Book Description

Everything is ready for Biscuit to take a bath'everything except Biscuit! After rolling in the mud and playing in the garden with his friend Puddles, will Biscuit ever get clean? Whether or not they share Biscuit's reluctance to take a bath, beginning readers will adore reading about his appealing antics in this My First I Can Read Book, the third in the best-selling series about the popular puppy.

2001 Garden State Children's Book Award (Easy Rdr Cat.)

Reviews (5)

Great beginner reader book!
My daughter, who is 5, loves all the Biscuit books! They're great for beginner readers! We haven't found any she likes better, so we just keep on buying all the Biscuit books we can find. She is definitely a Biscuit fan!

Two Types of Puddles
It is time for Biscuit to have a bath. The Girl In The Purple Sneakers has everything all set. Everything except Biscuit who has other things he would like to do. This is also the First book where his friend Puddles shows up.

Biscuit is reluctant to take his bath, but after making a mess and some puddles of his own, it is finally time to get clean.

This is one of the earliest and best Biscuit books. My daughter loves it and I can use it to illustrate that when things need to be done, we will get them done even if she resists.

More great illustrations and text that my daughter likes to illuminate with her own story telling and hand gestures.

An amusing, wonderful little book
My 18-month old daughter adores this Biscuit book. (And now, some others as well.) The pictures couldn't be cuter, and the text is interesting and there's just enough of it to keep her engaged. It's a very fun, simple story, but she definitely "gets it." I think what makes it appealing to her is that it's got a real narrative element to it, as opposed to most of her books, which are just pictures and words, or nonsensical rhymes that don't really have a point.

Great Reading for Little Ones
My 4 1/2 loves to read through this on her own. It is fun and easy for her to get through.

More fun with Biscuit
My 3-year-old loves the Biscuit series. This book takes Biscuit and his little girl owner through an unwanted bath for Biscuit. In usual Biscuit fashion he resists doing what he is supposed to (which may be why the Biscuit series appeals so to older toddlers--they can relate!). The little girl is always patient and sweet, even when Biscuit makes a mess or gets her wet or dirty she continues to treat him nicely. I believe this is a nice lesson for a little one, and the easy-to-read format makes it fun for them to make "Bow wow" and "Woof" sounds along with the main character. When my 5-year-old started to read the Biscuit books were popular with her because she could feel a sense of accomplishment when she could read it herself. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

Since the 1997 release of J.K. Rowling's first novel--HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE--no series of children's books has been more incredibly popular or widely influential.How do we explain the enormous appeal of these stories to children?Should parents welcome this new interest in reading among their kids or worry, along with the critics, that the books encourage either moral complacency or a perverse interest in witchcraft and the occult?

In this original interpretation of the Harry Potter sensation, Edmund M. Kern argues that the attraction of these stories to children comes not only from the fantastical elements embedded in the plots, but also from their underlying moral messages.Children genuinely desire to follow Harry as he confronts a host of challenges in an uncertain world, because of his desire to do the right thing.Harry's coherent yet flexible approach to dealing with evil reflects an updated form of Stoicism, says Kern.He argues that Rowling's great accomplishment in these books is to have combined imaginative fun with moral seriousness.

Kern's comprehensive evaluation of the Harry Potter stories in terms of ethical questions reveals the importance of uncertainty and ambiguity in Rowling's imaginative world and highlightrs her call to meet them with virtues such as constancy, endurance, perseverance, self-discipline, reason, solidarity, empathy, and sacrifice.Chidren comprehend that growing up entails some perplexity and pain, that they cannot entirely avoid problems, and that they can remain constant in circumstances beyond their control.In essence, Harry shows them how to work through their problems, rather than seek ways around them.Despite the fantastical settings and events of Harry's adventures, children are quick to realize that they are just a fictional reflection of the confusing and disturbing circumstances found in the real world.

Kern also shows adults how much they can gain by discussing with children the moral conundrums faced by Harry and other characters.The author outlines the central morals of each book; considers the common critiques of the books; discusses Rowling's skillful blend of history, legend, and myth; and raises important questions for guiding children through Harry's adventures.

This fresh, instructive, and upbeat guide to Harry Potter gives parents a wealth of useful and educational information for discussing the moral implications of this continuously popular series of books with their children. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A brilliant work
This is a wonderful work, well researched and fascinating...

An Excellent Resource
This book is the most carefully studied, in-depth look at Harry Potter that I've found. It not only discusses the books' morality, but relates it to Rowling's use of history, legend and myth. It is a must for Harry Potter fanatics, but if you haven't read them yet and still want to, save this one for last.
I would recommend it to anyone who prefers to read books with substance and without platitude. It's clear, concise style would make it a useful tool for any teacher whose students are reading the Harry Potter books. "The Wisdom of Harry Potter" has a wonderful way of showing how philosophy can be interwoven with literature.
Any parents who've had doubts about their children reading Harry Potter will find this an excellent resource. And I would go so far as to challenge any of those people who want to ban these books from their children's libraries to find fault with the logic of this book. ... Read more

Book Description

Winnie-the-Pooh's youngest devotees will delight in these six board-book versions of their favorite Pooh adventures, gathered here in a storybook set as inviting as a box of chocolates.

