Amazon.com

Judy Sierra, author of the well-loved picture books Counting Crocodiles and The House That Drac Built, delights young readers again, this time paying poetic tribute to the distinguished-yet-waddling emperor penguin of icy Antarctica. Comical, cartoonish paintings by accomplished illustrators (and penguin lovers) Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey combined with Sierra's lively poems will have your favorite kids giggling and, perhaps, wanting a pet baby penguin of their own!

Youngsters will dive, swim, and glide through playful poems such as "My Father's Feet," which begins: "To keep myself up on the ice,/I find my father's feet are nice./I snuggle in his belly fluff,/And that's how I stay warm enough." "Penguin's Swim" starts, "Ten little penguins all in a line--/One jumps in and now there are nine./Nine little penguins, how they hesitate--/One tumbles in and now there are eight." Sierra's poems are based on the lives and habits of emperor penguins, so your kids will learn about life in the Antarctic from a penguin's perspective. This book is as irresistible as the fish-slurping, huddling, fidgeting, waddling, ker-plopping penguins themselves! (Ideal for reading aloud, but perfect for early readers ages 4 to 8.) ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Antarctic Antics a book of Penguin Poems Review
Antarctic Antics is a wonderful book to read to children if they love to hear about animals. This book is all about penguins and their daily activities. The author, Judy Sierra did an excellent job in writing cute poems about the artic animal. The illustrations were done by Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey. The pictures relate well with the pomes as they are written within the illustrations. The illustrations are full pages and add excellent color to the page as the poem is enjoyed. The poems in this book create a sense of smell, taste, sight, and touch. The poems are about what goes on in a penguins life adn the child can relate to their senses as the poems are read to them. One poem called Regurgitate is about a baby penguin. He wants his dad to regurgitate his food; this poem is liked by children. This has the qualities of taste, sight, smell, and touch. There are many more great poems to read to children that they will enjoy. This book has an excellent collection of poems that children will enjoy. The poems mee the requirements fo children poetry. The book has a way ar teaching the students about penguins and their ways of life. The illustrations done by Aruego and Dewey add a signifiacant amount to the poems as they are read.

Poems About Penguins.
First of all, I love this book because I love penguins. However, as a piece of children's literature, it's so much more. This is an excellent example of how literature (poetry) and science can go hand and hand. There are some poems in this book that seem written just for fun, (e.g. "Be My Penguin"). However, most of the poems in this book are written about and around actual behaviors that penguins exhibit: from regurgiating their food to feed the young ("Regurgitate") to the motherly instincts of father penguins ("A Hatchling's Song" and "My Father's Feet") to poetic riddles about penguin predators (sea lion, killer whale). The book is charming, easy to read, and full of delightful penguin illustrations. A great gift for any child interesting in science or literature or anyone who (like me) just loves penguins.

Antarctic Antics
I purchased the CD because of the good reviews on the book. My seven year old loved the CD and I was surprised to find myself singing along. He's been learning about penguins at school - this is definitely a good way to reinforce what he has learned while having lots of fun in the process.

Fun for kids of all ages
An adult friend recommended this book to me (also an adult), figuring that I'd enjoy anything containing a poem titled "Regurgitate." She was right, and I found the rest of the book well-written and well-crafted, full of similar humor and the kind of realism-in-viewpoint that is sometimes (too often) lacking in books that feature animals. The illustrations are also excellent. I'm told that children do enjoy this book, but it's also captivated many of my adult friends ... including one woman to whom I presented a copy for her 55th birthday. Quality shines through any good work, and that's definitely true of "Antarctic Antics."

Charming
The book was very entertaining for my five year old granddaughter, making her laugh as well as learn about penguins.

The art work was as well done as the writing. I recommend it to anyone who is sly enough to teach through laughter and rhyme. ... Read more

Book Description

Translation by Roger L'Estrange ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Definitive version
This 17th century translation by Everyman's Library, while at times difficult because of the Elizabethan English, contains expanded reflections that explain the moral behind each story. This edition emphasizes the importance of character building and morality rather than mere entertainment. Presented in a schoolbook style, this text is a wonderful book for adults as well, especially those concerned about the education of their children. Be sure to read the Preface. Includes a lengthy introduction to the life of Aesop. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great beginner biography
The entire "A picture book of..." biography series byDavid Adler is outstanding. Perfect for lower elementary studentsdoing their first real report. Makes a great read-aloud for non-readers as they are easily completed in one sitting. The cute cartoon-like pictures are kid friendly. But most importantly, they are loaded with information including a timeline of important events. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Popcorn -- A wonderful book
Both of my children loved this book. We wore out the first copy and had to rebuy it because it had been loved to tatters.

