Reviews (15)

A good book to curl up with
"Rose in Bloom" is one of my favorite books ever. I like it more than any other Louisa May Alcott book, although its predecessor "Eight Cousins" is a sweet story in its own right. I can't find many romances that don't make me blush, but "Rose in Bloom" not only doesn't embarrass me, it makes me feel quite virtuous. ^_^ "Rose in Bloom" is so delightfully Victorian and unabashedly idealistic and romantic. The characters are all quite loveable and the plot, although firmly rooted in its time, resonates even now. The story is incredibly emotionally involving, I cry whenever I read this book -- even at a bus stop once! However, it's not a sad book; it ends very happily. (The scene with the quill pen just makes me need to call up a friend and squeal about the cuteness of it all.) When I find that mere words on a page can make the world seem to light up with happiness and goodness, I know I have found an incredible book. I highly recommend it to anyone who likes wonderful characters, a charming and earnest narrative, and a cute romance.

Read Eight Cousins First
Rose In Bloom is an interesting book about a girl who lives with her uncle. Her aunts wish her to be introduced into society after Rose had returned from a two year voyage around the world. One of her cousins wished her hand in marriage, but had changed so dramatically since she left on her voyage that she had struggle with him to make good choices. Besides this cousin, Rose had more suitors than she cared to deal with, because she was of marrying age with a great fortune and a kind heart. Finally, in the end, tragedy strikes Rose and her family, but the sun appeared again and brought light back into their lives with a wonderful ending. I love reading and Rose In Bloom offers enough enjoyment, sorrow and romance that I was farely satified with the overall picture it created. (I would recommend this book for girls). Personally, I would suggest reading Eight Cousins before Rose In Bloom, because it would be rather difficult to understand all the details of what was happening and who was who if you started with the latter. Enjoy!

Okay
After I read Eight Cousins, which I loved, of course I decided to read this book. The book is about Rose, and her life as a woman, & her relationships with her male cousins. The book wasn't as good as Eight Cousins, and much more confusing.

I would suggest that you only read this book after you have read Eight Cousins, because the starts right away, with no intro, so Eight Cousins prepares you.

ENJOY!!!

Read this book and never let it go!
This is the kind of book you wish would go on forever. It defines the word classic in every way. Everytime I read it, I fall in love with Rose, Mac, Uncle Alec and the others over and over again. It is one of my most favourite books (and seriously, in my opinion and in the opinion of many others I'm sure, it is BETTER than Little Women!!) It doesn't matter if you're young or old..... NEVER PASS THIS BOOK UP!! You will laugh, you will cry, and like me, you will wish it would never end.

Don't pass this one by!
I know it's heresy, but as a girl I loved this more than Little Women. And upon re-reading it as an adult, I still do. Yes, it's a little preachy, as many of Alcott's stories are, but just skip those bits! Rather, pay attention to the marvelous interplay among the characters--especially as Rose has to decide just who she is truly in love with. What also struck me was that so many issues she faces are the same as she'd face today--Rose goes to too many parties, her favorite cousin has a drinking problem, her best friend is scorned. But best of all: the right man gets her in the end! ... Read more

Book Description

Once there was a little mermaid who fell in love with a human boy .. . The story may be familiar, but Lisbeth Zwerger's art makes this fairytale seembrand-new. This Jubilee edition, celebrating 200 years of Hans ChristianAndersen, is superbly illustrated in Zwerger's signature style. Known for herpopular and award-winning editions of classics such as The Wizard of Oz andAlice in Wonderland, Zwerger is herself the recipient of the Hans ChristianAndersen Medal for lasting contributions to children's literature. The LittleMermaid is sure to win her new fans, and to delight her old ones.

The text is an all-new translation by Anthea Bell, and includes many lovely andpoignant details that may be new to even those who think they know the littlemermaid's story well. ... Read more

Book Description

Here’s the book that started it all—Lloyd Alexander’s first fantasy for young readers—back in hardcover!

Gareth’s definitely not an ordinary cat. For one thing, he can talk.For another, he’s got the power to travel through time—

“Anywhere, any time, any country, any century,” Gareth tells Jason.And in the wink of a very special cat’s eye, they’re off. From ancient Egypt to Japan, the land of young Leonardo da Vinci to the town of a woman accused of witchcraft, Jason and Gareth are whisked from place to place and friend to foe.

Full of fun, excitement, and a good dose of history, here’s a fantastic tale that grabs the imagination and takes it far and wide, on the adventure of not one but nine amazing lifetimes.
... Read more

Reviews (33)

Time Cat
If you are interested in world history or love cats, then this book is for you. In this book, a boy named Jason finds out from his talking cat, that cats do not have nine lives, but instead can visit nine different lives. They have the ability to travel to nine different time periods. Jason convinces his cat, Gareth, to take Jason with him. Every two chapters Gareth and Jason travel to another time period. They end up visiting Egypt in 2700 B.C., Rome and Britain in 55 B.C., Ireland in 411 A.D., Japan in 998 A.D., Italy in 1468, Peru in 1555, The Isle of Man in 1588, Germany in 1600, and America in 1775. In each of these places, Jason and Gareth are involved in famous events or are with famous people from that time period. Sometimes they come across characters that are friendly and helpful, and other times they meet characters that want to destroy them. I liked the fact that not only did this book give the reader information about the time period, it tied in how cats fit into that part of history. For example, in ancient Egypt cats were worshiped. There Gareth was brought to the pharaoh. In Germany in 1600, cats were thought to be demons and were killed. I do not usually like fantasy books, but I liked this book because it is a mix of fantasy and historical fiction.

