Reviews (1)

A BEAUTIFUL TREASURY OF MAGICAL STORIES!
I have grown up loving fairy tales, and I collect books of fairy tales. I happened to be at [the store] one day, sometime before Christmas, and I noticed Christian Birmingham's book of Charles Dickens' classic "A Christmas Carol". I looked at it for a while, surprised that I haven't seen any of this illustrator's previous work. I continued to look around and I found "The Classic Treasury Of Hans Christian Andersen". I looked at it, and was amazed at how magical and beautiful the illustrations were. All of the illustrations in this book capture the timeless fairy tales of Andersen perfectly. I was once again reunited with some of the stories I grew up loving like "The Little Mermaid", "The Little Match Girl", among others.
The luminous illustrations complement the black and white drawings so that it's just the right amount of artwork to capture pivotal scenes from the stories without overdoing it. I love the color illustrations of Thumblina flying through the air with her bird friend, the black and white drawing of the Little Mermaid saving the prince from drowning, the color illustration of the nightingale signing on the branch of blossoms as the captivated people watch it, and the black and white drawing of the Little Match Girl being taken to Heaven by her Grandmother. These are truly beautiful stories brought to life by an outstanding illustrator. Although you would expect all fairy tales to have perfectly happy endings, many of Andersen's do not. It is up to the reader to decide if the endings are happy or not. I would say they are bittersweet, but beautiful just the same. Anyone who is looking for an excellent book of these stories, or just for a good picture book, I HIGHLY recommend this!!! ... Read more

Book Description

Long, long ago in ancient Greece, people began telling wonderful stories to explain the mysteries of life. These myths featured gods and goddesses, mighty beings who look human but have amazing powers and live forever. Now you can meet these extraordinary characters and hear their legends, brought to life again by Aliki in this splendid, panoramic look at the amazing stories and characters of Greek legend. "[Will meet the] demand for basic information on the gods and goddesses at the primary level."—BL. "Aliki's fans will welcome her introduction to these famous Greeks."—SLJ.

1994 "Pick of the Lists" (ABA) ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Children will learn how the Olympians gained their thrones
"The Gods and Goddesses of Olympus" provides two-page spreads on the fourteen major deities of Greek mythology. The large print text provides three or four paragraphs of description of how each was born, their responsibilities, and some of the myths associated with them. Children will enjoy Aliki's colorful full and half-page illustrations for each god(desses) and can match the details from the text with elements of the pictures. This is an excellent intermediary book on classical mythology, which provides more than the bare boned descriptions of an introductory effort, but without getting into detail.

I was expecting that this book would simply go through the pantheon of major gods and goddesses of Greek mythology, but the first-third is devoted to telling the story of how the Olympians came to rule. Aliki begins with the creation of Gaea, the Earth, from the dark space of Chaos, and Uranus, the sky. Gaea then gave birth to the first gods, the Titans, as well as the Cyclopes and Hectaoncheires. Cronus, the youngest of the Titans overthrows Uranus and becomes Lord of the Universe, but afraid that one of his children might overthrow him in turn, he swallows each of his children as he is born. But his wife Rhea tricks Cronus into swallowing a stone instead of their youngest child, Zeus. Eventually Zeus rescues his siblings, overthrows Cronus and the Olympians take their thrones.

Teachers and parents should anticipate that young readers are going to have some questions about the rather strange marital relationships of the Greek gods. After all, Gaea gives birth to Uranus and then bears him children. Both Cronus and Zeus marry their sisters, who also bear children. The explanation that there are different rules for the gods might not sit too well with them. But then just remember, Socrates had some questions about the morality of these gods as well (he wondered why if when humans did what the gods did and it was considered wrong, then why was it considered right when the gods did it).

A very pretty book
This book is very bright & has very pretty pictures to hold a child's attention. I bought it for my 8 yr old & I think it is a very nice book.

Fantastic book!
My 6-yr old neice absolutely loves this book. We had checked it out of the library and now I am purchasing it for her. This serves as a very good introduction to Greek mythology for young kids. It is clearly written and provides interesting vocabulary (that sometimes needs explanation). Our absolute favorite thing about the book is the illustration. The images are beautiful, fanciful, and inspire a person to dream! My neice has a hard time visually what words mean; she likes how there's a large portrait of the god or goddess, then scattered around him or her are little vignettes in pictures illustrating some major events in their lives. She can "read" this book herself and recall the stories. The images truly stick in one's mind.

I've looked at a dozen kids mythology books. Start them out with this one. If they are a bit older and dig mythology, get this for them anyhow. It will help refresh their memory.

Gods and Goddesses of Olympus
The Gods and Goddesses of Olympus is an interesting book. This book explains the origin of the gods and goddesses of Olympus. After reading this book a couple of times you will gain basic knowledge of the Greek gods and goddesses and how they evolved.

Aliki provides excellent illustrations that allow the story to be vividly portrayed. The illustrations relate well with the text and help the reader create a better understanding for the text. Her illustrations are drawn in pencil, then inked and colored with paints and colored pencils.

This book is at about a fifth grade reading level. However, the contents of this book are intended for an older, more mature audience, which leads to some concerns with using the book in the classroom. There are many moral issues in the book, as well as gruesome concepts throughout the book. For example, the ideas of incest are mentioned repeatedly, along with murder. These concepts may be rather difficult to explain to your students within your classroom.

Students who are interested in Greek gods and goddesses would really enjoy this book. However, in order for students to understand this book they need to be at a high independent reading level. The book can get rather confusing the first time around.

Great book for children.
My son is 3 and he loves this book. The information on the gods is interesting enough to entertain parents reading to a child, and the artwork is fun and colorful. ... Read more

Book Description

April 3, 1778

He may be just thirteen, but Jonathan knows he's ready to go to the war against the British. He can handle a gun. He yearns to battle for glory, just like his brother and cousin.

