Book Description

Ten years ago, Jack and Annie found a Magic Tree House in the woods and the world of reading was changed forever. Millions of letters later (from children, parents, and teachers around the world!)the exciting and inspiring four books are available together in a keepsake-worthy boxed set. The perfect gift to encourage a struggling new reader or remind old fans of the way they first discovered the magic of books. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

wonderfully imaginative..........
The Magic Tree House books are wonderful for early elementary kids. My first and second graders love for me to read these books aloud. They are simple and uncomplicated with short chapters which could cause them to be a bit boring for older kids. Each book has Jack and Annie magically going to another time and place by wishing on a book left in the tree house. This series (I have #1-24) have really turned some of my non-readers onto reading.

GREAT SERIES
When I found the Magic Tree House series, I was thrilled. Mary Pope Osbourne is writting books with non-fictional details in a fictional plot!! And I love that there are pictures on every other page--it keeps the early readers entertained. My older boys read early so it was hard to find books they could read that weren't "silly" and kept their interest (and had pictures). Even when my two older boys stepped into more difficult reading books, they still wanted to follow the series! Now my 7 year old is taking over!!

I understand that the writting is for younger kids, but last year I worked as a teacher's aide, and every day I would read a chapter to the 4th grade class, before dismissal, and they were sold--found Magic Tree House more fun than Harry Potter!! When we started a new book, we would all wait until the tree house stopped spinning and the whole class would say with me "everything was still; absolutely still" (a standard line in each book)!

Can't Get Enough!
I bought the boxed set 1-4 based on my sister's recommendation. She has a 5 and 3 1/2 year old and they listen to Ms. Osborne's books on tape. They looovvve the stories--yes even her younger son. I decided to give it a try. I thought my bright almost 5 year-old daughter would like to try something different and also, give her a taste of what chapter books were all about. My daughter cannot get enough of these books. They are interesting, intriguing, thought provoking and often times my daughter ends up with her fingers in her mouth because she gets so excited about what's happening in the story. What a wonderful way to broaden your child's look at the world--from Egypt to the Cretaceous period 65 million years ago. I went ahead and bought books 5-8 and look forward to reading them to my daughter.

Great Chapter Books for First, Second & Third Graders
This is the first series of chapter books my son actually wanted to read by himself. While many of the reviewers complain about grammatical errors, etc., I feel these can be overlooked as these delightful stories keep a child's interest from start to finish. Each chapter is fairly short and has frequent pictures (a must for beginning chapter readers). The main characters have all sorts of adventures and the reader actually learns some historical facts. While the books are probably too easy for advanced readers, they should appeal to most beginning chapter readers. I think it is very important that children think reading is fun and the books from The Magic Tree House Series provide a wonderful introduction to chapter book reading!

Great fun to read for both of us!
We were looking for "chapter" books for our 4 year old and a librarian recommended these. We are starting our own collection. Eventhough our daughter can't read yet, she loves them! I deliberately stop midway and discuss what she thinks will happen next. She is then very excited the next day when we finish. Great!! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great Idea
The idea is great of having father and daughter tales but to many of these stories focus on the evil step-mother and the young woman rescued by a wealthy man, who takes her away. I was hoping for stronger stories of the relationship between a father and daughter. I was also hoping for stronger female characters. ... Read more

Book Description

Introducing a unique book every one should have to help him or her learn to love reading.With type set in three columns and three colors for easy readability, each short, rhymed story in this collection is like a little play for two voices.They are about all kinds of thing: bears, birthdays, puppies, snowmen, friendships, and more.But no matter what their subject, they all feature traditional reading techniques-rhyme, rhythm, and repetition-and finishing with a satisfying refrain. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

You Read to Me, I'll Read to You: Very Short Stories
This is an excellent book. My 5-year-old son, knowing all the sounds of the letters, was reluctant to try reading words. In part, I think his fear was that if he started reading, I would quit reading to him. This book is wonderful - he is thrilled to be able to read most of the words, and the fact that we do it together shows him that reading will not necessarily be a solitary experience for him. It has increased his confidence dramatically.

A Joy to Read Together.....
As the Mary Ann Hoberman explains in her introduction: "Here's a book/With something new-/You read to me!/I'll read to you!/We'll read each page/To one another-/You'll read one side,/I the other..." This clever and unique picture book includes 12 very short stories, written like a dialogue, and based on simple, lighthearted, friendly themes, that are perfect for emerging, and early readers. Each part is color coded for sharing and fun. I read the purple lines, you read the red, and we read the blue lines together, and then maybe switch. Ms Hoberman's joyous, rhyming text is full of rhythm, energy, and repetition and complemented by Michael Emberley's charming and humorous illustrations. You Read To Me, I'll Read To You is a delightful introduction to the joys and wonders of both reading, and reading together. As the author reminds your young reader at the end: "...But there are other/Books to read./Hundreds/Thousands/All we need./Any time/In any weather/We can sit/Right down together./In the shade/Or in the sun/Choose a book/That looks like fun./One that's old/Or one that's new./Make-believe/Or really true./I'll read one line/I'll read two./You read to me./I'll read to you."

