Julie and The Wolves by Jean Craighead George

I chose the book at random off the list of Newberry Award Winners. Not entirely sure what brought me to this book or why it stood out to me, but I am fairly glad it did. I personally love stories of human survival and perseverance, and for the most part that is what this book was about. Miyax, a young Eskimo girl has run off from her life in Barrow Alaska. In order to get an education, Miyax had to leave her father and his tribe to live with her more Americanized aunt who referred to her as Julie. Eventually, to escape her aunt, Miyax marries Daniel, the son of family friends to her father, but this too is a prison. So finally Miyax decides to run away to Point Hope where a ship called "The North Star" comes to port. She thinks that she will be able to get a job of some sort on the ship and travel to San Fransisco where she will live with her pen pal Amy, but Point Hope is a long way off and she has very few supplies. At the point of starvation she finds a pack of wolves, and uses the knowledge of her fathers ancient ways and observation to become a part of the pact. She eventually travels with the wolves to her destination but the book leaves you wondering what path she ends up taking. I thought that this was a great story and that it had very interesting insight into Eskimo culture, but upon researching the book I found out that it is pact with inaccuracies that are apparently insulting to the particular tribe, the Inupiaq tribe, that Miyax is supposedly a member of. One such being the fact that the Inupiaq tribe doesn't even use the letter "x" so Miyax name doesn't even make sense. I have to admit I was a little disappointed upon learning about these inaccuracies, but regardless it was still an entertaining read that kept my attention through out the book. I would recommend it, but warn readers to take the "facts" presented with a grain of salt.

The Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis

Although there are many reasons why this book is good, I found it only slightly entertaining. It is very well written and is a very believable historical-fiction book, but to me it just wasn't really interesting until the end where everyone thinks that Joey (or Joetta) has died in the bombing of the Baptist Church in Birmingham. I don't know what this might say about me, but this is after all an opinion based blog and I am giving my opinion. I liked all the characters pretty well, especially the dad because something about him reminds me of my brother-in-law. I think its the fact that he can always tell when he's going to get a reaction out of you, so he plays it up a little. Byron seemed to be a very stereotypical older brother figure, and Kenny seemed to be a very stereotypical everyman character. I liked that the story shows the differences between two parts of America, but I feel like the issue of race was just kind of thrown in at the last second to try and generate buzz for the book. I mean, yes I realize that the whole book takes place in a very different time in our nations history and it is important to get this across to younger generations, its just the author of the book even admits that the book didn't even have to do with the bombing in Birmingham until after his son brought home a school project on it, and you can tell. The issue of race is hardly even mentioned until the final chapters of the book. I will say, however, I did like that there was a follow up story after that takes place after we find out that Joey is ok, because I feel most authors would just leave it at that somewhat happy ending, but then there is the whole story about how Kenny deals with what he saw and it leaves you with a chilling feeling. I like that at least. I would suggest this for a class reading assignment on the Civil Rights Movement, just make sure that there is more information available than just the book.

Little Red Riding Hood Retold and Illustrated by James Marshall

The classic tale of "Little Red" is not particularly one of my favorites, but James Marshall does breath some life into the story through his sense of humor and watercolor illustrations. To be completely honest, I actually prefer the story in Lon Popo more, just because the oldest girl out smarts the wolf and defeats him on her own, where as in this story Red is not only eaten, but has to be rescued by a Woodsman that just happens to be traveling by the right place at the right time. I much rather read a story about someone using their brains rather than being eaten anytime. I will say that Marshall must have had a really fun time illustrating this book. If you look closely, there is at least one cat on every page, and most of them are doing something rather amusing. Also I thought that the "after dinner mints," left next to the wolf after eating Red was a nice touch. I think if you really must read this ancient tale to children, then at least make it the one done by Marshall, because then you might have a little fun as well in the process.

Lon Popo translated and Illustrated by Ed Young

I chose this book for my traditional literature comparison because Professor O handed it to me. Hey at least I'm honest. Anyway, this is a telling of a Chinese folktale that is very similar to "Little Red Riding Hood." And although there are many similarities, mostly that the story is about a wolf that tries to fool a girl (or girls) into thinking that he is in fact her (or their) Grandmother (or Popo), it has differences that can't be ignored. For one, instead of one girl, there are three. For another, the grandmother lives with the girls and leaves them alone, instead of one girl going to visit her grandmother. Also in this version the wolf does not eat anyone, but instead gets tricked in falling out of a tree until it is dead. Pretty interesting how the same basic story can be so dramatically different between cultures. I also have to hand it to Ed Young because his paintings for the book were phenomenal. The only thing I would say is that you should probably read "Little Red Riding Hood" first, because other wise it might seem a little bit confusing. All in all I liked this book and think it is great read for kids.