So when Jonathan hears the tavern bell toll, calling men to fight, he runs to join them. He doesn't realize that in just twenty-four hours, his life will be forever altered -- by the war, by his fellow soldiers, and by the terrible choices he must make.

Reviews (61)

My Opinion
Jonathan is a 13 year-old boy who wants to join the Revolutionary War. His father will not let him but one day he found his chance and toke it. He realized that he should of listened to his father and stayed home for he would learn a lesson of a life time. The book it's self had a good plot but the fact that the book was over within 24 hours made the book seem long, dull, and confusing. How? In some chapters alot more happened then in other chapters. This book would have been good only if it spaced out the chapters and made the book last a few days or more and not just one

Outstanding Historal Fiction War Novel
Do you want to fight in a bloody battle or fight in a war? Well Jonathan did. If you do you should read The Fighting Ground, by Avi. This book is an amazing novel. Like I said I would recommed this book to people who love war. This book will change your mind.

Jonathan learns a lesson the hard way he doesn't listen to his parents and ends up in even more convenience. Jonathat changed a lot in the novel. He finally learns to listen to his parents and ends up hating war. In this novel Jonathan has a enemy which is himself, For not listening to his parent and made lots of lies up.

I would recommed this book for all ages. It changed my mind about war. This was one of the best novels I ever read. I like the way Avi speaks, makes the people in the book seem real. Avi is great at picks spot there so unqnie.

BOOOORRRIIIINNNGGG
We had to read this 50 page "novel" for English. I don't know anyone who enjoyed this 5-week torture book. I enjoy Avi's stuff, but come on! Give me a break!! DON'T BUY THIS!!! -A disgusted young author who's expecting better things from this particular writer.

Another Reveiw
This book is about a thirteen year old who wants to go to war when his father is wounded. He runs away after marching towards some hessians. then he gets captured by three hessians overall i think this book was pretty intersting.

An Alright Novel
The Fighting Ground by Avi wasn't all that I expected it to be. The back of the book describes it to be an action packed novel about a little boy named Jonathon whose father got wounded in a battle because he fought in the French and Indian War. So when the Hessians come to Trenton, Jonathon goes to fight in place of his dad. Although his dad is not aware that he is fighting, when all the other townsmen ask he says that his dad told him to come. I recommend this book to children who love war novels. ... ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

Addictive for Kids!!!
My 14 month old daughter is completely addicted to this book! She loves it like no other. If I pick up this book, she will stop whatever she's doing, run over and jump into my lap to have this book read. When I'm finished reading, she wants to sit and read it herself for what seems like hours!! The illustrations are spectacular and the story is very fun to read. A real treat! ... Read more

Book Description

Gregory, the Terrible Eater, wants orange juice and eggs for breakfast. His parents are terribly upset!

Why can't Gregory eat striped ties and violins, like the rest of the goats?

Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey have entered into the spirit of Mitchell Sharmat's upside-down, turned-around world with bold, wacky, expressive illustrations. The trio's exuberant collaboration provokes healthy laughter and even includes a colorful chart which gives fresh meaning to the concept of "junk food." ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Gregory the Terrible Eater
Gregory likes normal food; eggs, vegetables, fruit, and fish. Normal food, for a normal kid, right? Wrong! You see Gregory isn't exactly normal well not in his family's eyes. To them, normal food is tin cans, boxes, tires, and mostly garbage. Well that is normal food...for a goat. You see, Gregory is a goat and since he likes eggs, vegetables, and fruits his parents think he is sick. But Gregory just wants to eat what he likes. So since Gregory and his parents haven't had dinner together in a while (and mothers like to have dinner with they're kids) they decide to take him to Doctor Ram. Doctor Ram has treated picky eaters before but not like Gregory. Yet, he comes up with a solution. That is to feed Gregory what he wants but to sneak in a little bit of garbage every meal... It is a good moral to the story I think it might teach kids to try stuff before they decide whether or not the like it!

Gregory, the Terrible Eater
Gregory is a kid just like you and me. He loves carrots, fish, orange juice, lettuce, and ice cream. Oh, and did I mention that Gregory is a goat?
Gregory's parents tried to raise a nice "kid." They feed him tin cans, tires, and bottle caps, but Gregory, the terrible eater, refuses to eat any dinner. In a desperate attempt to find out what's wrong with him, Gregory's parents take him to Dr. Ram, and tells them what to do...
Well naturally, along with every story children's story I have been able to get a hold of, "Gregory, the Terrible Eater," has a very charming moral. Ever had a child who refused to eat his or her dinner, maybe you're looking for a way to delight your child with a pleasing story, or maybe you have a son named "Greg." Either way, I can assure you that you'll love this story written by Mitchell Sharmat.
As far as the pictures go (every child loves stories with pictures in them!) Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey have made the story come to life with brilliant colors and vivid drawings. In conclusion, you have nothing to lose with this adorable tale of Gregory, the Terrible Eater!

Very amusing topsy-turvy story.
Gregory the Goat has an eating problem. He is a finicky eater. While his family chews contentedly away on good goat stuff-tin cans, empty cartons, used ties and so on, Gregory is busy eating "revolting" food from a goats point of view-fresh vegetables, fruit, salad, soup and so on.

What to do? At their wit's end, Gregory's parents concoct a plan-and the fun begins.

A very imaginative and engaging read, with fun dialog, bright, pleasing illustrations and a quirky sense of humor.