Educators Recommend
Not long ago I was attending a conference for reading teachers. The main topic of conversation was, as you might imagine, books. After the third person told me You Read to Me is "simply wonderful," and "a must-have," I decided I'd better check it out.

My colleagues were not exaggerating. You Read to Me, I'll Read to You is one of those rare "must-haves." The book, as the title implies, is created for two voices. Thoughtfully, the text is divided into three columns, each done in a different color print. One reader reads the left-hand passages. The second reader reads the right-hand passages. Both readers, of course, read the text in the middle.

The dozen stories in the book are original, fresh, and funny. (Hoberman refers to them as little plays for two voices.) Each is short, rhythmic, and rhyming. Topics include: mice, cats, dogs, bears, snakes, snowmen, friendship, hats, and more.

Emberley's illustrations, done in pen, watercolor, and dry pastel, perfectly compliment and enrich the text. The character's actions and facial expressions are priceless.

The book works exceedingly well in the classroom. Perfect for "buddy reading," it also provides teachers a perfect vehicle for working one-on-one with students. As we know, reading aloud helps to build fluency-which in turn helps with comprehension. You Read to Me, I'll Read to You is the perfect fluency-building book.

You Read to Me receives our highest recommendation.

Reviewed by the Education Oasis Staff

Perfect!
This is a must have for every beginning reader. It's so much fun to have others share in reading it with your child.

kbyrdCR Fin

English 385.150
5/23/02
Dr. Michelle H. Martin
Book Review
Doberman, Mary. You Read to Me, I'll Read to You. Illus. Michael Emberley. Boston:
Little, Brown and Company, 2001.
You Read to Me, I'll Read to You contains many different short stories that two people can read together. All containing positive lessons, each story has at least two characters who face a problem or experience an adventure. For example, in "The Dime," the pig finds a dime, but his friend the cat feels that the money belongs to him. Instead of the characters keeping the money and destroying their friendship, they decide to purchase a book and take turns reading the book to one another. Another story that has a positive lesson is "I Hate My Hat." The characters in the story are raccoons, and one raccoon continually says, "I hate my hat." The other raccoon says that "hate" is not a nice word to say and compliments his friend for wearing the hat so that no one needs to speak the word "hate" at all.
The book also possesses characteristics of a play because the text offers two speaking part. One reader reads the purple colored sentences, the other reads the pink colored sentences, and both readers read the blue sentences together. The color-coding also teaches the concept of following directions. Children of all ages need to know how to follow directions because they will encounter many areas in their lives that will require them to follow directions both at school and at home. ... Read more

Reviews (35)

The Golden Book of Fairy Tales
This is the best collection of fairy tales I have ever seen. Our mother used to read it to us for hours when we were children, she'd have to completely lose her voice before we'd let her stop. One of my favourite memories is piling on Mom's bed with my four sisters to gaze at the pictures and listen to these fabulous stories. Our copy was ruined by water damage during a move when I was around 11 or 12, and I remember I cried when Mom told me it was gone. I nearly cried again at 25 when I found it on your website, and called Mom right away. She was as excited as I was to have it again. We both recognized it immediately by the unforgettabe illustrations, which are more beautiful than in any other collection, and I have never seen some of these stories anywhere else. I can't wait to pile on the bed with my own children, and let their Nana create some favourite memories for them.

The Golden book of fairy tales
My mother began reading this book to us when we were small, and it was read so much that it literally fell apart. My siblings and I have fought over the pieces for years, so much so, that a few years ago we all received xerox copies for Christmas. Because of the reprinting we all received a new copy for Christmas this year! It contains some of the loveliest illustrations I have ever seen and the stories are so unique! As an Elementary school librarian I have yet to see it's equal in fairy tale books. It is an absolute favorite at our house!

Wonderful complete volume of fairy tales
This is a lovely book. The fairy tales are from many different countries and include the classics such as Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Beauty and the Beast, as well as other, lesser known tales like Tinder Box, The White Deer, and Queen Cat. All are well written, good stories.

The ilustrations are beautiful, but not all are in full color and they are not on every page. For children under age 3 or 4, depending on how well the child concentrates on a story, the lack of pictures on each page can make it hard for them to follow the story. I read this book constantly to my 3.5 year old girl and she loves it, but she often wants to know why the picture doesn't match the part of the story we're reading. I'm happy with the book, but I'm writing about this issue with the pictures since many reviewers said that was a strength of the book. Yes, the illustrations are beautiful, but half are full color, the other half are charcoal on pink paper, and there are little sketches throughout such as flowers or a basket of fruits which are mainly space fillers.