Visible through acetate windows are unforgettable stories such as Pooh and Some Bees, Eeyore Has a Birthday, and Piglet's Rescue, each gently abridged to suit a preschooler's short attention span and accompanied by Ernest H. Shepard's illustrations in full color. As enduring as Pooh himself, these books are built to last with high-quality board stock, durable binding, and rounded edges-all sweetly housed in a sturdy die-cut tray that provides permanent storage and instant accessibility.

Illustrations by Ernest H. Shepard. ... Read more

Book Description

Arthur has the hiccups, and none of the traditional cures suggested by his parents help. Ignoring his pesky sister D.W., who claims she knows how to get rid of them, he calls on his friends for help. The Brain suggests standing on his head; Buster says laughter is the best cure and reads him jokes; Muffy’s old family cure is licking a lollipop while hanging upside down. But nothing does the trick. Dejected and still hiccuping, Arthur goes to bed. And that is when D.W. proves she really does know how to get rid of hiccups.
... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (3)

Sexy Photos!!!
I love this book because emma watson is so hot & sexy!!! call me

I LOVE THIS!!!!
I bought this because I am in love with Harry Potter and the guy that plays him in the movies (Daniel Radcliffe) is really hot in this movie! The pictures are great! i hope u love it like i do! especially if u love daniel radcliffe!

Loves it
My children love this poster book. Good pictures from the movie have been chosen and there are plenty of Ron if you love him best like my daughter. ... Read more

Book Description

Curious George and the man with the yellow hat visit the zoo. A hungry Curious George snatches a pail of bananas from the zoo keeper. Though he shouldn't have taken the bananas, George soon changes the zookeeper's shouts to praise with his clever, helpful ways. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

This is a great book for pre-schoolers and early readers!!!
This series by Margaret Rey is a wonderful introduction for preschoolers to stories with a simple plot line. In Curious George Visits the Zoo, George gets into mischief (which children can always relate to....) but redeems himself in the end by saving a young boy's balloon. In Curious George Visits the Fire Station, George is naughty when he rings the fire alarm, but again shows his better side when he rescues one of the firehouse puppies by climbing UP the firepole. In Curious George and the Pizza, he makes a mess trying his hand at tossing pizza dough into the air, but saves the day when he alone can make a crucial pizza delivery by climbing over a locked gate. Young children enjoy comparing the plots in this series. George is told not to get into trouble, he gets into trouble, then he exonerates himself. Parents, grandparents, teachers and child-care providers will all enjoy this series along with their youngsters!

I LIKE THE BOOK ALOT.
THE BOOK WAS A ABOUT GOERGE WHEN HE WENT TO THE ZOO AND THE MONKEY TOOK A BALOON FROM A LITTE BOY AND GEROGE GOT SOME BANANAS FROM A ZOO KEEPER. THEN HE GAVE THE BANANAS TO THE MONKEYS. ... Read more

Book Description

School daze for Babar!

Being the king of the elephants is hard work. But Babar's children say it's even harder to be a student. So Babar heads back to school-with hilarious results. His pencil breaks, he gets in trouble for talking in class, he sits on a wad of gum...what a day! Poor Babar is more than ready for his snack and a nap. "I think I'll go back to being a grown-up tomorrow," he tells Celeste. "It's a much easier job!" ... Read more

Amazon.com

Babar and Queen Celeste have just been married in this early story fromthe most famous of elephantine chronicles. They depart for their honeymoon in a hot-air balloon, and at first all seems wonderful as they glide over a charming coastal town that might be St. Tropez before the advent of tourism.Alas, a storm takes them out to sea and then dumps them on a desert island. The fierce, spear-carrying "savages" who subsequently attack them will remind you that this book was written and illustrated in 1934: they are as far from politically correct as you can get. And the war between the elephants and the rhinoceroses, which ends the story, is also problematic for a modern audience.But the travels and adventures in between show all the excitement and charm that has made the Babar series an enduring hit. (Ages 2 to 6) --Richard Farr ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Another wonderful Babar adventure!
Babar is one of the most endearing characters in children's literature. This volume is a classic that belongs on any child's bookshelf. The story of Babar and Celeste's hot air balloon ride and subsequent adventures in interesting locales fascinates kids, while broadening their cultural horizons. Some mature themes that may disturb kids (war, cruel treatment by a circus ringmaster), but provide a change from the pastel bunny and kitty story genre. Thought provoking for kids mature enough to handle it. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Perfect tale for young and old of the power of true love...
Longer than most of the Miss Spider books, this is a lovely tale that reinforces the value of true love - it's not about appearances, but the unique qualities that make one soul respond to another. I thought it might be a little over my two year old daughter's head, but from the first night I read it, she was clamoring to "hear it again!" The rhyming text and gorgeous illustrations make this book a treat for eyes and ears. I am seriously thinking of giving this book as a wedding ag gift to every couple I know!