A good story for your young book worm!
I read this story as a child at the school library (after seeing it on Reading Rainbow) and enjoyed it very much. Now I'm an adult and have collected the books I remember from my childhood for a bit of nostalgia. Gregory is one of them. I have also collected it for my nephew. It's a sweet story and easy to read, perfect for any child.

great book!
As a young child I loved this book. It's creative, imaginative, and quite silly. Occasionally, even as a young adult, I read this book when I am sorting through items from my childhood. We had many childrens books when I was young, but out of the few we chose to keep, Gregory the Terrible Eater is among them. ... Read more

Book Description

First, his hair started falling out. Then skin started peeling from his toes. Some stuffing came out of his belly button, and a piece of something gray and wet-his brain?-fell out of his nose. Is this normal? Or is this boy coming unglued? With a perfect combination of humor and grossness, this look at one boy's farfetched fears will have readers laughing their heads off!

"A zany, ultimately reassuring take on something that may indeed be a child's bugaboo." -Booklist

Awards:
( 1999 Colorado Children's Book Award
( Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Award Masterlist ... Read more

Reviews (31)

A 5 star book for young children!
"Parts" by Tedd Arnold is a hilarious book for young children. My son received it as a gift from his kindergarten teacher. It was perfect timing as he was starting to loose his teeth. It's the story of a young boy, who upon loosing his teeth, among other things, thinks that he is falling apart! We just laughed and laughed over this book and read it again and again. I even buy it as a birthday present for all my nieces and nephews for their fifth birthday!

Kids LOVE It!
I used to read this book to children for story time. The kids loved it! You could see the range of emotion in their faces as the story progressed, and the look of relief with the conclusion of the story.

This book makes it easy to explain to kids what's going on with their body, and reassures them that they are not falling apart.

The illustrations are outstanding, really attention getting, and tie in perfectly with the story. Without a doubt, the favorite part of youngsters I read this story to. They all wanted to fully examine every image.

This book is guaranteed loads of giggles from your aduience, as well as yourself. :)

Laugh Out Loud Riot
My 3 yr. old daughter loves this book. It's very funny, although, at times, a little gross. A little boy thinks he's coming apart when he finds, hair, ear wax, belly button lint, etc. My child now tells me that her stuffing's coming out whenever she has belly button lint, so be prepared for the consequences of reading this hilarious book.

Too funny!
This was one of the funniest kids books I have ever read. The story is fun and the pictures added to the fun. A must have for any child's library.

Fantastic!!!
Since purchasing this original for my son, it has gone through three children, all of whom can't get enough of this book. Even my eldest whom does not enjoy reading, will gladly read this to his younger sister. I recommend this book for any age. The pics are simple and colorful. The language is relateable to all.
Great enjoyment! ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (47)

The best series of children's fantasy literature
A friend of my father's brought me a box full of used books when I was 9 or 10. Tucked away in the bottome was The High King, actually the last in the Prydain Chronicles....it sat for quite awhile in my bookcase before I picked it up and began reading. What an experience it turned out to be! The adventures of Taran (Assistant Pig- Keeper), Eilonwy, Gurgi, Prince Llyr, and all the other charming charaters in their quest to beat the evil Horned King opened my eyes to the wonderful world of fantasy in children's literature. Indeed, after reading the High King I ran out and spent all my allowance (preciously saved) on the rest of the 5-book series.

Lloyd Alexander writes with a refreshing and unpretentious stye, neither speaking down to kids nor falling into any of the cliched storylines or dialogue of many writers of fantasy literature. Indeed, I believe many authors of modern adult fantasy would greatly benefit from studying Mr. Alexanders writing style.

I credit this series for the beginning of my 25+ years of affection for Celtic, Gaelic, and Welsh mythology and would strongly recommend this series for any lover, young and old, of fantasy and mythology.

The Most Meaningful Book I've Ever Read

I read it at six. I read it at sixteen. I read it at twenty-six. I read it at home. I read it wandering. At all times and all places, I have identified with Taran Wanderer more than any other literary character. I'm not excluding Shakespeare, the classics or modern novels.

Taran is a boy trying to become a human (it applies to girls just as much.) This is the beginning of all great mythology, as the late Joseph Campbell would have agreed. This boy travels through a world of magic swords, undead warriors and medieval villages. It is an escape. Or is it? Taran deals with truth, the true worth of himself and others, the search for meaning in a career and in life, the excitement and high price of violence and love. I AM Taran in 1997, as much as he is in an imaginary world. I bet a lot of you are, too.

Alexander never talks down to you, whether you are young or old. It is fun and meaningful. This fourth book of a wonderful five-book series is an excellent encapsulation of the entire series. This is not a book for adults or children. It is a book for people. A great one.

A wonderful character piece
This book is definitely the most unique of all the Prydain Chronicles. Instead of urgent quests to find magical pigs, destroy evil cauldrons or rescue a beautiful princess--with good constantly pitted against the forces of evil--this volume is instead focused on Taran finding out about himself.

Instead of a quest resolved in a matter of weeks or months, this story covers a couple of years, years in which Taran travels from one end of Prydain to the other, first in search of his parents and then in search of his own place in the race of men.

His motivation lies in a desire to be worthy of the Princess Eilonwy's hand in marriage; she's absent from the story, still on the Isle of Mona, so Taran's only constant companion is the loyal creature Gurgi.

Old friends Fflewddur and Doli make brief appearances, though the bulk of Taran's time is spent meeting new people: the old farmer Aeddan and his wife, who fight for survival on a land impoverished by the Death-Lord Arawn; Goryon and Gast, petty lords whose bark is worse than their bite; Morda, the enchanter who despises the race of men in its entirety; the outlaw Dorath and his men; the shepherd Craddoc; and the people of the Free Commots: Llonio the lucky, Hevydd the smith, Dwyvach the weaver, Annlaw the potter, and Llassar the farm boy.

