Chicken in Mittens

Chicken in Mittens. Adam Lehrhaupt. 2017. [October 17] 32 pages. [Source: Library]

 First sentence: Zoey stepped out of the barn. So did her best pig, Sam. Fresh snow covered the farm. "We can be explorers!" said Zoey. "It's cold," said Sam. "Arctic explorers!" said Zoey.

Premise/plot: Zoey LOVES adventures. Sam, well, he's a great friend, a sidekick, to Zoey. Even if he doesn't always show the same passion or zeal for adventure as his friend does. In this one, the two set off to discover the pole. Will they find it? Well, they'll find something that's for sure!

My thoughts: This I Can Read early reader stars the characters from Chicken in Space and Chicken in School. If you loved those picture books, you should definitely seek out Chicken in Mittens.

It's an amusing book. Not all early readers can be described as amusing or delightful.

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Trains

Trains. Ian Graham. Illustrated by Stephen Biesty. 2017. Candlewick. 16 pages. [Source: Review copy]

 First sentence: The modern age of rail transport began in the early 1800s, when the first steam trains were built. The part of a train that pulls the cars is called the locomotive or engine. The locomotive shown here is called Patentee. Built in 1833 by Robert Stephenson, it was one of the first really successful locomotives. Many Patentees were built to pull trains in Britain, and the design was exported to other countries.

Premise/plot: Don't be fooled by the fact that it's an oversized board book with flaps to lift, this one is for older children. This book might be the wordiest sixteen page book I've ever come across. It features cross sections of eight trains: early steam trains, American steam trains, the golden age of steam, diesel replaces steam, electric trains, heavy-duty diesel trains, high speed trains, and trains of the future. Each two-page spread is packed--and I do mean PACKED--with information.

My thoughts: There is a lot of information to process in this book. I did not read it cover-to-cover and lift every flap. I'm not personally *that* interested in trains. I think there are people--of various ages--that are that interested in trains. I do think some people never out grow a love of trains. I could see this book growing with your child. Perhaps at first this is more of a book that you browse and skim, and then perhaps later one that you read every word.

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Arthur's Perfect Christmas

Arthur's Perfect Christmas. Marc Brown. 2000. 48 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: It was three days before Christmas, and Arthur wanted everything to be just right. There would be lots of snow...the perfect tree...and a delicious turkey dinner.

Premise/plot: This picture book is an adaptation of the Arthur Christmas special, Arthur's Perfect Christmas. Arthur wants a PERFECTLY perfect Christmas. D.W. wants one thing and only one thing: Tina the Talking Tabby. Muffy wants many, many, many things. Francine just wants to be heard--for a change. Baxter, well, he wants to RELAX.

My thoughts: The special features a LOT of music. That is something that can't really be conveyed through a picture book adaptation. The book does include many scenes from the special, but it is a bit more concise in terms of story. It is a WORDY book. Though the special can be enjoyed by young ones, the book may be a bit too much to read aloud in one sitting. I'm wondering if it might not have been better as a chapter book.


© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

A Christmas For Bear

A Christmas for Bear. Bonny Becker. Illustrated by Kady MacDonald Denton. 2017. Candlewick Press. 48 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: Bear had never had a real Christmas. He'd never had a tree with a sparkling star, or candy canes, or even gingerbread bears. But he'd read all about it. Clearly, the most important thing was pickles.

Premise/plot: A Christmas for Bear stars two familiar characters, Bear and Mouse. I would say that though this is part of a series, it can easily stand alone. Mouse and Bear are spending their first Christmas together.  But will it be a merry Christmas?! "Maybe" says Bear. One thing is for sure: Mouse is super-super-super eager to get to the PRESENTS.

My thoughts: I really LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this one. I love the character of Bear. Bear is so grumpy and yet lovable at the same time. I imagine this would be a joy to read aloud. Bear has some great lines. Lines like, "PICKLES AND POEMS!" bellowed Bear. "THAT'S THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT!" "Yes, Bear," sighed Mouse. The character of Mouse is also wonderful. I admit, I am more of a Mouse than a Bear.

Text: 4.5 out of 5
Illustrations: 4.5 out of 5
Total: 9 out of 10


© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

How Does My Home Work?

How Does My Home Work? Chris Butterworth. Illustrated by Lucia Gaggiotti. 2017. [Oct. 24] Candlewick. 32 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: You do neat things every day in your home. Flip the switch, and the light goes on. Turn on the faucet, and clean water comes out. Push a button, and the TV comes on. Take a drink from the refrigerator, and it's cool and fresh. These things seem like magic--but they're not. So how do they happen?

Premise/plot: How Does My Home Work? is a nonfiction picture book for young readers. Essentially, it answers three questions: "Where does electricity come from?", "Where does water come from?", and "Where does natural gas come from?". The text is straightforward and walks readers through complex concepts step by step.

My thoughts: I would definitely recommend this one for curious readers of all ages. Parents might find it helpful in answering some of their little ones' never-ending questions. Other books in the series include How Did That Get In My Lunchbox? and Where Did My Clothes Come From?

The illustrations have a quirky vintage/retro vibe.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10



© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker. New York City Ballet. Valeria Docampo (illustrator). 2016. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

 First sentence: It was Christmas Eve at the Stahlbaums' house, and like children everywhere, Marie and Fritz were so excited that they could feel their toes tingle. Their parents were decorating the Christmas tree before the big holiday party, and Marie and Fritz were not allowed into the great room until it was done. They jostled each other to sneak a peek at the glittering tree through the keyhole.

Premise/plot: This is a picture book adaptation of the BALLET,  George Balanchine's The Nutcracker. The book concludes with some "Fun Facts" about the ballet.

My thoughts: I love, love, love the music of The Nutcracker. I would happily--do happily--listen to it throughout the year. It has never been just "holiday" music to me. This picture book puts into words the story of the Nutcracker ballet. I would definitely recommend sharing this story--or another like it--with little ones before taking them to see the ballet. I think knowing the story--how everything fits together and flows--is essential to enjoying the experience of seeing The Nutcracker live.

