Reviews (1)

A Tory Gentleman Finds Peace in Time of War
Drums by Boyd has been called the best novel ever written about the Revolutionary War. Narrated from the viewpoint of a North Carolina Tory gentleman's adolescent son, it's unique outlook soon draws the reader into the drama of colonial unrest and the emotional battle men fought within themselves whether to cede from England or not. However, this is no psychological melodrama. Some of the most superb scenes in the novel are the depictions of a local horse race and a John Paul Jones sea battle. So why isn't Drums read more widely? It would seem Boyd's own excellent writing has gotten him into trouble for today's reader. Not only are his fight scenes realistic, but his cooly penetrating description of the early entrenchment of southern slavery, with all crudities of language and social class structure, is too graphic for our modern tastes. In short, he uses the "N" word too liberally. Reading this novel reminded me of reading HUCKLEBERRY FINN. It also reminded me of Olasky's FIGHTING FOR LIBERTY AND VIRTUE. Personally, I think it should be put back on high school reading lists. I think it would help in revealing why slavery was not addressed at the time of the Revolution as well as why it took a war to settle the matter. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Oh what fun!
This was a cute and fun little book. It's wonderful and at this price you can't go wrong!

people's instructor
A wonderfully written little trip from the beginning of... well, everything right through to the ascendancy of humans. Bryson's mastery of language and his ability to turn a phrase are put to good use in taking a look at the theories and science behind astrophysics, geology, archeology, paleontology, and several other "ologies" as well. The best part is that Bryson manages to cover all this without being boring or overly breezey.
Almost everyone will find some part of this book interesting. Even if you weren't a straight A student in science class back in high school or college, the bits of science you do know are probably woven into the grander tapestry of science and time in a way you'll appreciate.

Funny and Cute
If you're feeling a little down, or just in the mood for a little laugh this is the perfect book for it. Filled with little wisdoms this book is funny and cute. They really made my laugh and some of them I could relate to. This book is filled with pictures from the old books, and if you've read them, or seen the old cartoons you might recongnize some of these senarios. One of my favorites is:

"If you are trying to find your way home, and keep finding yourself instead back at the same sand-pit, it may be that the sand-pit is following you about."

The book is filled with cute little wisdoms like that, many that are funnier. I really enjoyed the book, and I think everyone will.

The simple things in life
I thought that this book was adorable and very sweet. It's perfect for all ages and it makes you notice the simple things in life and that sometimes people make things more complicated than they need to be. Winnie the Pooh definetly has the best advice on how to live a wonderful life and realize what is really important - friendship.

Instructions!
Useful and amuzing this little book is one of the greats tiny quote books for words of wisdom! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Good Gift
I gave this book to a friend (25 yrs old at the time) and she loves it. We are both huge Anne Shirley fans and actually L.M. Montgomery fans too. This is a very sweet book that provides you with memories of some of Anne's memorable moments and adventures.

For the True Anne Lover
I bought this book for a friend, but before I gave it to her I poured over it. It is adorable and a great book for True Anne Lovers... and not just for kids! I made the raspberry cordial and it is simply delicous. This book brings back memories of Anne's adventures and important events in her life. You will enjoy this book if you are an Anne fan or if you are a cook... you will LOVE this book if you are an Anne fan AND a cook!

A must for those who love Green Gables and cannot cook!
I bought this book to the ridicule of family and boyfriend but now they're the one's who can't wait for me to make the recipes included! The saucy chicken was a hit with my mum as was the caramel sauce with everyone. Other recipies include raspberry cordial, shortbread (came out yummy), icecream and chocolate caramels. I can't cook to save my life but these recipies are a doddle, even when I messed up the traditional lemonade it still tasted great.

Delightful cookbook, just like the books!
This cookbook will soon become a little girl's treasure. Illustrations are abound in this book, they include the characters that are in the Anne of Green Gables Cookbooks. You can easily see Anne and Diana preparing whats in this cookbook. The recipes are simple, easy to follow, and will come out well. Diana's Cordials are simply heavenly. This is a definately must have for any Anne of Green Gables fan.

A wonderful tool for aspiring "chefs."
Cooking is one of my favorite hobbies. I rarely ever use a cookbook, but this one is the "exception to the rule." I have used several recipes from this book. Everyone especially loves the "Old-fashioned Lemonade!"

The young girls that I have introduced to "Anne" and the cookbook - absolutely love it! The cookbook is a wonderful tool for aspiring "chefs." It is delightfully illustrated and written by L.M.'s grand daughter - who happens to be a licensed home economist! What could be better? ... Read more

Amazon.com

Eloise gets more outlandish with each book in Kay Thompson and Hilary Knight's popular 1950s series. First published in 1951--when cold war sentiments were heating up--Eloise in Moscow showcases the highly undiplomatic exploits of our favorite precocious 6-year-old as she paints the town red with her beloved Nanny. Adults will relish this glimpse behind the Iron Curtain, complete with a foldout spread of the Kremlin that is positively suitable for framing ("Here's what they/ have in the Kremlin/ armor Easter eggs/ icons/ and clocks," "Ivan is terrible/ and is watching in this tower"). The usual pink, black, and white color scheme is absent here--Knight's pen-and-ink drawings are instead accented with a rich goldenrod, and in the foldout Kremlin, even oranges and greens.

