pictures display the basis and definition of a testimony.  They are: God the Father, Jesus Christ, Joseph Smith, a temple and President Monson.  The story that goes along with the glove is about a little girl and her family during family home evening. There is a nice summary of testimonies as well as a song, “My Testimony”, and more resources found at the back of the book. The illustrations are beautifully painted and add to the spirit of the book. This is a perfect book for children preparing for baptism and for families.

Cinderella CTR, by Rick Walton, and painted by Lucy Beatrix, is a clever, fun and humorous take off picture book that is actually perfect for all ages, especially teens.  Cinderella has been taught well by her parents and when they die suddenly (on a Merry-Go-Round, no less) she is sent to live with her mean, awful relatives.  She can’t take anything with her, but sneaks her CTR ring her parents gave her as she leaves. There are many allegories and symbolisms that readers will learn from in the book. Such as when the prince is looking for Cinderella after the ball, he’s not looking for her matching shoe, he’s asking the young women in the town what the letters stand for. The pictures are wonderfully painted and the story is well developed and great fun to read. But even better, Cinderella stands up for her beliefs and morals!

Monday I was a Monkey:  A “Tail” of Reverence, by Jennie McClain, and illustrated with digital enhancement by Jennifer Eichelberger, is a witty picture book showcasing a young boy who pre-tends to be an aggressive wild animal each day of the week. But when Sunday comes, he tempers his lively spirit and allows reverence to rule the day.  Each day portrays his exuberance as he magnifies his six different animals throughout the week. But the calming effect of the sacred Sabbath is gloriously exemplified.

The Forgotten Locket, by Lisa Mangum, is the final book in the “Hourglass Door” series and it won’t disappoint you. All of the buildup and tension that builds up to this conclusion ties the loose ends yet keeps the tension going clear to the end. The book is well written with descriptions, which are at times, unparalleled. I just hope the author is already engaged in another exciting series! This book is good for ages eleven and up.

What Girls Need to Know About Guys and What Guys Need to Know About Girls, by John and Lani O. Hilton, is a book that you turn over to read about the other title. This guide book is a must for teens in order to get a better understanding of the opposite sex as well as have better restraints while dating. The chapters line up almost identically, but are written for the viewpoint of the girls or boys. A few include: “What about Kissing?”, What Girls Wish Guys Knew” and “Discover Who You Really Are”.

Pumpkin Roll, a Culinary Mystery by Josi S. Kilpack, is another great culinary mystery from a favorite author who uses the same protagonist to solve the mysterious goings on nearby. In this case, Sadie Hoffmiller has some questions about her neighbor across the street. Her three grandsons believe that Mrs. Wapple is a witch and the grandmother begins to believe something isn’t quite right when Mrs. Wapple gets attacked in her own home.  You’ll not only become embroiled in the story, but the recipes found sprinkled throughout will whet your appetite! This book is good for teens through adults.

Bad Guys of the Book of Mormon, by Dennis Gaunt, is a great read that is actually written with many asides, humorous antidotes and parallels to today’s lingo. In the Forward, at the beginning of the book, the author states how he came upon the idea of writing about the bad influences within the Book of Mormon and it really makes sense. By learning from the tricks and tumultuous attacks of character from Satan’s helpers in the Book of Mormon, we can more easily identify current day tactics as well and be prepared for prevention. You get an idea of how clever and entertaining the book is by just reading the contents. Here’s a few of them: “Whiners in the Wilderness: Laman and Lemuel” and “Kings for a Day, Losers for Life: King Noah, Amulon and the Wicked Priests”. This book is good for teens through adult.

The Wedding Letters, by Jason F. Wright, is a continuation from the successful “The Wednes-day Letters” by the same author. The tradition of Jack writing letters to his wife every Wednesday continues with Jack’s grandson, Noah.  But when he’s about to marry the love of his life, he finds out something dark from his fiancée’s past. How he and his family overcome the dilemma makes for a riveting and humorous read. The book is also good for teens and adults.

Family Ties:  A Message for Fathers, by Elder L. Tom Perry, is a must for every father, father to be and family. It incorporates the importance of the Priesthood inside the home, the blessings that come from that as well as the rock of foundation being built by both the father and mother. This is a powerful message of anchoring the Priesthood in every family making it a must read for younger and older men.