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz and Illustrated by Stephen Gammell

This book is exactly what the title suggests, "Scary Stories". Although maybe they should also add the words "Graphic," and "Gruesome" to the title. My literature group chose this book for the Banned Book Rational, and you can see from page one why the book was banned. The first story is about a boy who finds a toe, then takes it home where his mother cooks it for the family to eat. Don't get me wrong, this book was awesome! I had a blast reading it, but that doesn't mean I would read it to any children. One reason it was banned was because of the very detailed and graphic illustrations provided by Stephen Gammell. Although these ink wash drawings are amazing in composition and detail of tone variation, they are not appropriate for some readers. I understand that the book is intended for the 9-12 age range, but even that seems a bit low. In one case the book was banned after it was read to first graders. This is more the fault of that particular teacher rather than the creators of the books, but it does prove the point that this book is scary! I'm not sure who to suggest it to this time, because I am still not entirely convinced that the age range it is intended for is right, but regardless, if you want an easy, but gruesomely fun read, I highly suggest this book.

Click Clack Moo! Cows that Type by Doreen Cronin and Illustrated by Betsy Lewin

I just have to say, this is possibly the funniest book to be read to by Mrs. O, seriously, the woman really gets into it. Anyway, in this story Farmer Brown gets the shock of a life time when he finds a note on the door of the barn stating that the cows will not make anymore milk until they get electric blankets. The cows, you see, found an old type writer in the barn and they put it to good use. The chickens soon follow in soot, and Farmer Brown is forced to take action by writing a letter himself demanding milk and eggs. Finally a compromise is met and all is well that ends well. This is a good quick and humorous read that almost any age would appreciate, although it is suggested for ages 3-7. I also enjoyed the rather hysterical water color illustrations by Betsy Lewin. She does a great job of putting expressions in every character...except for maybe the Duck, but the Duck is a neutral party anyhow.

The Twits by Roald Dahl

Not sure why, but for some reason this blog didn't save the first time I wrote it. It's supposed to be between my blog on the Enormous Crocodile and my blog on Matilda. This is a very interesting tale from Dahl for many reasons, but one in particular. It doesn't contain children, except for one chapter. Most stories by Dahl either are about a child or children are a big part of the story. This book however focuses on two of the most despicable characters Dahl has ever created, Mr. and Mrs. Twit whose sole purpose in life is to torture one another. Whether its Mrs. Twit putting worms in Mr. Twits spaghetti, or Mr. Twit tying Mrs. Twit to balloons and "stretching her out," these two are always playing nasty tricks on one another. Mr. Twit also happened to keep a family of performing monkeys that he wishes to train to do everything upside down. The Father monkey, Mugglewumps, is tired of watching the Twits perform their revolting pranks, and decides to pull a few pranks on the Twits himself. This book was a hilarious good read that makes you laugh with each page. I think this is great book to get kids into slightly more advanced reading, because it will keep them entertained all the way through.

Waiting for the Rain by Sheila Gordon

This is the second book I chose for my multicultural assignment. Although the premise of this book sounded very interesting, it did seem a little preachy. In the story, Tengo is the son of farmhands on a farm owned by a wealthy white man in southern Africa. Frikkie, Tengo's best friend is the nephew of the owner of the farm. While Frikkie is content with the way life is, Tengo yearns for an education and other services that are free to white people, but are too expensive for blacks. Eventually the two grow apart from one another. Tengo does attend school but has to live with his cousin to do so, and Frikkie joins the military. Around the time that Tengo should be going to college, there is an uprising against the military and Tengo gets caught up in it. Eventually Tengo and Frikkie meet again this time in conflict, violent conflict. After realising what has transpired, Tengo decides that he will continue the fight, but from a intellectual and scholorly stand point. Like I said, the premise of the book was great, and it does bring the conflicts that happen in southern Africa into view, I just wish that Gordon didn't make it so blantently clear as to which side is the "good side." I mean although I am sure that this exactly the kind of thing that is going on, there is always two sides to a story. I mean not every german was a Nazi. Anyway, I found the book to be alright, but nothing more than that. I think I might do some more research though before I recomend it.