After a three-week stay in Moscow with her colleague Hilary Knight, Kay Thompson had plenty of fodder for her distinctly Eloisian travelogue: the food ("It is difficult to know what to eat in Moscow/ There is no melon in season/ Nichevo"); the stilted English of their tour guide ("That house is Chekhov/ That house is Stanislavsky if you want to see it/ Noyou cannot it is reconstruction"); national security ("Our telephone had quite a bit of static/ so we talked about General de Gaulle/ to throw them off track/ Everybody listens to everything in Moscow"); and even the water ("The water is Russian so I brushed my teeth/ with/ pear lemonade and apple lemonade/ Actually I preferred/ the pear").

Children will be fascinated by the intricate, delicately skritched details of this 72-page picture book, but adults will surely be the most amused. Fortunately, in the wake of Eloise's Russian junket, the Kremlin wall is left standing, and there are no international repercussions. But is she, as she haughtily declares, an "absolutely darling little sweetnik"? Definitely nyet. And that's the way we like her. If your Eloise library is incomplete, which would be sad, be sure to investigate Eloise in Paris; Eloise at Christmastime; The Absolutely Essential Eloise (complete with historical scrapbook); or the original recipe, Eloise. (Best for grownups--or as a read-aloud for ages 7 and older) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Lite history of the Cold War
My girls and I love the Eloise series, this one included. The age group to understand this book is a bit older than the others, say 11 or 12. All the cold war references led to interesting discussions of the cold war and the failure of Communism.

On the light side this book reads very well out loud. It helps if you have a deep voice to say as the intra tourist guide "IS POSSIBLE TO SEE BOOK REVIEWS HERE." "IS NOT POSSIBLE TO HOLD BOOKS, BOOKS ARE SENT AFTER BOUGHT" (While not a quote from the book, it reads like it.)

The book's view of the world does feel dated. It's like reading a Cowboys vs Indian's book and having to explain that perhaps not all is as it appears. Russia is not what it was, but it's not the west yet.

The quality of the paper and the binding are excellent, it feels like it will last for multiple reading. There is a nice foldout of the Kremlin. Like all the Eloise books, the drawings are inked in one color, this one uses yellow to great effect. The paper jacket is an exact copy of the hard cover underneath which is great as the text on it is wonderful.

If you like the other Eloise books, you'll like this one.

Do I recommend this book? "Oh Definitely Da."
Get out your woolies and fur hats, Eloise is going to Moscow! In the funniest of Eloise's many escapades, she travels to the Russia of the 1950s with Nanny, Winnie, and Skipperdee in tow. Apart from her usual hotel antics, including spying on the other guests and dinning on black caviar from the Caspian Sea, Eloise has many mischievous adventures at the Bolshoi Ballet, Red Square, and inside the Kremlin. While young children will not understand all the humor in this and other Eloise books, they certainly still love the outrageous heroine Eloise, who's expressions and intentions are so vividly portrayed by Hilary Knight's illustrations. Eloise in Moscow continues Kay Thompson and Hilary Knight's tradition of hilarious books for precocious grown-ups.

Eloise Is Back
Eloise is back and more mischevious than ever. This time Eloise, Nanny, Weenie (her dog who looks like a cat), and Skipperdee (her turtle) are in Moscow. Eloise visits the ballet, and has a tour guide, but thinks someone is spying on her. "As you know there's no privacy in Moscow."

This is a must have for anyone's Eloise collection. So buy a copy, and charge it please.

Moscow relived
As an Ex-Pat living in Moscow during 2001, I wanted a book to share with the little ones we know in the United States. This book is not only funny bit accurate. The middle pull out of the Kremlin is supurb and everyone who has received it from us has loved it. I have a copy of one myself so I can look back on my experiences living here and laugh at some of the same ones Eloise and I have had.

Historical fun!
Children will love the comical adventures of everyone's favorite six-year-old in Soviet Moscow.

Adults will appreciate the look into American-Soviet relations forty years ago, and Hilary Knight's wonderful drawings of it.

Why not five stars? Maybe by this fourth Eloise book, the whimsy is a little predictable by now. ... Read more

Book Description

Since its publication in 1908, Anne of Green Gables has been a continuous international best-seller, enjoying successful television adaptations on PBS and The Disney Channel, and captivating children and adults alike with the irresistible charms of its remarkable heroine, Anne Shirley. This wildly imaginative, red-headed chatterbox tries to fit into the narrow confines of Victorian expectations, but her exuberant spirit keeps leaping delightfully beyond the bounds. Indeed, when Maud Montgomery decided to reject the sermonizing formulas of the children's books of her day, she brought to life a character much closer to Jane Eyre, David Copperfield, and Tom Sawyer--also orphans, like Anne--than to the self-sacrificing, conformist heroines then in demand. In doing so, Montgomery subtly questioned the values of her society--the stifling restraints of its religion and most especially its treatment of women--while giving readers all the pleasures of her considerable story-telling gifts.