Purrfect!!!
Wow, that was pathetically corny, but I couldn't resist.

Anyway, Alexander's book is wonderful. He's certainly my favorite, but Time Cat still managed to surprise me. It was an entertaining story (which ALL of his are), and it also reached some of the depth of his best tales (Westmark, Prydain, The Marvelous Misadventures of Sebastian).

The concept is great. Everyone knows that cats have nine live, but we don't realize that they live them simultaneously in various periods and places and can move from life to life at will. The cat in this, Gareth, ends up taking a boy, Jason, with him to visit each life. They visit such places as Egypt: 2700 B.C., Ireland: 411 A.D., Peru: 1555, Italy: 1468, and others. They get through an exciting adventure in each place and time.

Each story is highly entertaining. You get to witness the excitement while learning about various cultural facts and historic figures (such as Saint Patrick and Leonardo da Vinci). The real strength in the novel is the way in which the stories work together to create a strong message about being in awe of life and living it with courage and compassion. Time Cat is a superb novel and one of Alexander's best.

A cat may smile at a king
Hail the hometown hero. Or rather, the home country hero. With the massive collection of British fantasy writers out there, sometimes it's nice to reflect that at least we have Lloyd Alexander. Fantasy author extraordinaire. As prolific as he is talented, his books have remained in circulation since the 1960s. Therefore, it was with great surprise that I consulted the copyright date on his delightful "Time Cat", only to find that my newly published paperback copy was the latest edition of a title that originally came out in 1963. 1963 was a long time ago, yet this book has stayed relatively fresh for a historical fantasy. There are problems with it, no question. But on the whole it's an interesting story that holds up in the end.

In "Time Cat" there are two protagonists. One is Gareth, a cat capable of talking and time traveling when it pleases. The other is Jason, Gareth's human friend. At the insistence of Jason, the two set off on a series of cat-based adventures around the globe at different points in the past. They find themselves entertaining a pharoh, running from the witch-obsessed Germans of the 1600s, prisoners of Incas, and friends with Roman conquerors. For the kid who likes cats and likes adventures, this book is ideal. If, on the other hand, the reader doesn't particularly care for felines, they'd do well to choose another book. This is strictly a cat-lover affair. Each time period, in its way, relates to a period of history in the cat species. We see the way the Manx cats got their names, how cats were worshipped in Egypt, and called the devil in the 17th century. Jason and Gareth also proceed to make the acquaintance of several historical figures, from St. Patrick to Leonardo Da Vinci. There is even a chance meeting with an Irish lass that acts so much like the lovely Eilonwy from the "Prydain Chronicles" you find yourself wondering how she hopped out of those books and into this one. The reading level of this book is less difficult than Alexander's "Prydain Chronicles", and makes for a good early fantasy tale.

Of course there are problems with the book. Since Alexander is asking us to believe that Jason and Gareth are attending events that happened in the world's past, there's an understanding that what we read is based on fact. So when we read interpretations of the past that are clearly untrue, it's cause for concern. For example, the section on Leonardo Da Vinci needs some work. It is true that Da Vinci did some wonderful character studies of cats. However, as the illegitimate son of a gentleman, Da Vinci was unable to enter into a respectable profession and was, in a sense, forced to rely on his artistic talents. In this book, however, there is no mention of illegitimacy, Da Vinci's father treats him as his natural son, and attempts to get his boy to become a notary. Blatant historical untruths are not overly common in this book, but they do pop up every once in a while, causing the reader a bit of discomfort.

And then there are the problems with the time traveling itself. In an effort to get the story rolling higgledy piggledy, Alexander has eschewed any real explanation of how Gareth's time traveling works. This is all well and good, except that it makes one wonder why Gareth and his boy do not simply vanish to another time when they are held captive again and again and again. Constantly coming into danger, one wonders why Gareth chooses only calm moments to travel. Are there rules here we know nothing about? One would beg a little more information. Otherwise you don't feel particularly concerned when our intrepid heroes are in mortal peril. After all, they could just leave.

Finally, there are the natives. Jason and Gareth consistently find themselves joining up with invaders of one sort or another. Sometimes they're preparing to invade Briton. Other times, they help their friend the "nice" conquistador. For a 1963 book, Alexander is fairly good about portraying different races. He is sometimes prone to statements like, "These Britons are like big children" (enough to make a Celt's blood boil), but on the whole he does fairly well. I did have a small difficulty with the sympathetic conquistador bit. From reading this book you'd think the Incas and the Spanish lived happily and peacefully together for years to come after Jason and Gareth's visit. And this is not the case.

For the child that knows his or her history and has a bit of a kitty obsession, this is an ideal story. There's fighting, adventure, friends, foes, and an interesting plot. It is not a perfect book, but it's worth looking into, no question. To sum up; A swell romp.

Time Cat: The Remarkable Journeys of Jason and Gareth
This book is about a boy named Jason and a cat named Gareth.
The first time they went time traveling Jason looked into Gareth's eyes and Gareth gave a long slow wink. They went to Egypt,Italy and a lot of other places including the U.S.A in 1775! Gareth really talks in the story but not real cats that we have. In Egypt Gareth had a white spot on his chest. I really
like this book because they go back in time.