Three Samurai Cats: a Story from Japan Retold by Eric A. Kimmel and Illustrated by Mordicai Gerstein

This was chosen for my multicultural book for one reason. It looked absolutely ridiculous! To my surprise, it actually wasn't half bad. In the story, a giant rat moves into a great daiymo (a great feudal lord)'s castle, pestering him and eating all of his food. He immediately leaves for a near by monastery famous for its well trained Samurai Cats! The master of the monastery first sends a young samurai cat eager to help the daiymo, but the rat's martial arts skills prove to be too much for the feline. Then the master sends a bigger and stronger samurai cat that the daiymo is certain will defeat the rat, but the rat still prevails over the strong samurai cat. Then the daiymo demands that the master sends his greatest and most powerful samurai to defeat the rat, but to the daiymo's surprise all that arrives is a frail, old, half blind cat named Neko Roshi. The rat laughs at the daiymo thinking that this is by far the worst warrior the rat has ever seen. For days, all that Neko Roshi does is sleep and eat, while the rat eats and pesters the daiymo. Finally one day the rat takes a misstep and Neko Roshi seases the opportunity by tripping the rat and therefore defeating him. This story was great for three reasons, one it teaches children the importance of not judging someone by their appearance, two, it teaches children to be paitent and wait for the right opportunity, and three, they are SAMURAI CATS! I would suggest it for not only the K-Grade 3 reading level, but also for anyone having trouble in dealing with patience.

STINK! and the Great Guinea Pig Express by Megan McDonald and Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds

This is the fourth book of the STINK! series, and yes, I you finally find out the reason that James Moody is nicknamed Stink. It has nothing to do with the story though, its more of a side note that was thrown into the dialog. I almost don't want to tell the story behind it so that way you can go out and read it for yourself. In fact I think that I won't tell the story for just that reason. Anyway the main story is about how Stink, Webster, and Sophie of the Elves find some guinea pigs in Stinks backyard. Turns out that they belonged the local pet shop owner, Mrs. Birdwhistle, who had just rescued 101 guinea pigs from a lab that used the guinea pigs as...guinea pigs. Anyway the story is about how all four turn an old camper into "Squeals on Wheels" and drive to a guinea pig rescue shelter, while finding homes for a good portion of the guinea pigs along the way. This book also had more of liner plot line and was easier to follow. In all honesty, I am kind of sad that this is the last book in the series. Perhaps one day, when I actually have the time to read for fun, I will pick up the Joody Moody Series and revisit my old friend Stink. Once again, I would suggest this to anyone who wants to read a light hearted story about Stink!

Heat by Mike Lupica

I love baseball. It's probably the only sport I follow, so Heat appeared to be a good choice for my Caudill Nominee. It's not that I didn't enjoy the book, I did, its just, I was expecting more baseball. I guess I shouldn't judge a book by its cover huh? The story centers around a boy named Micheal Arroyo, whose father has died only a few months after bringing him, and his older brother Carlos from Cuba. Carlos is only a few months away from turning 18, and it is up to Micheal, Carlos, Manny (Micheal's best friend), and their neighbor Mrs. Cora to keep the secret of Micheal's father's death from child services and a coach of a rival little league team so that Micheal can go on to win the the little league series. As I said before, I read the book for the baseball, but stayed for the suspense. Although at times the story seemed far fetched, it was a pretty heart warming story. I would suggest it to any who likes a good story not just the 9-12 reading level it is suggested for.

STINK! and the World's Worst Super-Stinky Sneakers by Megan McDonald and Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds

Continuing on with my series Study with book three in the STINK! series. Now, I was certain that this book would answer my question as to why James Moody is lovingly called Stink, but alas I was wrong. I did find out that Stink does have an unusually good sense of smell. In this story, Stink finds out about an annual contest for the stinkiest sneakers and decides that he wants to not only participate but win. Most of the book is about how he can smell many different things with great accuracy, but it is also about how things don't always turn out the way you expect them too. This book unlike the other two, had a pretty linear story line that it followed throughout the book. I find that this made it a lot more interesting and easier to follow than the others. As always, I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a quick fun read.