Now, in this first fully annotated edition of Anne of Green Gables, readers will appreciate more clearly than ever before the scope and depth of this extraordinary novel. Editors Margaret Anne Doody, Mary DoodyJones, and Wendy Barry provide a richly illustrated, completely revised text, along with hundreds of notes describing the real-life characters and settings Anne encounters, the autobiographical connections between Anne and Maud Montgomery, and the book's astonishing range of literary, biblical, and mythological references. Additional essays offer fascinating background information on such topics as the geography and settlement of Prince Edward Island (where Anne takes place); the education, orphanages, music, and literature of Anne's time; and the horticulture, homemade artifacts, and food preparation that are so prevalent in the story.Margaret Anne Doody supplies a comprehensive introduction, which situates the novel in its literary and social contexts, explores those aspects of Montgomery's life most relevant to the story, examines revisions in the manuscripts, and provides an overall sense of both the impulses that drove Montgomery to write Anne of Green Gables and the larger concerns it dramatizes so compellingly. This edition also contains a chronology of Montgomery's life, an extensive bibliography, songs and poems that appear in the text, and a selection of original reviews of the book. This wealth of material enables readers to grasp the marvelous multi-layeredness of the novel and to understand more fully its place in both its own time and in ours.

Elegantly and beautifully designed, with generous illustrations from previous editions, photographs of the places the novel inhabits, and explanatory drawings that reproduce the texture of Anne's world, The Annotated Anne of Green Gables is a major event in the publishing history of one of the world's most charming stories. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

THE version of "Anne" you want to read before visiting PEI
While packing away all of my Anne of Green Gables books for a trip to Prince Edward Island, I could not find my paperback copies of the first novel. Since I was not about to take my original 6th edition hardcover copy I went to the library to pick up "Anne of Green Gables," and I stumbled upon the Annotated Anne. I lucked out big time. This volume footnotes almost every literary reference and allusion (there are a few that have stilled escaped detection), along with all the people and places. Appendixes present songs mentioned in the book, along with the music, as well as stories and poems, the geography of the story, and lots of other fascinating details. These books is ideal for not only those who want an additional level of understanding to this beloved classic as they reread it (again), but is extremely useful if you happen to be coming out to PEI to visit the "actual" locations. This book will tell you where to find the real Lovers Lane, Lake of Shinning Waters, and other places from the novel as well as places important in the life of L. M. Montgomery. I realize that if you are looking this book over there is a very good chance you already have a copy of "Anne of Green Gables." But you are going to want to have this one as well. I bought my own copy at the Cavendish site, where, as I learned from this book, is where Montgomery wrote the first two Anne books. This is a special edition of a very special story.

A Magnificent Book
The introduction and textual notes provide insight into Anne's world. They also give a feel for how well read L.M. Montgomery was. The story is treated respectfuly, and for those who love Anne, one reading will not be enough

Everything Anne
This is one of the most outstanding annotated editions of a book I have ever seen. It is packed with interesting, relevant annotations about the world of Anne of Green Gables, as well as LM Montgomery's own life and Prince Edward Island itself.

Due to the nature of the writing in Anne of Green Gables, an annotated edition is especially welcome to fill in the blanks on Canadian politics (What is a "grit?") and social conventions at the time. Reading the annotations increases the pleasure of entering the Anne's world, and that is incredibly important.

Also, of special note and appreciation, many of Anne's favorite obscure poems and readers are included in the back. Finally, you are able to get the whole version of the many quotes that she drops, and see just where she picked up her big words.

The best gift you could get for a true fan of Anne of Green Gables.

Great reference for fans of Anne
I only wish that all of L.M. Montgomery's books were available annotated because she made so many references (literary, political, historical) that seem almost impossible to research these days. I knew I didn't understand many of the references in the book already, but I didn't realize just how many more I only thought I understood!

The editors have thoroughly researched the life and times of L.M. Montgomery. After reading the appendixes in this book I feel much more knowledgeable about L.M. Montgomery, Prince Edward Island and the life of a young girl in a Victorian Canadian villiage.

Lots of fun facts-on LMM and Anne!
This book provides excellent background information concerning Montgomery's life and influences. It is nicely arranged and easy to skim through. At long last, Anne fans have a thorough source for the many literary allusions and colloquial terms skattered throughout the book. It is well worth reading, but unless you are an avid LMM fan, I would just check it out of your local library. ... Read more

Book Description

A Babar classicnow back in print!

First published in 1978, this book turns Babar fans into detectives. Babar shows children that detective work is fun but not easy. When he, his family, and the Old Lady go to town for the unveiling of a gold statue, they soon find that a thief is on the loose. First, a piano is missing, then Babar's car disappears, and finally the statue isn't where it's supposed to be! With only a few clues and careful eyes, Babar, Arthur, and the Old Lady must track down the thieves and use their ingenuity to think of ways to capture them. AUTHOR BIO: Laurent de Brunhoff has been illustrating the Babar books since 1946, after his father, Jean de Brunhoff, illustrated the first titles a decade before. He has created more than 30 books about the world-renowned elephant and his family, most recently the best-selling Babar's Museum of Art and Babar's Yoga for Elephants. ... Read more

Download Description

No, you are too small to go near gasoline motors, said his father. "Besides, we are not going to use the engine. We'll just push the boat along with poles from the bank. We're not going very far, but your mother thought it would be nicer to spend the night in a more open place." ... Read more

Book Description

To celebrate Peter's birthday, Frederick Warne is publishing new editions of all 23 of Potter's original tales, which take the very first printings of Potter's works as their guide. The aim of these editions is to be as close as possible to Beatrix Potter's intentions while benefiting from modern printing and design techniques.