The lessons Taran learns in his travels aren't always obvious or profound for the casual reader, and the limited amount of swords, sorcery and peril may be unusual for some. However, the transition Taran makes into manhood is handled convincingly and realistically with each step he takes.

Taran becomes a man
One of the great joys of Lloyd Alexander's Prydain Chronicles series is the steady progression from lighthearted children's fantasy to more adult themes and a grimmer tone, allowing the reader to grow along with the characters. By the end, you feel as if the characters have taken a lifetime of journeys, learning from them as they went.

This is very much front and center in "Taran Wanderer," a sad, lonely tale of Taran's quest to find out who he truly is. While appropriate for all ages and sure to be enjoyed by young readers, older readers will find the harrowing decisions Taran has to make gripping and heart-wrenching.

Because Alexander draws his stories from ancient myth and legend, the themes and situations here will feel familiar, like stories you've read many times before. Yet that never comes across in a tiresome way. It's a story that operates in a welcome comfort zone, nice in a time when so many books try so hard to be different solely for the sake of being different. The story told in "Taran Wanderer" is a timeless tale because of its familiarity and will engage readers for many years to come.

The focus here is more strongly on Taran than in any other volume, though the rest of the cast of characters returns: Eilonwy the stereotypical spoiled princess, Gurgi the crazed Gollum-like creature, and Fflewddur Fflam the hapless bard who is prone to exaggeration. Others from the past also rear their heads.

The pacing in this, the fourth of five books, is more deliberate. Some would say slow, but this being the type of story it is, that would be an unfair description. Rather, it lingers in Taran's quest and Taran's sadness and uncertainty.

"Taran Wanderer" and the rest of the Prydain Chronicles are recommended reading for anyone who enjoys fantasy, especially classic children's fantasy, walking the fine line between being accessible to young readers and being appealing and engaging enough for adults to enjoy.

The best of the series
The Chronicles of Prydain is my favorite series of young adult writing. I highly recommend this series to any child or adult who likes Harry Potter or any other series of fantasy fiction. Taran Wanderer is my favorite of the series because it brings into view the changes the main character has made in the three previous books and sets the stage for the final episode. A wonderful book about the journey to find 'self'. ... Read more

Book Description

"The day she was born, her grandfather made her a ring of silver and a polished stone, because he loved her already." Through the years, the little girl and her grandfather share so many happy times -- playing by the sea, walking in the mountains, working in his store. And when he grows sick, she takes care of him with as much love as he always showed her.

Reviews (2)

A beautiful story
This is the most beautiful story of a girl and her grandfather. I read this to my kindergarten class. I had tears streaming down my face before I finished. It is a touching, heartfelt book and I highly recommend it!

A beautiful story which reminds me of my fathers' life.
The Two Of Them is such a touching book. It makes me cry every time I read it. It's not a sad book, it just reminds me of the way my father was. My dad just past away in July 98 and this book seemed to describe how he was. I plan to add this one to my collection, and I look forward to reading some of your other books. ... Read more

Book Description

To look at Oscar Westerwit, you might think, Hey, just another New York City squirrel. Only thing is, you'd be wrong. . . .

For Oscar, life is good in New York City in the year 1900. He's the Mayor of Central Park -- the greatest place on earth for the squirrels, chipmunks, mice, and other animals who live there. He's the manager of his baseball team, the Central Park Green Sox, and shortstop, too. What could be bad?

Plenty, that's what! Big Daddy Duds, jewel thief, all-round thug, and leader of rats, is about to invade the park with five hundred of his closest friends. And when he does, the other animals who live there will be turned out of their homes. Everyone looks to the Mayor to save them, but he may not even be able to save himself from the invaders.   The Mayor of Central Park is a rich and fragrant evocation of old New York, with a community of animals who are as lively as characters in a Damon Runyon story, brought to life in a blend of humor and heartbreak that is vintage Avi.

Reviews (1)

fairly good story
The setting of this book takes place in 1900.The main character in the book is Oscar Westerwit, a squirrel who loves baseball and Broadway musicals.He heads up a team of animals to over come a gangster rat named Big Daddy Duds who ties to bring trouble to the park area.Find out if their plan works in The Mayor Of Central Park!


The book was easy and fun to read.


The characters in the book are animals.Children enjoy animal stories most of the time. ... Read more

Book Description

Leo isn’t reading, or writing, or drawing, or even speaking, and his father is concerned. But Leo’s mother isn’t. She knows her son will do all those things, and more, when he’s ready. ‘Reassuring for other late bloomers, this book is illustrated with beguiling pictures.’—Saturday Review.

... Read more

Reviews (16)

A pleasing look at how children can develop differently.
What better way to explain to a child that it's OK to be different? Leo the Late Bloomer is a classic of American children's stories with brilliant illustrations that bring the tale to life. Leo the young tiger doesn't lead a "normal" child's life and his Father is constantly worried that something is wrong with his son. Leo experiences many of the childhood frustrations that we are all too familiar with such as being unathletic, unartistic or ostracized by your peers. Over time Leo absorbs what the others have been doing and eventually blossoms with a newfound love for life. This book brilliantly conveys the revelation of a child discovering his or her place in the giant world. Leo the Late Bloomer is a timeless classic with a relevant social message and is an enjoyable read for any age child

Use This Book to Boost Your Child's Self Esteem
This is a great book that I like to read to my first graders on the morning of the first day of school. The illustrations are colorful and leave room for the reader to ask comprehension questions while reading. It's a terrific read-aloud, especially on the first day of school when students are nervous about starting the new year.

I value this book most of all because it allows students to understand that it's okay if they can't do everything that their classmates do. We grow in our own good time, but sometimes a five or six year old can't understand why they can't do what the girl across the room does regularly. This book can help alleviate those concerns, leading to greater self esteem on the part of the child. As a teacher, in my opinion this is the best aspect of the book. If you teach kindergarten or first grade, or if you have children of your own at that level, this is a great book to boost their self esteem.