The first three books are geared more for teens and adults – but be warned:  they are so good that you’d better make time because you won’t want to stop reading them! The Miracle of Freedom: 7 Tipping Points that Saved the World, by Chris and Ted Stewart, is another inspiring book that recounts the “string that runs through history, a common thread that ties it all together.” But unlike their best selling “Seven Miracles That Saved America”, this book goes back in time to other great historical events that led up to the making of America and the freedoms that have prevailed since then. This thread becomes the amazing 7 points that changed the world when America developed its constitution and kept it intact during World War II. The exhausting research that the Stewarts obtained for the accuracy of the history is found in the notes at the back of each chapter. “The Roman Emperor Constantine’s conversion to Christianity” and “The discovery of the New World” are two of the tipping points.

The Original Argument: The Federalists’ Case for the Constitution, Adapted for the 21st Century, by Glenn Beck and Joshua Charles, along with Kevin Bale, Wynton Hall, David Harsanyi and Peter Schweizer, is a most insightful look into “The Federalist Papers” that were originally written as correspondence between Alexander Hamilton, James Madison and John Jay. These papers were written in the late 1780’s and laid the groundwork for our Constitutional law and rights. However, they are very difficult to understand and that’s where this book becomes extremely valuable!  Mr. Beck and Mr. Charles have outlined many of the papers and what the message is, the original quote, and the relevance of it today. This message is clear, easy to understand and employs a greater reverence and respect for what our Founding Fathers intended.

Father Abraham:  Lincoln and His Sons, by Harold Holzer, is an enriching account of Lincoln’s love of his family. You’ll read about Lincoln’s career in his law practice and in politics, but the real emphasis is his great love of his wife and 4 sons. There is tragedy in his life as his two youngest sons, Eddie and Willie, died as young children and Tad died at age 18. Only the oldest, Robert, survived. He went on to serve on Grant’s staff at the end of the Civil War and became a successful lawyer in Chicago.  Robert had one son whom he named after his father but he died as well, sadly leaving no descendants. But the book tells many heart-warming and humorous stories about Lincoln and his sons.

The Capital Kids series has three new books that are part of the Kennedy Center: Chasing George Washington, Teddy Roosevelt and the Treasure of Ursa Major and The Lives of White House Pets Unleashed. All three books are adapted from plays by Ronald Kidd, and are illustrated by Ard Hoyt. This is an excellent series, geared for ages seven to ten, which brings history to life by using modern day kids and applying historical figures to their everyday lives. These books are great fun to read as well as informative! And pencil etchings are sprinkled throughout.

The Dear America series are always excellent with keeping kids, ages eight to twelve, engaged as well as informed. The newest editions include: Standing in the Light, Delaware Valley, Pennsylvania, 1763, Cannons at Dawn, Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, 1779, A Picture of Freedom, Belmont Plantation, Virginia, 1859, A Light in the Storm, Fenwick Island, Delaware, 1861, When Will This Cruel War Be Over?, Gordonsville, Virginia, 1864 and I Thought My Soul Would Rise and Fly, Mars Bluff, South Carolina, 1865. These books are all written in a diary format but are very rich in story form.

The Slightly Odd United States of America: Wacky Facts Great Country, by the editors of Klutz, is full of interesting facts about each state. The design is definitely kid-friendly as each page has one state and the artwork and layout is fun and easy to read. There are also games, puzzles and more to enjoy! This book is perfect for a summer trip for ages seven and up.

Paul Revere’s Ride, by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and illustrated by Monica Vachula, is a revitalization of the classic poem by the renowned poet in this beautifully painted picture book. Vachula has tirelessly researched this subject to enlighten and bring this poem to life. You’ll find her details intriguing and edifying. If Longfellow hadn’t written this poem, Paul Revere might have remained unknown.

All the Way to America: The Story of a Big Italian Family and a Little Shovel, by Dan Yaccarino, is a wonderful celebration of the immigrants that made up America. This picture book shows the personal history of the author and is rich in hues of greens and oranges throughout. The gauge used to show the passage of time is a shovel used differently by each generation. Check out the inside covers!

What Does the President Look Like?, by Jane Hampton Cook, and illustrated by Adam Ziskie, is a fascinating picture book that looks back in history and how Americans “knew” what their president looked like. Before there was the invention of photography they depended on portraitures and political cartoons from newspapers There are interesting facts, found on each president, highlighted as well.

Lady Liberty:  A Biography, by Doreen Rappaport, and illustrated by Matt Tavares, is a picture book that tells the story about the statue’s beginnings and its construction. Told entirely through voices of imagined people, the history is valid and strong as is the remarkable full page watercolor pictures. Check out the historical notes found at the back of the book.