This picture book has wonderful illustrations. The illustrations alone make it worthy of checking out of the library.

Word of warning: There were TWO picture book adaptations of The Nutcracker published in 2016 featuring illustrations by Valeria Docampo. This one is specifically tied to the George Balanchine production of The Nutcracker. The other is less specific, more general adaptation of the story. 





Text: 4 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 9 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

A World of Cookies for Santa

A World of Cookies for Santa: Follow Santa's Tasty Trip Around the World. M.E. Furman. Illustrated by Susan Gal. 2017. [October 17] Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. 48 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: All around the world, Christmas is a time of giving. While Santa Claus (also called Papai Noel, Father Christmas, Grandfather Frost, and more) packs his sleigh with gifts for children everywhere, they're preparing their own sweet gifts for him. Follow along on Santa's tasty trip around the globe, country by country and cookie by "cookie."

Premise/plot: This picture book introduces readers to thirty-two stops on Santa's journey around the world. There are definitely more countries in the world than thirty-two. But for a picture book, thirty-two is a good place to start. The journey begins on Christmas Island with chewy coconut macaroons and ends in Hawaii with pineapple-macadamia bars. Santa doesn't always drink milk. Some children leave tea, while others leave beer or wine.

Some of the stops along the way:

Japan
In Japan, Hoteiosha brings gifts and fortunes to children. They believe he has eyes in the back of his head so he can watch for children who are misbehaving. After he leaves their gifts on their pillow, Hoteiosha enjoys a slice of strawberry-topped Christmas cake the children put out for him.

Sri Lanka
On Christmas Eve in Sri Lanka, children come home from midnight mass and hang their stockings on the tree. After Naththal Seeya (Christmas Grandfather) puts their gifts in the stockings, he munches on kokis, a lacey fried cookie, while he sips the Ceylon tea the island country is famous for.

My thoughts: I found this one fascinating. It would probably be better suited for older children. But I think readers of all ages will find Santa's journey interesting. It also includes a handful of recipes--though not thirty-two!

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10


© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

The Nutcracker in Harlem

The Nutcracker in Harlem. T.E. McMorrow. Illustrated by James Ransome. 2017. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: It was snowing in Harlem on Christmas Eve. The party at Marie's house swirled with colors, gold and red and green. Mama and Poppy were dancing. Miss Addie sang, and Uncle Cab played the piano. Marie loved the sound of Christmas.

Premise/plot: This picture book is an adaptation of The Nutcracker. In this adaptation, the story is set in Harlem during the 1920s. Marie, the heroine, is a bit shy or hesitant; she hasn't found her confidence yet to sing or dance, to join in the vibrant life of her family and community. All that will change one magical Christmas Eve.

My thoughts: I liked this one. I liked this creative retelling.

This book would pair well with Duke Ellington's Nutcracker Suite by Anna Harwell Celenza. The two books set out to do different things. One is a retelling of a traditional story in a new setting. The other is based on a true story, of how Duke Ellington transformed the Nutcracker Suite into JAZZ.

But both celebrate LIVING LIFE. Even if you don't seek out this other picture book, do give Ellington's Nutcracker Suite a listen. I do think the music would provide a great soundtrack for McMorrow's picture book.  

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 9 out of 10


© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker: From The Story by E.T.A. Hoffmann. Illustrated by Valeria Docampo. 2016. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: It was Christmas Eve and the snow was gently falling. Clara and her brother Fritz were very excited. That night there would be a magnificent party with music and dancing, as well as lots of fantastic presents!

Premise/plots: This is a picture book adaptation of The Nutcracker.

My thoughts: I love, love, love the music of The Nutcracker. I would happily--do happily--listen to it throughout the year. It has never been just "holiday" music to me. This picture book puts into words the story of the Nutcracker ballet. I would definitely recommend sharing this story--or another like it--with little ones before taking them to see the ballet. I think knowing the story--how everything fits together and flows--is essential to enjoying the experience of seeing The Nutcracker live.

This picture book has wonderful illustrations. The illustrations alone make it worthy of checking out of the library.

Text: 4 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 9 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Sophie's Surprise

Sophie's Surprise. Lee Richardson. Illustrated by Shirley Holt. 1983. 28 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: Mr. Kelly found Sophie in the alley behind his toy store. She was hungry and needed a home. He was lonely and needed a mouser.

Premise/plot: Sophie has found a home in a lovely toy store. She's even found a perfect place to nap--on Brown Bear. Mr. Kelly is in for a big, big surprise come Christmas Eve! And it all happens in his display window case!

My thoughts: I definitely enjoyed this one! It's a gem of a book. The story is sweet. If you love cats, you'll probably love it. If you have a soft spot for teddy bears, there's also a good chance you'll love it. For me, I found it irresistible. The illustrations are WONDERFUL. They are so detailed.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 10 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Deck the Halls

Deck the Halls. Illustrated by Veronica Vasylenko. 2011. 18 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: Deck the halls with boughs of holly, Fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la. Tis the season to be jolly,  Fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la.

Premise/plot: This picture book consists of the lyrics of the holiday song "Deck the Halls."

My thoughts: Why would I buy this picture book? I love, love, love the illustrations. The mice are just so cute and adorable and innocent looking. In real life, I don't like mice. But in children's literature, well, I have mouse-ish tendencies. I tend to like animal fantasies in general--unless they are sad, sad, super-sad.

Text: 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Pooh: The Merry Christmas Mystery

The Merry Christmas Mystery. (Winnie the Pooh) Betty G. Birney. Illustrated by Nancy Stevenson. 1993. 24 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: It was a very snow night before Christmas.

Premise/plot: Santa gets VERY confused about where everyone lives in the hundred acre woods and delivers all his presents to the wrong people. Can Pooh and his friends make things right so that everyone has a merry Christmas?