A gorgeously illustrated quirky tale of insect romance

Brilliantly-colored illustrations jump from the pages of this charming book. The story is surprisingly adult, however.

Miss Spider is rescued from the poisonous clutches of a blonde-coiffed arachnid lothario by her true (and a bit nerdy) love. Ages 6-9 are probably the best audience for this tomboyish little romance.

In a special-interest side note: Graphic designers and lovers of computer-generated illustrations will probably want to have this particular story book in their collections

Adult Reader Gives Three Thumbs Up
This book MIGHT not be suitable for little kids. I would share it with my own, but each parent should read this book for him/herself first to make that decision, before sharing it with the little ones.

Even if you think the topic is a little too sensitive for your kids at this time, I recommend holding onto it until your little ones are ready -- or just buying a copy for yoursef. Because this book is excellent in all regards. It is well written, the plot is clear and funny, and the illustrations are...well, absolutely stunning. I picked this book up for myself. Once in a while, I will sit down, and literally put my fingers on the pictures. They are works of art. I like to read sections aloud, because the rhyming structure is so pleasing to the tongue.

There are very few children's books that still hold my attention. In fact, I would say that this book is a keeper for all ages. And when you decide your little one is old enough for the contents, I am sure he/she/they will delight in this superb book.

Not A Children's Book
I fell in love with the art work of the Miss Spider books and bought a few for my son. When we saw this book at the library I figured it was another good book in the series. I was wrong. The content of this book is definately not aimed at children. It hints at intimacy that young children don't need to be exposed to and some of the pictures are rather scary. I stopped halfway through the book, noticing some of the pictures. They could very likely give a child nightmares. Children do not need to be exposed to this content and violence depicted in the story. Let's keep them young a little while longer yet please.

Beautiful Pictures, Tongue in Cheek Wit, for Adults too!
--.--.-
This gorgeously illustrated book is only a medium favorite with the kids, but its MY favorite to read aloud.
The illustrations are intricate, gorgeous and as gently satirical and rich as the text. The children can certainly enjoy the basic story of Miss Spider's search for a suitable mate, but only adults will appreciate the tongue in cheek humor as the insect world is revealed to have many social similarities with our own. If the insect world had a "Jane Austen" it would be Miss Spider.
There is a happy ending as usual with children's stories, but there was one page of conflict that the girls (at ages 6 & 7) found "scary"- I was initially surprised, but its true that all the kids I've read this to (ages 5-8) found the big dramatic moment (Miss Spider's suitor turns out to be a little too pushy) a little intense.
The dashing (yet meek and mild) hero soon sets things right, however and the kids all enjoy the pictures of the wedding preparations. This one is not for easily frightened kids, although I originally thought it was unlikely to frighten anyone.

This book is really for adults to enjoy on an entirely different level while children are entertained by the beautiful pictures and happy resolution. ... Read more

Book Description

Every year George and the man with the yellow hat attend the pancake breakfast to benefit the children's hospital. Always curious, George finds his way to the pancake table. After making some of the most interesting pancakes the crowd has ever seen George gets into even more monkey mischief. The adventures of Curious George continue in an all-new series beginning in fall 1998 with eight new stories. Written and illustrated in the style of Margret and H. A. Rey, the books appear in paperback (8 x 8") and hardcover editions and feature the art of Vipah Interactive, the animators of HMI's Curious George CD-ROMs. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Curious George breaks out a spatula
Curious George goes to a pancake breakfast (actually, it's more like a county fair). Then, he makes pancakes while the cook is away. He makes them quicker and better than the cook. Then the cook chases him away. As usual, George gets in a little bit of trouble. Then all is well, and everyone praises George.

This book has part of the charm of CURIOUS GEORGE GOES TO AN ICE CREAM SHOP, with almost exactly the same plot. There's nothing surprising here-- kids and adults will see Curious George in another formulaic plot. This book was adapted from the Curious George film series, and it is based on characters created by H.A. Rey. It is NOT one of the George books written by H.A. Rey.

Some readers are delighted by Curious George, and the plot doesn't matter. In that case, choose CURIOUS GEORGE MAKES PANCAKES.

If you want a better story, try CURIOUS GEORGE GOES TO AN ICE CREAM SHOP, or, better still, one of the H.A. Rey-authored original Curious George stories, such as CURIOUS GEORGE GOES TO THE HOSPITAL or CURIOUS GEORGE GETS A MEDAL.