However, I caution you that this is not a book that you should rely on if you are the parent of a special needs child. This is a wonderful read-aloud children's book, especially for special needs children, but it is not a resource guide for parents and should not be viewed as such.

We Really Liked This Book!
This story is about Leo who isn't good at a lot of things. One day he can do the things he couldn't do before. He needed time to be good at differnt things. We liked this story because Leo didn't think he was good at anything, but he felt really proud of himself in the end.

Can't do anything right?
The book begins by saying Leo couldn't do anything right. What child can't identify with the frustrations of not being able to accomplish what someone else accomplishes? Many children generalize and say they can't do anything right when they met with failures. This book is encouraging for any child, regular or special education. Another book to use with this one is Little Lemon - Activities for Developing Motivation and Memory Skills by Betsy B. Lee. It has a story, song, discussion questions, and lessons to help develop learning strategies by giving specific techniques. Leo, the Late Bloomer does not give this kind of instruction but it is very encouraging and a big help.

Tiger tiger burning bright
Since 1971 the delightful story of Leo the tiger, and proverbial late bloomer, has been charming children and adults. The story of Leo is the story of many a child. He does not speak, or eat nicely. He does not draw or do anything particularly well. This comes as a bit of a concern to Leo's pop, but him mother reassures him that in time Leo will "bloom". The story in and of itself could be made or broken by the illustrations. Put into the wrong hands, this story could easily have been drawn in a syrupy ooey-gooey mentality. There is a definite danger of cutesiness. Illustrator Jose Aruego, however, never allows this to happen. You've not seen such a sad little tiger cub as Leo. In beautiful scenes of subtlety and oomph, Leo's environment, friends, and parents are rendered in interesting and unique ways. The colors are lovely and evocative. And the emotions of the characters are perfect. Every stripe on Leo's body is an undulating shade of purple. Aruego has advanced watercolor to the next level, creating a book that is (no doubt about it) art. If you like art, or watercolors, or cute tiger cubs, then you won't want to miss out on this sweet little number, "Leo the Late Bloomer". ... Read more

Book Description

First published in 1989, this charming Raffi Songs to Read/reg/ has fresh appeal as a board book that the youngest child can hold. With sweet illustrations by veteran children's book artists Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey, this lovely counting song will invoke squeals of delight from babies and toddlers. They'll love counting down as first five little ducks, then four, then three, then two, then one go out to play, not to return. Sadly, Mother Duck waits alone through all four seasons until spring returns and with it her five ducks, all grown up-along with their new families of baby ducks. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

My daughter LOVES this book!
This has consistently been one of my toddler's favorite books since she was only a few months old. She loves to hear me sing the words to this book and never seems to tire of it. The illustrations are bright and cheerful and it has become a favorite of mine as well. Highly recommended!

A perfect book to read to a toddler!
My 15-month old daughter loves to hear me read this book! She studies the colorful pictures on each page, and watches my face as I say "Quack, quack, quack, quack." It's short, with just a couple of lines on each page, an it has an excellent rhythm.

The ducks ran away and then they came back.
We liked the book because it had ducks in it. Jamie's favorite part was when the duck went out one day. Jay liked when Mother Duck said, "Quack, Quack." ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

"Superbly demonstrating the conception of factorials in mathematics, the text and pictures combine to present a lesson in a palatable form as well as the pleasure of looking at pictures that only Mitsumasa Anno could invent."— Publishers Weekly"The book moves logically and elegantly from the concrete to the abstract. Once made clear, the concept is unforgettable, but the book entices the reader to return for further appreciation of the artistry with which it was designed." — The Horn Book"If you want a book that does a good selling job on the factorial concept, this one works." — School Library Journal ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Middle School Math
I start my unit on counting principle with this book. I give the students a worksheet to keep track of how many islands, rooms etc. there are. The final question is how many jars are there. I usually have 3 or 4 students who catch on to the factorial concept and find the pattern. These are the ones telling me to read slower!!! It's exciting for students to see the math unfold in the second half of the book... after the story is over and they can begin counting little red dots (jars).

A Great Book To Introduce Multiplication
I teach third grade. Every year I use this book with my multiplication unit. The kids love it, and my TAG students are always challenged by the concept.

Awesome blend of math and art!
This book is an amazing way to teach the math concept "factorial" to even very young children. Anno begins with a jar, which contains 1 island, which has 2 countries, each of which has 3 mountains. The story continues like this until 10 is reached. I love the way the pictures are arranged within borders on the page as many times as that of the number of objects being discussed. The explanation of 10! in the back of the book is also very helpful in the lesson being taught. Even if children do not understand the concept being taught, they will certainly appreciate the detailed colored drawings and imaginative story! Lots of praise to Masaichiro & Mitsumasa Anno for their creation.

What a great book
This is a wonderful book that teaches a valuable math skill, and at the same time inspires the imagination. With every page this book opens up a bit of the world Anno has created until it is so big that it is hardly fathomable, and yet Anno makes it understandable. What a great book for kids (and adults!).

Math Lesson for All Ages
I love to use Anno's books in my classroom to teach creative math lessons. This particular book could be used to a complicated math lesson for middle school children as well as a simple lesson for the younger children. I read this to my niece just before she entered the first grade, and she loved the challenge. ... Read more

Book Description

‘An excellent introduction to number systems that is a beautiful wordless picture book as well. . . Over the course of a year (each picture represents a different month and time of day) a little town grows up with viewers witnessing the building of bridges, streets, and railroads. . . . Extraordinary lovely art work.' 'SLJ.