I highly recommend the book to those who are fine with one illustration per 3-4 page story.

Baby Boomers' Fairy Tale Book
I was so shocked to find that this wonderful book of fairy tales had been reprinted. It was my favorite book growing up in the late 1950-1960's and I used to read it with my sisters every night. Our book is tattered and falling apart, few survived in decent shape due to the size of the book causing stress on the binding AND the constant use they received! My youngest sister ended up with our book and no amount of money would pry it loose from her. I finally found a rebound copy for myself but wanted copies for my children so they could share it with their family some day and was thrilled to be able to order one for each of them. This book is timeless with classic stories from around the world and fantastic illustrations - the best fairy tale book ever produced. It would make a perfect baby shower gift so I think I will be stocking up on more of them soon!

so HAPPY I found this!
I just found this on Amazon and didn't know about the reprinting. I still have my worn, tired old book my mom found for me at a garage sale back in the mid 60s. I absolutely ADORE this book! I still look at my old tattered,torn copy and can't wait to get one without the crayon marks! I bought a second one for my 6 year old niece who is going to adore this. I can't wait to see her read and enjoy this book as much as I did. ... Read more

Book Description

Fifteen years ago, long before anyone else thought of tucking actual letters and notes inside a book, Little, Brown published The Jolly Postman by Allan and Janet Ahlberg.This wonderful book gave children a chance to read letters sent from one fairy tale or Mother Goose character to another.Among the funny notes was one from Jack, who lolled on a sun-drenched island, thanking the Giant for the gold that let him afford such a nifty vacation.All this amusing correspondence was deftly illustrated and the book attracted hordes of eager readers. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Ever wonder what type of junk mail a wicked witch gets?
In this book, the Jolly Postman is delivering the mail to the residents of a quaint fairy tale village, and you get to read all the letters -- even the junk mail! Every other page is an envelope with some type of correspondence tucked inside. The Three Bears get a handwritten apology from Goldilocks, complete with misspellings and invitation to a birthday party. The occupant of Gingerbread Bungalow in The Woods, who happens to be the Wicked Witch, gets an advertising circular from Hobgoblin Supplies Ltd. A certain snout-nosed grandma gets a demand letter addressed to Mr. B.B. Wolf from Miss Riding-Hood's attorney, who also states, "On a separate matter, we must inform you that The Three Little Pigs Ltd. are now firmly resolved to sue for damages. . .all this huffing and puffing will get you nowhere." Some of the funniest moments in this book come from the illustrations of the Jolly Postman stopping for tea with each mail delivery. At the Wicked Witch's cottage, he peruses the newspaper, the Mirror Mirror, while the witch reads her mail and her black cat does the dishes. At Cinderella's castle, he enjoys a glass of champagne poured by Prince Charming, who is still in his honeymoon Hawaiian print shirt and white slacks. This book is perfect for sharing one on one with a child, but if there aren't any children available, it's also amusing for solitary adults.

The Jolly Postman or some funny letters
This was one of my favorite books when I was very little. I remember that there was a lot of funny letters, one having to do with a witch. A good book for kids just learning to read or for someone reading to a little kid, I remember my second grade teacher reading this to us.

Just impressed!!!
I admit - Im 15 years old, and i just fell in love with this book! It's an original piece, using stories that are familiar to every child. This could be one of the best presents you can give someone.
Very reckmended!!!

The BEST book to grow up with
I had this book when i was little and i really liked it! on every page there was some sort of package or letter to a different fairy tale. i believe humpty dumpty had a puzzle and the giant (jack and the beanstalk) had a lot of tiny letters from jack. i would totally reccomend it for any little kid who likes fairy tales!

a simple joy
I remember receiving this book for my eighth birthday and fifteen years later the novelty of removing the little letters to all the fairytale characters hasn't worn off.I recently rediscovered the book when a young friend was given it for his birthday and it was wonderful to experience The Jolly Postman through the eyes of a child once again.
This book is an absolute treasure to be enjoyed by children and adults alike,take the opportunity to read this fun creation. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Hans Christian Andersen's "The Emperor's New Clothes," first published in 1837, has been told and retold in hundreds of ways, but never, ever by such a star-studded cast of scribes and artists as this. Sure, we still get the vainglorious, fashion-obsessedEmperor who is duped into parading down the street in an "invisible suit of clothes."And, of course, we still welcome the Honest Boy, the only one with enough gumption to point out that the Emperor's fancy-pants birthday suit is exactly that--a birthday suit. In this quirky, comical version, however, the story is crafted from the diverse, occasionally vulgar, often charming narrative perspectives of the Emperor's entire entourage--from his servants to the Spinning Wheel to the ImperialDresser's spectacles to His Royal Highness's own underwear--all of whom have very good, self-invested reasons for not wanting to reveal that the Emperor's new clothes are nonexistent, however expensive. A smart-alecky moth, drawn by the beloved illustrator Quentin Blake, ironically patches holes in the piecemeal narrative with smoothing, if not soothing, transitions.