Brings back memories
Everytime I see a Curious George book I remember how much I loved reading them as a kid, I must confess that nothing has changed. This is a funny, entertaining book for both adults reading to children and for children themselves.

George uses all his talents!
This is one of my daughter's favorite CG books and one that Ican deal with reading more often. George uses both his legs and armsto flip pancakes faster than the chef can do it. I liked the positive focus on George's (and kid's) skills. It leaves the reader with a nice sense of accomplishment. END ... Read more

Book Description

Millions of children, even Christian children, are reading the mega-selling Harry Potter book series and are exposed to the Harry Potter movies. John Granger, a devout Christian, teacher of classic literature, and father of seven children, first read the Harry Potter books so he could explain to his children why they weren't allowed to read them. After intense study, however, he became convinced that the books are underestimated as literature--and reflect important Christian truths. In Looking for God in Harry Potter, Granger gives parents and teachers a roadmap for using the Harry Potter books to teach Christian truth to children. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Looking for God
I bought John Granger's book immediately after reading the introduction! As an 8th Grade English teacher, I believe this book is a must read for teachers and parents alike whose children or students are Harry Potter fans. In addition to unpacking the Christian themes and influences (which as a Christian myself, I whole heartedly support), this book is also useful for the individual with no religious persuasion whatsoever, as it unpacks discussion topics on themes and every day issues with which everyone deals on a daily basis. I couldn't put it down (or at least did so reluctantly...). Granger also details the ways to discuss the different themes resident in each book with your child/student as well as gives guidelines for general discussions with your child about Harry Potter (or, a myraid of other topics, I would argue). I highly recommend reading it!

Very interesting...
In the old days, Christians might hide their pack of playing cards or a cigarrette from the pastor. Now, both young and old stash Harry Potter videos and books. However, after reading this book, you might want to proudly display them instead.

**** John Granger (no relation to Hermione), takes apart all five volumes of the demonized books to miniscule detail and finds vast amounts of Christian allegory inside them. Going beyond the obvious, he brings to light enough material to keep a Sunday School class going for six months, at least, in a style almost as entertaining as the books themselves. In fact, by the end of Finding God in Harry Potter, you will be convinced that we can learn as much at Hogwarts as in Narnia or Middle Earth. Maybe more. ****

Amanda Killgore for Huntress Reviews.

Granger is a Genius!
John Granger gives us an authoritative, honest, thought-provoking book, and I recomend it to anyone who's heard of Harry Potter. It's easy to read, but provides a wealth of important informaiton for Potterholics, like myself, and the Harry Haters. Everyone ought to read this book; we have a great deal to learn from Granger, and, as he says, the Potter books themselves. So what are y'all waiting for??? Buy it, Read it, Love it.

Tickling sleeping dragons
Don't let the fact that this book is called 'Looking for God in Harry Potter' put you off.

Admittedly it is the best book I have seen for any Christians who are looking for an intelligent alternative to set against the less than totally convincing and intellectually sound argument that, as Stan Shunpike might have said, (had he been a fundamentalist) "Course 'Arry's evil, 'cos 'e's a wizard, inee?'

But this book is not just for Christians, its much too good for that. Its for anyone who has read the Harry Potter books, anyone whose children have read them, and for anyone who is intrigued by the phenomenal success of the books, whether they've read them or not.

Even if you decide that the analysis in terms of specifically Christian symbolism, themes, and answers to questions about the meaning of life, love and death are a stretch, this book still provides an intriguing analysis, and one worth considering. It is by no means a Christian tract or an attempt to bend fiction to the cause of evangelism. It takes the books on their own terms as part of the English literary tradition, a tradition that has frequently made use of Christian symbolism, imagery and themes, even while using the metaphor of magic as a means of making the transcendent tangible.

Of course if John Granger is right and the Harry Potter books are an attempt to smuggle a message past the watchful (C.S.Lewis) or sleeping (J.K.Rowling) dragons that guard us against such things, then maybe this book risks letting the kneazle out of the bag and putting the pixie among the pigeons, even before the complete series is written and published.

Looking for a sample chapter from the book?
I agree with the other reviewers, that Granger's book is probably the BEST commentary available on the Potter books. But reading is believing - so if you don't want to take someone else's word for it you can find two sample chapters on the internet. One chapter is on book #5 "Order of the Phoenix" and the other is on dopplegangers. These online chapters may vary slightly from the final edited version found in Granger's book.

(...)