The colors and details of the watercolors in the volumes are reproduced more accurately than ever before, and it has now been possible to disguise damage that has affected the artwork over the years. Most notably, The Tale of Peter Rabbit restores six of Potter's original illustrations. Four were sacrificed in 1903 to make space for illustrated endpapers, and two have never been used before. Of course, Beatrix Potter created many memorable children's characters, including Benjamin Bunny, Tom Kitten, Jemima Puddle-duck and Jeremy Fisher. But whatever the tale, both children and adults alike can be delighted by the artistry in Potter's illustrations, while they also enjoy a very good read. Because they have always been completely true to a child's experience, Potter's 23 books continue to endure. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

the tale of benjamin bunny
This book is very easy to like and it makes yo want to read more. It talks about how he lost his clothes and much more if you wat to find out then you better read it.

Benjamin Bunny
My 2 year old loves this story she calls it, the bunny's friend book. She enjoys this story more than Peter Rabbit. I think that the story is more eventful than Peter Rabit; and it is nice that the bunnies get to finish their adventure. I have read hundreds of stories to my daughter and we both find this one enjoyable my 5 month old also seems to enjoy it. She likes the colorful pictures. I guess you could say that everyone is happy when this story is chosen. If you like Peter Rabbit you'll like Benjamin Bunny. ... Read more

Amazon.com

When Babar and Celeste's new baby girl is born, everyone rejoices. Whatfun it is to watch little Isabelle learn to walk and play trumpet and rollerskate... and get lost in the mountains! After the family goes for a walk oneday, they discover young Isabelle is missing. Carelessly, Isabelle has forgottenwhat her papa told her last time she wandered off: never to disappear withouttelling her family where she is going. Eventually, the little rascal findsherself near the home of old family friends and ends up having a delightful dayplaying with them, until they see Babar on TV, desperately searching for hisdaughter. After a thrilling ride on a hang glider, the prodigal daughter returnsto the welcoming (if scolding) arms of her family.

Laurent de Brunhoff's exciting Babar adventures, based on his father's originaltales and artwork (The Story ofBabar, the Little Elephant, Babar the King, etc.), continueto thrill readers, generation after generation. The familiar watercolors of thisbeloved elephant family are as appealing as ever, even in a contemporary storythat includes CD players with earphones and yoga exercises. (Ages 3 to 7)--Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Classic Babar, but be a little careful...
I just read this story to my four-year old daughter. It's a classic story from this author, nothing "wrong" with it, but you do need to watch out and may want to explain some parts. In the storyline, the girl elephant wanders off by herself and accepts a boatride from a stranger...then she knocks on the door of an unfamiliar house. Two male characters invite her inside and they all play together until they overhear a news alert that Babar is looking for his missing daughter, so they take her home. After reading it, I explained to my daughter that I didn't want her to wander off, accept boat rides from strangers or knock on unfamiliar doors and go inside a stranger's home. This story was written in a simpler era when concerns were a bit different than in today's world.

Isabella Joins the Babar Family and Has a Great Adventure!
If you are a Babar fan, you know Pom, Flora, and Alexander quite well. In this book, Celeste is about to have a baby. Babar is hoping for a girl, so he will have equal numbers of daughters and sons. When Celeste unexpectedly gives birth under a tree, he gets his wish! The remainder of the story describes Isabella's babyhood and her personality. I enjoyed this first Isabella story, and look forward to hearing more about her in future Babar books.

Isabella brings great pleasure to the royal elephant family. Babar is a proud papa. "Celeste loved to show her off at every opportunity. Pom, Flora, and Alexander were enchanted . . . and so was everyone else."

Everyone agreed Isabella was an "amazing baby." She soon stood in her cradle and hurled her toys at her siblings. She had a hearty appetite and was "full of energy." But she could be very quiet, and would sit peacefully watching a grasshopper (her favorite insect) in the grass.

As an independent child, she began to present challenges. At her fifth birthday party, she went off alone and Babar had to scold her.

A few days later the whole family went for a walk. Isabella had already forgotten about the scolding, and went off to play hide-and-seek with herself. Soon, she was nowhere to be found. Then her great adventure began.

When it was over, cousin Arthur didn't believe a word of her story, even though it was all true. Babar scolded her, and she fell asleep on his large lap. "Our little girl is very special," he said.

This book is excellent for introducing the idea of having a new sibling in a family, and that life will be different than anyone can expect. Parents who are about to have a new offspring should get this book as one of many to help ease the transition.

I also liked the idea that children have unique personalities, and will express those personalities as easily as they breathe. I was glad to see that Isabella was made more distinctive than the other Babar children in this way, who often seem to be a little on the uninteresting side.

The other appeal of this book is how a family adapts and becomes different with each new arrival. That message is carried out in a positive and pleasant way, that is totally credible. Nicely done!

The book is good, too, for reinforcing the idea of getting help from family friends. So if you child is accidentally locked out of the house, it will seem natural to go to the friendly parents of a neighbor child to get the key you have left there. This story should make every child feel more wanted, and part of a wide support network of loving adults and family.