Notable Children's Books of 1977 (ALA)
1977 Boston Globe–Horn Book Award Honor Book
"Best of the Best" Children's Books 1966–1978 (SLJ)
Outstanding Children's Books of 1977 (NYT)
1988 Choices (Association of Booksellers for Children)
Children's Books of 1977 (Library of Congress)

New York Academy of Sciences Award 1978, Honorable Mention ... Read more

Reviews (9)

great book, well loved at our house
My three year old loves this book. In addition to practicing our counting skills, we love to sit down with this book and make up our own story to go along with the pages. I ask him what the children are doing, what the people might be saying, and what is going on inside each building. There is lots of room for imagination. I never realized how much exploration can occur when the text is left out and you are allowed to interpret the pages for yourself. This is a treasure of a book!

Truly an excellent book!
THis is a must have for young children. There is no text and only one number on each page. However, this book is a delight.

On page one exactly one of everything appears, on page two you two of more things and on page ten you see ten of many things. As the numbers grow higher the little town grows and the seasons change. THis enables you to discuss counting with your child as well as tell a story about the little town. You can also talk about seasons. What a wonderful multi use book. The illustrations are gentle and are not garish.

This is truly an excellent book. Well worth the money.

gentle, artistic introduction to early mathematical concepts
Mitsumasa Anno creates graceful children's picture books that are more evocative than prose and more elegant than poetry. In this counting book, the author/illustrator allows the concepts of number, sets and arithmetic progression to unfold in pages, numbered one to twelve, that also correspond to the first through twelfth month.

Seasons evolve as a little town grows, children play, trees appear, animals pass through, and the clock marks the hours.

Like Anno's other books, this little gem can be enjoyed year after year as children (and adults) continue to find more complex concepts as their cognitive understanding matures.

counting, and more.
Anno's _Counting Book_'s first page features a barren hillside, with a frozen river snaking up the hill. Nothing to count here (unless your child points out the river, or the hill!). This is page zero.

On page 1, there is exactly one of several different items-- a bridge, a sun, a building, a snowman, a skier, and more. On page two, there are two of each item presented-- two leafless trees, two trucks, two men, a steeple clock set at 2 o'clock, two rabbits. You get the idea.

There are no words on the pages-- this makes the book an ideal text for teaching the names of these items, too. My child asks "What's that?" when he doesn't know what an item is. Then he repeats the name after me.

Some features of a distant hillside are special (think individual tiny flowers, or butterflies) can not be seen by a distant viewer, but Anno has adjusted for this in his book. Items which are small in real life, such as flowers and butterflies, are presented out of scale in this book, so that the reader can appreciate them along with the other items, such as buildings and people.

The pages 1 through 12 represent the 12 months of the year in a continental climate in the Northern Hemisphere, so 1, 2 and 12 are wintry, 3, 4, and 5 represent springtime, and so forth.

Anno's book is nicely laid out and designed. The pictures are a bit old fashioned, but it is well thought out and should appeal to children for several years, as the pages with higher numbers are more cluttered and therefore more difficult. They also offer more opportunity for creating one's own story as the reader sees such actions as marriages, fencebuilding, caroling, and children playing.

Lovely Book
I picked this book up at the library for my 2 year old who is quite speech delayed. I had never seen it before and as we turned the pages we were thrilled at the marvelous pictures. She practiced animal soundss and found plenty of new words to try along with the counting. Wonderful. When my 4 year old read it with me she noticed a mistake. I don't know if Anno did it on purpose but my daughter noticed it immediately. Here's a hint. On one of the pages the number of animals is incorrect. Have fun!! ... Read more

Book Description

The king is coming to visit! The lord and lady of Camdenton Manor must work quickly to prepare fo his arrival. It will take weeks to ready rooms, set up tents, and prepare the feast itself. Everyone is busy hunting and hawking, brewing and churning. This will be a feast to remember!

Reviews (4)

Beautiful portrayal of Medieval life
The lord and and lady of Camdenton Manor are dismayed when they learn the King and his party are coming to stay with them, they know what a lot of work this will mean for everybody. Throughout the book you see everyone working like mad to get the manor ready in time. Delightful pictures show all the work involved in stocking up with food, hunting, fishing, harvesting, brewing, baking, men, women and children all joining in with the work. The pcitures are full of fascinating details of the lives of medieval people, nobles and commoners alike. Any child interested in history should enjoy this book, if you don't have a child, buy it for yourself. Warning: This is NOT a cookery book! (see first review)

This is a great book for children!
This is a wonderful book about mideval times for this age group!

excellent history picturebook
This is a wonderful non-fiction history picturebook for children interested in Medieval times. Aliki's illustrations reflect her thorough research and attention to detail. I love this book. My children pull it out from the book shelves over and over. They love to see a lord and lady and all their servants busily preparing a magnificent feast for the King and Queen who soon will be travelling through their land and resting at their Manor. Aliki's illustrations and descriptions tell amazing amounts of information, herbs grown and used in Medieval times, the architecture, and characters wearing historically-accurate fashions. The pictures show tools, cookware, utensils, landscapes of the countryside, a brickoven, a flourmill with a waterwheel, livestock, a vineyard, a well, butterchurns, tapestries, wild animals caught for the feast, honeybeehives, vegetable gardens, and all of the servants and the lord and lady busily preparing for the king and queen's arrival. This little book is an excellent illustrated resource.

I read a review about this book given by another amazon customer who bought the book looking for recipes. Because the customer ordered without reading the description of the book first, she was disappointed to find that she had actually ordered a non-fiction history book for children. I am annoyed that this customer decided to rate this book with one star because she mis-ordered. The title isn't misleading, it describes exactly what the book is about, a medieval feast. It's wonderful.