Whether you think Granger's book is brilliant or merely excellent, there is one other thing worth saying. On a topic that has become divisive in the Christian community, Granger's writing is the soul of civility and good humor. There are no cheap shots toward those who are concerned about the potential attraction to the occult in today's society. This is a book written with charity and fair-mindedness - with nary a hint of condescending know-it-all-ism. In this regard I would compare Granger's style with the congenial orthodoxy of C.S. Lewis, who closely identified with his readers (especially in addressing those who find it difficult in today's society to attain faith). When you read this book you find not only good scholarship and reasoning - but an example of cordiality and good-will that is very rare in today's marketplace of ideas. ... Read more

Reviews (46)

Excellent! You can't put this book down until you are done.
Kristy watches as her mother places several calls to try to find a sitter for her brother, David Michael. She sees how troublesome it must be, and how upset David Michael seems for causing all this trouble. Then, it comes to her in a flash! Her best idea ever! The Baby-sitters Club! A few days later, Kristy, Mary Anne, Claudia, and Claudia's new friend Stacey, are waiting eagerly for their first call. At 5:30 exactly, Kristy's mother call for a sitter for David Michael. Stacey gets the job. Then, Kristy gets a job with new clients. The children are Pinky and Buffy. They are both two. When Kristy goes to her job, she is shocked to find out that Pinky and Buffy are St. Bernard dogs. She has an awlful time. Stacey, on the other hand, has a great time playing Candyland with David Michael and Sam. Sam is Kristy's 14 year-old brother, and Stacey has a crush on him. The Baby-sitters Club does not seem to be off to a good start. Kristy's pet-sitting job, Sam keeps calling crank phone calls, and Stacey has a secret that she will not tell.

It All Started With Kristy's Great Idea
While watching her mother struggle to find a baby-sitter one evening, Kristy Thomas comes up with an incredible idea to start a baby-sitting club, so people like her mom won't have so much trouble locating a decent sitter. First, Kristy has to organize the members: Mary Anne Spier, her best friend; Claudia Kishi, a fellow classmate at Stoneybrook Middle School; and Claudia's new friend, Stacey McGill. Second, they advertise in the local newspaper and distribute fliers. Now all they have to do is wait for the calls.

On their first meeting day, all four baby-sitters miraculously receive jobs for the week. Stacey baby-sits for Kristy's younger brother, David Michael, and falls for Kristy's older brother, Sam. Kristy unknowingly takes a job for two Saint Bernards, Buffy and Pinky. Mary Anne saves Kristy from the dreaded job of baby-sitting her soon-to-be stepbrother and sister, Andrew and Karen. And Claudia, unfortunately, gets the worst job of all: baby-sitting four rambunctious kids when she had been told it would be only one (mellow) child.

Despite the uncertain outcomes of their jobs, everybody in the club considers Kristy's idea a success. They're making plenty of money and doing what they do best: baby-sit.

This is a great series for 8 to 12-year-old girls.

Kristy's Great Idea
Kristy Thomas starts a baby sitting club. She wants her friends Mary Anne Spier and Claudia Kishi to be in the club. Claudia tells them about a new girl named Stacey McGill that could join. She does. Kristy gets a strange phone call at one of the meetins for someone to come and baby sit two kids - but when she gets there, it's two dogs! And they act awful! Stacey acts strange. To find out why, read the book. I've read this from the library, the school library, and now I have it. I have an older one, but now they have better pictures on the cover and pictures and fill in pages, but mine doesn't have that. To tell which ones are the newer ones, they have pictures of all four girls around the side of the book. I think if you buy it here you get the newer one. I've read these so much I can read them in a day! I'm trying to read ten for summer reading, and I've read five already! And it's only been four days since summer reading started!

Really good
This is the first book in the Baby-sitters club series. Twelve-year-old Kristy Thomas is the main character. When her mother had a hard time finding a baby sitter for her brother, Kristy thought of a very good idea. She thought up a plan to start a baby-sitting club, and three other girls joined.

Ann's Great Idea
The first in a series I recommend!Bsc is a fantastic series with lots going on and plenty characters coming and going.It could never be boring.Ann Martin will become a role model to me as I try to forge my path in writing....There is a problem though.The same things about the club will be explained at the start of every book in the same detail each time.Like,do you think that maybe Kristy once saw her mother on the phone trying to get a sitter for little David and then thought wouldn't it be great if mothers could ring up and speak to lots of sitters and then she got the idea of the Babysitters Club..???????You will be told all about this in almost every book!!But really should I complain??Put up with that repetition and ,honestly, it's a terrific series,and you'll always wonder what will happen next. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Sunny Patch School
Was the best place to go
To study the lessons
All bugs ought to know.
When the first day of school arrives, Little Miss Spider is almost besideherself with excitement. She gobbles her breakfast ("a fresh flower plate") andruns all the way to Sunny Patch School. But poor Miss Spider is in for a day offrustration. She can't seem to master the new lessons: dung digging, leafdrilling, stinging, or flying. As the day draws to a close, Miss Spider bemoansher lack of skills. Isn't there anything she can do well? We are all soonto find out...