STINK! and the Incredible Super-Galactic Jawbreaker! by Megan Mcdonald and Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds

As you may recall, my Monarch Nominee book STINK! the Incredible Shrinking Kid! was a surprisingly good read. Well needless to say, I fell in love with the character, and decided that I would read the rest of the series for my series study. I was not disappointed. In this story after Stink is disappointed that his Super-Galactic Jawbreaker was not so Super-Galactic, he writes the Jawbreaker Company and they send him a whole box filled with Jawbreakers. This gives Stink and idea, he writes a toy company about their robot toys, and a candy company, and both respond in a similar fashion. In all the excitement Stink forgets about his best friend Webster's birthday, but makes up for it by throwing Webster a party at school putting all of the toys, candy, and jawbreakers into a pinata. I know, I basically gave away the ending, but there is a lot I didn't cover and you should really go pick it up for yourself. Once again I think this is fun read for anyone, not just the third grade reading level it is intended for.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

Yes, I know. I have made it very clear that I am not a big fan of the Harry Potter series, and I still stand by that. I am not a big fan. I chose this book for my modern fantasy book because I thought since so many people love it, and so many children can't get enough of the series, I might give it one more shot. I will admit, it is well written, and the plot of a boy, who lives with his evil Aunt and Uncle, and tortured day in and day out by his cousin, finds out that his parents where in fact a witch and a wizard and he must now become one himself, was interesting, I just can't get into it's Cinderella like quality. I am not sure what it is exactly about the series I don't like, I mean there are plenty of reasons to enjoy it, I just find it, "okay". I guess it's just not my cup of tea. In any case the book does teach kids that anyone can do great things, as long as they believe in themselves and their friends. It also must be very engaging (for reasons not entirely understood by yours truly), because kids all over the world can't get enough of the books. As much as I may not understand it, and as much as I may be put off by it, kids are reading these books, and that is the most important thing. I just feel that if you want to read a story with magic and a child that overcomes impossible odds with the help of friends, read anything by Roald Dahl instead.

Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss

I know. I know. I thought I was done with the Dr. Seuss book reviews too, but I just could not think of a better example of a predictable pattern book than this great read. With each page something new gets added on to a list of places or circumstances where someone might eat Green Eggs and Ham. This book is so wonderful, and so much fun, (albeit, very redundant) that I couldn't stop laughing at all the wonderful rhymes and illustrations! Seuss (yes I know that is not his real name) must have had an amazing imagination, and I truly wish that I could have met the man. This book teaches children the importance of trying new things, and not to judge something before you try it yourself. I know that my sister has read it to my nephew and now anytime that he doesn't want something he's never had before, she tells him that it is green eggs and ham, and he devours whatever it is on his plate right away. If there is one thing to be said about Seuss, he knows how to get pretty complicated concepts across to even the smallest of children. Anyway, I've said it before, and I just might say it again, this book is not just fun for kids, but adults alike.

Where's Waldo by Martin Handford

I chose this book for my wordless picture book, mostly because it's the only picture book that I could think of without words. I will admit I did "read" this book as a child and I did enjoy it, but I am not sure how much of an educational factor there is to a book like this. I understand that it teaches kids to pay attention to little detail, but other than that, I am not sure what it brings to the table. The artwork is fantastic, but I am sure that it must have been a headache at time to create it. Honestly I am not too sure what else to say about this book. If you want to keep a kid quiet, kill some time, or give yourself a headache, go ahead and pick it up. I just feel like time can be spent on something a little more worth while.

The Missing Piece by Shel Silverstein

I chose this book for one of my picture books mostly because I remember reading it as a child, but also because I affectionately call my girlfriend, "My missing piece." In this story a circle with a missing piece is on a journey to find his missing piece, which is more of a triangle shape. The circle sings and rolls along and comes upon many different pieces, but none of them are his missing piece. Finally he comes across a triangle shape that fits just right, and they join together. Unfortunately, when joined together the circle rolls far too fast, and is unable to sing. The circle decides to let go of the missing piece and continue rolling at his own pace and keep singing. This book show children the importance of being ones self and not to worry if they are "missing a piece." This is an important lesson for both kids, and adults, but I may have to find something else to call my girlfriend though (just kidding). Anyway, as I mentioned before Silverstein is an amazing artist and it is shown even here where there is nothing but simple shapes throughout the entire book. I would suggest this to anyone who feels that they are "missing a piece."

In Daddy's Arms I am Tall: African Americans Celebrating Fathers Illustrated by Javaka Steptoe

Although this was written by and for African Americans to reflect their culture, you don't have to be African American to enjoy this book. You don't even necessarily have to have a father. I personally was reminded of my Grandfather when I read the poem "Promises" because my grandfather used to tell me that he would always love me, even when he was gone. Now that he is gone, this poem especially hit home for me. There are eleven other poems all focused around a child's feelings and love for their father. I'll admit it, I did cry after reading this book, and to this day only a few other books have ever evoked that kind of emotion out of me. This book is very heart warming, and I would suggest it to not only children six and up, but I would also suggest it for Father's Day gifts for experienced fathers and new fathers alike. The only thing that I might want to stay away from is getting this book for someone that may have just recently lost their father. I also would like to mention that the collage and mixed media artwork is breath taking. Javaka Steptoe really put his heart and sole into these masterpieces. It is no surprise to me that the book won the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award in 1998.