This book is very misleading!
"A Medieval Feast" is a children's book on a feast held during the Middle Ages. Since I was looking for a book on Medieval Cookery, and this title came up, I purchased it. I shouldn't have. It's a picture book for young children, and it has nothing whatsoever to do with Medieval recipes or cookery. If It wouldn't cost me the price of the book in shipping, I'd send it back. However, for children who would like a story with a Medieval flare, this book is perfect for them, with lovely illustrations by ALIKI. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

A wonderful book to share.
Thank God for the board edition of this book; we're now on our third copy (the plain-paper editions having been read ragged and the die-cuts torn up by over-eager fingers). Both my children have loved the graceful, affectionate rhymes and the wonderful, evocative illustrations. It's particularly fun to see a toddler's world that is so much the same and so different. Can you tell that we love this book?

Replaced Good Night Moon
I bought this for my daughter when she was 1 yr. old but she was not interested. Now at 17 mos. old she won't go to bed until we read this book. All I have to say is "go get peek-a-boo" and she runs into her room and grabs the book. If read in a low key voice this book works great at night because the last page has the baby in his crib ... what did he see? It's a very sweet and different book for young children.

My new favorite!
I read this book to my 21 month old grandson this last week during a visit. I fell in love with it and he seemed to enjoy it very much as well. It was the one book he brought to me to read time and again. I love the illustrations...they evoke a time and place I wish were still with us, but, sadly, I don't think we will ever see the likes of war-time England again (or the likes of war-time English people as well as Americans...."What? Us sacrifice?!!!"). Anyway, what a lovely, lovely book. I highly recommend it to all.

A Cute, More Old Fashion Book
This book is great to start teaching your child the old game of peek-a-boo. The book is about what a little baby sees through the day. The baby can see through the circular cut holes through to the next page. Each page is a different scene in the day in the life of the family. To me it is amusing to see just how cluttered the family in the story is.

All three of my children have liked this book. It is worth the purchase!

Peek-a-boo... I see a winner!
Based on the "peek-a-boo" game familiar to many babies, the poem prompts the toddler to "peek" at a variety of scenes in the life of a very chaotic family. Rhyme and repetition are used. The silent stress caesura is incorporated in order to present a familiar nursery rhyme-type feel for the listener. Many people have found this to be their own child's favorite book. There's a lot to look at! ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (17)

Response to Literature
The book I read is called The Secret School. It was really good. It was about a girl, Ida Bidson. She wanted to become a teacher, and needed to have her exit exam her eighth grade year. Things were looking good, but then her teacher, Miss Fletcher leaves. Mr. Jordan, the head of school board, decides to close the school instead of finding a new teacher. This breaks Ida's heart because next year may be too late for her to go to high school. Money depends on how well her family farm prospers. Her friend, Tom, mentions her being the teacher. This idea grows to a reality as she teaches secretly for quite a while. Mr. Jordan finds out and tries to close the school. Fortunately this doesn't work. So Ida, along with her students pass the exit exam. Now she can finally have a chance of going to high school.

I thought this was very brave of her to teach at such a young age. I would never have enough courage or confidence to do this. She acts as if it's no big deal. Even though I want to become a teacher someday I know I am far away from my goal. She had problems, but she didn't seem to handle them any different from an experienced teacher. "I'd [meaning Herbert, the troublemaker] sure like to see your make me [referring to the very nervous Ida on her first day.]"All in all she did very well. I hope if I do get to be a teacher myself, I'll be like her.

I most disliked the character of Mr. Jordan. I'm sure Avi meant to make readers dislike him. She did a very good job of it too. He was made out to be mean, bossy. In my opinion I think guys and girls are equal. It might be partly because I am a girl, either way that's how I view it. I think most of today's people agree with me. In the 1920's when this story takes place it was different. Girls were no comparison to the almighty man. I think all that's so dumb. Mr. Jordan, along with being the one who doesn't want the school to stay open, also thinks it's pointless to teach girls. I took it that he was implying that guys were better. "... I'm not so sure a girl needs a high school education," (Avi 11). I can just imagine him saying this emphasizing the word girl.

I thought it was sad that Ida didn't have time for herself. She had to do chores at her house along with teaching. If I were her I would hope my parents would at least give me less work. She didn't get paid either. That would be okay for a little while, but after a while it would seem pointless. Maybe this is selfish or makes me sound snotty, but I would never be that stressed out unless I was getting paid. I mean if I had no choice it'd be different, in this case she didn't have to though. "Think they'd hire you?" said Mrs. Bidson "Not for money." (Avi 25).

All in all this was a very good book. I would like to read books with more depth. In this book you could pretty much guess the ending from the beginning. None the less it was still good. I guess you never know though because some books are like that, but there's a twist at the very end. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a simple yet good book. Even though it was a little different from what I like, I'm glad I read it. No book have I ever read am I sorry I read. I think every book you read can only help you get ready for the next. Plus as long as your enjoying it who cares?

you will love it ! I did.
The Secret School takes place in Elk Valley,Colorado in 1925. I thought this book was interesting because it is about a class who finds out that their teacher is leaving. Ida is one of the students and she is worried that Tom and she will not get to take their final exams if Mrs.Fletcher, the teacher, has to leave to take care of her sick mother. So Ida and the rest of the class take a vote and they all elect to keep the school running,but not to tell anyone that Ida is the new teacher. The biggest problem was that Ida got tired of being teacher because she wanted to keep up with her studies. Soon there is to be a meeting to shut down the school because Mr.Jordan found out about the secret school.They all got their exams back except Herbert I won't give away the ending. So I hope you read this book.