My thoughts: This was a silly book! For little ones who love Walt Disney's Pooh, then this one is worth reading. (I've read some that weren't.) I liked the story. I liked the characters. It made me miss the Saturday morning cartoon.

Text: 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 6 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

There Are No Cats In This Book

There Are No Cats In This Book. Viviane Schwarz. 2010. Candlewick Press. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Did you pack the can opener? Psst--I think I just heard something...Hello! You look friendly. Have you come to visit? The thing is, we're just about to go. Yes, we're going to see the world...Sorry we can't stay. Nice to have met you. Bye! Let's go out of the book this way. We just have to get through here. Everybody PUSH.

Premise/plot: Moonpie, Tiny, and Andre are back in a second adventure. In this one, the three cats are ready to leave for vacation. But...there seems to be a BIG problem. The cats are having trouble LEAVING the book and entering the 'real' world. Can young readers help them out?!

My thoughts: This is an interactive picture book which I really enjoyed reading. Once again these three cats talk to little ones directly. It's fun and silly. For a book with NO cats there sure are a lot of cats in this one. If your little one loved the first book, this one is a must. If your little one hasn't read the first book, I think it could easily stand alone as well. (Though you'll probably want to seek out There Are Cats In This Book as well.)

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

There Are Cats In This Book

There Are Cats In This Book. Viviane Schwarz. 2008. Candlewick. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: The cats aren't on this page. The cats aren't on this page either. They're on the next page. They'd love to play with you. They're very friendly.

Premise/plot: In Viviane Schwarz's There Are Cats In This Book, readers meet three cats: Moonpie, Tiny, and Andre. These three cats want to play with YOU the reader. Will you play with them? (Please say yes!)

My thoughts: This picture book is interactive. It's addressed directly to readers. There are pages to turn and flaps to lift. For example:

Could you turn a whole page? Because there's YARN on the next page. LOOK! Hooray! You DO turn pages! Lovely tangly yarn. There's more! Quick, turn another page! Aaaaaah, LOTS of yaaarn. Throw me some.

This one would pair well with The Cat Book by Silvia Borando.

This is a fun book for parents and little ones to share.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10



© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Here Comes The Tooth Fairy Cat

Here Comes the Tooth Fairy Cat. Deborah Underwood. Illustrated by Claudia Rueda. 2015. 96 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Cat! You lost a tooth! Did the Tooth Fairy come? She left you a coin! What's the matter? You wanted to meet her? Aw, Cat. I understand...

Premise/plot: A disappointed cat tricks the Tooth Fairy and is punished for his trickery by having to assist the Tooth Fairy on three jobs. If Cat does well, will a meeting with the Tooth Fairy be the result?!

My thoughts: I loved it. I did. I really did. I thought Cat was adorable. Yes, Cat was a bit naughty to want to trick the Tooth Fairy. Yes, Cat, had some not-so-nice thoughts about the Mouse who was also helping the Tooth Fairy. But I love Cat all the same!!! I also found myself loving the narrative. The narrative is all in second person, and, it worked for me really well. I think that's one of the reasons why I loved it so very much. I also LOVED, LOVED, LOVED the illustrations.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Text: 10 out of 10
© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Here Comes The Easter Cat

Here Comes The Easter Cat. Deborah Underwood. Illustrated by Claudia Rueda.  2014.  80 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: What's wrong, Cat? You look grumpy. The Easter Bunny? What about him? Well, of course everyone loves the Easter Bunny. Why? Because he's nice! He delivers chocolate eggs to millions of kids. It's a hard job. Don't be jealous. Why don't you be the Easter Cat?

Premise/plot: Cat is jealous of the Easter Bunny. He wants in on the action. Will the Easter Cat be competition for the Easter Bunny? Maybe, maybe not. The Easter Cat is a little too fond of naps and not so fond of hard work. But don't count him completely out. Easter Cat has a plan....

My thoughts: I enjoyed Deborah Underwood's Here Comes the Easter Cat. Cat is a lovable character who communicates mainly by signs and also body language. The illustrations are super expressive. Even children who can't read, can tell exactly what Cat is feeling at any given moment. The narrative tone is casual, conversational. I loved, loved, loved it.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 10 out of 10
© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Here Comes Valentine Cat

Here Comes Valentine Cat. Deborah Underwood. 2015. 88 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Hey, Cat! Any Valentine's Day plans? This is a No-Valentines Zone? Why don't you like Valentine's Day, Cat? Valentine's Day doesn't have to be all mushy. Why don't you make a valentine for a friend?

Premise/plot: Here Comes Valentine Cat is one in a series of books starring Cat. In this one, Cat meets a new neighbor--a Dog. Will Dog prove to be a friend or foe? What kind of valentine should Cat make for Dog? A nice one? A mean one?

My thoughts: I love, love, love this series by Deborah Underwood. This one didn't disappoint. I'm so glad I encouraged my library to order it. (They already had the other books in the series.) I would definitely recommend the series to anyone and everyone who loves cats. I would also say that the book is a great example of narrative style. I love the conversational tone of the books.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 10 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

This Is My Book!

This Is My Book! Mark Pett. 2016. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: My name is Mark Pett, and THIS IS MY BOOK! I am the author, and that means I get to write all the words. I am also the illustrator, so I get to make all of the pictures, too. Here, I'll draw something. This is Percy the Perfectly Polite Panda. He's going to help me explain the rules of my book. "I prefer to be called Spike." I drew you. I get to name you.

Premise/plot: Once Mark draws SPIKE, the book ceases to be his book. Though I must say Mark fights valiantly for sole control throughout. Spike--and those Spike draws--soon have a say in the action and characterization. Who does this book really belong to?