Into the Unknown:  How Great Explorers Found Their Way by Land, Sea and Air, by Stewart Ross, and illustrated by innovative Stephen Biesty, is a marvelous account documenting, in chronological order, the travels and accomplishments of 14 explorers. These include Leif Eriksson in 1003 A. D., Mark Kingsley in 1895 and Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin in 1969. These explorers stepped out into the unknown to discover new parts of earth and space. There are amazing fold-outs to learn about in each chapter, as well as maps and colored pencil detail that invite readers in and keeps them engaged throughout this incredible book!  Even the book cover opens into a detailed map of exploration.

Not Your Parents’ Money Book:  Making, Saving and Spending Your Own Money, by Jean Chatzky, is a powerfully informative book that helps kids understand the value of earning and saving money. The book is organized in a kid-friendly fashion to make it engaging while teaching the importance of managing money.

No Problem! An Easy Guide to Getting What You Want, by Ken Watanabe, and illustrated by Elwood H. Smith, is a problem solving book that helps kids initiate a solution by following simple steps after discerning they are up against a difficult situation and need to make a decision. These problem solving tools include understanding the problem, figuring out the cause of the problem and coming up with a solution that will work.

A Family of Readers: The Book Lover’s Guide to Children’s and Young Adult Literature, by Roger Sutton and Martha V. Parravano, is more than just a list of recommended books by these editors of “The Horn Book Magazine”. It gives informative opinions from readers who love books for kids. I especially like the way each section is divided: “Reading to Them”, “Reading With Them” and “Reading on Their Own”. However, the last section, “Leaving Them Alone”, should be disregarded as it’s for teens and for the most part these books are inappropriate, so I say just that: leave them alone!

Rule the World: 119 Shortcuts to Total World Domination, by the editors of Klutz, is a tongue-in-cheek book that advises all on how to live up to your potential. Here are a few chapters in this hilarious spoof: “Delegate Everything”, “Wing It”, and Have a Trustworthy Handshake”.

Tales of Famous Heroes, by Peter and Connie Roop, and illustrated by Rebecca Zomchek, covers over 15 famous people who helped change history. Some of these people include Paul Revere, Sacagawea, Nelson Mandela and Jane Goodall. Each hero is easily discernable from the highlighted starred label next to their name; for example, above Sacagawea’s name is the label: Native American guide.

A Value Tales Treasury: Stories for Growing Good People, by Spencer Johnson, M. D., is a motivational book about five great people and their stories briefly told about how they became great. The book is geared for “younger” children, ages 5 to 10, by introducing five important characteristics, followed by a famous person. The five traits are: believing in yourself, helping others, being honest, determination and having humor. The illustrations, by Dan Andreasen, are done in oil.

The Adventures of Sir Gawain the True, by Gerald Morris, and illustrations sprinkled throughout by Aaron Renier, is a chapter book geared for ages 7 to 9 that is a delight to read.  Furthermore, this book teaches the importance of being courteous. This is one book in a series, and if you’ve not read any of Morris’s other books, you’re missing out!

Bill Peet: An Autobiography is the story of this famous children’s author / illustrator told through his own eyes. With his notable black and white illustrations on every page, he looks back at his childhood and livelihood as an artist and brings out the difficulties encountered along the way demonstrating that life has its challenges and its rewards.

Hope is an Open Heart, by Lauren Thompson, is a photo gallery rich with children next to the beauty of the land. Each page extends a hopeful message like “Hope is daring to do something you’ve never done before” and “Hope is knowing that you are loved. Hope is knowing that you love others”.

Giant Steps to Change the World, by Spike & Tonya Lewis Lee, and illustrated by Sean Qualls, is an encouraging picture book full of intrepid and encouraging counsel to be all that you can become. I especially like the endpapers that are full of rich motivational quotes from the likes of Jesse Owens and Albert Einstein. The illustrations extol hues of blues and purples.

Mary’s Penny, by Tanya Landman, and illustrated by Richard Holland, is a picture book that showcases the rewards of being inventive and clever. A farmer decides that he will reward one of his two sons the ownership of the farm when either can figure out how to fill the whole house with something that costs a penny. But it’s the witty daughter who comes up with the solution.  The delightful illustrations are done in mixed media.

I’ll Be There, by Ann Stott, and illustrated by Matt Pelan, is a quiet and simple story beginning with a young boy walking on top of a rock wall. He asks his mom if she pushed him in a carriage when he was a baby. This prompts mom to list the many things she did for him when he was very young. But when he jumps from the wall by himself, he asks “Will you still take care of me when I’m big?” She promises that she will always be there. The sweetness of both the text and the pastel watercolors makes this story a perfect fit.