Time Tripping. . .
I picked up this book simply becuase it had a cat on the cover, and ended up thinking it was one of the best books I had ever read. The historical facts and cultural lessons captivated me, and at the beginning of each new section, you get a sort "Ooh, what kind of trouble will they get in this time?" feeling. A great book for kids 8-11. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Three-time Caldecott Honor artist and four-time winner of the CorettaScott King Award, Jerry Pinkney doesn't disappoint with this lovely, old-fashioned, richly textured watercolor adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's The Ugly Duckling. The mother duck knew from the very beginning that one of her babies would be different from the rest... the sixth egg was large and oddly shaped.When it finally hatches that summer, she thinks the "monstrous big duckling" must be a turkey chick! Other ducks are appalled by the ugly duckling, and he is chased, pecked, and kicked aside. When he can't stand it anymore, he runs away from the pond, eventuallytaking refuge in the warm cottage of an old woman with a cat and a hen. Missing the delicious feeling of the water too much to stay, however, he heads out again into the wide, increasingly cold autumn world.

One day, he heard a sound of whirring wings, and up in the air he saw a flock of birds flying high. They were as bright as the snow that had fallen during the night, and their long necks were stretched southward. Oh, if only he could go with them! But what sort of companion could he be to those beautiful beings?"

Reviews (9)

Great story, gorgeous illustrations
This version of The Ugly Duckling is a great retelling of the classic story, with an enriched exploration of the Ugly Duckling's feelings and experiences. The illustrations are stunning. My three children, ages 3-5, are enthralled. And because of the nuance and complexity of the story, this will continue to be a family favorite for years to come.

A duck that just wants to be accepted
This story was about a duckling that was different from all the others when it was young. Everyone rejected him and didn't want him around just because he was ugly. They didn't even look at his other qualities that were inside him. The duckling tried to fit in in many places, but no one would let him stick around. Much like in life when people don't like other people because of how they look. You have to just try and look past looks and look down to the inside. You will find good qualities there no matter what. I think that you should accept everyone no matter how they look. Put yourself in the rejected person's shoes and just think of how you would feel if that were you. I think the author feels for real people that are not accepted. I think he probably feels pretty strongly about the subject.

The Ugly Duckling ~ Hans Christian Anderson
This book teaches a lot abou morals. Just becuase someone is alittle different from everyone else, doesn't mean they should be treated badly. Everyone is different in their own seperate way. Some people just show and others hide their feelings. People have differences, and no one is the same. Some of us just have to learn to accept it. And some have to realize we all are the same in some ways to.

The ugly duckling is a duck who is the same as everyone else, yet is also different. He just wants to be accepted. He doesn't know how to make people like him. People were not accepting him becuase he was not good enough. Everyone seems to be 'not good enough' at one time or another. Yet other people do not realize this.

I like this book because it explains how life goes. Some people aren't accepted because of their looks, other epople jsut need to learn to accept people for who they are. Not what they are not. You need to learn to look past the "bad" qualities and see the good qualities.

Ms. Elliott's Class Book Review
Our class liked it when the ugly duckling turned into a swan. Everyone learned that it doesn't matter if you don't look like everyone else. You should like who you are. We learned about the differences between swans and ducks. Our class learned that when you are young you have to learn about a lot of different things. We think that kids could learn about different things from reading this story such as animals, other stories to read, and feelings.

Ugly is bad and pretty is good
As an adult, I now understand the meaning of this book; but as a child I actually understood the story to mean that being ugly was bad and made you unloveable and that being pretty was important and made you loveable. ... Read more

Book Description

Bear loves the moon so much that he wants to give him a birthday present. But he doesn't know when his birthday is or what to get him. So Bear goes to have a little chat with the moon.

A poetic fantasy, Happy Birthday, Moon has delighted fans for years as a simple yet reassuring celebration of love and friendship. Gently told with warm words and charming illustrations by creator Frank Asch, Happy Birthday Moon was cited by The New York Times as one of the ten best titles of the year. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Happy Birthday, Moon Review
If all books could leave you with such a "warm and fuzzy" feeling in your heart! I'd like to comment on "Happy Birthday, Moon" by Frank Asch. A little bear wants to give the moon a birthday present, but before he does, he needs to find out what the moon wants. He then makes the journey across the river, hikes through the woods, and up into the mountains. The little bear feels that the closer he is to the moon, the better the moon can hear him. The little bear begins to talk with the moon by interpreting the moon's response through his own echo. Eventually, he buys the moon a hat, because that's what the little bear said he wanted...(so of course, that's what the moon wanted too!) This adorable children's fantasy is beautifully illustrated using simple illustrations with soft, rounded edges. The illustrations are accurate and correspond nicely with the content of the story. The calm mood of the night time is warmly displayed throughout the story. This book enhances the characterizations and avoids stereotypes of race and sex. I think this book should be read to children of all ages because it's theme is appealing and extremely worthwhile. It shows you about friendship, sharing, caring, forgiveness, and how making an effort to make someone else happy, can make you just as happy! I feel the author's style is very appropriate for children aged from zero to ...well...thirty-two! I'm still a kid a heart and absolutely loved it! I'm also a future teacher and love the content of this heartfelt story. This book fulfills a beautiful harmony of text, illustration, format and typography. I'm sure anyone would truly enjoy this wonderful little book about friendship, selflessness and love.