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I don't love metafiction for the sake of metafiction. But I happened to enjoy this one. (Though I'm not sure I enjoyed it more than Ryan T. Higgins' Be Quiet. I loved, loved, loved that book so much!!!) Spike is a super-fun character who loves the creative process of making a book. He disagrees with Mark on almost every page. I liked it best when Spike decided the book needed a flap and a pop-up.

Text: 4 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 7 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

The Little Red Cat Who Ran Away and Learned His ABC's

The Little Red Cat Who Ran Away and Learned His ABC's (the Hard Way). Patrick McDonnell. 2017. Little, Brown. 48 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee

Premise/plot: Using nothing but the alphabet, McDonnell tells the story of a little red cat who has a mighty, big adventure before returning home once more.  It stars a cat, an alligator, a bear, a dragon, a chicken, and an egg....

My thoughts: Technically, I'm not sure if this one would count as wordless or not. The only text within the book is the alphabet. The story is communicated nevertheless. This one has plenty of adventure and some guesswork. The only letter I had trouble translating back into a word to further the story was Ww. (Which was 'wave.') The other letters I was able to 'read' correctly in the context of the story. (Mostly). If I'm being 100% honest, I interpreted Nnnnnnnnnnnnn Ooooooooooo! as NO and not "no over." But either way the story made complete sense.

Text: 0 out of 0
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 4 out of 5

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

The Little Reindeer

The Little Reindeer. Nicola Killen. 2017. Simon & Schuster. 32 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: It was Christmas Eve and Ollie had just gone to sleep when jingle, jingle, jingle she woke again with a start. What was that sound?

Premise/plot: A little girl--in reindeer pajamas--discovers a reindeer on Christmas Eve. A small adventure follows, and Christmas morning a souvenir of sorts is received as a gift.

My thoughts: I liked it. The story works well enough. Ollie is a cute heroine. I thought the illustrations were wonderful. It took several readings for me to see all the details in the illustrations and how they add to the story. This is one reindeer-obsessed heroine. Her pillow case, the art on her bedroom wall, the wallpaper of her bedroom, the book on her floor, her bookend, her chalk art, her stuffed animal that accompanies her on her adventure, and, of course, her pajamas.

Text: 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Pick a Pine Tree

Pick a Pine Tree. Patricia Toht. Illustrated by Jarvis. 2017. 40 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: Pick a pine tree from the lot--slim and tall or short and squat. One with spiky needle clumps, scaly bark, or sappy bumps. Long, straight limbs or branches bent--mmm! Just smell that piney scent!

Premise/plot: A family picks a pine tree and takes it home to decorate for the Christmas season. The story is told through rhyme.

My thoughts: I really enjoyed this one. I do NOT like real trees. In fact, the idea of being in the same room with a real tree is terrifying because I'm so allergic. But I do love this cheerful story. The family has so much fun. Even the pet cat gets involved. It's hard not to like this one.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 9 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Norman The Slug with the Silly Shell

Norman the Slug with the Silly Shell. Sue Hendra. 2017. (2011 UK) 32 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: Norman the slug thought snails were great. "Wow!" said Norman. "Look at them! They're amazing! But unfortunately, the snails didn't think Norman was great. "Norman, you silly slug!" they cried. "You've spoiled our fun. This only works if you've got a shell." Norman felt left out. Sadly, he skulked off into the moonlight.

Premise/plot: Norman, the "hero" of the book, doesn't have a shell. At least not yet. This picture book shows him "finding" a very silly shell to wear when playing with the other slugs. But. There are consequences as well...when your shell is so tasty.

My thoughts:  I don't think I've reminded anyone--this week at least--that reading picture books is super subjective. You may love Norman. You may find him super-silly. You may laugh and giggle. I did not. I found it strange, but not ha ha strange.

Text: 2 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 5 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Max at School

Max at School (Max and Ruby). Rosemary Wells. Illustrated by Andrew Grey. 2017. [Oct. 24] 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Max gives Mama a kiss. Ruby gives Papa a kiss. "Bye-bye," say Mama and Papa. "Bye-bye," say Ruby and Max. Mama and Papa wave. Ruby and Max wave. They hop on the bus. The big bus is yellow.

Premise/plot: It is Max's first day of school. I'm not sure if this is preschool or kindergarten. But a first day is a first day, right?! The book--in typical fashion--shows Max going through the routine of a school day.

My thoughts: I love Max and Ruby. (Ruby and Max). It's not unusual for me to be going around singing the Max and Ruby theme song. Recently, the show introduced Max and Ruby's parents. Before they had lived by themselves and only had a grandmother to check in on them now and then. The new episode(s) also featured Max saying more than one word per episode. Max had grown up a bit. This new reader--level two--reflects that. The text is simple, and there is something methodical about it.

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

The Santa Claus Book

The Santa Claus Book. Eileen Daly. Illustrated by Florence Sarah Winship. 1972. 24 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: Santa's sleigh was piled high with toys. And Santa's list of boys and girls was so long that it made a curly tail behind the sleigh. "Ho-ho!" laughed Santa as the sleigh landed softly on a rooftop. "This is a good Christmas!" Down the chimney he went. He put a doll under the Christmas tree and a yellow truck beside the doll. At John's house, he left a train. And he put a surprise in the red caboose.

Premise/plot: Santa is going about his business one Christmas Eve when he happens upon a puppy, a lost puppy. Santa is determined to return the pup to his owner. So he takes the puppy with him on his toy deliveries. Will the puppy be reunited with his owner?

My thoughts: I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE  vintage books. You grow up with an image of what Santa looks like, and that is for you the real Santa. This Santa is "the real Santa." The Santa of all my childhood wrapping papers. The story is fine. I hope that the puppy does not make a mess in Santa's bag or in the boy's stocking.

Text: 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Here Comes Santa Cat

Here Comes Santa Cat. Deborah Underwood. 2014. 88 pages. [Source: Library]


First sentence: Hey, Santa! Have you seen Cat? Cat! I didn't even recognize you. Why are you dressed like Santa? So you can give yourself a present? Oh, Cat. Santa will bring you a present, won't he? No? Why not? Ah. I see your problem.