What’s Special About Me, Mama?, by Kristina Evans, and illustrated by Javaka Steptoe, is a reassuring story about a curious boy as he asks his mama what makes him special. Her answers bring out the loving support that is universal for moms everywhere. She tells him that his many features and kind personality that combines characteristics from family members and helpful and selfless gestures make him special. And above all, greatly loved by mom! The mixed-media illustrations help layer texture to this beautiful story. Watch for the enlarged and colorful words that describe this young tike. This book is special for families!

Little Chicken’s Big Day, by Jerry Davis, and illustrated by Katie Davis, is a simple, yet powerful, story about an enlarged and bold mama chicken as she wakes up her Little Chicken. She instructs him to “Wash your face!”, “Brush your teeth!” and finally as she goes out the door, “Follow me!” He answers, “I hear you cluckin’, big chicken.” He looks a little aggravated by all the directions until he loses his mama. When Big Chicken finds her Little Chicken, he’s happy and relieved and so is she. The line drawings are as sparse as the text which helps deliver the message of the powerful bond of mom and child.

Floating on Mama’s Song, by Laura Lacamara, and illustrated by Yuyi Morales, characterizes the strong, important bond of mothers and families. Anita comes home from school on her seventh birthday and finds that her mother’s beautiful singing causes all who hear her voice to float. Grandma demands that she stop singing at once before someone is hurt. But mother becomes sad and despondent without her singing and the town also becomes infected with sadness. But Anita, her mother and grandmother realize they all have this gift and it’s much better not to bury it in order to find happiness. The wonderful pastels of collage illustrations as well as using authentic photographs mixed in may just make you want to sing. The story is also told with a Caribbean flair and the author tells the story in both English and Spanish.

Mama and Me, by Arthur Dorros, and illustrated by Rudy Gutierrez, is alive and rich in color. Every page swirls with movement as flora and batik designs surround mama and daughter. The young girl desires to bake, plant and paint by herself. But mama is always close by for support and love. There is a sprinkling of Spanish words throughout, but they are easily translatable.

I Love My Mommy, by Giles Andreae, and illustrated by Emma Dodd, is a love-affirming story about how much a child loves her mommy. The story is told through a rhyming pattern making this delightful, and lovingly told, story perfect for lap-reading. “And then when I start to cry, She wipes my tears until they’re dry.” The pictures are large, simple and bright.

Mad at Mommy, by Komako Sakai, shows a young bunny who is mad at his mommy. She doesn’t let him watch his cartoons, while she watches her shows and she sleeps in on Saturdays when she doesn’t let him sleep in on school days. And here’s the worst part of the dilemma:  she won’t marry him when he grows up. The context of both text and color is blended in balance which highlights Ms. Sakai’s Japanese influence. The ending feelings of bunny are a nice blend of love and appreciation of mommy.

Because of You: A Book of Kindness, by B. G. Henessy, and illustrated by Hiroe Nakata, celebrates the importance and love children bring into the family. “When you were born, there was a new person for our family to love and care for.” The book is small, the colors are soft – but the message is big!

Mommy Hugs, by Karen Katz, has been made into a large board book with Katz’s trademark vivid colors. This counting book features mommy and baby enjoying each other as the count goes from 1 to 10.

The last three books feature what mommies like doing best: raising their children. I Love You Baby from Head to Toe!, by Karen Pandell, and illustrated by Jane Cowen-Fletcher, commemorates all that baby brings to a family: from baby’s mouth to baby’s skin. The pastel colors add to this board book with a soft glow. You Are My Sunshine, by Caroline Jayne Church, is another smallish board book that will have you singing the song as you hold your drop of sunshine in your arms. And lastly, There’s Going to be a Baby, by John Burningham, and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury, takes you through three seasons as mom tells her son there’s going to be a baby. The rest of the story conveys his conversations with mom and Granddad as he imagines what the baby will be like now, and when he grows up. The artwork, done in ink and digital colorization, gives a distinct retro aura. However, there is one unnecessary picture of this young boy nude while in the bathtub near the end of the story.

The Mima Journals:  Bk. 1, The Water is Wide, by Marianne Monson, is told through fourteen-year-old Jemima “Mima” Hough as she struggles with her mother’s conversion into the Church. The year is 1845 and the small English town is now turning against her dear mother. So Mother decides to cross the Atlantic, as the Prophet had asked Saints to do, but she must leave Mima back with her brother and wife. Now Mima must decide what to do. This is the first of three historical fictions that document her struggles and difficult decisions as a church member as well as portraying historically accurate life during that time.