My 21 year old son still has his well-loved copy in his bookshelf.

I hope it comes into print again because it is a charming and engaging read-aloud story.

This is a wonderful book for children and adults alike!
I haven't even seen the book for twenty years or more, but this morning I woke up with the idea that Popcorn, by Frank Asch, would be perfect for trick-or-treaters this Halloween. (I'm always looking for an alternative to candy.) Popcorn, with all of its costumed bears and the house that fills with popcorn, was my favorite book for years. You can ask my mother. I am so sorry to hear that it is out of print.

One of my daughter's favorite books
I bought this engaging book two years ago at a neighborhood garage sale for a mere ten cents and it immediately became one of my nearly three year old's favorite books. She has three older siblings and we have read this book to her at least a hundred times! I am sorry to hear it is out-of-print because any child anywhere would enjoy it. Hey, I love the book as well and I'm a jaded adult. The book teems with creativity and imagination and very young and impressionable kids will wonder if popcorn would really fill up an entire house! The pictures are adorable and fun to. Look for the little inquisitve mouse on each page and the cat as well. A wonderful book. Frank Asch has done it again. I'd put my book up for auction but I can't bear to part with it. Maybe in 10 years or so....

the popcorn story
I like this book because it deals with something that kids will understand. his parents leave for a party so the kid bear has a party of his own. every guest brought popcorn and he decices to fix it all and it fills up the house with popcorn. They eat all the popcorn and clean the house so his perents never know what happened. his parents came home and they brought him some popcorn. This is a great story for kids around the halloween time

This fall themed book is a storyteller's delight.
The young children in our library storytime just seem to love this fun and engaging story. Our children identify with Asch's little bear who decides to make popcorn and have a costume party in the absence of his parents. The make-believe situation becomes an incredible disaster when little bear does not seem to realize how much the popcorn expands when popped. He miscalulates and soon he, his house and his guests are buried in popcorn. You have to read this title to find out how he manages to clean it up all up before his parents find out. I'm sorry to see this title currently out of print. When introducing topics such as corn, indians, and the harvest, this Asch story gives parents and storytellers a wonderful gentle educational fall alternative to ghools and goblins. We always follow-up this great fall storytime theme by serving popcorn to all the storytime children. ... Read more

Book Description

Cam Jansen and her friend Eric want to play baseball in the park with some other kids. But they need to find their lost ball first. Everyone gets together to search, and Cam says "Click!" to start up her photographic memory. What was going on when the ball disappeared? Who has it? Where can it be now? Cam is ready to find out. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Review of Cam Jansen and the Baseball Mystery
This book is great for those who are just becoming independant readers. The sentences are short and the vocabulary is simple enough so it is easy for them to understand. Also the pictures correspond well to the story. The story will keep their interest, they will follow the pursuit to find the baseball, seeing how Cam uses her photographic memory to help solve the mystery. This story teaches young children how photgraphic memories work in a simple way. I liked how they used Cam, short for camera as her nickname. ... Read more

Book Description

The Cam Jansen books are perfect for young readers who are making the transition to chapter books, and Cam is a spunky young heroine whom readers have loved for over two decades.Now the first ten books in the series have updated covers that bring new life to these perennial best-sellers.Old fans and new readers will love Cam's cool, modern look! ... Read more

Book Description

Cam Jansen has a great time looking for shells on the beach with her friend Eric and her aunt Molly. But when they're done, Cam's mother is nowhere in sight! She was just sitting under a red umbrella, so how could she have disappeared? With a click, Cam puts her photographic memory to work to find her mom.

Illustrated by Susanna Natti. ... Read more

Book Description

Walk, run, skip, march, kick.

We use our feet all the time! With her trademark simple words and delightful pictures, Aliki explains the many ways our feet are important to us. Our feet hold us up, help us balance, and most importantly, take us wherever we want to go.

Book Description

The year is 1768. In eight years, the American Revolution will begin. Newly orphaned, Peter York has been adopted by a deeply religious Quaker fame. Peter chafes under his new guardian's strict and unyielding views and vows to break away. He sees his chance when two runaway indentured servants are reported to be fleeing through his community. If he catches one, there will be a reward -- and freedom. But capturing the runaways leads to consequences -- and choices -- Peter cannot foresee.

Reviews (4)

Night Journeys
Night Journeys was a book for 12 and UP. It should have 2 stars though because in the beginning it needs to have more information about Peter and his life. On how he has no other family, and how he had to give up his horse for his family. Besides that the book was interesting. It had a lot of conflicts during the story. It also had an ending that wasn't what I predicted before. This book also continues in Encounter at Easton.