Each snippet of story--doused in shameless punnery--is performed on the audio CD by one of 23 celebrities, including Jay Leno (the Moth), Madonna (the Empress), Fran Drescher (the Heralding Horn), Jeff Goldblum (the Imperial Wizard), Robin Williams (the Court Jester), and Calvin Klein (the Emperor's Underwear). The Honest Boy? Steven Spielberg himself, the creative director of this ambitious enterprise designed to benefit the Starbright Foundation for seriously ill children. If the startling display of glitterati isn't enough to spark your interest, then the truly astounding, fresh, full-page art of 23 preeminent children's book illustrators (including Maurice Sendak, Mark Teague, Chris Van Allsburg, Tomie dePaola, and William Joyce) surely will. The bumblingly hilarious accents of the celebrity narrators, combined with the whimsical and eclectic musical effects, make this quite an auditory treat. Though the words on the pagesand those on the audio CD don't exactly match, the combined experience of a favorite old story, clever narrative play, gorgeous artwork, and just plain silliness will amuse kids ages 8 to 108. (Click to see insideart from the book! © 1998 The STARBRIGHT Foundation) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (17)

A lot of FUN!
This is a wonderful re-telling of the classic story! It is told from various points-of-view. The stars that were picked for each role are perfect choices! The book itself is great, and you can really picture each star performing the role -- but the CD is a must! To hear each star, and the ad-libbing that they do, makes the story so much more fun! Probably more fun for adults than children! We loved it!

Excellent and entertaining for kids four and above.
The book itself is beautiful and the CD is wonderful and easy to follow. Its a great way to entertain a child or children and get tham interested in reading. My daughter never liked the story until now. She almost has it memorized and is beginning to recognize words. My one criticism and caution to other parents is the Fran Drescher character because of the use of an inappropriate term considering the audience this was meant to address. I was shocked to hear it and surprised that it was not edited out. Children hear enough bad language elsewhere, there was no need to tarnish such a wonderful product in this manner. I hope that the Starbright Foundation and Steven Spielberg will gift us with many more such books.

Star-Spangled Spectacular
This book is wonderful!!! I purchased this a little while ago and I love to listen to it. It has Beautiful illustrations by Steven Kellop, Tomie dePaola, and Graeme Base. Plus, if you get the CD with it, you get to hear Stars like Robin Williams (Jester), Johnathan Taylor Thomas (Prince), Melissa Joan Hart (Princess) and the Narrator, Jay Leno, read their own words. Speilberg did a great job giving actors parts that match their personalities like Fran Dresher as the Heralding Horn, Angela Lansbury as the Spinning Wheel, and Madona as the Empress. This is a great rewriting of a traditional story. The one thing that I didn't like was that the CD isn't broken up into sections so you can't just skip ahead to your favorite actors part. But that doesn't really matter because the whole thing is great.

A great boy's book!
I have three boys 10,7,and 6. They absolutely loved this book, especially my 7 year old! He must have listened to it 50 times in 2 weeks. We read a lot of books and I have never heard him laugh out loud like he did for this book. He has talked about it ever since he first read it. This version adds humor and wit to an old classic without ruining the story line. The story is told from the perspective of the people and objects involved in it. This is a fabulous way to tell the story! The wonderful artwork and change of voices on each page holds the attention of younger children all the way through this rather long book. The kids enjoyed looking at the pictures and retelling the story themselves without listening to the CD as well. The only problem we had with this was the fact that the CD couldn't jump to the page we left off on. We always had to start the story over. The kids never seemed to mind it - just me!

Delightful Attempt that misses the point.
I enjoyed this book and the accompanying CD very much. It is appropriate for the 8-12 year old set as well as for adults. My only problem was that the moral of the story was misconstrued. The moral of this story is that we should have the courage to challenge the status quo. While the moral of the original is to point out the outrageously foolish lengths that people will go in support of leaders (Royalty or Presidents). Irreverence and attacks on the status quo were interesting when they were unusual. The generation of Hollywood stars who so amusingly narrate this story appear cut of the same 1960's cloth and use this format to promote their ideas of the proper role of the individual in society. All In all this is a good book/CD package and I recommend it. ... Read more