Who Killed Mr. Chippendale written by Mel Glenn

I actually stumbled upon this book while searching some websites for a book of realistic fiction and this was placed under the category of "Mystery" on one of the sites. Turns out the book is many different poems about the murder of a high school English Teacher Mr. Robert Chippendale. The poems all differ from the student to student and as book goes on you are supposed to deduce who the killer is. I found that this a very creative way to write a mystery. Although on the other hand it was hard to follow considering there were so many different points of views. I am not even sure if this book can be considered a one story poem book or not, but I don't know how else to categorize it, because all though it is many different poems, they are all written by one guy and they all center around the mystery of who shot Mr. Chippendale. Like I said before, although this style of telling a mystery through poems is a very creative and interesting, it was hard to follow and sometimes confusing. With that in mind I would suggest it for a reader who wants a challenge but not for someone just wanting to read poems.

A Light in the Attic By Shel Silverstein

There is only one form of children's literature that I recall ever reading as a child, and that is Shel Silverstein poetry and short stories. I decided to revisit my child hood stomping grounds for one of my poetry books and re-read A Light in the Attic. I was just as excited and thrilled to read this book today as I was as a child. I have admit, I had forgotten just how silly, sly, witty, and inspiring, Silverstein is. Poems ranging from a Rhino that wants to fly, to a man with a wavy head, Silverstein finds a way to provoke funny bones and hearts alike. Not to mention his amazing pen and ink style. I would even go as far as to argue that the only artist that can surpass Silverstein's illustrations is Dr. Seuss, and that's saying something, especially coming from me. I actually almost chose Silverstein for my illustrator study, if you can believe it. I know I read this book at a very small age, but even if a child reading level isn't up to the 9-12 age range I would read at least some of these poems to younger children. I mean they are just good clean fun.

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss

From there to here, from here to there, Dr. Seuss is everywhere. Or at least he is on my blog. If you haven't been able to tell by now that I love Dr. Seuss, well then you haven't been reading any of my posts so far. I chose this book for one of my picture books, not because it was next to all the other Seuss books in the library, but because after finishing my illustrator study, I realized just how amazing Seuss is. So of course I had to get more. This book is another fine example of Seuss' genius (As if that's really any surprise.) Every page is filled with a different rhyme and illustration designed to spark the imagination of a child, while at the same time educated them on many different subjects. The book is also designed for the child to one day read on their own, which I find absolutely wonderful. This book not only teaches concepts and queries for children to ponder, but also it teaches confidence and the importance of reading. How many other books can you think of that can do all of that besides another Seuss book? As with all the other Seuss books that I have written about, even though it is directed for children, anyone can learn a thing or two from the great Doctor.

Dr. Seuss's ABC by Dr. Seuss

This is a book that I actually read to my nephew when ever I am in California, and the inspiration for choosing Dr. Seuss for my illustration study. Of course, he gets mad because I don't "read it like daddy." This just shows how important it is for parents to read to their children, but that is a topic for another type of blog. Anyway, this is a classic example of both Seuss' ability to write and illustrate. Every picture in the book goes with the letter, but that is to be expected. What makes this book so entertaining is that EVERYTHING starts with the letter in focus, for example, on page 34 the letter O, it says, "Osar's only ostrich oiled an orange owl today" and it depicts an ostrich with an oil can, pouring a single drip onto an orange colored owl. Every letter gets the same wonderfully creative treatment. One can really see why Dr. Seuss is one the greatest, if not the greatest, children book authors of all time. Of course this is targeted to children learning their ABC's, but anyone should be able to read this and still find enjoyment in its pages.

Matilda By Roald Dahl

At first I didn’t think I would enjoy this book at all. No offense is meant to the great Mr. Dahl, but a story about a small girl with nasty parents didn’t seem all that appealing. I am glad and pretty thrilled to report that I not only enjoyed Matilda, but loved it. It was probably the best book that I read by Dahl. I really connected with Matilda, not because she had nasty evil parents but because she was a very smart and witty child. She also read many different books including Great Expectations by Charles Dickons, which is a book I read as a child as well. I think that Dauhl has a certain flair for writing stories about child that over come impossible odds, because I enjoyed Matilda and James and the Giant Peach far more than I did The Twits or The Enormous Crocodile. I also think that this makes the story more relatable and better received by children rather than a story about animals or strange grown-ups. Anyway, Matilda was heart warming story that had complexity and excitement through every page.