A very cute story about giving and friendships.
This is a good story about a bear who wants to give the moon a birthday present. He goes all over trying to find a spot where the moon can hear him. Finally he reaches some mountains. When he yells out at the moon he thinks the moon replies back but really it's just his echo. So when Bear yells out that he wants a hat for his birthday, it echos back and Bear thinks that is what the moon wants too. Bear goes out and buys the hat and sets it on the top of the tree. The next morning Bear finds the hat which was blown down from the tree on his doorstep and thinks that the moon got it for him for his birthday. I think this book is a really cute book for kids to read or even parents to read to there kids. It will teach them about friendships and giving. In the end the hat blows away and Bear cannot find it. He tells the moon and the moon of course says the same thing back. Bear then tells the moon that he still loves him , which the moon then says to Bear. So another thing that the story shows is that it's not about the gift that they got each other but the thought of it.

Can't get much more inoffensive than this!
Children like stories where characters have mistaken ideas of what the moon is. The Caldecott winning book, "Many Moons" (which I HIGHLY recommend you run out and read immediately if not sooner) supposes that the moon is no larger than a thumbnail and made of pure gold. In this book, "Happy Birthday, Moon", a small cuddly bear supposes that the moon is like any other creature and, if you get close enough, you can have a conversation with it. Through a series of misadventures (echoes, trees, and winds) Bear comes to the conclusion that the moon would like a beautiful hat for its birthday. In the end, he and the moon have (in his mind) grown closer over the course of the story.

And boy oh boy is this picture book simple. No extraneous details or folderols here. The lines are clear cut and smooth. From the perfectly circular and yellow moon in the sky to the deftly lined Bear, not a single line or color is out of place here. For those parents wishing to calm their little ones down with a simply told, simply drawn story, this book is ideal. Concepts are not difficult to grasp and words never get any more difficult than "birthday" or "beautiful". It is a nice little book.

The sweetest book that I have ever read
I absolutely love this book. It is so sweet and it teaches such an important lesson to children. This is one book that I will read to my children forever.

One of the cutest books ever!
The first time I read this book I got goosebumps - it's just so incredibly sweet! I can't wait to read it to my stepdaughter! Frank Asch's books are all wonderful, but this one is by far my favorite! I highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates an imaginative children's story. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

"Mama Played Baseball" - A Home Run Book
Through the eyes of a little girl named Amy, we can experience a little bit of life during World War II. During this time many athletic women vied for spots in the All-American Girls' Professional Baseball League. When Amy's mother first tells her of her plans to get a job in the league, Amy wonders, "What kind of job is that?" Baseball is only a game she thinks. Amy's perception of her mother playing pro-baseball changes as her mother makes the team, wins games, and is popular with the fans who ask for her autograph. The reader can easily sense Amy's excitement as she watches many of her mother's games, jumping up and down when her mom scores a hit.
Through a simple plot line, award-winning author David Adler has adequately shown the events of that time. He works a little humor into the story giving the reader a laugh or two and reminding us of common life experiences. "Mama Played Baseball" has a happy ending as Amy's father returns home safely. This is illustrator Chris O'Leary's first picture-book and he has done a magnificent job bringing the story to life. His artwork depicts the 1940s and contributes immensely to the overall story. The story is suitable for children in the lower elementary grades and could also be used in social studies or to introduce sports. ... Read more

Book Description

There are many stars in the galaxy. But only the sun wakes us in the morning, helps us to grow, plays hide-and-seek behind the clouds, and paints pretty pictures in the evening sky. Frank Asch's gentle text and vivid illustrations celebrate the unique and wondrous qualities of our favorite and most powerful star. This is the third in a group of books for young children that explore the natural world. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Frank Asch is my favorite star!
Bright, beautiful illustrations depict a young girl's fascination with the sun, her favorite star.The text is simple and not particularly memorable, but the illustrations are gorgeous!According to the copyright page, the illustrations started as black line drawings and color swatches.These were scanned into a computer and manipulated with a computer program.The result?Colorful, luminous pictures with an airbrushed look, and a real treat for the eyes. ... Read more

Book Description

Billy and Blaze are back in another exciting tale of their adventures. This time they're showing their friends Tommy and Dusty how to be as great a team as they are. Tommy and Dusty are eager learners, for they know that Billy and Blaze are the best teachers anybody (or any pony) could ever ask for.

Soon, Tommy and Dusty are good enough to enter the pairs jumping class with Billy and Blaze. Now they can show everyone just how much they've learned!

Blaze Shows the Way is part of the classic Billy and Blaze series. Thoughtful drawings and easy-to-read text capture the warmth and understanding shared by a boy and his horse. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Billy and Blaze books were my favorites as a child!
I can still remember sitting in the children's reading area of our public library (about 20+ years ago!) reading every Billy and Blaze book I could get my little hands on! If you have a child who loves horses and adventures, you need to purchase this and other books in the series. The books are easy to read with the right amount words to keep a youngster's attention, and the illustrations are perfect!