Book Description

With over 200,000 copies sold, our beautifully color illustrated Children's Treasury is full of fairy tales, nursery rhymes and children's verse that will entertain the entire family. Many favorites are presented, including Cinderella, The Owl and the Pussycat, Rumpelstiltzkin, Aesop's Fables, Jack and the Beanstalk, Little Red Riding Hood, Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves, and Thumbelina. These stories are both enchanting and educational, combining simple morals with delightful fantasy. A classic volume, The Random House Children's Treasury is a bounty of imagination, whimsy and magic to cherish for generations. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The best fairy tale collection on the market
Although it's a large and heavy book, this is the best of its kind. Many of the selections were transcribed from more academic anthologies such as Andrew Lang's colored Fairy Books, but it's BEAUTIFULLY illustrated and has all the most famous fairy tales, including Thumbelina, The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling, The Pied Piper, Cinderella, The Princess and the Pea, The Fisherman and his Wife, The Three Little Pigs, Beauty and the Beast, The Gingerbread Man, The Brave Little Tailor, Rapunzel, Puss in Boots, The Emperor's New Clothes, Hansel and Gretel, The Golden Goose, Rumpelstiltzkin, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Jack and the Beanstalk, some of the Arabian Nights tales, and much more. Plus it has a few of the most well known of Aesop's Fables, such as The Hare and the Tortoise, and the most well known nursery rhymes, such as The Three Little Kittens, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Mary Had a Little Lamb, Jack and Jill, etc. The only major fairy tale they left out, I felt, was The Little Match Girl (Hans Christian Andersen's crowning achievement, with The Little Mermaid). But if you're hunting for a book with the greatest assortment of WELL KNOWN fairy tales and nursery rhymes, look no further.

It's got it all!
After an exhausting hunt though Amazon, the library and the bookstore I found this 'treasure'. I thought I would end up with three or four separate books to get what I wanted - fairy tales, mother goose rhymes and Aesop fables. Whew! They are in here. The style is kept in fairy traditional and only updated when needed. There are graphics on every page making enjoyable for young readers or listeners.

The best
This book is beautiful to be read to children and the illustrations are fascinating. This is a must-have for all parents! ... Read more

Book Description

The best-selling collection of tapes and sing-along books--all the childhood favorites. (Ages 2-8) ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Have a child.... Get this set! (Cassette and book)
Wonderful collection of nursery Rhymes and lullabies. Includes the old favorites as well as a few I had not even heard of. The voices used are very soothing. I enjoy it. My eight year old enjoys it. And my 9 month old enjoys it. When nothing else seems to be able to calm my infant down for sleep, this works wonders. Great for family time before bed. Times that I am sure my children will remember when they grow up and want to continue with their children. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

a great book, but not for my classroom
While I appreciate this book for its beautiful, large illustrations, I wish I had browsed the table of contents before purchasing it. I had intended to use this book with my first grade class because we are studying Aesop's Fables. However, since two of the fables in this book contain the word "ass," this book is not appropriate for my classroom. I have no problem using it with my own children, however, so I'm not sorry that I bought it!

Beautiful, but not what I expected
It is true - the drawings in this book are beautiful. However, I was hoping that the telling of the fables would have more of the original flavor. The stories have been updated to at least the 20th century. I am sure that when Aesop told the stories, the Country Mouse and the City Mouse didn't have to dodge automobiles and miss stepping in bubblegum. It was misleading that Aesop is listed as "editor" because the stories are not as he told them.

The overall messages (ie morals) are there. I just was disappointed that it was so updated. I'm sure that serves its purpose, but it wasn't what I wanted.

A beautiful book
I am starting my collection of children's books for my son. He is still a baby, but he loves to look at the big, interesting, and colorful pictures in this book. It is nice because there are very short stories for times when baby is particularly wriggley and it is time for bed, and longer stories for a growing attention span. He just likes the pictures right now. He tries to touch the animals on the pages. I like the fables because they teach good morals. This is one of those books that stays high on the bookshelf and can be a treasure for generations.

Classic Fables with Classic Illustrations
This is a beautiful classic book you'll want to give to your children and your grandchildren. There is at least one large beautiful illustration for each fable. The text size could be a bit larger, but the illustrations more than make up for it. The moral of each fable is at the bottom of the page. ... Read more

Book Description

A one volume collection of 160 tales from over 40 cultures and traditions, containing both classics and lesser known tales. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

If you like folktales, you'll want this book
Not only is this collection marvelously diverse, but it's also incredibly easy to read. Though the tales still retain the feel of original storytelling, they do not have the awkward idiosyncracies you find in other texts with obscure (to the US) tales which have been litreally translated or transcribed. If you're tired of seeing the same tales in every book you find, get this one. It's a wonderful resource and just plain fun to own. ... Read more

Book Description

Ridiculed by all but her animal friends, little wingless Fia spends her days on the earth rather than in the sky. But when the boy fairy Kip invites her to attend the May Dance, Fia timidly accepts. Her wingless condition creates a stir until the dance is interrupted by a wicked troll seeking a late-night snack of fairy wings! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