Night Journeys Bokk Review
Peter York is eleven years old and was adopted by the Shinn family. Peter wants to rescue Elizabeth and Robert, two slaves who are children. But Mr. Shinn doesn't want him to. The story took place in Trenton, New Jersey and Pennsylvania in the year 1768.
I would recommend this book to a boy who likes adventures because the main character is a boy that goes on a lot of adventures. I didn't like this book because I did not like peters adventures. Maybe someone who likes river adventures would like this book. I would not want to recommend this book to my friends.
The problem in night Journeys is that Peter and the two slaves want to escape with out the Shinn family knowing. Will Mr. Shinn find out or not?

A struggle within....
Set in pre-Revolutionary Philadelphia, this is the story of young Peter, orphaned and then adopted - for reasons he does not understand - by a Quaker family. He does not understand their ways - their non-violent approach, the deep reflections on what he thinks are simple, everyday things. When a runaway indentured servant is found by the Quaker farmer, Peter cannot understand why this man is willing to turn her over to those who pursue her and will bring her back to a life that seems

unfair. She escapes, but her 10 year old friend is captured, and Peter must answer his own calling. In the end, he and his adopted father come to understand and appreciate each other. The(adoptive) Quaker father is sorely misunderstood by Peter, but also has to face some of his own short-comings. Peter also has to stop running, and listen more intently to others. Not a truly excellent book, but a nice period piece, good for boys who are dealing with similar emotion in these times, and good for girls, because the young girl is a strong character.

The Unexpected Ending
Have you ever read a truly wonderful book? I mean a book where every tiny detail sticks in your brain? A book that takes you on an adventure or to a world that you've never seen or heard of? Well, if you haven't here's your opportunity. When you read 'Night Journeys' by Avi you feel like your right in the middle of the story along with the main characters Peter, Elizabeth, Robert, and Mr.Shinn. When Peter looses his family to an unexpected illness he is taken in by Mr.Shinn. When they are informed that slaves are loose, Peter and Mr.Shinn go off in search of them. Will Peter save the day? Do you want to find out if they find the slaves or not? What will happen if they do? HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! ... Read more

Book Description

When his best friend Peter moves away, Robert has no one to play with, no one to fight with, and no fun at all. Then he meets Will -- and finds he's not the only one who needs a new best friend.

Reviews (2)

Both My Son and Me Love It Very Much
We found this book at the local library. The sentences are very clear and simple. Both the illustration and story inside are simple and beautiful. Even adults can find pleasures in this small but great book which shows you how to overcome loneliness and make friends with your neighbors and even with the nature.

My son who moved from Korea to the U.S. recently and who's missing his friends is very much impressed by the story of the boys. One book can bring a great change to a person and this book gave a lot of wisdom to my 10 year old boy who lost his mother language, friends, and many good things and now trying very hard to make a foreign language and foreigners to make his own language and friends.

New Friends
Making friends in school can be hard, especially if you are shy. But when you have made a special friend, one whom you share everything with, it is especially hard to say goodbye. This book is about two friends who are parted by one moving away. They grieve for one another for a while until they make new friends. These new friends never take the place of their old buddies, but fill a void. The old friends keep in touch through letters, telling each other of their new found friends. This is a great book to read to children who are timid about beginning new friendships, moving or starting a new school. ... Read more

Book Description

Amazon.com

Imagine the bravest, fiercest Norwegian warriors that ever lived,carrying a baby prince across blizzard-wracked mountains to save his life.Picture the babe's mother undergoing a cruel, brutal test to prove her son isindeed the bona fide prince of Norway. A fairy tale? No, this is a true story,based on the account written in 1264 by Sturla Tordsson, about the Middle Ages'most powerful king during what are known as Norway's Golden Years.Norwegian-born author Lise Lunge-Larsen tells the story of this king'smiraculous adventure in infancy, while woodcut artist Mary Azarian stunninglydepicts the heroism of the birch-bark armored peasant warriors, theBirkebeiners.

Mary Azarian was awarded the Caldecott Medal for her lovely woodcutillustrations in SnowflakeBentley. Lunge-Larsen is the award-winning author of The Troll with No Heart in HisBody and The Legend ofthe Lady Slipper. (Ages 4 and older) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Wonderful Book
This is a gorgeous book with illustrations that are breathtaking in their beauty. As for the content, it is a fascinating story. The Christian content of the book is not as inappropriate as a previous review made it seem. No more so than any of the other well-done books centered on other religions. The violence is not troublesome , either, unless one expects their children to be in a position to carry red hot irons at home or school! I would hope that when exposing children to the many facets and experiences the world has to offer, we don't deprive them of wonderful books such as these simply to conform to a contemporary politically correct outlook.