David Kirk's bestselling Miss Spider series, including Miss Spider's Tea Party andMiss Spider's New Car,blasts the reader with brilliant splashes of color and quirky, bug-eyed (no,really!) insect characters. In this second adventure of the spinoff Little MissSpider series, Kirk's droll verses harmonize with the shiny, eye-catchingpaintings for a heartwarming tale, sure to be a favorite with Miss Spider'sever-increasing entourage of fans--especially those getting ready fortheir first day of school! (Ages 3 to 7) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (7)

a Delightful Tale
This story has made me a fan of David Kirk's work. The story is wonderful and teaches children a valuable lesson in self respect and being different, while showing that everyone is talented at something. You must never give up trying to find what your special talents are. Lil Miss Spider is excited about her first day of school, but when she arrives finds that there are many things that the other bugs can do, that she can't do well at all. At the end of the day she realizes how special she is when she courageously comes to the aid of another bug in trouble. She makes a gallant rescue and finally earns her gold star. "Our gifts, they are many: We hop, fly and crawl. But kindness," he (the principal) said, "Is the finest of all!" A perfect end to a brilliant children's story with unbelievably beautiful, bold illustrations. Your children won't be able to help themselves fall for the rhyming text as the story is brought to life with the pictures. This is a book that I delight in reading over and over again. One warning: The pages are gorgeous , but made on a thick, glossy paper. My daughter, who loves to put EVERYTHING in her mouth, got the nastiest paper cut on her lip. So now when I read it to her I give her a soft toy to keep her hands full. Ive purchased the board books as well, and those I put into heavy rotation. This is still my favorite, but will be better for her when she's a bit older.

Lots of fun for kids--and has a valuable lesson as well
The best word I can think of to describe David Kirk's illustrations is sunshiny. There is a buoyant, inherently happy quality to his work that goes so well with his simple Miss Spider series. Here, Miss Spider is excited to begin her first day at school, but gets more and more disappointed as the day goes on to discover that she isn't good at anything!

As one of her buddies gets stuck in a water spout, however, Miss Spider jumps right in without thinking and helps free the trapped bug. The school principal congratulates her warmly and reminds her that everyone--EVERYONE--has some sort of talent or skill that can be used to make the world a better place.

Lots of fun for little kids, and blessedly fun for parents as well--if only to marvel at the saturated colors and marvelous detail of Kirk's illustrations.

This book is a must-have for every child!
I received this book as a gift for my 4 month old daughter-we love it! The simple rhymes are easy to read and the bright, vivid pictures hold even the youngest child's interest. Little Miss Spider is a character any child can grow up with! I also love the fact that the book is practically indestructible-the pages don't tear or warp.

Caution:
Most excellent, oil painted illustrations and easygoing rhyme! Nice lesson in helping/kindness. Just misses the mark due to off-color (though true) reference to bugs in "dung"; children pay special interest--please at least spare us the detailed list of "students" with dung-related names!

Little Miss Spider...You've Got to Love Her
Poor Little Miss Spider, she was so excited about going to school that she woke up extra early, ate quickly and ran to Sunny Patch School so that she could be the first one there. But once her lessons began, she felt like a failure. She wasn't very good at hiding in trees, or chirping like crickets. She couldn't master drilling leaves with her tongue and digging in dung made her sick. And when she tried to fly, she fell flat on her nose. What a miserable first day of school. That is, until she heard a poor little bug cry out that he was stuck in a spout. Little Miss Spider knew just what to do. David Kirk has written a lovely and very gentle rhyming tale, that let's all youngsters know that everyone is special and talented in their own way. His spectacular, vibrant illustrations, compliment the story and will delight your kids with their rich color and big-eyed insects. A terrific picture book that's not to be missed and a heartwarming story kids will want to hear again and again. ... Read more

Book Description

In the most fantastical of the classic Babar stories, we follow Zephir, Babar’s monkey friend, home on school holiday. The monkey princess, Isabelle, has been kidnapped by the horned monster Polomoche, and everyone is very worried. But Zephir, with the help of a tiny mermaid named Eleanore, is certain that he can save the princess himself. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Elephants are not the only Fantastic Creatures!
Page aften page of strange and curious imaginary creatures, mermaids and monkeys! A delightful book.

Zephir embarks from the elephant school, off on his summer vacation. He arrives home at Monkeyville, which is filled with wonderful little houses and shops that hang from the gigantic trees, and off he and his family go to their holiday house, where the first thing that his mother does is prepare a "good soup of bananas and chocolate" (!).