The Enormous Crocodile by Roald Dahl

This book was chosen by my Lit Circle group for our Author Study Project. I am reviewing this book first because it was the shortest of the three books that we read. This is a fairly amusing tale about an enormous crocodile that tries to trick children into falling for his traps so he can eat them, but he brags about his plan to eat children the entire time he travels through the jungle, which comes back to "bite" him in the end. Although this was definitely pact with Dahl's sense of humor and writing style, I feel as though it was just too short. I felt like as soon as I started the story it was over. Don't get me wrong, I know that it was not intended to be a long story, or even an epic tale, but it lack the sense of depth and wonder in most Dahl tales. I think that this is a good read for kids, but this is one of the first that I would only suggest to kids.

Aunt Chip and the Great Triple Creek Dam Affair by Patricia Polacco

Although this book is a little bit preachy about the "dangers' of television, it does bring focus to the importance of reading. Fifty years after the town of Triple Creek put up the great tv tower; no one knows how to read, save Aunt Chip, the former town librarian who has been in bed since the construction of the tower. When Aunt Chip finds out that no one reads anymore she finally gets out of bed and does something about it. She first teaches her Nephew, Eli, to read, then the rest of the children of the town. The children were so eager to read that they would read any book they could get their hands on, but the problem is that books have found other uses in the past fifty years, including part of the town dam. When Moby Dick is taken from the dam, it bust causing a flood that knocks over the tv tower. Without tv, all the adults become angry, but eventually start reading themselves and the town is forever changed. In all honesty, I don't see reading ever becoming exstinct, but I do understand that tv and other forms of entertainment are more appealing to most kids, so it is important to keep them interesed. I liked the pencil and water color illustrations, but for a book like this I almost feel that they were...too detailed. I don't know that makes any sense, but in anycase that is my opinion. I would probably recomend this book for an in-class read, or something to illustrate the importance of reading.

James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl

I chose this book for my Book-to-Movie comparison, mostly because I love the animation style that the movie is done in. As for the book itself, I had to get it on a book on tape because that was the only available copy I could find at the public library. This did not take away from the story at all. I rather loved the book and could only wonder why it was a banned book. Turns out it was originally banned because the mystical element of the use of magic crocodile tongues. I feel this is a completely silly reason to ban a book, I mean you might as well ban Cinderella as well because of the fairy godmother. Anyway, this not my banned book...book so I will move on. I actually felt that the movie did an excellent job and only enhanced the story. This is a very rare thing for me, because usually, if the movie doesn't stay absolutely true to the book, I don't like it. This is the exception though. The movie stayed very true the heart and soul of the book, which is at its heart a story of a boy overcoming impossible odds with the help of friends. I say forget all the reasons why this book was banned and give read it anyway. Let your kids read it, there is nothing wrong with a little magic. Lord knows we could use some in the real world.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr, Seuss

This is a classic tale that if you haven't read the book, then surely, like me, you were exposed to the story through the classic cartoon, or perhaps through the Ron Howard film. If you have not read or seen any of these, then get yourself to a bookstore right away! The classic story is basically just what the title suggests, it's all about how the Grinch steals Christmas! Of course he does so by imitating the great Santa Claus (or Santy Claus as he is referred to in the book) and breaking into every house in the Who Village and stealing all of their Christmas items. To the Grinch's dismay, he did not succeed in stealing Christmas at all because every Who was still merry and in the Christmas spirit despite having all their stuff taken away. This, of course, moves the Grinch and he returns all of their stuff and everyone lives happily ever after. Once again Seuss displays his mastering of pen and ink with ease and skill. One thing that I found especially amusing was the expressions on the Grinch's dog Max, whom served as the Grinch's only reindeer. This is arguably Seuss' greatest work, and for good reason. The man was not just a master storyteller but a fantastic, and in my opinion underappreciated, artist. Every illustration has life and vigor, and is worthy of recognition. I can only hope that one day I, as an artist, can achieve even a fraction of the excitement and life, in my own work, that Seuss does in his.