After you finish enjoying this story, I suggest that you ask your child to tell you more about what a family is, what each person in your family is like, and what she or he hopes for from being part of the family. You can use the Babar stories as one point of reference. One good connection here is that the Babars have lots of friends who have relationships with the children. Does your child like or not like that feature? In this way, you can help your child begin to visualize what kind of life he or she will want to build as an adult.

Appreciate the specialness of each person, animal, and plant! ... Read more

Book Description

A Learn and Grow book: simple board books featuring early learning concepts. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Sweet book!
Come along with Pooh and friends to learn about contrary concepts. This adorable little board book teaches opposites, while carrying a wonderful rhythmic beat that captures babies attention, 'Piglet is SMALL truly tiny to see. Tigger is BIG, just as big as can be.' and so forth. The illustrations are sweet and appeal to young children. Opposites, is a delightful little book with simple images for easy comprehension. Birth and up. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Eloise has always had a rather festive air about her, but when Christmastime rolls around, well, it's "Fa la la la fa la la la lolly ting tingledy here and there," of course. The bunchy-bloused, spindly-legged scamp is speaking in rhyme this time, and in typical Eloise fashion, the verse simply can't be perfectly metered, for what would be the point? She rushes around New York's Plaza Hotel on Christmas Eve, jingling, spreading Christmas cheer, tying tassels on the thermostats, and writing "Merry Christmas" on all the walls. And of course there are gifts to be delivered and wrapped:

For Weenie a roastbeef bone deluxe
For Skipperdee raisin milk
I'm giving the valet a beehive of course
made of safety pins and silk

Her asides, printed in red, are as priceless as ever: "Sometimes there is so much to do that/ I get sort of a headache around the sides and partially under it." Or in a rare vulnerable moment, "For when you are a child of six/ it's difficult to know/ if you deserve a present or not/ at Christmastime/ or so." But enough of that. "We sang Noel for 506/ Silent Night for 507/ We didn't sing for 509/ at the request of 511."

Hilary Knight's pen and ink pink-and-black illustrations are perfect--particularly of the "sugar plums" dancing in Eloise's head on Christmas Eve, complete with crazed elves, Nanny-as-angel, reindeer with glasses, and of course Santa's sleigh with one giant package in it... for Eloise. Kay Thompson's Eloise at Christmastime, first published in 1958 with a different cover, joins Eloise in Paris and The Absolutely Essential Eloise (with additional historical scrapbook) as a much welcomed reissue of the original. And there's always just Eloise. (Ages 5 to 105)--Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Christmas at the Plaza
I think that this is the strangest of all the Eloise books! I remember that the first time I read it, I'd scratch my head and go, "huh?" when I saw all the weird holiday ideas and gibberish words. Sometimes it makes me wonder what in the heck Kay Thompson was taking at the time! Needless to say, even though it is very good, it's not my favorite Eloise book. I've read all the Eloise books... they provide great maxims for daily living, such as "getting bored is not allowed" (the first book, "Eloise"). I repeat this to my friends a lot of the time. Anybody, whether child or grownup, can learn a lot from Eloise.

good book
I am..... years old and I still like Eloise book. She's my favorite 6 year old! it has nice pictures on each page and of couse one pull out page like the original Eloise book. there are some lyrics on some of the pages of the book to Eloise's favorite christmas song, "Trinkles and Drinkles." When she(Kay Thompson) tells about Eloise Christmas dream it is all in rhyme. I hoghly reccomend it to kids of all ages.

Not a read out loud book. Good for a child that can read.
At the risk of having millions of Eloise fans hate me I'm giving this book one star. At my request my
5 1/2 yr old daughter received three Eloise books for Christmas, this title included along with In Moscow,
and in Paris. She had seen Eloise in Christmas several times on TV & we both enjoyed the character. The
books however are another story. They are *completely* syncopated. Hardly a story line, just Eloise blabbing
and talking off the top of her head. No rhyme or reason, just blurts & outbursts of talk. I always thought Eloise
was the character that caused fun 6 year old havoc at the Plaza, but no that is the tiniest part of these stories.
Again just lines & lines of incomplete thoughts without a single plot other than the girl lives at the Plaza.
I found myself deleting lines and reading ones I made up my self to help make sense to my child. Picture your 5 year old high on a 1 pound bag of sugar, bouncing off the walls....that is Eloise times 1000. If you don't believe me, please go look at the book before you buy it. I have the feeling the author was blessed with accolades from something like the Emperors new cloths syndrome...it's wonderful, it's marvelous, but really there's nothing there at all.

ELOISE AT CHRISTMASTIME: AN AWSOME GIFT FOR THE HOLDIAYS
Eloise is at Christmastime, at the plaza,
and is spreding X-mas cheer. It's jolly it's happy, and Emily had a pidegon on Christmas day, a slight twist on Twas the Night before Christmas, with the ryhmes and all that, but, Eloise has visions of Sugar Plums in her head. It's Jolly.
FA LA LA LA LA LA
Tis the season to be jolly!