The next day a tremendous package arrives at the post office from Babar. It is a rowboat for Zephir! On a daredevil fishing trip (for monkeys generally do not like the water), Zephir accidentally catches Eleonore, a lovely little mermaid, instead of fish! Sadly he releases her, but she has promised to come to his aid if he ever needs her. Upon his arrival back on shore he is greeted with the horrible news that little Princess Isabelle has been kidnapped in a green cloud smelling of rotten apples! Zephir calls on Eleonore, and she takes him in her fish carriage to her Aunt Crustadele.

Aunt Crustadele believes the culprit can only be Polomoche, who lives on an island with his gang of Gogottes (a very strange assortment of creatures!). "They... are not savage. But they are bored," she says. She sends Zephir off on his quest, telling him he will recognize Polomoche by his pointed horns and yellow skin.

What an adventure! One thing is for sure... any child reading this book will not have a chance to be bored! ... Read more

Book Description

Well, she just adores lots of things -- The Plaza Hotel, Room Service of course, taking walks with Nanny, and Weenie's whiskers (which are wonderful). But there's one more thing that Eloise is rawther fond of... ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (12)

Regarding the Non-Caps
Despite what the person from Huntington said, Latin sentences do not always end with a verb. Nevertheless, it is true that they didn't use capitalization. However, they did not use punctuation marks or spaces between words, either, in Classical Latin. Let's thank the translator for not being too true to the original or else it would be even more difficult to read.

In my opinion, capitalizing words would have been nice, making it easier to read. Also, I agree that a glossary should have defintely been added. Not everyone wants to drag a Latin dictionary around everytime they read it.

Despite these things, I have enjoyed the book so far and I think the translator did a pretty good job. The book gets four stars for that and an extra one just because someone had the guts to do it.

Delightful
Although I am not a Latin teacher and haven't really kept up with Latin since I took courses in college many years ago, I found this book delightful. The Latin is grammatically easier even than Caesar, and the vocabulary for the most part within the typical vocabulary of high school courses in Caesar and Cicero (but "Gestatio"?), with the usual invented modern words and some that seem to be from late or medieval Latin. For the most part, the meaning even of the unusual words seemed to be fairly apparent. The story is much better than I expected, and the Latin more manageable than Winnie Ille Pu or even Regulus. I might have preferred "Henricus Figulus" -- but there's no reason to be picky with such a delightful book. I'm actually looking forward to Harrius Potter et Camera Rerum Arcanarum.

Great!
After struggling with Cicero, I was exited to learn Harry Potter was being translated into Latin. It is wonderful reading something in Latin that I've already read (several times) in English. I actually feel much more confident in my Latin reading ability and might even try Cicero again soon. I truly hope they translate the rest of the Harry Potter series into Latin. I would buy them!

More please
Yes there should be more of these available. Does the market warrant it? A problem with reading translations of any sort as part of learning a language is finding something relevant to read. Since most things available are not contemporary or fun, having something a student has most likely already read in their native language available in the target language can do several wonderful things for the student. It can be pleasurable reading in the target language something the student already "knows" since that will save dictionary look-up time and there will be a pleasure of discovery in figuring out the previously unknown word for oneself.

My regards to the effort involved in this project. It also makes the use of certain magical spells in Latin or something much like it an interesting and thought provoking exercise.

Another translator's view
It needs a high degree of concentration, plenty of time and not a little courage to undertake a translation like this, which is a very different thing from the tasks typically given to students and, if it is to be criticised, it should be reviewed with that in mind.

I, like others, would have liked to see from Mr. Needham an introduction describing his approach; that's all that stops me awarding the fifth star. But, I'm also not too sure about the lack of capital letters: if it's an authentic feel that's needed, we should, perhaps, have nothing but capitals.

But I will defend most heartily Mr. Needham's syntax. This is not a Ciceronian essay. It is a translation accurately tempered to the style of the original. What would have been the point in its being otherwise? There is no classical model to follow, no classical author whose style might be imitated.

This really is a book to be enjoyed. ... Read more

Amazon.com

For kids who can't get enough of television's Blue'sClues, this storybook with 63 stickers should help tide them over until the next episode. In this colorful paperback, the irrepressible Blue is off tothe farm with her earnest pal Steve, who asks readers to help identifyanimal tracks, figure out what kinds of animals belong on the farm, and decipher what Blue's favorite animal is by the clues left throughoutthe book. The illustrations consist of color-drenched, Teletubbies-style panoramas, superimposed withAstroturf, paper cutouts, clay figures,and what appears to be lettuce. The text is straight out of a scriptdesigned to get kids excited about sleuthing: "I was wondering," Steve asks, eyebrows skyward, "do you know what all these animals like to eat? Youdo? Will you get the animals their lunch? Great!" Your kids will hardlynotice this isn't TV! (Ages 3 to 6) ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Challenging and fun
My three year old nephew just got this book and loves it. He examines each page carefully and shouts "a clue! a clue!" whenever he sees the trademark blue paw print. He also informed me that he likes "that guy" meaning Steve, the genial young TV host. A cute book with lots of colorful stickers.