Be careful with young/sensitive children...
This book is beautifully illustrated and the language developmentally appropriate for children as young as four, but my six-year old niece was horrified when Queen Inga goes through the "Trial of Irons" (carrying red hot iron bars from one end of the church to the other). Also, we are not a Christian family, and I found the continual references to the Church and God and miracles overbearing and preachy, even if they are in keeping with the original saga. I would suggest parents use caution before ordering this book, as gorgeously done as it is.

A Norwegian Miracle.....
The Birkebeiners were peasants and fierce warriors in the Middle Ages whose King sat on the throne of Norway. Their rivals, the Baglers, were rich noblemen who wanted to claim the throne for themselves. In 1206, the King had died and left behind an infant son, Prince Hakon. His Queen, Inge, hid her baby for over a year to keep him safe, but as the Baglers became stronger, and threatened the life of the prince, she realized it was time to travel north to Nidaros where the Birkebeiners would protect them, and the prince could take his rightful place on the throne. She asked the priest, Sira Trond, for help, and he gathered the best and bravest men of his small village. To outwit the Baglers, this small band of Birkebeiners decided to ski over the mountains at the darkest, coldest, most dangerous time of the year, braving fierce storms to bring their Queen and baby Prince to safety..... Take a slice of engaging medieval history, add beautiful and evocative artwork, and you have The Race Of The Birkebeiners. Based on Sturla Tordsson's account of the escape and rescue of Norway's future King Hakon, written in 1264, Lise Lunge-Larsen has authored a compelling picture book that's sure to mesmerize youngsters with its powerful story. Her dramatic text is full of atmosphere and suspense, and begs to be read aloud. Mary Azarian's rich, bold and colorful woodcut illustrations transport the reader back to Medieval times, and on this long ago journey over mountains, through snowstorms, and darkness to safety. With an afterword detailing King Hakon's reign, Norway's Golden Years, and how the Birkebeiners are still honored today for their bravery and heroism, this is an exceptional and captivating story children 5-9 shouldn't miss.

The true legend of "The Race of the Birkebeiners" in 1206
Every year I pay scant attention to the running of the Duluth Birkebeiner and certainly had never heard the origin of the name. Now, because of this delightful children's book I know the Birkebeiners were Norwegian warriors who went into battle with birchbark wrapped around their legs instead of costly armor, ergo Birkebeiners ("birchleggers"). Well, anyhow in the year 1206 the fierce Birkenbeiners had to bring the infant prince Hakon Hakonsson to Nidaros. Since they were rescuing a royal infant in danger to bring peace to their land and ended up spending Christmas in Lillehammer, "The Race of the Birkenbeiners" is certainly something that can be put under the tree for children of Norwegian descent, whether they like cross-country skiing or not. Lisa Lunge-Larsen tells the tale as if she were spinning it in front of a roaring fire and Mary Azarian's detailed woodcuts lend the requisite authenticity to this medieval tale. This is a wonderful book and if you kids look at you askance when you push it upon them, just tell them Hakon Hakonsson was the 13th century's Harry Potter. But once they open the book, they are going to love it.

Winter Wonderful
We collect all books beautiful for our home education library,
this was another excellent find. Mary Azarian is an all-time favorite; Lise Lunge-Larsen tells the story with suspence and
wonder. Historical intrique for both boys & girls...a great example of Medieval times that take place somewhere other than
English countryside. This family appreciates the colorful text
that will surely enhance language skills. Holiday gift or for
home education, this one is a MUST HAVE! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The Big Book for Peace - a helpful tool in classroom
I have used this book in my classroom for the past 12 years, choosing age appropriate stories for children 2nd through 5th grade. Given the current world events this book, published in 1990, is more timely than ever and will give the thoughtful teacher or parent ideas for discussion with youngsters. There are many spin-off activities that might result from various stories. For example, students might be asked to complete Kristy's letter to her father who is away at war (The Birds' Peace by Jean Craighead George).

Peace through Violence
This book has several short stories whose ending is "peace is good" or something like that. To get to the ending, prepare to read through tales of war, violence, disrespect for animals and humans ... you get the idea. The big book for peace will fill your child's head with fears and extremes they had not yet imagined.