From,
Sean Pollock

Grade: A+
Other reviews:
Eloise
Eloise in Paris
Eloise in Moscow
Eloise takes a bawth

oh how the mighty have fallen
The original Eloise was a sustained thrill. I have avoided all sequels until now for fear of just this sort of crashing disappointment. Think of the difference between Ghostbusters and Ghostbusters II, then multiply by ten. It is a bore. It is an embarassment. It is rawther godawful. ... Read more

Book Description

George is lucky to arrive at the library just in time for story hour. But it"s not easy for a little monkey to sit still too long. From selecting books to getting his very own library card, George"s day at the library makes reading fun. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Fun with a book-loving monkey
"Curious George Visits the Library" is, as the title page notes, "Illustrated in the Style of H.A. Rey" by Martha Weston. In this tale, George--"a good little monkey and always very curious"--visits the public library with his friend, the man in the yellow hat. Chaos ensues as George frolics through the library, but it all ends happily.

Curious George is an enduring cultural icon, and this book is an enjoyable addition to his adventures. He's a cute and likeable character, and despite his disruptive antics, his love of books makes him admirable. Although mischievous, he is never malicious, and his attitude throughout is positive. Weston creates a nice portrait of a multiethnic community at the public library. Her illustrations are full of clever visual touches and entertaining details. If you're a fan of the curious monkey, don't miss this book.

Curious George is in my favorite place!
Curious George is on another adventure. This time he's in my favorite place, the library. The man with the yellow hat has brought George to the library for story time. He likes the books but sees one on dinosaurs that he hopes the librarian reads next. He gets impatient, takes the book and runs off. This is the beginning of his adventure. He goes through the library finding neat books and making a big mess in the process. The boys and girls at the library, along with a volunteer help clean up the mess. In the end the man with the yellow hat helps George get a library card and they both check out lots of great books.

I liked the story and the pictures in the book. It's another great adventure with Curious George.

I would recommed this book to others. It can be used with young children who are just learning about the library. It would make a great read for storytimes. ... Read more

Book Description

As a young elephant in a strange land, Babar's story begins when he is befriended by an old lady and given a wonderful red sports car and a wallet. We follow Babar on his many adventures and travels, listening as he marries Celeste, builds the city of Celesteville, meets Father Christmas, raises his children, takes a trip to America, and receives a very special birthday surprise.

Book Description

George is curious. Can he play baseball like his friend Jimmy? George tries his hand at batting some balls but interferes with the baseball game and gets chased away by angry players. Later, George makes a catch and a rescue that none of the other players could and becomes the hero of the day. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Monkeeeeey Up!
There's a comforting familiarity about the "Curious George" books: The soft illustrations, the man in the yellow hat, and George's famous misadventures. Here, the man speaks the sentence that starts the mischief: "You stay here, but don't get into trouble." Say that one with a wink in your eye. As usual, George's playful antics get him into a little trouble, but (and also, "as usual") he winds up a hero. Well-illustrated, humorous, and soothing, it's the literary equivalent of hot chocolate on a cold day. Excellent for readers in around grades 1-3, as well as a great bedtime book for your young sports (or Curious George) fan.

What matters is...does your child like it?
After reading a few reviews of this book, I felt I had to write one. My 22 month old son has adored this book since he was about 15 months old. It is his absolute favorite. No, the illustrations aren't artwork. No, it's not going to win awards. But who cares! It's for the child - not the parent. My son (just like one of the other reviewer's child) shouts "foul ball!" and "you're out!" He looks for Jimmy's mother in the crowd and he points to his own feet when we get to the part where George picks up the ball with his feet. I think what matters is that it's a fun, easily understood story for toddlers - with bright, neat illustrations. Our paperback is so dog-eared, I logged on to order the hardback...and ended up writing a review. Give this book a try - the wonderful moments it will give you and your child are at the very least worth the few dollars the paperback costs.

Curious George Plays baseball
This book, and all of the books derived from the movies, are far worse than the average goerge books. Story is very simple, very brief, and has no creativity. Both of our kids are huge george fans (they even liked this one ok), but this is a pretty weak book.

George "junkie" loves it
My 21-month-old son loves anything having to do with Curious George, this book included. It's taught him several new words, such as catcher and bat, and he can relate to the ball-throwing and hitting even at this young age. However, be aware that the illustrations in this book, as well as many of the other paperback "George" books, are of very, very poor quality.

A great read even for small children!
My 22 month old LOVES this book, listens to every page intently, and shout FOUL BALL! , and YOU'RE OUT! with the umpire. Even when he only had a 20 word vocabulary, one of those words was "George"...a great book for dads to read, my husband is much more animated in his portrayal of the umpire, much to my son's delight. ... Read more

Book Description

On his way to visit his recently divorced father in the Canadian mountains, thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson is the only survivor when the single-engine plane crashes.His body battered, his clothes in shreds, Brian must now stay alive in the boundless Canadian wilderness.