BLAZE SHOWS THE WAY
This book is perfect for the very young horse lover it is easy to read and has wonderful pictures. It is a story of one boy and his pony who helps another boy with his pony. My 4 year old grand-daughter loves it. All of C. W. Anderson books are a pleasure to read for both the young and old horse lovers. I have enjoyed them since I was a child. The pictures are almost as good as a photo. I recommend this book to all horse lovers. ... Read more

Book Description

Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tales are like exquisite jewels, drawing from us gasps of recognition and delight.Andersen created intriguing and unique characters — a tin soldier with only one leg but a big heart, a beetle nestled deep in a horse’s mane but harboring high aspirations.Each one of us at some time, has been touched by one of Andersen’s Fairy Tales.Here you’ll find his classic tales such as: The Mermaid, Thumbelina, The Steadfast Tin Soldier, and The Ugly Duckling, 38 of your favorite tales in all. This deluxe Children’s Classic edition is produced with high-quality, leatherlike binding with gold stamping, full-color covers, colored endpapers with a book nameplate. Some of the other titles in this series include: Anne of Green Gables, Black Beauty, Heidi, King Arthur and His Knights and The Secret Garden. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

IT'S THE ILLUSTRATIONS
I think that most of us have been exposed to at least some of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales. If we haven't read them, we, of previous generations, have probably seen the movie of his life starring Danny Kaye, and any child who watches television has probably seen a Disney version of "The Ugly Duckling."

While these, and similar productions are entertaining, they "prettify" his stories. what I mean by this is that many of his tales have very sad endings and/or have dark gloomy atmospheres. Not all, but many.

For example, "The Little Match Girl" tells the tale of a poverty stricken child whose father sends her out on a freezing New Year's Eve to sell matchsticks. She is afraid to come home without having made any money, as her father will punish her. As the night grows colder, she lights the matchsticks one by one for a drop of warmth. In the flare of each match, she sees visions of her grandmother in heaven, and with the last match her grandmother descends from heaven and takes the little girl in her arms. In the morning, her frozen body is found.

In "The Red Shoes," a little girl is given a pair of red shoes which she feels are the most wonderful things in the world, she values them above everyone and everything, and even at her own communion can think of nothing other than how beautiful she looks in her red shoes. These shoes prove to be her death, as they cause her to dance for days on end until she finally had to have the executioner chop off her feet so she could stop dancing. Then, and only then, with stumps for feet, did she repent for her conceit. As in many of Andersen's fairy tales there is an obvious moral here.

Some other old favorites such as "The Ugly Duckling" and the Emperor's New Clothes" are included.

I think that this is a very good English translation of the included tales, but what makes this book stand out are Arthur Szck's illustrations. There is no copyright date in my copy, but I'm sure it is over 50 years old, and even so, Szck's color illustrations are each and every one worthy of framing. In bright, bold colors, and frequently with an oriental feeling, they are just plain wonderful. I fell in love with them, and I'd bet that most readers would too.

Staggering Surrealism.
'The Snow Queen' is possibly the greatest short story I've ever read. Although its message is essentially Christian, its means of getting there is staggering, Surrealist and far from dogmatic. There is an Alice quality to the heroine's narrative as she seeks her abducted playmate, full of singing flowers, helpful crows and robber barons - the songs of the flowers are full of sexually loaded and enigmatic imagery. But the word-pictures as a whole are haunting, the blazing sheen of the snow, with the suggestive reds dotting it throughout. The final puzzle is worthy of Borges. Wow.

A Joy to Read, But Not Faultless
I enjoyed reading ANDERSON'S FAIRY TALES by Hans Christian Andersen. My favorite stories in this book were The Mermaid, and the story about the Dustman. I loved the vivid language and the way the stories came alive, seeming to burst like balloons from the pages of the book. I also enjoyed the way common household objects and animals were personified. I found fault with the story that had the better part of its setting in the Garden of Eden. The winds from the ends of the earth were personified well, but one of the winds dispargingly referred to Africa.

Nothing is sweeter than the real story
I believe that the path to a well-rounded child is the truth. Too often we sensationalize and sugar-coat the truth when it comes to our kids. This book is a good example of the way things are. My favorite tale from this book would have to be "The Little Mermaid", and it will be the first tale I read my children when they are born. Mr. Anderson was a firm believer in drama mixed with the hard knocks of real life.Here he has just transformed them into a fantastical story that every child needs to be told. The elements of the story are very powerful, from the loss of innocence to the loss of love,and sometimes we need a good dose of something that isn't wholesome. I recommend this book to everyone, children and adults alike. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

MY friend the Bear By Jez Alborough
This book My Friend the Bear by Jez Alborough is wonderfully
written . And Children will love the way a wonderful friendship
developes between a boy and a bear. This book teaching children
that no matter what your new friend looks like to look inside their heart, as Eddie the boy did when he and the bear became
friends. We all could learn alot from Eddie and the Bear about
being friendly to each other.

Alborough has likely Caldecott candidate in "Big Bro"
Lively illustrations in bright colors, combined with an engaging and increasingly aniticipatory text, make Jez Alborough's "Watch out! Big Bro's coming!" an excellent candidate for a Caldecot nod.

Especially note-worthy is Alborough's use of varying perspective to enhance the reader's feeling of escape into the story. When little bro' comes running back toward his frightened friends who are hiding in the jungle underbrush, we are looking out from our hiding spot as well.

A fine book, and one which breaks from the current trend of picture books aimed more for adult buyers than juvenile readers. I read this for story hour the day I received it and the toddler crowd loved it.