Yertle the Turtle and Other Stories by Dr. Seuss

This is the second book I chose for my illustrator series. This book actually contains three stories. Each story deals with some kind of moral issue, such as greed, vanity, and pride. As I stated before in my previous blog, Dr. Seuss has style all his own, and I think that it shows more so in this book than in Horton Hears a Who! only because in story Gertrude McFuzz Seuss really has fun with the illustrations and lets his pen fly! I really wish I could have seen him draw in person, and found out how he got such marvelous detail in every drawing. He almost has a zen like quality to his pen strokes. Anyway, I thought that the Yertle the Turtle story was probably his most political of the three, mostly because its about a greedy king that has everything, but will sacrifice his own people to get more. Where in politics can that not be applied? Sad but true. Lastly, my favorite story was The Big Brag, where a bear and a rabbit are arguing about who is better, when they are both out smarted by an old worm. Once again, a story where someone out smarts an advisary much larger or powerful then themselves. I would certianly read this to my kids...if I had any...

Horton Hears a Who! by Dr. Suess

Honestly, who doesn't love Dr. Suess. It's almost UN-American not too. I chose Dr. Suess for my illustrator series because I feel that not enough people recognize his fantastic pen and ink stile of artwork. I mean talk about having your own style, this guy is almost instantly recognizable by his images alone! Most people don't know that Dr. Suess actually did work as a political artist, and it defenitely shows through his writing and artwork. Horton Hears a Who! on the other hand seems to be based in asian philosophy rather than trying to make a particular statement. For those who have yet to read this instant classic, it tells the tale of an Elephant named Horton that finds a speck that contains a whole city of whos. No one in the rest of the jungle believes Horton and thinks he's crazy. I think this is a pretty advanced concept to teach children, but somehow Dr. Suess pulls threw. Finally Dr. Seuss' pen and ink illustrations are full of life and excitement. His use of hatching and cross-hatching gives the drawings a sense of depth. I also liked this book because it shows that Dr. Seuss can draw real animals as well as completely fictional ones.

Rumpelstiltskin Retold and Illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky

Rumpelstiltskin is quite possibly my favorite classic tale. I was pleased to see that Mr. Zelinsky did his research before retelling this tale. He actually found that the Grimm Brothers had published about five different versions of this tale, and all were based from a story called "Rumpenstunzchen," where there is nothing about a king forcing a miller's daughter to spin gold, rather a young girl is given flax to spin into linen, but only gold thread comes from her spinning wheel. A little man tells her that he can make the prince marry her if she promises her first born child. From this point on the story is pretty much the same. Zelinsky pulled the best parts from each story to make a fantastic tale. The oil paintings were amazingly detailed, and Zelinsky portrayal of Rumpelstiltskin was almost chilling. Think that this is probably the best version of the classic tale that I have ever had the pleasure of reading, and that's saying something because when I was younger I recieved a video of the Muppet version of many Grimm fairy tales, and I cherished that VHS tape. Anyway, I think that this would be a good read for anyone over the age of six or seven.

The Princess and the Frog by the Grimm Brothers Retold by Will Eisner

I have to admit, The Princess and the Frog (also known as the Frog Prince) is not one of my favorite classic tales. In fact the only reason I even picked this book was because I was absolutely stunned to find that Will Eisner, the legendary comic book writer/artist, retold the story in his own way. For those that don't know the great Will Eisner, he is mostly known for his creation of the Golden Age pulp comic hero, The Spirit (soon to be a major motion film, where it will be butchered and turned into something it's not by the supposedly great Frank Miller). Will Eisner also was the creator of the graphic novel, a book composed of a collection of comic books. One of his most famous books, A Contract with God is arguably the best graphic novel of all time. In the comic book world, the Eisner Award is the equivalent to the Oscar in the movie biz. Anyway, despite not liking the original tale of the Princess and the Frog, I devoured this book. It may be due to my biased love of Will Eisner, but regardless, the man is an excellent storyteller. His watercolor illustrations are actually some of his best works, and I believe that it nothing short of destiny that I happened upon this book. I plan on trying to find a copy to own of this book to add to my vast collection of Will Eisner works. Eisner is known for making the fantastic more human, and easier to relate to, while at the same time keeping it in the realm of fantasy. This book is no exception, and I think it is good read for both children and adults alike!

Puss in Boots Illustrated by Fred Marcellino and Translated by Malcolm Arthur

This was chosen to be one of my classic literature books. I mainly chose it because I had never heard the tale of Puss in Boots before, and I didn't know where the character in the movie Shrek came from. I have to say, as cool as Antonio Banderas is, He does not do justice to the original Puss in Boots. I loved this story, and really wished that someone had told it to me when I was a child. I absolutely love stories were the main character outsmarts someone much larger or powerful than themselves. The oil paintings (or what I am assuming to be oil paintings due to the fact that you can see the canvas underneath in some cases) are fantastic. They capture so much expression on all the characters faces. I really think that kids would enjoy this book as much as I did.