More than a survival story, Hathcet is a tale of tough decisions.When all is stripped down to the barest essentials, Brian discovers some stark and simple truths: Self-pity doesn't work.Despair doesn't work.And if Brian is to survive physically as well as mentally, he must discover courage.
... Read more

Reviews (681)

A heartwarming survival story
Liz Gilbertson~Dobbs Grade 5 Hardy Elementary Wellesley MA May 19, 1999

Hatchet

This is a beautifully written story about a 13 year old city boy named Brian. Brian's parents get divorced because of "the secret". He is going to visit his father on a plane but the pilot has a heart attack! Brian tries to fly the plane but crashes in to the lake! He swims to the surface gasping for air. He weakly crawls to shore and gets attacked by a HUGE swarm of mosquitoes. He barely manages to get away from them and find shelter in a rock overhang. To survive he knew he needed food so he built wepons like spears, snares and a bow and arrow. To get fruit he follows a flock of birds, to a berry tree, the berries have a bitter flavor but he kept eating pits and all. He got sick that night. Luckly he finds a patch of raspberries. He ate and ate, A huge grizzly bear came a long. A couple of days later a tornado comes and hits the lake! it stirred the plane so that the tip of its tail was showing. He thought of the surival pack, he would rather have that than $1,000,000,000!Will he get the surival pack in the plane with the dead pilot or try to surive using just what he has? you have to read the end of this book to find out! Survival and heart break bueatifully merge in this heart warming story! The sequal, The River, is good too!

My Review
If you like books about adventures and fights to stay alive Hatchet is a good book for you. Brian Rodeson is a Thirteen-year-old kid whose parents were divorced. He was going to the Canadian oil fields to see his father. His father was a mechanical engineer and invented a new oil-drilling bit. Brian was over the Canadian wildness and the pilot is having a heart attack and Brian started to panic because he was the only other person in the plane, he called for help many times. After awhile the plane ran out of gas and he had to crash land in a lake. After the crash he was left with the clothes on he had on and a hatchet on his belt. He thought he was going to die but he started to eat some berries he found. He built a shelter under a rock cliff. He made a wall out of wood and put it up against the rocks. Then he tried making a spear and a bow to catch fish. He finally started to hunt birds and rabbits.

I think people that would like this book are people that like adventure and action.

I like how Gary Paulsen writes because makes you feel like your actually there.

A Great Survival Story
Recommendation
I would recommend this book to anyone 11 years old and up because it presents a picture of how a young man survives the wilderness. Another reason would be that it was a very interesting story about survival. For example, any mistake that Brian makes could cause disaster. "Small mistakes could turn into disasters, funny little mistakes could snowball so that while you were still smiling at the humor you could find yourself looking at death". Another example is when Brian tries to start a fire, but does not know what to use. "Clearly there had to be something for the sparks to ignite, some kind of tinder or kindling-but what?" In conclusion, if you are interested in survival and adventure, then read this book.

Hatchet
The main events in Hatchet are related to the conflict and the solution. The conflict was the plane crash that Brian was in. He had to survive in the Canadian wilderness. One of the solutions that he had to do to survive is make a home. He also had to find food by hunting and fishing. He had to make a fire to help him survive and be seen to be rescued. He was successful because he was rescued.
I rate this book 5 stars because it showed how 11, 12, and 13 year old boys can take care of themselves when they are alone in the woods for 54 days.It also was interesting to read because Brian was keeping a secret and never told his dad. It was exciting because you would not know what was going to happen next.

good, but not too good
I had to read this book for a school project, and let's just say it was pretty bad. I've read many better survival stories that were a little more realistic than this. But, Hatchet has taught me a lesson: Pay attention to all that's around...you'll never know when you'll end up in a situation like Brian's. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Baby's first year is so important, and it goes by so fast. With thistasteful, playful book, parents can record all the big events of this formativetime, from "Waiting for baby" to "Baby's first birthday." Beatrix Potter'sbeloved Peter Rabbit and his friends bound through the pages, always allowingplenty of space for photos, notes, hand- and footprints, and descriptions of thetrue star of the show, of course. Parents can fill in information such as dateand time of birth, height and weight, baby's first visitors, bath, outing, andbabbling, and favorite toys, food, and songs. There's even a health section,with a place to log immunizations, childhood illnesses, allergies, and firstteeth. Games and songs are sprinkled throughout, and a special pocket isincluded for extra photos or keepsakes. Parents will enjoy having an opportunityto track the progress of their little bundle of joy, and children will lovereading about themselves as they grow older. (Baby to preschool) --EmilieCoulter ... Read more

Book Description

Babar's old enemy Rataxes may be acting friendly, but the rhino kingis up to no good. When the rhinos drain the lake at Celesteville, Babar must get theelephants' water supply back. Rataxes is stronger and fiercer, but Babar has a planto save the day.

First published in 1992, Babar's Battle shows how brains and courage willtriumph over brute force every time. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

This is the stuff of which to be wary!!
War. Mean rhinos, kind elephants. Conflict that takes the characters (Rataxes and his band, anyway) to the brink of violence...It's fine to anthropomorphize to make a point, and with Babar the point is fine, because he's kind, thoughtful, and peaceful. But the poor rhinos, the treatment they receive here, is pathetic...

Please -- pass on this one. Go with Shel Silverstein or other rhino authors. Early Babar books, fine... ... Read more

Book Description

Five new episodes in the friendship of two hippos: "The Tight Rope," "The Diary," "The Icky Story," "The Big Scare," "The Amusement Park." ... Read more

Reviews (1)

FANTASTIC
I loved this sweet book. It reminded me of myself and my own family. It made me and my children laugh out loud! Enjoy! ... Read more

Book Description

Here Comes the Bride When Betsy Ray arrives in New York after a tour of Europe, her old flame Joe Willard is waiting at the dock. Before he even says hello, he asks Betsy to marry him. They've been separated for a year, and they're determined never to be apart again.