This book is inappropriate for children below probably 12 years old, and I can't imagine anyone for whom this is truly appropriate. ... Read more

Book Description

When Prince Jen volunteers to search for the legendary court of T’ien-kuo, a mysteriousold man chooses six gifts for him to bear in homage: a saddle, a sword, a paint box, abowl, a kite, and a flute. Puzzled by the gifts but full of high spirits and pride, Jen setsoff—but stumbles almost immediately into a series of misfortunes.Only with the help ofhis faithful servant, Mafoo, and valiant flute-girl, Voyaging Moon, and only after abreathtakingly exciting string of adventures can Jen discover the real meaning of the giftsand face his true destiny. . . . ... Read more

Reviews (21)

A Young Prince Condemned To Death By a Bandit...
Like books that are filled with action and romance, but couldn't find a selection? Well, than read The Remarkable Journey of Prince Jen! Lloyd Alexander has once again proved himself a champion author this fantasy novel. The plot is drawn with vivid colors: a courageous prince goes on a quest with his servant to go from Chang'an, the old Chinese capital (remember, this story takes place in ancient China) to Tien Kuo, a legendary kingdom to learn the ways of how the wise king there governs his kingdom so well. Along the way, the prince befriends a flute girl, a mad robber, and more. He also meets a few enemies. Well, more accurately, lots of enemies. I just adore the way Lloyd keeps me sweating a mile a minute at the end of each chapter. I also like the way the words draw pictures in my mind. I guarantee that you will read this book in ecstasy until the end. I think this is the best book the author has ever written. Congratulations, Mr. Alexander!

Journey to the North
I have read many books in my life, but my favorite one is The Remarkable Journey of Prince Jen. It is a fantasy written by Lloyd Alexander.
The main character, Young Lord Prince Jen Shao Yeh, is very honest and is willing to help anyone. He does not act as a prince while outside the palace. Instead, he wears a yellow robe and a yellow hat. This book takes place in back in 7th century China, during the T'ang Dynasty. The celestial palace is in the capital, Chang'an where Jen Shao Yeh comes from.
In the beginning, when Jen departs from the celestial palace on a great journey, he brings his servant and army with him. He rides a carriage along the way, carrying a sack of gifts, heading to the kingdom of Tien'Kuo. On his journey, he meets many people, including a painter named Chen Cho, Natha Yellow Scarf, and Master Chu. He parts with some of his group and some of the gifts but finds them back. Jen is informed by his servant that his father, the king, died when they were on the journey and that he was now king of T'ang. He is immediately sent back to the palace. When he does, he finds that an enemy has already taken over the palace. Will Jen be able to recapture his kingdom and rule with his beloved lady?
I would recommend this novel because Lloyd Alexander has used very descriptive words and I can picture what is going on. I would give this book a 5 star rating because it is just one of my favorite books that I have read in my whole entire life! This book is confusing the first time you read it though not the second time. I would especially recommend this book to children in fourth grade and up because the vocabulary skills necessary are quite demanding. This book sure will be a joy to read.

A great book to read to your kids
I was read this book when I was a child, and I am still fond of it today. I just bought a hardcover, so I can keep it in my library for when my kids are old enough. Ive read it to kids and few books have the same affect. It's a giant fable with interesting characters and a smooth plot. gripping, Fast paced, and moral driven, its the perfect book to get kids (...). don't be intimidated by its large size the print is large and it goes by fast, don't worry about you OR them losing interest, I'd say you could start them on this book at 7 and even you be interested on how it progresses no matter what age you are. (I still have friends that are 21 reading this book.)
I put this in my Favorite book category

Yuck
I hated this book. I just hated it. It was extremely boring, and seemed to go on and on with that. The only good thing about it is it has morals to it. But overall, I thought this was one of the worst books ever written.

Off They Go To Tien-Kuo....... But Do They Make It Back?
The Remarkable Journey of Prince Jen is a fantastic fantasy and an incredible un-put-down-able read by Lloyd Alexander. When Prince Jen sets off to find the legendary court of T'ien-kuo with the king's best soldiers and six mysterious gifts, he never could have guessed it could lead to such a remarkable journey. Disaster strikes almost at once. First, a sniveling old man almost drowns the young royal, then their carriage breaks down and they lose the soldiers and finally, Jen almost loses his head to a terrifying bandit and has his royal warrant stolen. But with his trusty servant Mafoo and the clever flute girl Voyaging-Moon at his side Jen is determined to find the legendary kingdom and not to fail his father. Jen continues steadily north and meets a conceited official and a 'long legged lunatic' or 'honest robber' named Moxa. Together Jen, Mafoo, Voyaging-Moon and Moxa finally reach the River Lo. In their haste to cross they make the mistake of trying to cross in bad weather. During a storm their boat is ripped apart and the four friends are swept away from each other down the speeding River Lo!!
Will the four friends survive a storm on the river?
Will they ever see his each other again?
To find out read this fantastic book! ... Read more