A Long Way from Chicago by Richard Peck

This book was wonderful. I love historical fiction. Now I know that the book didn't focus on the Great Depression (with the exception of the end of the chapter entitled One Woman Crime Wave) but it was very prominent in the background of the story. Anyway I really connected with the main character Joey Dowdel, mostly due to his laid back mentality. He had plenty of questions during the book but he knew that in time they would be answered and for the most part thats how I try to approach life. I also appreciated the way the Grandma would not just over exaggerate things, but tell bold face lies for what seemed to just be her own personal amusement, but always had an alternate plan in mind that would some how help someone. I had a relative, my great grandfather, who was fairly similar, although I can't recall if any of his stories ever benefiting anyone but himself. He used to tell me that he once killed a grizzly bear with his pocket knife and made the bearskin rug, that lay on the middle of the floor, out of said bear. Later when he died both the rug and the knife were left to me, and upon further inspection I discovered that the rug had a "Made in China" stamp on the bottom. Anyway, there are plenty of examples of woppers just like the one my great grandfather used to tell me all throughout the book. Like the falsifying of Abraham Lincoln's personal items being found in her neighbor's house, or presenting a blue ribbon from her hat to a pilot to receive a free plane ride for her grandson. The book was a very smart, witty, and fun read. I would suggest it to just about anyone.

Saint George and the Dragon retold by Margaret Hodges and Illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman

I chose this book for my other Caldecott Award because I honestly just like stories about knights defeating dragons. Unfortunately, I did not enjoy this story very well. As I understand it, the writer Margaret Hodges wanted to retell this story for new generations so that it would not be lost, and I appreciate that fact. Sorrowfully the story reads much in the same way a child makes up a story, "Well first there was this knight, then he ran into a dragon, and he fought the dragon, but the dragon won, so he had to fight the dragon again! And then everyone was saved! The end!" Okay, to be fair I am exaturating a little bit, but it literally felt like I was reading a very long run on sentence. On the other hand the watercolor illustrations were very nicely done and they were stylized to look like pictures that are in original books containing great stories of old. I just think, that if you are going to try and retell a story, don't just translate what happens, but give it a little more "flavor."

STINK: The Incredible Shrinking Kid! by Megan McDonald and Illustrations by Peter H. Reynolds

For my Monarch book, I chose STINK: The Incredible Shrinking Kid by Megan McDonald and Illustrations by Peter H. Reynolds. This realistic fiction book was very entertaining, especially the comic strips that are at the end of each chapter. The only complaint I would really have about the book is that it does not have a linear plot line. On the other hand it does contain three self contained stories within it about James Moody, whom everyone refers to as Stink. The reasoning behind the nickname of Stink was not made clear in this particular book, but I suspect that it might have already been explained in either one of the previous books in the series, or in one of Judy Moody books that the Stink series spun off of. Anyway, the first story is about Stink and how he is the shortest kid in his class and how he wants to grow taller, the second story is about how Stink gets to bring home his class pet (this was my favorite story), and the last story was about Presidents Day, and how Stink loves James Madison. The book was very sweet and I would suggest it to anyone not just the third grade reading level it is intended for.

GOLEM by David Wisniewski

I chose this book for my Caldecott Award Winner book, mostly because I have a friend who is in to Jewish folklore and he had once mentioned the story of the Golem. I first noticed its amazing and complex art work (big surprise coming from the art major). The entire book is illustrated by very intricately cut pieces of construction paper, and you certainly would not guess this at first glance. Well as I read through this book, I quickly realized that this was not just any children's book (and not just because of the artwork). It had complexity and depth that even some major novels fail to grasp. I was stunned. The book tells the tale of the Jewish oppression in Prague, that took place in 1580. Rumors were being spread that the Jews were using the blood of children to mix with their flour and water to make the Passover bread. Knowing of the coming violence this "Blood Lie" would bring, the chief rabbi, Judah Loew ben Bezalel, summoned forth the Golem, a creature that only the most righteous of men could create to protect the Jews. The rabbi named the Golem Joseph, and told him to protect the Jews, but although Joseph did as was asked of him he was more concerned with the gift of life. Like I said, the book was fantastic, and definitely a must read.