Highly recommended. ... Read more

Book Description

The beloved sequel to Little Women, this classic continues the story of Jo March, who goes on to get married and inherit an estate with which she creates an experimental school for boys. ... Read more

Reviews (33)

WISH THEY WERE REAL!!!!!!!!!!
This is the continuation of Little Women, and Jo's Boys will be the cont. of this book. Little Men is a book about the boys and girls of all ages, and if you thought little women was much about women, READ THIS BOOK. The boys are all different ages. There is musical Nat, bookworm Demi, troublesome Tommy, fireband Dan(my fav't character), resonsible Franz, commodore Emil, Little Ted, Rob...and dont forget girls, Lovely Daisy, ms.giddy gaddy Nan, and pretty Bess....and so many other characters. They just will not be friends, but a great big FAMILY. They will be happy, sad, confused, angry...at each other, but will not be a problem for Mr.&Mrs. Bhaer(Jo), Mr.&Mrs. Brooke(Meg), and Mr.and Mrs. Laurence(laurie&Amy). These young men and women will be so different, yet so together and close!

"Alcott, you are great"
Little Men is the funniest of all the three books. I like this book, but not as much as the Jo's Boys or Little Women. Little Men begins with 'Nat as the 1st ch. If you have seen the movie and think it is great, wait till you read the book. The novel is much more sophisticated and very touching. The movie basically concentrates on Nat and Dan, but the novel is about every single boy and girl. If you've seen the movie and didnt like it, guess what, try the novel! My fav't characters are everybody. Old Chirper(Nat), Dan, Demi, Daisy, Tommy, Franz, Commodore(Emil), Nan, Princess(Bess), little Ted, Rob, Jack..too many people. If you like the story of boys and girls, this is one of the books to read. If this is the Alcott's 1st book you've read, TRY ALL! ALCOTT IS THE BEST! My fav't part is the LITTLE COOKSTOVE(iron). Its so neat, and how Daisy, Nat, Demi, Dan, Emil, Tommy, and dont forget our Teddy, and Rob, standing up for each others.

Very good read, even as an adult!
I loved Little Women and this book just confirms what a wonderful writer she was. Lots of hidden truths and wisdoms.

Awesome Little Men
Little Men was a very well written book. It had many fun adventures, great characters, great dialog, and all in all it was an awesome book.

I loved the way the author wrote the little children's voices just right!! It just made me have to stop and laugh!

When you read this book it is not like reading, it is like watching a movie!! That is how well written this book really is!! You could even see the house and the rooms!! I know what every room looks like and how to get there!

I could see the boy's foot when he hurt it and I could see his face when the doctor had to fix it.

I love this book!! It is not a girly book like I thought it would be. In fact it is quite a boy book!! A boy or a girl could read this book and really enjoy it!!
I would recommend this book for ages 12 and up.

By Seth Courtney Age 13 Grade 7

Excellent Children/Young Adult Book
I read this book to do a critical analysis of it. I enjoyed the stories of the boys and all that went on in their lives. I would recommend this book to any child or young adult that is looking for an interesting and easy read. ... Read more

Book Description

Everyone knows that it isn't always easy having a working mom, but this girl's mom has a job that keeps her whole family jumping!

After all, when your mom is always flying off to meetings or mixing strange potions in her laboratory, life can be both trying and exciting. And even through Mom throws birthday parties that are out of this world, there are still those bats and frogs who always follow her around.

Peter Glassman's enchanting story, brewed together with Tedd Arnold's bewitching pictures, is sure to cast its spell on young readers, whoever and whatever their mothers may be.

Reviews (5)

What if your mom IS a witch?
This book caught my eye because as a mother of Wiccan faith, I wanted a book to help my toddler understand what witchcraft is and is NOT, and to give him the right perspective and sense of humor about it. I am also a working mom. I think any book that helps kids deal compassionately with the confused feelings or questions they have about their working mom is great. I think other witches/pagan parents will appreciate this fun book.

Working Moms Beware
After a hard day at work, fixing dinner for my family, getting everyone bathed, and doing homework I found it par for the course to sit down to a book about a working mom who is a witch. She is not even very successful as a working mom witch!!! When will society start being kind to the working mother? I found this a distressing comentary on how society sees women in the workplace. I do not think it is appropriate for children.

Appalling commentary on working mothers
This book is soooo bad I burst out laughing. I am married to a working mom, and even I could tell that it is insulting to working moms everywhere! Working moms have enough guilt without this book to pile salt in the wound. Portraying the working mom as a witch sets the book off to a bad start. And to imply that she is rarely around, always late for kids' events, and ferocious after a bad day (as if stay-at-home moms don't get mad!) is no help. Would the author have written this about a working dad? I doubt it. This book sets us back decades in our fight for social justice.

FINALLY, a book for small children of working moms!
Although this book is recommended for children ages 4-8, I read it to my one-year-old. He loves the pictures and I hope it will help him understand working moms. My only problem with the book is that "My Working Mom" bakes terrific cakes and this working mom doesn't have time to bake terrific cakes!