The Enchanted Tunnel Series, also by Ms. Monson, are four newly published chapter books that tell of twins, Nathan and Aria, as they time-travel back to scripture or pioneer times. The first book, “Pioneer Puzzle” takes them back to a pioneer trek. Book 2, “Escape From Egypt”, has the twins right in the middle of the Exodus and Book 3, “Journey to Jerusalem”, has them enter Solomon’s temple where they hear twelve-year-old Jesus teaching the priests. And book 4, “Wandering in the Wilderness”, they learn from Nephi about faith and hard work. You’ll find wonderful pencil and ink illustrations sprinkled throughout, drawn by Dan Burr, as well as recipes and fun facts at the back. (Books 3 and 4 will be available in May.)

Blackberry Crumble, by Josi S. Kilpack, is a thrilling mystery with a humorous story-line. Sadie Hoffmiller is an amateur sleuth with an eye for detail and a taste for delicious food. Somehow, the author sifts and shifts recipes right into the story so that by the culminating conclusion you’ll find your culinary desires thrusting you toward the kitchen.

I Sit All Amazed:  The Extraordinary Power of a Mother’s Love, by Steve Mikita, and with a foreword by Carole Mikita, is an uplifting autobiography that will encourage and enliven life’s difficulties through a beautiful blend of scripture stories and a parent’s devotion and love that will surely promote confidence and belief in one’s gifts from the Lord. The author, who was born with a debilitating neuromuscular disease, was initially predicted by medical doctors to die by age 2. He not only surpassed that young age, but went on to graduate with the highest honors at Duke University and then receive his doctorate from BYU as well as serve as assistant attorney general for the State of Utah. But the book doesn’t espouse his credentials, but rather combines his tribulations with scripture stories, pioneer ordeals and the wisdom of prophets and apostles, along with his sweet mother’s constant support. This paperback gives the eternal recipe for hope and faith regardless of your disabilities and photos are found sprinkled throughout.

Object Lessons Made Easy: Memorable Ideas for Gospel Teaching, by Beth Lefgren and Jennifer Jackson, has 101 ways to help with our lessons by adding simple, everyday objects. For instance, under the title “Attitude”, the objective is outlined to help us understand that small challenges may keep us from realizing our true blessings. The materials needed are simple small rocks and pieces of candy. The procedure is to place the rock inside a shoe and the candy inside the mouth. Then go for a walk, after which you ask – how was the experience?  Chances are people will discuss the discomfort of the walk instead of the pleasant taste of the candy which teaches us not to dwell on the negative!  The book is outlined in an easy, quick and helpful guide for Family Home Evening or in a classroom situation.

5 Spiritual Solutions for Everyday Parenting Challenges, by Richard and Linda Eyre, is an inspirational manual for helping parents raise their children in the righteous ways of the Lord. This is a formula for families to realize the eternal perspective of the Restoration by submitting to the will of the Father in all that we do in regard to raising our children. We know where our children came from and that they came to us after living with our Heavenly Father, that we are continually parented by our Father in Heaven, and that the Holy Spirit and the power of the priesthood will continue to help us when times get tough. There’s even a chapter for “Empty Nesters” after our children leave and how we can continue to be involved in the lives of our children and grandchildren. I especially like the highlighted parts throughout the book which give additional encouragement such as “Parenting is the core stewardship of mortality and the thing most directly connected and relevant to our eternal salvation and returning to God.”

Jeffery R. Holland’s new smallish book, Created for Greater Things, is full of wisdom and quotes to help us get through the difficult times we all experience. He begins the book with “I believe we have all been created for greater things than we can comprehend. The times call for great things, but great things in the noblest and most redemptive sense are predicated upon tolerance, love, respect, understanding, dignity, prayer, and God.” There is a great spiritual perspective here as you read through the tremendous quotes that will surely lift your spirit. I love this one: “Sometimes it seems especially difficult to submit to ‘great tribulation’ when we look around and see others seemingly much less obedient who triumph even as we weep. But time is measured only by man, says Alma, and God has a very good memory.” The photos throughout go beautifully with each quote!