A Fairy Tail Worthy of the Ages
This is a truly great children's book. It is my favorite fairy story of all time, seriously. There is adventure and compassion, deceit and intrigue, princes and trolls--it's all there. Fia is a wingless fairy and stands in for all who feel incomplete. In a rare occurance in modern books, her father is her greatest advocate. Her best friends (other fairies shun her, including her seven beautiful sisters)--a frog a rat and a crow--are also considered outcasts. By chance or fate she meets the Fairy Prince without realizing his true identity and he invites her to the Great May Dance. Amidst the ensuing Cinderella story, Fia exhibits great fortitude in saving all the fairies from a troll who--in a great swash of irony--wants the fairies only for their pretty wings. She is aided in this endeavor by her outcast friends and they all gain the respect of the fairies through this act at once compassionate and courageous. The large and lavish watercolor illustrations are equal to the text in this first husband-and-wife collaboration. I cannot recommend a book more enthusiastically for it's genre.

Not just for girls, this story is sure to transport you
right into the magical world of fairies! I bought this book for my niece, but my son also enjoyed it. The illustrations are magnificent and even though the story is "Cinderella like" it goes on it's own course of events that kept us on the 'edge of our seats' till the end! Fia is beautiful on the inside and outside even though she isn't exactly like the other fairies. She might be dainty but she is courageous and brave! We highly recommend it.

delightful tale, wonderful pictures
This is the story of a little fairy named Fia, who, unlike all the other fairies, was born without wings. The other fairies tend to avoid her out of embarassment or discomfort, even her sisters. And while her parents are always loving, Fia must find her friends among the little animals. All this changes after she befriends one fairy boy, who later turns out to be the Prince; and after Fia bravely journeys to the Troll's cave to rescue all the other fairies, who have been captured by the Troll so that he might cut off their wings for his collection. Reminiscent of Rudolph the Reindeer, everyone changes their opinion of Fia after her heroism.

I read this story to my 4 1/2 year old daughter, and she really liked it. I imagine that this was primarily due to the wonderful, luminous illustrations. Although there are illustrations on every page, there is also a lot of text to go along with it, perhaps more than the patience of many younger kids can handle. The ideal ages would probably be from age 6 through 10.

Enchanting!
I love this book! I'm 27 and I bought this book for my collection. I love faeries, but I especially love it when I find a sweet story with beautiful illustrations of the winged ones. The story reminds me of Cinderella meets Thumbellina. It really has a theme of its own and I didn't feel like I bought into another rendition of Cinderella. The illustrations are just precious. This is a treasure I will enjoy sharing with my children and grandchildren.

Winner of the Golden Kite Award for Illustration
Little Fia is the youngest fairy in a family of eight sisters; her sisters have lovely wings, she has none. Fia's seven sisters have compassion for her lack of wings, but they disapprove of her earthly behavior and the animals she has befriended, which are a frog, a rat, and a crow. It's time for the May Dance, and the fairies will be showing off their wings in the reflection of Puffers Pond near Troll's Wood. Fia has reconciled to being left out again. While sharing a new creation with rat, Fia runs into a boy fairy named Kip. He invites her to the dance, and she accepts. Will she be brave enough to follow through? Will the May Dance be safe near Troll's Wood where the wing-collecting Troll lives?

Fairy Wings is a creatively written, artistically illustrated tale. The story is memorable, and little Fia, delicate in appearance, is valiant in thought and deed. She is a great role model. Fairy Wings is enjoyable for all ages, including adults. Getting through this 30-page wonder will take longer than you think; each illustration is wonderfully done, and will demand ample attention before you can turn to the next. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A great collection of stories!
I found this book extremely enjoyable. The selections are very entertaining. Now, I just have to find the time to read the entire book of each selection. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

One for me, two for you
This book is the embodiment of everything (in a word) pleasant. It's just a pleasant pleasant story to read through. Based on a classic Chinese folktale, the book follows an old married couple and their life. The two live in utter simplicity, only eating the food from their garden and occasionally selling the surplus when they get the chance. One day the old man, Mr. Haktak, is digging in the garden when he finds an old pot. He brings it home to his wife (after a fair amount of struggling and straining) and it isn't long before the two discover that the pot is magic. Indeed, after Mr. Haktak's purse and Mrs. Haktak's hairpins fall in and wondrously duplicate the two come to the rather obvious conclusion that the pot doubles anything that falls into it. They're right of course, and the pot truly seems as if it is too good to be true. Unfortunately, the day Mrs. Haktak accidentally falls into the pot herself, things become a little more complicated for the two...three...four people.