Great Stuff, especially for the working mother in your life
This is a great gift for any working mother in your life that still has a sense of humor. If they are overwhelmed by career anxiety and working mother's guilt, however, stay away. Otherwise, it's a hoot, especially when it's a gift from the hapless, working father. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great Book
This book has colorful illustrations and is an excellent in content. It is a great source for children who are trying to learn the concept of fractions/math. A great book and a fun way to learn.

oops! Confusing for kids used to metric system
A great book which covers both concepts and applications in a colorful yet simple format.

But...international customers should think twice if they use metric measurement and currency systems!

A great fraction that's really 3 lessons in one.
In my third grade classroom, I used the first part of this colorful book to introduce fractions, both equivalent and adding fractions. They loved the hands-on Pizza Math! We also used the last half of the book to introduce a weighing activity and a discussion of money. The students gave it a definite thumbs up. As a teacher I found the colorful illustrations helpful to the students and appreciate the simple presentation of each concept. ... Read more

Reviews (33)

Be Sure to Read This...If You're Applying for Sainthood
I just have to set the record straight; I am a huge fan of nineteenth century fiction. Jane Austen, the Bronte sisters, and Dickens are the staples of my overflowing bookshelf. Therefore, I had to give Alcott's book three stars just because of the Romanticism and stunning descriptions that pervade the story. Alcott proves herself a budding author and literary spirit through this, her earliest work. Now, with the praise out of the way, I can get into the reason I wrote this review. I found the character of Edith so sickeningly good and sweet and holy and pious yada yada yada that I grew to despise the heroine. She was terribly spineless and so afraid of dislike from her contemporaries that she backed down from situations, preferring to sit in her room and cry. In fact, there were always tears "shining in her lovely eyes." UGH!!!
The characters were so stereotypical. Lord Percy was good and noble (and decidedly dull), the quintessential hero for his perfect lady love; Edith. Lady Ida was the jealous spinster desperately seeking for a husband who, suprise suprise, eventually repents her jealous ways in the forgiving arms of Edith. Amy was naieve and bubbling over with enthusiasm that eventually became nauseating, and the rest of the characters aren't even worth mentioning, they all eventually better themselves through the pure heart of Edith.
This book isn't bad, on the contrary, if you enjoy nineteenth century romanticism it makes for a quick read. The characters and unoriginality of the plot leave much to be desired, but, for, Alcott's seventeen year old attempt, it makes for an enjoyable hour's read.

A Charming Romance
For a young lady at seventeen, I was impressed by the writing which obviously developed more as she grew up. This book was charming and it deserves five stars for the well character development and the plot which took me so far into the lives of everyone involved. As for the plot, I was astonished how much I was taken into each of the lives and empathized for the protagonists. The love and desire Lord Percy possessed for Edith was not only noble, but it encouraged me that there are still those who seek righteousness and purity. The story was simply delightful and I like to think Miss Alcott enjoyed the writing very much uplifting pure and innocent love. Bravo to the youth writer and to those who love sweet stories of true love or of classic writings, this is a charming romance to read.

The annoyance of perfection
The Inheritance, by Lousia May Alcott, tells the life of an orphan who's never known her family. The beautiful and pure Edith Adelon is an Italian orphan living with the rich aristocrats the Hamilton's. This beautiful orphan is the nicest and most humble out of the characters, and is disliked by the not-so-pretty cousin, sort of like a Cinderella story. But how could such a beautiful and talented young girl be so boring?
Nineteenth century stories are all about, beautiful young girls looking for a marriage of wealth, and handsome young men (there are never any non good-looking ones). Edith lives with the beautiful Amy, her equally handsome brother Arthur, the mean but still beautiful cousin Ida, and Lady Hamiliton. Edith is the friend and governess of the beautiful Amy. But, her position quickly changes when Edith saves Amy's life when she was hanging off a cliff. The heroic event won her a true place into the Hamilton Household.
One thing that really got on my nerves was Edith. How could someone be so perfect, beautiful, talented, and loyal to even her worst enemy? Sure, it's a book of course, but how could someone be the epitome of perfection and still get the guy? She is kind-hearted to the sickly and has an amazing voice. Her personality is so perfect, and quickly becomes one of the characters that you can't stand. No wonder why Lady Ida was so jealous, I would be too! Edith then becomes the love interest of the honorable Lord Percy and makes Lady Ida incredibly envious. Even the married Lord Arlington has a crush on Edith. Lord Arlington proposes twice to Edith, but she says "No" each time.
But somehow, a mysterious stranger gives her a package that tells Edith her true heritage. She's not a poor orphan at all! The elder Arthur Hamilton, Arthur's older brother, secretly married Edith's mom, and in fact Edith is of nobility! She's a descendant of the Hamilton's! It was such a random part of the book to have such a wonderful thing play into Edith's life. It wasn't strategically or carefully placed into the book, it was like Louisa May Alcott wasn't able to find a place to put that part in her book. But of course, like in any Cinderella story, Edith's family doesn't believe her and thinks Edith is a thief. Stealing a necklace that shows Edith her true Heritage. Wow, this is so repetitive to every story I've read before. "To be so bitterly deceived in one whom we have loved and cherished from a child, one whom we thought so innocent and true." It's so weird to find that now after how much they loved her and she's so pure, they can't believe her?
Wow, one hundred and fifty years after the book was written it was finally released. I've read Little Women, and The Inheritance, is nowhere near the greatness of it. But, of course, there is always a bad book in every collection. I would prefer watching the television movie instead of reading the book anyday.
Good thing the book wasn't very long, I don't know how long I would last reading about the perfectly beautiful Edith. Sure its cute, but it has as much cuteness as a five-year-old. The dialogue was also extremely cheesy, and truthfully, I would not recommend this book to anyone except my nine-year-old cousin.

