Book Description

This rockin', rhythmic railroad adventure celebrates the uniqueness of America and the beboppin', doo-woppin' sound of jazz, from jammin' New York City all the way to New Orleans. With bold, powerful art by the "New York Times" best-selling team of Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher, H. L. Panahi's text comes alive with a pulse and beat all its own.

Book Description

You're the end of the rainbow, my pot of gold,
You're daddy's little girl, to have and to hold . . .

The song "Daddy's Little Girl" has been a favorite of fathers and daughters -- and mothers, too -- for more than fifty years. In this first ever picture-book version, an adoring rabbit daddy and his little bunny bring the moving lyrics to life as they share special moments that demonstrate the special bond reserved for daddies and their little girls. The full lyrics and music are included for the whole family to enjoy together.

"Daddy's Little Girl" was written by Bobby Burke and Horace Gerlach in 1949. It was an instant hit, and has gone on to become a staple of wedding reception playlists for the dance shared by a bride and her father. This and a companion song, "Daddy's Little Boy," written by Billy Collins in 1950, have been recorded by many artists, notably by the Mills Brothers, and are considered American standards.

Amazon.com

"The STRINGS all soar, the REEDS implore, / The BRASSES roar with notes galore. / It's music that we all adore. / It's what we go to concerts for." In this exuberant tribute to classical music and the passionate, eccentric musicians who play it, author Lloyd Moss begins with the mournful moan and silken tone of one trombone. A trumpet sings and stings along, forming a duo, then a fine French horn joins in, "TWO, now THREE-O, what a TRIO!" The mellow cello ups it to a quartet, then ZIN! ZIN! ZIN! a violin soars high and moves in to make a quintet. The flute that "sends our soul a-shiver" makes a sextet, and "with steely keys that softly click," a sleek, black, woody clarinet slips the group into a septet.We move on! A chamber group of ten!And the orchestra is ready to begin. Moss should be congratulated for creating a playful, musical stream of rhyming couplets that seamlessly, slyly teaches the names of myriad musical groups. Marjorie Priceman, the whimsical, masterful illustrator of Elsa Okon Rael's When Zaydeh Danced on Eldridge Street and Jack Prelutsky's For Laughing Out Loud, won a Caldecott Honor Award for this swirling, twirling, colorful musical world worthy of thunderous applause and a standing ovation. (Ages 4 to 8) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (23)

ENCHANTING
I first came across this book in one of my university classes (Music for the Child)and fell in love with it immediately. It is now is my son's (age 2 1/2) favorite book. Even my husband loves it. We can all recite it by heart. It's a great way to introduce musical instruments to young children. My son recently saw a harp in person for the first time and recognized it right away because of this story. The prose, the illustrations - all are wonderful!!! A must for any child's library!

Fresh, charming, artistic approach to counting and music
I wish I could give this book 6 stars, because it is a truly wonderful book for preschoolers. One by one, the instruments in a classic orchestra are introduced, combining simple counting with music education. The text is in elegant rhyme, perfectly complemented by the bright, original & whimsical illustrations (make sure you pay attention to the "dance" performed by the cats, dog and mouse). A top-notch addition to a young child's library.

Emergent readers' gem!
Being a cello player myself, I believe all children should be exposed to music as soon as possible. This is a great introduction to music, orchestras, and the sounds the instruments make. It's great for emergent readers because of the rhyming and the way the words seem to flow from page to page. The illustrations are beautiful and whimsical. I really like the way the author uses pretty advanced descriptive words for the sounds the instruments make, like 'mournful moan' for the trombone and 'the reeds implore'.

Students will also learn basic information about musical groups, such as what they're called, octet, quintet, etc. A great part of this book is that the musical terminology is not reduced to children's levels. The words are quite large and reflect what is really true about classical musical instruments and musical groups. I think children would enjoy seeing the illustrations and learning about these instruments, and perhaps picking their favorite one. It plants an early seed in their head about orchestral groups, makes music fun, and perhaps creates a new generation of orchestral students.

Obviously, this is a minority opinion
As the 20-plus reviews thus far have ALL been five stars! So, take what I say with a grain of salt...

and even I actually mostly like this book (though I know at least one person who actually dislikes the book and won't read it anymore -- she finds the art ugly and the text strained -- but I'm married to her, she can write her own review).

I don't particularly notice the art, I'm usually half-asleep when reading this book to my 4-year-old in bed. But the text does sometimes jar me -- my teeth practically break when I get to the lines that rhyme CELL-o with hell-O (clearly one is supposed to pronounce it HELL-o here, but I can't make myself do it) -- on the other hand, some of it's really quite nice: "with steely keys that softly click//its breezy notes so darkly slick,..." (that ought to give you a sense of it -- if you say that aloud and think "ooh, I like the way those words fit together", and you want to say them to your child, then get this book. If you think "a clarinet's notes are breezy? or slick?"
or you worry about the rhyme of clarinet and septet, then maybe it isn't for you.)