The book is utterly charming. Filled with author/illustrator Lily Toy Hong's roly poly people, the humor of each and every situation is undeniable. There's a great moment when Mr. Haktak is pulling his wife from the pot, only to find another pair of legs are kicking in her place. The book also has (if this makes any sense) a rather contemporary feel to it. Though it may well be an ancient story, the way in which Ms. Hong has written it makes it feel as fresh and lively as the day it was conceived. There are wonderful little details in some of the more crowded scenes and each illustration is drawn with thick pleasant colorful lines that are enticing to the eye. Should you be looking for a good Chinese folktale to entertain the little ones with, and you'd rather not read anything too old or possibly racist, then this book is a perfect fit. Simultaneously elegant and easy to understand, it's sure to be beloved by the whole fam.

Delightful, humorous, appealing to all ages
Before the book was released in 1993, I purchased the book thought a teacher catalog sight unseen after reading the description. I knew it would be a favorite in my collection of multicultural books. Although this is a children book, I have read this book every year with parents in my classroom. Both children and parents just love the anticipation of knowing what will be happening next. There is gleefully laughter when the two Mrs. Haktaks come out of the pot and double laughter when the two Mr. Haktaks do the same. I have used the book as a springboard to introduce doubling numbers to my kindergartners.
"Double Happiness" (popular Chinese phrase) is when we see more books from Lily Toy Hong in the future.

Delightful book!
Lily Toy Hong's book is a delight for both children and adults alike. Her colorful and comical illustrations please the soul, and both the text and the pictures keep the attention of all school-aged children.

In the state of Utah, the children in the schools and public libraries selected her book as The Best Picturebook of the Year in conjunction with nominees presented by the Utah Librarian's Association.

Lily's book shows Chinese characters and artifacts depicted in authentic dress and style. How do I know? I am one of her sisters raised in a loving home of parents and grandparents who immigrated from China and who preserved many of the ways of their roots.

Any classroom teacher (which I am) who is looking for a book to raise the spirits and share a fun Chinese folktale with need look no further than Two of Everything! (Math teachers can use it to introduce the concept of doubling, and expand it to tripling, etc.)

Respectfully, Kim Hong Wu

MY 5 YEAR OLD LOVES IT
There is something funny about saying Haktak. It makes the book enjoyable to read. A very fun folktale that I had never heard before. My daughter got it as a library book and I am considering buying it for her. ... Read more

Book Description

Karen Santorum has produced for parents and teachers a wonderfully rich volume that speaks to the regrettable fact that the subject of manners is not much discussed anymore.Mrs. Santorum has arranged a collection of stories an poems that will develop and enrich the moral imagination.Everyday Graces will be useful both as a bedside book and as a reference for home, school, and church library. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

My son loves the stories in this book
My 5 year old son enjoys listening to stories, and the selection of old and new stories in this book is great. Stories that teach a lesson are valuable in developing a childs character, and the stories in this book are all very positive and helpful in teaching a child how to behave in various situations. I would recommend this book.

A GIFT THAT WILL KEEP ON GIVING
I purchased two books for Christmas gifts. I now know what one book I will buy for every baby shower, birthday gift, etc. This book is to be savored - enjoyed by adults and children. Karen has given every family a 'gift' - by writing this book.
This book deserves more than five stars! As a mother of a nineteen year old - now in his second year of college - I wish we could have shared this book...it's a keep next to the bed and read a little every night, kind of book.
Thank you, Karen for compiling so many stories and poems that are a joy to read - a joy to share - and a "Gift that will keep on giving"

A must-have for every family!
What a delightful book! It is a wonderful collection of stories and poems, bound to thrill and inspire every child who hears or reads it. The beauty of the book is that it entertains and teaches. What better tool for parents who want to teach their children good manners but don't want to bore them to tears with a bunch of rules! The imaginations of children will be captured and their hearts imprinted with the virtuous example of everyday heroes and heroines. I love the way the author follows each story with a brief synopsis of the lesson on virtue and manners that children can take away from the story. Every family needs a copy of this book in their home!

A Godsend for Parents!
After spending about an hour flipping through this book, I realized every parent on my Christmas list had to have it! This book is the perfect solution to bedtime--enjoyable stories from classic to modern literature that quietly teach valuable lessons. This book would be great for parents and grandparents alike! ... Read more

Book Description

A board book version of this favorite nursery rhyme with added adventures. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

A WISH COME TRUE!
This is a beautifully illustrated story complete with gold highlights and lots of vibrant colors. It is set to the tune of "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star." Iza adds verses to make it a wonderful story: A little girl sits at her bedroom window and gazes out at the first star she sees and says "...How I wish that I could fly, And visit you up in the sky. I wish I may I wish I might, Have the wish I wish tonight." The star appears at her window and says "...I'll take you on a magic ride. So come with me--I'll be your guide..." I won't share the whole journey but it is definitely magical!

On the last page of the book it includes the verses and music notes to the song. (But I doubt you'll need it; most of us have this song memorized!) Sometimes I sing the story other times I don't; it reads like a poem so you don't need to sing it unless you want to.