Premise/plot: Cat is worried that Santa will not bring him a present because he's been too naughty. It's Christmas Eve, and it's too late--isn't it--for him to start being nice enough to get on Santa's good list. Cat dresses up as Santa and attempts...well, he attempts many, many things! Will Cat's last minute efforts work? Will Cat get a Christmas present?

My thoughts: I loved, loved, loved, LOVED this one. Cat and his signs are just too adorable. I love how expressive the illustrations are. This Cat is just super-super lovable. He would be a handful to live with perhaps. But as a character in a book, he's ideal! I love the conversational text. The narrative text is something I'd call practically perfect in every way.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 10 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Mr. Putter and Tabby Bake the Cake

Mr. Putter and Tabby Bake the Cake. (Mr. Putter & Tabby #3) Cynthia Rylant. Illustrated by Arthur Howard. 1994. 48 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: It was wintertime. Mr. Putter and his fine cat, Tabby, sat at their window every night to watch the snow come down.

Premise/plot: Mr. Putter and Tabby Bake the Cake is the third book in the early chapter series by Cynthia Rylant. In the first chapter, readers learn that Mr. Putter and Tabby LOVE Christmas. They love giving Christmas presents. But Mr. Putter isn't sure what to give his neighbor, Mrs. Teaberry, for Christmas. She loves fruitcake. Mr. Putter doesn't understand why a person would love fruitcake, would even like fruitcake. Cakes should not be able to break your toes. He decides he will bake her a cake for Christmas. In the second chapter, readers learn of all the obstacles standing in the way. "The cake was not a cinch. In the first place, Mr. Putter did not know how to bake a cake. He could bake instant muffins. He could bake instant popovers. But he had never baked a cake. He didn't know how. In the second place, Mr. Putter had no pans. He had muffin pans. He had popover pans. But he had no cake pans. If he baked a cake, it would have to be in a shoe. Or maybe in a flowerpot. Or even in a hat." The third obstacle: no cookbook. In the third chapter, Mr. Putter finds a solution to his problem. He will learn to bake a cake from Mary Sue. Mary Sue doesn't entirely seem trustworthy. She sells him $100 worth of STUFF though. "She sold Mr. Putter seven bowls. She sold Mr. Putter three sifters. She sold Mr. Putter ten spoons, five cups, two spatulas, a roll of waxed paper, and a Christmas tree pan. Then she sold him an Easy Baker cookbook and sent him out the door. Mr. Putter had spent one hundred dollars. And he still didn't have any flour." In the fourth and final chapter, Mr. Putter and Tabby get ready to bake. Will the cake turn out light and airy? Will Mrs. Teaberry enjoy the cake? Will this be a happy Christmas?

My thoughts: I definitely enjoyed this one. It was FUN. It was MERRY. I am continuing to love this series. The writing is just delightful. Rylant knows how to craft an entertaining story. There is a lot of characterization packed in as well--a lot of showing and not telling.
© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Mr. Putter and Tabby Walk the Dog

Mr. Putter and Tabby Walk the Dog (Mr. Putter & Tabby #2). Cynthia Rylant. Illustrated by Arthur Howard. 1994. 44 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Mr. Putter and his fine cat, Tabby, lived next door to Mrs. Teaberry and her small dog, Zeke.

Premise/plot: Mr. Putter & Tabby Walk the Dog is the second book in the early chapter series by Cynthia Rylant. In the first chapter, Mr. Putter decides to help a neighbor for a week when she becomes unable to walk her dog. Mrs. Teaberry assures him that Zeke is a DREAM dog who never tugs, who never wraps around trees, who never chases other dogs. The second chapter opens with this sentence, "Zeke was a nightmare." The chapter chronicles the first three days. Zeke misbehaves; Mr. Putter and Tabby return EXHAUSTED and in need of treats. The first day: "When Mr. Putter and Tabby got home, they had to have some warm milk and pudding and a nap." The second day: "When Mr. Putter and Tabby got home, they had to have some warm milk and popovers and a nap." The third day: "When Mr. Putter and Tabby got home, they had to have some warm milk and shortbread and a nap." The third chapter chronicles the last four days; Mr. Putter and Tabby decide to approach walking the dog differently. They've resorted to bribery. Will Zeke be a dream dog if he's rewarded for good behavior?!

My thoughts: I really enjoyed this one. The writing was excellent. I loved the narrative style. Rylant is a great storyteller. I would definitely recommend this series. And treat yourself by beginning at the beginning.

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Milly and the Macy's Parade

Milly and the Macy's Parade. Shana Corey. Illustrated by Brett Helquist. 2002. 40 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: It was 1924, Milly's first year in America, and all over New York City people were hustling and bustling about getting ready for the holidays.

Premise/plot: Milly's father works at Macy's. She notices that her father and some of the other immigrants are homesick. She goes to Mr. Macy himself and suggests that they should have a parade where they march and sing and dress up to remind people of the old world they've left behind. The parade is a success, and he decides they should make the parade an annual affair.

My thoughts: This origin story of the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade is almost entirely fictional. The first parade was in 1924, that much is true at least. But there is no Milly. And Mr. Macy was several decades in his grave by then. The book does emphasize that this "American parade" was based on several different cultural elements. It was a variety of immigrant groups blending together--working together--that birthed this American tradition.

Text: 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 6 out of 10
© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Mr. Putter and Tabby Pour the Tea

Mr. Putter and Tabby Pour the Tea (Mr. Putter & Tabby #1) Cynthia Rylant. Illustrated by Arthur Howard. 1994. 44 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Before he got his fine cat, Tabby, Mr. Putter lived all alone.