Fun Fun Fun
Our daughter spends many hours reading and re-reading this book and interacting with Blue. It comes out for reading especially when Blue's on tv and she points at the book and tv and has really developed her learning and memory retention and recollection. The whole Blue's videos and books are a must and in association with parental teaching your child will improve greatly. Where was Blue many years ago for our other children. One of the best learning shows around. Our daughter is two years old and now has a great imagination and play skills, which, thanks to Blue and Steve, is improving each and everyday of Blues Clues. Buy this book, plenty of fun for your kids.

My son was intranced. It was a great book.
My son just loves Blues Clues. He has learned all the farm sounds from this book. I highly recommend it. My son is 2.

my 4 year old's favorite book
This is my daughter's favorite book. It comes with 2 pages of stickers which go into the book. We had to work together to put the stickers in place and it was like doing a puzzle. Now it is HER book and she has changed around some of the stickers to make it even more hers.

It was a fun way to learn about the animals on a farm.
It is one of the most fun ways for preschoolers to learn about both kinds of animals on a farm. Steve makes learning fun and exciting.The interaction of reality and make-believe is really refreshing. Keep up the good work.

Thanks Steve. ... Read more

Book Description

George helps a little boy with his paper route and gets into all sorts of trouble. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Curious George rides a bike
This book Curious George rides a bike is about monkey who gets a bike because it is the
mans and George's third year sense they meet. So George is a very curious monkey and
he is not aloud to ride his bike past his house but George does. George goes off and gets
into trouble.
This book teaches a lesson about listening to your gardian.
It teaches that by when George goes off and gets into trouble with the circus because he
feeds the ostterage a flute. The ring master told him not to feed the ostterage any thing
because it will eat anything that you give it.
This books age level is from five and up. It is this age level because it could teach kids
when there young to listen to there parent.
I think that the book was good it had a little bit of a adventure to it. It also tought a
lesson which I though was good also.

A Little Too Long, But Still Fun
Curious George's new bike leads him to an extended adventure delivering newspapers, making a regatta of paper boats (there are instructions on how to make one!), and visiting a circus after wrecking the front wheel.

George is not quite as innocent here as in his other books. He's a little more like Mr. Toad, doing some things he knows he shouldn't do, and he's not always very careful. Still, his exuberance and the winning 1950's illustrations are a delight. As usual, George gets into trouble with people, but eventually he rescues one of the circus animals and is hailed as a hero.

It's true that George gets into an circus wagon with two strangers... Be sure to advise your own little monkey not to take rides with strangers. But if that upsets you, you might as well also explain that circuses are often not very animal-friendly. A little too long compared with the simple joys of other George books, but this does extend the curious monkey's adventures to somewhat older kids. Lots of action in the 48 pages, with no more than one to three short paragraphs of text per page.

This is what spoiled it for me...
George was out playing alone when he encountered two men in a vehicle whom he had NEVER met before. They were friendly and told him that he was talented. The next thing we know is that the three of them get into the cab and drive off. Oh dear !!
This isn't the sort of thing I'd wish to encourage, would you ?

One positive thing about the tale is that it provoked discussion about
never going away with strangers even if they seem nice.
We like the Curious George books and appreciate the fact that they were written quite some time ago, but when reading to impressionable kids it's good to make sure that you approve of the content.

George "junkie" loves this book
My 21 month old son adores this book. It's the longest book he's ever had us read to him, and he requests it over and over again. He can relate to the story line, it's beautifully illustrated and it's less dated than some of the "George" books.

Every parent is raising their own Curious George!
I will never forget my first trip to the library to check out a Curious George book. The stories I have grown to love are now a permanent part of my 4 year old sons library. This particular book is not only fun and entertaining, but also demonstrates a lesson to be learned. For friends of mine that are expecting children, instead of giving them the traditional clothes or toiletries, I buy them a Curious George book or two that they can cherish as their children get older. It is never too early to read to children, give them a book that will mean as much to them as it did to me. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

For all ages
I would recommend Harry Potter a l'ecole des sorciers for everyone. I chose to read this book for French class as a summer reading. It isn't hard and I learned more French words as a result. It is very exciting. The cover was nicely done too.

My Jaw Dropped
My first reaction to J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter a l'ecole des sorciers was speechlessness. I had no idea that any book could be so wonderful. I'll admit that I found the first few chapters a bit dull. They were necessary, though, because they explained Harry's background and brought you up to the current state of affairs. The rest of the book made up for any lack of excitement in the preceding chapters. After I finished the book for the fourth time, I went out and bought the second installment in the series, then the third etc. I give this book five stars, and my personal recommendation to anyone looking for a good read. ... Read more