I will probably end up with all of Iza's books to read/sing to my daughter. I love them as much as she does! I highly recommend this book as well as "The Itsy-Bitsy Spider." (The only two I own at this point.) You won't be disappointed with Iza!

Thanks Iza!

One of our all-time favorite books.
We have 100+ kids books and, I have to say, this is our all-time favorite. We've had this book since my daughter was 1. She's 5 now and still asks us to sing the verses from the book every night. We own several of Ms. Trapani's books and adore them all. Ms. Trapani has taken an already wonderful children's song and made it even more memorable. The book is beautifully illustrated with a little cherub of a girl going on a dream-like adventure. I love the way Iza Trapani makes the little star, the "star" of the book. She does that with her other works as well. The versus are easy to sing or just recite as a poem.

The book starts with a little girl dreaming of going to the stars. One little star comes down and grants her wish, taking her on a "magic ride". They fly over oceans, farms, and around the planets. After their big adventure, the little star returns the girl to her warm bed and tells her not to be sad, "...I'll shine on you each night my friend...". The little girl thanks the star with a sweet thank you verse "...Thank you for this special night, and the comfort of your light..."

I also HIGHLY recomend these Iza Trapani books: "I'm a Little Teapot" and "The Itsy Bitsy Spider".

Iza's Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star is a hit in our house!
This book and other Iza Trapani books like it are my toddlers favorites! We read them over and over! When we read Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star he puts his one little hand high above his head and makes twinkling motions with his fingers, too cute!

Twinke, Twinkle, Little Star
This is my favorite out of all of Iza Trapani's books. It brings back memories of my sister singing that song to me when I was a little girl, at night as we gazed at the stars off our porch. The illustrations are beautiful and she carefully details fun items in each picture if you really look carefully. I loved the continuation of the rhyme and my daughter and I read it every night before bed. It is our favorite read!

Good idea, not greatly executed
This is my son's favourite rhyme. I hoped additional lines will keep him engaged longer, but they dont flow as beautifully as the original 4. But, it is a great way to introduce him to the solar system and bring his favotire celestial object - The Moon - into his favourite rhyme. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Excellent Read-Aloud
Do you have a child around the age of seven? This magical collection of read-aloud stories has been especially chosen for that age group. It contains forty-one short stories, with a few black and white drawings scattered throughout, that will take you through the entire year of seasons, holidays and birthdays. The one character that accompanies the reader throughout the whole book is Sylvia. Sometimes she is the subject of the story and at other times her mother is telling her a story. You'll read about princes, dragons, animals, fairies and more! This collection is suitable for both boys and girls ages 6 ½ to 8, but most especially seven-year olds. This book is out-of-print in the U.S. and a rare treat when you can find it!

Timeless Classic
In a world that has become disconnected to the heart, this book truly speaks to just that, the heart and soul of the child who is fortunate to listen to the wonderful and magical places Sylvia's mother takes her to in every chapter of the book. Sylvia is the little girl who is the main character and who is unfolding into the wonderful age of 7. She experiences so many wholesome, down-to-earth, yet ethereal events that will speak to the child within yourself as well as to your own child. Each chapter has episodes that are weaved into meaningful stories. Our tattered copy of The 7 yr. old Wonder Book has been read so many times and also loaned to friends who need a heartfelt story for their child. The works of Isabel Wyatt are a wonderous rare find as she truly understands the consciousness and soul of children.

Wonderful book for children
I read this book as a child over and over again. I highly recommend it for both boys and girls. It sparks the imagination and provides enchanting day-dream material for any 5-10 yr. old through the adventures of a little girl named Sylvia.

Wonderfully woven fairy tale book for reading aloud to child
I cannot recommend a better book to read aloud to children. Ages 5 to 10 are the best. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

Great Folktales for Boys & Others!
This is a great collection of folktales specifically selected for the author's sons and grandson. The stories are interesting and exciting - they'll hold the attention of the most reluctant reader. Disguised under the fun tales are great lessons of character and integrity that boys today need so desperately to hear. I highly recommend it to parents, teachers, and kids! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

short stories of pirates
This book features an enjoyable group of short stories about pirates, from different countries. No blood and guts here, although one tale from Africa is a little spooky. The stories can be read aloud, or read by elementary scholl readers. The softcover version of this is very nice, with a strong glossy cover with endflaps like a hardcover. The endflaps are to be used as bookmarks. Nice colorful painted illustrations on every page.

An excellent Pirate Book
I am the mother of two boys ages 3 and 4, who love Pirates. This is a great book. It gives you a collection of Pirate stories from around the world and we have a lot of fun picking which story we will read. A fun book for young and older.

It's about time!
This gorgeously illustrated collection of Pirate lore from around the world is a refreshing switch from violence-glorification usually found in Pirate stories. The focus in these stories is on adventure rather than gore. I have younger kids, and although this book is aged for 9+, it was perfectly suitable for them. ... Read more