Premise/plot: Mr. Putter & Tabby Pour the Tea is the first book in the Mr. Putter & Tabby early chapter series by Cynthia Rylant. In the first chapter, readers meet Mr. Putter. "He had warm muffins to eat. He had good tea to pour. And he had wonderful stories to tell. Mr. Putter was tired of living alone. Mr. Putter wanted a cat." In the second chapter, readers meet Tabby. Tabby is not a kitten; she is an old cat. "The shelter man brought Mr. Putter the old yellow cat. Its bones creaked, its fur was thinning, and it seemed a little deaf. Mr. Putter creaked, his hair was thinning, and he was a little deaf, too." In the third chapter, readers see these two living together happily. "After a while it seemed as if they had always lived together. Tabby knew just what Mr. Putter was going to do next. Mr. Putter knew just where Tabby was going to sleep next. In the mornings each looked for the other as soon as they opened their eyes. And at night each looked for the other as their eyes were closing. Mr. Putter could not imagine life without Tabby." It has a PERFECT ending.

My thoughts: I loved, loved, loved, LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this one. I had read a few books in this series--those published the past few years--but never went back to the series beginning. It is a WONDERFUL book.
© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

I'm Sorry

I'm Sorry. Gina Mayer and Mercer Mayer. 1995. 24 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: Whenever I do something wrong, I just say "I'm sorry."

Premise/plot: Little Critter is always careful to say, "I'm sorry." But he is definitely not always careful in the first place.

My thoughts: I liked this one. I didn't love, love, love it like I have other Little Critter titles. But it was definitely an enjoyable read. Little Critter can make a BIG, BIG, BIG mess. In this one, he learns--perhaps temporarily--that you have to be careful and considerate in the first place. Saying "I'm sorry" and then not changing your behavior shows you're not really that sorry.

This one reminded me of a Daniel Tiger song. Saying I'm sorry is the FIRST step, not the only step.

Text: 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 6 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

This is the Kiss

This is the Kiss. Claire Harcup. Illustrated by Gabriel Alborozo. 2017. 32 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: When you've had a fun day and you're ready for bed, this is the wave...and the squeeze of the hand...that led to the touch...that led to the smile...that led to the hands going round and round and round until...they started the tickle...

Premise/plot: This is the Kiss is a sweet picture book ideal for sharing at bedtime.

My thoughts: I really liked this one. I thought the bears were adorable! The text flows gently and predictably from cover to cover. All the action leads up to...you guessed it...a kiss, a good night kiss.
The edition I read was Scholastic's Story Play edition. This edition adds prompts for parents. Prompts like: "What is Little Bear building?" "With whom do you love holding hands?" "How are Little Bear and Big Bear feeling? How can you tell?" etc.

Text: 4 out of 5
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

I Can Read With My Eyes Shut

I Can Read With My Eyes Shut. Dr. Seuss. 1978. Random House. 48 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: I can read in red. I can read in blue. I can read in pickle color too.

Premise/plot: The Cat in the Hat is back in Dr. Seuss' I Can Read With My Eyes Shut. In this one, he's showing off--classic Cat style--about how great a reader he is.

My thoughts: I enjoy this one very much. I do agree that "you have to be a speedy reader 'cause there's so, so much to read." With such fun and silly phrases as: "You can read about anchors. And all about ants. You can read about ankles! And crocodile pants!" this one is just a delight.

Text: 3.5 out of 5
Illustrations: 3.5 out of 5
Total: 7 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

88 Instruments

88 Instruments. Chris Barton. Illustrated by Louis Thomas. 2016. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: 88! That's how many pounding, surrounding, astounding-mound-of-sounding instruments are in this shop. But...I can take lessons on only one. Not 75, or 64, or 33, or 12. "One," says Dad. "For now," says Mom. "Your pick!" says Dad. "Within reason," says Mom. How am I supposed to pick just one? Do I pick the squeeziest? The wheeziest?

Premise/plot: The narrator of 88 Instruments is having a tough time deciding on ONE instrument from the music shop. What instrument should he learn to play first? One thing is for certain, he is going to look at ALL of his options and not just pick the first thing he sees.

My thoughts: I loved this one. I loved the descriptive language. I loved the dialogue. It worked really well, in my opinion. I loved the passion and enthusiasm. Which technically I suppose you'd call the narrative voice. I thought Barton did great at capturing that magic moment.

plink! It's so clear. PLUNK. So right. PLUNNNNNNNNK! So right for me. I'm going to learn the plinkiest...the plunkiest...and, here to there, the spunkiest--the PIANO!

The illustrations are nearly (but not quite) as expressive as the text.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10



© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Where Teddy Bears Come From

Where Teddy Bears Come From. Mark Burgess. Illustrated by Russell Ayto. 2009. Peachtree Press. 32 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: In the middle of a deep, dark forest, all the creatures were fast asleep except for a little gray wolf, who tossed and turned and couldn't sleep a wink.

Premise/plot: Little Wolf is having trouble sleeping. He thinks he may have a solution: a teddy bear. But WHERE DO TEDDY BEARS COME FROM?! He asks his mother first. But when she doesn't know he's off on a quest in the deep, dark forest to ask just about everyone his question. Who will know the answer?!

My thoughts: I really enjoyed this one. I loved all the fairy tale twists and turns. Little Wolf asks The Three Little Pigs, Little Red Riding Hood, Goldilocks, and others his all-important question. Will Little Wolf get his teddy bear?!

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

The Aristocats: A Counting Book

The Aristocats: A Counting Book. Walt Disney Productions Presents. 1970. Whitman Tell-a-Tale Book. 26 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: 1 One lovely mother cat sitting in the sun, purring purrs, licking fur--ONE, ONE, ONE. Her name is Duchess. 2 Here's a little lady kitten singing songs for you, singing with her mother cat--TWO, TWO, TWO. Her name is Marie. 3 Well, look! A brother kitten comes to practice with Marie while Duchess helps them learn the tunes--THREE, THREE, THREE. His name is Berlioz. Another brother kitten's here, painting on the floor, painting all his family--FOUR, FOUR, FOUR. Toulouse is his name.