But as Betsy discovers, marriage isn't all candlelight, kisses, and roses. There's cooking, ironing, and budgeting as well--not to mention forging her career as a writer! For Betsy, the writing part comes naturally, but cooking is another matter. It's even harder than algebra--and much messier.

Luckily Betsy Ray--make that Betsy Willard--has always thrived on challenge. Her name may have changed, but her life remains as full of love and laughter as it's been since she was a little girl living on Hill Street in the first of the classic BETSY-TACY books.Betsy returns from Europe to marry Joe Willard—and soon learns that beloved friend Tacy is expecting a baby! It’s wartime in America, but Betsy, Joe, and their wonderful circle of friends brave their hardships together.

... Read more

Reviews (10)

The Perfect End to the Betsy Series
I absolutely love all of the Betsy books, and this one was no exception. Betsy still speaks to me and doesn't seem as dated as I would have imagined. Growing up I read all of the Betsy books that I could get my hands on. Three months before my own wedding I found that Betsy's Wedding had been reprinted and ordered it immediately. I saved it and read it on my honeymoon. Betsy's married life is as true as the others in the series, full of vivid details, introspective thought from Betsy, and perfection with some reality thrown in. I loved it as a new bride and strongly suggest it both for young readers reading the series for the first time as well as for adults who remember the series warmly.

Glorious fluff!
Betsy is back in the USA after a long time in Europe-and Joe is there to greet her. After being in love for years, the couple agree to get married, within the week no less! After Betsy convinces her family to agree to this, we watch as Betsy and Joe are married, and embark on a new life together.

Set near the turn of the century, around WW1, this is a view of every young woman's dream of marriage-a fun, intelligent, strong husband who adores you. Betsy and Joe are friends first, lovers second, something which is always important. At one point, Joe states that he can talk to Betsy, and that he fantasizes about their home life. A lot of guys could take a page from Joe's book!

This book is in no way dated, bringing Betsy to the close of her girlhood and teenage years. If you liked "Anne of Green Gables" or other books by Montgomery, check out Lovelace, for both your little girls and not-so-little girls.

Cute
I love these stories. They are like escapes into the past. Very cute.

Betsy's Wedding!
What a great story! I keep it on my window seat to flip through often--it's one of my very favorite stories!Betsy and Joe finally meet in New York after Betsy's year-long trip to Europe! They are finally together and determined never to be seperated again. Afetr many years of loving each other, they will be married. Joe convinces Betsy to marry him in a week. The scene in the restaurant in New York where Joe tells Betsy how much he loves her, how they belong together, and how she must always love him is so touching! Through this part(and the moment when they saw each other when Betsy came off the ship) I was oblivious to everything as I read. Of course, that was the case through the rest of the book as well. Joe's job hunt is hilarious. The day before they are married, he and Betsy go from one newspaper place to the other, Joe determined to find a job so Betsy's father will consent to the match. Well, of course, he succeeds. They are married. Joe and Betsy have a wonderful relationship. It is truly the best I ever read about. They both treat each other with such consideration. Joe is so gracious as Betsy learns to cook(which is a big undertaking for her.) He is so considerate of Betsy, reading to her at night, helping her with the dishes when her cooking endeavors fail, and many other things. Betsy tries so hard to be a good wife to Joe, considering that the most important thing in her life. She even refuses a job in newspaper writing, feeling that she has another job already as keeper of the house and companion to Joe. I liked the way that Betsy handled Aunt Ruth's coming. She did not mask her feelings and was honest, but still,unselfishly, let her come. It ended up working out too! Well, I just loved the story. Their relationship taught me a lot about marriage. I loved the way they treated each other. I don't see the like much these days. It was great! I cried and cried when Joe left for war. But, my fellow readers, I have learned that the books about Betsy were largely based on the author's life. In a biography about her I learned that her husband (who was much like Joe) returned from war--so take heart--Joe returned too and he and Betsy, no doubt, continued their "golden world."

A perfect ending to the wonderful Betsy-Tacy series
The whole Betsy Tacy series is a triumph---some of the best reading there is. Like few others series (the Little House books are the other that comes to mind) we truly can read and watch Betsy grow from a little 5 year old to a married woman, and grow along with her. As a little girl, I read the early books in this series, and didn't know there were more. You can imagine my delight when I discovered the high school years and beyond were also part of the continuing story! In this book (as you can guess) Betsy gets married, but so does Tib! I like it that Betsy's wedding is not the end of the book--we also get to see her get started on married life during the diffecult WWI period. I remember the minute I finished this book. I had a feeling of happiness but also sadness that never again would I read something new for the first time about Betsy, Tacy, Tib, Joe, Julia, Margaret and all the rest! But the last lines were done so well--they looked to the past and into the future and made me feel that although this was all that was written about them, they continued to exist somewhere out there in the land that wonderful characters in wonderful books live on in! If you have never read this series, I envy you! Get all the books, read them, and you will remember and make them part of your life forever. ... Read more