Shh It's a Secret!!!! /By:AJY (Grade5)
A quiet day in 1925, Ida Bidson and her classmates heard the terrible news. Her teacher had to go take care of her. Mr Jordon was closing the school down for good!!!! Ida felt like tearing every strand of hair out of her head because the exams for high-school was soon what should she do. All of a sudden Tom her best friend had a excellent idea but the idea had to be kept a secret.
I thought this book had great use of vocabulary and I never wanted to put it down. I reccomend this book for 4-6 grade girls and boys. Avi did it AGAIN!!!!!!

Look at this fantastic book by:NMD Grade 5
It's a plain, regular day in a Colarado one-room school house in the year 1925. Ida Bidson, age 14, hopes to become a teacher. To do that she must finish 8th grade and complete high shcool. Cautiously the other children and Ida discover that Miss Fletcher, the teacher, has to go to Iowa to help her mom because of her mom's sickness. Later on in the book the school shuts down due to the absece of Miss Fletcher. Is this an opportunity for Ida?

Take a Look at This Phenominal Book!! By: LMD Grade 5
It's 1925 in a one room school house in Colorado. Ida Bidson and her friend Tom are both stuck smack in the middle of copious amounts of dilemmas. Their teacher, Miss. Fletcher,has to leave town and take care of her ill mother. A replacement teacher cannot be found. The one room school house is shut down and Ida and Tom cannot take their final exams. This dilemma punctures their hopes to go to highschool. Tom exhorts Ida to take over and be the new teacher but to keep it a secret. Mr. Jordon, a monsterous teacher on the school board, is who they want to keep it a secret from. Ida thinks, "Should I be the teacher?" ... Read more

Book Description

‘Children and adults of various ages, races, and physical abilities tour a public aquarium to look at many of the world’s marine creatures. The language is almost lyrical…[and] the story is alive with color and action.’—SLJ. ‘A versatile author at her best.… In the large, cheerful illustrations, action-filled spreads are varied with portrait vignettes, and underwater scenes with the visitors’ enthusiastic responses.’—K.

Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children 1994 (NSTA/CBC)
1993 "Pick of the Lists" (ABA)
1996 Garden State (NJ) Children's Nonfiction Award ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Excellent to introduce young children to visiting aquariums.
My son is almost 3 and loves to read this book along with me. We have supplemented this book with actual "field trips" to a local aquarium and he enjoys the relationship between what we read and what we see. The author has included many interesting and informative facts without "going over" the little ones' heads. We recommend it!

A beautifully illustrated trip to the Aquarium.
My visit to the Aquarium captures the feeling of being at the Aquarium with its beautiful illustrations. The author has very thoughtfully included a diverse gathering of people who visit this Aquarium, including a young girl who is using a wheelchair. There is so much information to teach a child who is reading this book about fish, sealife nad other water resources. My daughter exclaims her excitement when looking at the illustrations in this book. It is truly a visit to the Aquarium with out ever having to leave the house. We have renewed this book three times from the library and have decided to add it to our perminent collection since it is liked by every member of the family, adults as well as children. We know you'll love it too

An absolutely wonderful book for the entire family !
Akiki's 'My Visit to the Aquarium' is another wonderful addition in her series of children's books about nature and science. For us, it became the inspiration to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium while on vacation in California. I can still recall my six year old son's excitement as he acted as our "tour giude" from the knowledge he gained from this book. Beautifully illustrated. ... Read more

Book Description

When the Wild Calls

McKinley, a malamute, is a good dog -- he's reliable and trustworthy. Whether it's watching over the other dogs of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, or taking care of his human pup, Jack, McKinley never even thinks of letting anyone down -- until he meets Lupin. Lupin is a she-wolf and she's urging the dogs of Steamboat Springs to leave their domesticated lives and join her wild pack. And though she scares McKinley, he also finds himself drawn to her and the life of freedom that she offers.

For the first time, McKinley's loyalties are torn. Should he stay with his humans and continue to lead the dogs of Steamboat Springs? Or should he join the wolf and live freely, like his ancestors did? When the wild calls, what will McKinley's answer be? ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Avi Does it Again!
I have read several of Avi's books. I must say I have yet to be disappointed. Nearly every one of his stories is written in a different style. Avi does not get type-cast or pigeon-holed... he finds a way to stay fresh and creative in every book he writes. I can't help but be blown away by his originality. Well, enough gushing about the author.
Avi takes a page from Jack London in this story. It is a take on the classics like, Call of the Wild and White Fang. McKinley is a loyal, smart, loving, caring dog. He is devoted to his family, and takes great pride in caring for his human pup. He is loyal to his human family and watches over them carefully.
But, McKinley is also the leader of a community of dogs. So he spends time rounding up the dogs in town and caring for them. One of his dog compatriots says he cares too much for other dogs. And that appears to be true.
When McKinley goes to help a dog named Duchess who has run away
from her abusive master, he meets up with a wolf. His life is forever changed from this point on. McKinley must decide if he will be loyal to his human family or break away and head into the wild with the wolf pack... Interesting stuff. Avi does a wonderful job of getting into the head of the McKinley. He gives us some insight into what he sees as the thought process of a dog.
The ending is dramatic and ties together nicely. McKinley gives an amazing statement on what he sees as a dogs relationship to humans. The care relationships dog's have to humanity is expertly rendered by Avi.
I couldn't put this book down and devoured it in a couple of days. The pace is fast and carries the reader along. I hope you read it... you will not be disappointed! :-)

Fascinating book.
What does it mean to be a good dog? What sorts of things does trying to be good make a dog do?

These questions become very important to McKinley, a sled-dog, who lives in the Colorado Mountains with his human family. He is especially fond of the human pup, Jack. Funny thing about humans: they think they own their dogs. The way McKinley sees it, dogs and people need each other equally.

McKinley always has to protect Jack, who is prone to misadventures and scrapes. Gil and Sarah, Jack's human grown-ups, never seem to know half the trouble Jack dreams up for himself. Sometimes, McKinle