Premise/plot: This counting book features the stars of the Disney movie Aristocats. The retelling is a bit forced in places since it is a COUNTING book and not a regular story book. And this retelling also isn't true to the movie!

My thoughts: I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, CRAZY LOVE the movie Aristocats. When I saw this book, I had to have it.

Text 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 6 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Julius

Julius. Syd Hoff. (An I Can Read Book) 1959. 64 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: Davy went to Africa. His father was going to catch an animal for the circus.

Premise/plot: Mr. Smith is looking to bring back an animal for the circus. His son, Davy, is there to help. In fact, it is Davy who finds Julius, a gorilla, who is super-excited about belonging to the circus. But is circus life really for Julius?

My thoughts: This book is dated. I'd even say incredibly super-dated--for better or worse. It is exactly what you'd expect a book written in the 1950s to be like in terms of depicting Africans, wild animals, and those who hunt them. In this case, the hunt is about finding a new circus animal. (It could just as easily been about finding a new zoo animal.)

The animals depicted look cartoon-ish whether than realistic. This isn't a bad thing, in my opinion, since Hoff has the rejected animals muttering, "Some animals have all the luck." Realism isn't to be found in Julius.

What you get is an over-the-top silly story. A gorilla who is civilized, who probably has better table manners than most children. This gorilla isn't taken from Africa against his will. He volunteers and is excited. "The men carried Julius through the woods. Sometimes Julius gave the men a rest." On one page, he's in the cage. In the next, he's carrying the men in a cage.

Still, silly or not, realistic or not, Davy spends half the book carrying a gun. This book also features a clown or two.

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

I Took My Frog to the Library

I Took My Frog to the Library. Eric A. Kimmel. Illustrated by Blanche Sims. 1990. 32 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: I took my frog to the library, but he jumped on the checkout desk and scared the librarian. I took my hen to the library, but she laid an egg in the card catalog.

Premise/plot: Bridgett loves, loves, loves to go to the library. So do her animals. The librarian isn't so happy to see the animals. Can Bridgett find a way to make her animals AND the librarian happy?

My thoughts: I really loved this one. I love stories that follow a pattern. That is I love picture books and early readers that follow a pattern. The pattern here, of course, is "I took my _____ to the library, but _________________." I think parents and teachers could take advantage of the silliness and have little ones write their own stories. And the stories wouldn't even have to be only about the library.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 9 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

The Log and Admiral Frog

The Log and Admiral Frog. B. Wiseman. 1961. 32 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence:  Two frogs saw a log floating toward them. At least it looked like a log.

Premise/plot: Sometimes a log is not a log. Sometimes diplomacy fails--at least when you send a rabbit. Sometimes what you need is an Admiral Frog. Admiral Frog brings all sorts of animals together as a team and teaches them how to defend themselves against this enemy--this log. Turtles. Fish. Small birds. Big birds. Beavers. Skunks. Or are they navy ships, submarines, jets, bombers, and tear gas? Will the log surrender?

My thoughts: It was interesting. I'm not sure yet if it's good interesting. It begins with two frogs reporting to everyone what they've seen. A log that tried to eat them. An old rabbit says that they all just need to talk to the frog. He's confident that they can be friends with the log. The others doubt him, but give him a chance. The frog that does end up leading them is a "young frog nobody knew." His FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT mentality ends up being exactly what they need.

Text: 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 6 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Sleeping Beauty

Sleeping Beauty. Cynthia Rylant. Illustrated by Erin McGuire. 2017. Disney-Hyperion. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Many see Time as a friend, and many see Time as a foe. But for a sleeping beauty, Time was a promise.

Premise/plot: Cynthia Rylant retells the fairy tale, Sleeping Beauty, in a new picture book beautifully illustrated by Erin McGuire. The story is a traditional retelling.

My thoughts: I really loved this one. I don't love the Disney version of Sleeping Beauty, though I do enjoy the use of Tchaikovsky's music. I loved that there wasn't a villain (or villainess) to fight. When the hundred years was over, the Prince came as if by instinct, and the thorns and briars parted to allow him through. He kissed her hand, and she awoke. I loved the ending, "Life returned to the sleeping palace, where happiness had always been waiting. It just took Time." Beautifully stated, right?!?!

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 9 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

The Little Red Hen

The Little Red Hen. Lucinda McQueen. 1985. Scholastic. 32 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: Once upon a time there was a little red hen who shared her tiny cottage with a goose, a cat, and a dog.

Premise/plot: This is a traditional telling of The Little Red Hen illustrated by Lucinda McQueen.

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I like the illustrations very much. I particularly love the illustrations of the cat and the dog. The text is traditional. There are no big surprises with the text. The Little Red Hen doesn't have a change of heart, she doesn't decide to share with the cat and the dog.

Text: 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 7 out of 10


© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Lambert The Sheepish Lion

Lambert The Sheepish Lion. Bill Peet. Walt Disney Company. 1970/1977. 42 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: Mr. Stork was having a busy night. He had to deliver bundles of babies to all kinds of places. As he flew over the trees, Mr. Stork was glad he had just one bundle left.

Premise/plot: Mr. Stork is delivering new lambs to a sheep meadow. One sheep had no new lamb to welcome. Not until Mr. Stork shook out the bag and Lambert tumbled out. But this little lamb didn't look like the others--and he meowed?! The bond between mother and child was strong though from the start. When Mr. Stork tries to "correct" his mistake, he learns that a mother's love can be fierce. Later readers will see that a son's love can be just as fierce.

My thoughts: I love, love, love, love, love, crazy love Lambert the Sheepish Lion. I have since I was a child. I want to say we had this on record? or record story book? It's a fun Disney short, well worth watching again and again and again and again. The book is definitely a keeper.