The Greatest Love
Alcott's first novel is a tale of the greatest love one human being can show another--that of friendship, respect, and honor. I find Lord Percy and Edith model characters of the way men and women should treat each other (both sexes). Excellent picker-upper-of-a-story, too. How can you not helped but be inspired by their examples, especially in contrast to Lady Ida and Lord Arlington. 5-stars in my book--it's a keeper!

True Nobility
Pure love, selfless virtue, the highest honor and respect dwelling among jealousy, vengeful pride, deceit, bitterness, and brash passion--this is the setting for a beautiful story set in the lonely nineteenth century English countryside. The humble orphan Edith and the gentle, honorable Lord Percy awed me as two characters who best illustrate friendship and sacrificial love. Their silent strength reminds me of that Bible verse, "a soft answer turns away wrath." Although The Inheritance is slightly too perfect and too cliched, this mystery-love story presents a picture of true nobility-unselfish consideration of others, which is too little seen nowadays. ... Read more

Book Description

Mangus the Magician must free a princess from a terrifying ghost. Naturally, Mangus doesn't believe in ghosts. He doesn't even believe in magic! However, his servant boy, Fabrizio, is a secret friend of the princess and is determined to prove the ghost is real. ... Read more

Book Description

Illustrated by the beloved creator of Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel, The Little House, and Katy and the Big Snow, here is a delightful version of the tale that boys and girls have loved for centuries. The Emperor himself, his court, and his clothes—or lack of them—are ridiculous as only the master storyteller Hans Christian Andersen can make them. Fifty-five years ago, Virginia Lee Burton added to this tale of fun her own irrepressible humor in pictures and design. This brilliant new edition features Burton"s original illustrations photographed anew, freshly exhibiting her lively concoction of remarkable spirit and beauty. ... Read more

Book Description

Look at me --
I'm growing!

With her trademark simple words and delightful pictures, Aliki explains how and why we grow. Our arms and legs, our hair and toenails, our muscles, bones, and skin all grow from the moment we are born.

Some people grow faster than others; some people grow more than others. With the help of good healthy food, we all grow in our own way and at our own speed.

It will happen to you, too!

Reviews (1)

Good Lesson
This book was about how and why children grow. There are great pictures, charts and diagrams to help the author explain that children's bones, organs and even teeth grown and change. She explains that correct nutrition and proper care is needed in order to allow your body to grow and for you to be healthy. The book goes on to say that when you are older your bones may stop growing. However, your hair and nails keep growing. Brandenberg explains very simply what the young readers can expect as they grow.
The main reason why I liked that book was because in the story the author tried to get the point across that everyone grows at different rates. Some people's hair grows faster or they may lose their baby teeth before all the other kids. Also, boys may be shorter than girls when they are young but soon they will be taller than their classmates. It would have been nice to be reassured when I was the littlest in the class that soon I would grow, it will just take time and care.
The author highlights the importance of eating healthy if you want to be big and strong when you are older. She shares with the young readers why their bodies are changing and what they can expect in the growing years to come. ... Read more

Book Description

Cam's on line to buy tickets for a concert, but now she's got more than she bargained for -- a new mystery to solve! Someone dressed as a ghost is scaring people on line. Is he also stealing their wallets? Cam thinks so, but she's got to rely on her amazing photographic memory to un-mask the thief."Adler delivers another satisfying story."-- School Library Journal ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Cam Jansen
I just read Cam Jansen and the Ghostly Mystery. It is a good mystery. Be sure to read this book if you like to read mysteries. A ticket booth was robbed at a Triceratops Pops concert. Who was it? Cam and Eric try to solve the mystery. Did they solve it? How did the kids get tickets to the concert? You have to read the book to find out.

Cam Jansen and the Ghostly Mystery
I just read Cam Jansen and the Ghostly Mystery.In the beginning Cam, Aunt Molly and Eric were in line to get concert tickets for a T-Pops concert. A ghost came and scared everybody. He scared an old man, and he faked a heart attack. Meanwhile the ticket seller was robbed. Cam and Eric were looking all around. Did they find the robbers?

Cam Jansen
I just read a book called CAM JANSEN AND THE GHOSTLY MYSTERY. The author of the book is David A. Adler. Cam and Eric went to the ticket line and a ghost came and scared people. Then there was a robbery. Who do you think is the robber? I give this book five stars because you can find clues to help solve the mystery.

Cam Jansen Review
You should read the book Cam Jansen and The Ghostly Mystery. This book is a mystery. Cam and her friend Eric and Aunt Molly went to get tickets for the Triceratops Pops concert. When they were there a robbery happened. If you want to know who did it, find out yourself by reading this book.

COOL MYSTERYS!
You should read this book CAM JANSEN AND THE GHOSTLY MYSTERY. Cam, Eric and Eric's Aunt Molly all go to get tickets for the Triceratops Pops. When they were in the line there was a robbery. Can Cam and Eric find the robbers? That's all I can say about this book. If you want to know more, read it. You might also like to read David A. Adler's other Cam Jansen books. I gave this book 5 stars, because I like mysteries. You don't know what will happen next! ... Read more