Forces of Nature, by Chana Stiefel, is a “Weather Channel Kids” book that features the major natural forces that affect the earth. This colorfully photographed book naturally progresses with topics that cover two pages beginning with a brief summary and a diagram of inside the earth. From there, many more topics are showcased, including earthquakes. It progresses from there to volcanoes, clouds, thunderstorms, wind and then waves (which gives a good explanation as to how tsunamis develop). There are simple facts placed in highlighted boxes on each subject as well as tips on how to stay safe in the event of a weather alert.

Planet Earth, by Barbara Taylor, is part of the “Navigators” series and has a similar format with just two pages on each subject. This approach makes the information covered more kid-friendly due to a format that invites reading.  This book doesn’t feature photos like the previous book, but has colorful drawings with cross-sections and diagrams depicting the subjects of each page. This book covers more of the natural terrain of the world but also has a section describing earthquakes. In that section, there is a tremendous depiction of a tsunami.

How the World Works, by Christiane Dorion, and illustrated by Beverley Young, is a wonderful account of our physical world with pop-ups, pull-tabs, wheels to turn and more. This interactive examination includes seasons, night and day, earthquakes and the water cycle. The brightly drawn colors invite the readers in and the interaction will keep them in.  The only downside to both books is the portrayal of the theory of evolution as fact on two pages.

How the Weather Works, also by Dorion and Young, has the same format as the previous book with similar pop-ups, pull-tabs and more. Easy to understand concepts and diagrams are on display that include the makings of tornados, hurricanes, weather and climate. The vivid illustrations and pop-ups are compelling invitations to this fascinating subject.

How Does a Seed Grow?, by Sue Kim, with photos by Tilde, is a clever representation of what happens to seeds. Each page opens, in this smallish board book, to reveal tiny seeds. The seeds then open to a flap that exposes a cross-section of a plant growing out of the ground with both roots and leaves uncovered. And from that flap, you open a picture twice the size of the book revealing the fruit the seed turned into. There is much to learn and guess about in this fun, interactive book.Sales Rank: 241,882 Age Range: 4 to 6 ISBN-13: 9781416994350

ISBN: 1416994351

SynopsisSeasons, by Anne Crauaz, is a unique gem enlightening little ones to be aware of much more of what’s going on around them. “Springtime smells beautiful.” “Sometimes summer is the taste of sand in your mouth!” As you go through the seasons, chances are all who read it will feel and sense the simple beauty in this book. Even the palate of colors seems to wash over you as easily as the seasons drift by. The tree blossoms on the front and back cover also usher in the growing season.

Flora’s Very Windy Day, by Jeanne Birdsall, and illustrated by Matt Phelan, is a delightful tale of dealing with a much younger sibling. In the initial pages, before the actual story begins, the brilliant illustrator sets the stage with Flora and her young brother, Crispin, painting.  But he spills all over her paper. She’s mad and mother sends them both outside.  But the wind is blowing hard and soon blows Crispin up into the sky. Flora must save him as she also blows up near him. The wind sets in motion adventures for both and by the time they return to the ground, Flora has a better attitude towards her little brother. Check out the last wordless page. The airy drawings of ink, pastels and watercolor give a billowing feeling of wind throughout.

Snow Rabbit, Spring Rabbit: A Book of Changing Seasons, by Il Sung Na, is another of his beautifully drawn picture books much like his “A Book of Sleep.” A white rabbit is featured throughout the book with winter as that season progresses to spring. The birds and animals prepare for the cold and then the snow melts and green comes back and white rabbit isn’t white anymore. This effortless book, with the simple text and picturesque full page pictures, melts together like winter and spring.

Water, Weed and Wait, by Edith Hope Fine and Angela Demos Halpin, and illustrated by Colleen Madden, is a great celebration of an elementary school preparing and planting a garden. The story teaches the value of hard work that continues even after the garden is planted. The 3 P’s learned here are “plans, plants and people.”

Nibbles:  A Green Tale, by Charlotte Middleton, tells the importance of sustaining a garden in order to maintain a producing garden. Nibbles is an adorable guinea pig who loves to eat dandelion leaves. So he begins his garden by retrieving the last seeds from his low supply of plants. There is much to learn of the importance of gardens. The mixed-media collage art works perfectly as you’ll likely become enamored with Nibbles!

City Dog, Country Frog, by Mo Willems, and illustrated by Jon J. Muth, is another book about seasons, but with much more subtlety involved. City Dog meets Country Frog in the spring and their friendship continues through to summer and fall. But when winter comes, City Dog can’t find his friend. Spring brings new life and new understanding to the cycle of life. The gorgeous spread of colors signifies the magnitude of color through the seasons.