This is a very personal story for me. Not only did I love it as a child, I could identify with it strongly. And still can.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 10 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Paul's Christmas Birthday

Paul's Christmas Birthday. Carol Carrick. Illustrated by Donald Carrick. 1978. 32 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: It was the middle of December. All the children in Paul's class were talking about Christmas.

Premise/plot: Paul was born on December 24. He doesn't like having his birthday so close to Christmas. He doesn't feel like his birthday is special--all the focus is on Christmas instead. So his mom decides to have a birthday party and invite all the kids in Paul's class. The invitation promises a visit by a MAN FROM OUTER SPACE. Maybe the kids come because they really like Paul; maybe the kids come because their parents see it as free babysitting so they can go shopping; maybe the kids come because they're curious about how Paul knows an alien. Regardless of why--they come.

My thoughts: Paul's Christmas Birthday is a sad, pitiful, strange book. Imagine a book about birthdays, or a book about Christmas illustrated in these colors: orange, yellow-brown, brown-brown, light and dark gray, and peach. Nothing merry or bright. Paul is--temporarily at least--depressed and out of sorts. The whole man-from-outer-space thing is just weird--beyond weird really. The visitor is none other than Santa. This confuses the children greatly. As it did me.

 I will say this. I do like the illustrations, just not the colors. If the mom had gone with "special guest" or "special visitor" instead of MAN FROM OUTER SPACE, the text might have worked for me better.

Text: 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 6 out 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Too Many Cats

Too Many Cats. Leah Raechel Killen. 1988. 30 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: Peter's father has a store. It is called Farfel's Food Store. Peter helps his father in the store. There are so many things to do. Every day, Peter takes out the trash. He puts it in a big can by the back door. One day, Peter got a big surprise. A cat was sitting next to the big can. The cat smelled bits of food in the can. He wanted to get into the can. He wanted to eat the food.

Premise/plot: Peter finds a cat; he names him Sam. Peter feeds Sam every day. But Sam never comes alone. Sam has FRIENDS. One day, Peter leaves the store door open, will the cats go into the store and cause a ruckus?! How will Peter ever get ALL those cats out of the store? Is he hiding some cat-herding skills?

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. It did start off slow. But when the cats go into the store, the action begins. Is it realistic? Probably not. I'm guessing that giving away free cats wouldn't be all that easy. But it was fun.

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

School Bus

School Bus. Donald Crews. 1984. 32 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: Yellow school buses large and small. Empty yellow buses cross the town. STOP. GO. Going this way. Going that way. Here it comes. See you later. Full buses head for school.

Premise/plot: Donald Crews gives us a day in the life of a school bus. The book comes full circle, beginning and ending with empty buses gone 'home again' in a parking lot.

My thoughts: This book is very yellow. It doesn't have the same rhythm and rhyme thing going for it as Freight Train does. Nor is it really a concept book like Freight Train was. (Freight Train is about COLORS.) The language is simple. I think little ones could definitely learn to read this one.

The art is simple, perhaps a little too simple. It does give us a diverse group of people waiting for buses, riding the buses, getting off the buses, etc.  While there could be some pros perhaps to having all the humans lack facial features, I prefer faces.

I'm not sure I'd call this book "dandy entertainment" like Publishers Weekly did back in the day. In fact, I doubt I've used the word DANDY even once in one of my reviews.

Text: 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 6 out of 10


© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

I Was So Mad

I Was So Mad. Mercer Mayer. 1983. Random House. 24 pages. [Source: Bought]

First sentence: I wanted to keep some frogs in the bathtub but Mom wouldn't let me. I was so mad. I wanted to play with my little sister's dollhouse but Dad wouldn't let me. I was so mad. I wanted to play hide-and-seek in the clean sheets but Grandma said, "No, you can't." I was just so mad.

Premise/plot: Little Critter is having one of those days. He can't do anything that he wants to do. And the list of things he wants to do is LONG. Rejecting his parents list of things he could do instead, he decides to run away...after packing up a hefty supply of cookies...but will his friends' invitation to play ball change his mind?

My thoughts: I love, love, love Little Critter. I do. This book is fun. Little Critter's list of things he wants to do is quirky. Some readers can probably relate to. Others, maybe not so much. For example, one of the things he wants to do is TICKLE the goldfish.

Text: 4 out of 5
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Machines at Work

Machines at Work. Byron Barton. 1987. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Hey, you guys! Let's get to work. Knock down that building. Bulldoze that tree. Dig up that road.

Premise/plot: It's not just machines at work in Byron Barton's Machines at Work. Little ones also see construction workers working hard all day.

My thoughts: It doesn't take a lot of words to tell a good story. Though though are just a few words per page, Barton's Machines at Work tells an enjoyable story. The illustrations are also super-simple. In a few illustrations, the construction workers reminded me of duplo people. Speaking of which, this would be a fun story to act out with duplos!

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10
© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers

The Hole Story

The Hole Story. Paul Bright. Illustrated by Bruce Ingman. 2016. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: In a land of strange happenings, far, far away, lived two holes, Hamish and Hermione. Their home was a chunk of Swiss cheese, on a plate, in the kitchen, in the royal palace. One day, a family of mice came along and ate all the cheese. The cook chased the mice away, but now the two holes had nowhere to live.

Premise/plot: Hamish and Hermione are looking for a new place to live. These holes have some rough times ahead of them. Because NO ONE wants these two holes around. Places they try to move include: the king's sock, the queen's knickers, the princess's bicycle tire, the prince's row boat. Will these two EVER find a place to live?

My thoughts: Love odd books? You should really pick up The Hole Story. Readers meet a King and Queen and their family, but the ones that really steal the show, are two little holes. For the right reader, I think this one will be pure delight. But not every reader will be the right reader. Alas, this is the case with every book. It is unique, you have to give it that. How many other books about holes do you know?

Text: 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 6 out of 10

© 2017 Becky Laney of Young Readers