Still, I like the nice twist on counting books, with 1,2,3,
becoming solo, duo, trio, etc. -- and the mouse-cats-dog subplot in the pictures is cute, too.

Awesome!
My three year old loves this book. We've read it only a few times, but he can already correct me if I mess up. He is learning to count, about instruments, the orchestra. It is just a fabulous book. Not to mention the terrific artwork. This is definately one of my favorites!!! ... Read more

Book Description

The Cheetah Girls are starring in a movie of their own on the Disney Channel in 2003. They're spicier than hot sauce and as cool as iced cappuccino. They outshine any diamond with their supa-dupa inner sparkle! Now see how it all began in the first books of the series starring Galleria, Chanel, Dorinda, Anginette, and Aquanette. Each bind-up features four Cheetah-licious tales about girls having guts, brains, courage, and friends (while flashin' some style and always shining from the heart). ... Read more

Reviews (5)

cheetah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
hey im jaimercedes and i reed and saw the cheetah girls i loved the movie so much that i even teped it my friends and me say that were the cheetah girls im galleria im buying the three books and the cheetah girls cd. i think that this movie showed me that if i want to be a star go for it but work for it.I sing their songs and know all the dance but i wish that in the future i be in the t.v. for i could show everyone.the first time they gave the movie in disney channel i was like oh my god i cant believe im seeing this i saw it twice planning to buy the dvd but i dont have a dvd player go for it and buy it come on is good!!!!!!!!!!!!!:-D

This is a good book
I bought this book a little after Christmas because I found myself loving the movie. Thinking the book would be better (because all books are better!) I read it. I was totally wrong. True, the book is good, but 1. Galleria (or Deborah Gregory, the author) CANNOT write good songs. I'm sorry, she can't. They are very poorly written and if I sat down and thought I could think of something better. 2. The lingo is also very immature and hard to understand. Otherwise, the plot is good and the characters are good.

The Cheetah Girls
This book is wonderful though sometimes it is hard to understand. Thankfully Ms. Gregory included a glossary so those of us who don't understand Galleria and her friend's language can keep up. Something that I especially like about this book is the fact that it is different from the movie thought there are some scenes that are the same. It's boring to read a book that is word for word the same as the movie I just watched last night. Go Cheetahs!

Best Book EVER!!
Hey i'm courtney(...).My big sister bought this book for me after i watched the movie and i loved all for stories.The book is about 5 girls who dream about being singing sensations.If you wanna be a singer you MUST read this book NOW!!

A book for girls with singing dreams
The Cheetah Girls is an amazingly written story about five girls with the common but amazing dream to become singers. Galleria, who is kind of the leader of the group, is a great singer. She is the leader Cheetah because she writes some of the songs.
Chanel, also known as Chuchie or Miss Chuchie Frita, is Galleria's best friend. She is a great singer too, and is sometimes jelous of Galleria because she is the leader.
Anginette and Aquanette are twin sisters. They are the best singers in the group and are trying to get used to New York City.
Dorinda is a foster child who is the best dancer in the entire group. She is a very caring girl and I think she just might have gone through the most in this story.
This book is a book for girls with singing dreams. It will inspire girls all around to never give up. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Based on a true story from J. S. Bach's childhood
Sallie Ketcham's wonderful "Bach's Big Adventure" is that rare breed of book which manages to tie together a true story from a major historical figure's childhood with terrific illustrations--and throw in a palatable moral as well.

J. S. Bach apparently was quite a confident young man, boasting by the age of ten to all who would listen that he and he alone was the greatest organist in all Germany. His confidence pierced by the sarcasm and truthfulness of his elder brother (who reared him once their parents had died), Bach decides that he will go to hear a concert by the man his brother says IS the greatest--an organist named Reincken.

Suffice it to say that Bach is humbled by the experience and almost hesitates to join Reincken at the organ--but the elder man is encouraging and soon the two are playing a rollicking tune, much to the delight of both. Reincken cheers the young Bach who does, in time, become the greatest organist in Germany and beyond.

Ketcham's tale is well told, with generous doses of humor. Timothy Bush's watercolor illustrations are cartoonlike and serve to further humanize this great musician. The book is a success and a treat to peruse.

Great Story For the Right Age Group
Probably best suited for 5-8 year-olds. It's the story of young Johann Sebastian Bach and his desire to be the greatest organist in all of Germany and the world. Through very good illustrations, and a compelling story, children and adults will be fascinated by this prodigy. The author passes on interesting tidbits of information of Bach's childhood that make for very good reading. However, children younger than 5 will probably tire easily of this story, since it runs a bit long.

Great Book that You Can't Put Down
This book is well written. Children will want to read it again and again. The author's humor adds sparkle to this historically based novel. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

The Jazz Fly
This book includes an audio CD tucked into the front cover -- the story accompanied by music. My kids (ages 6 and 2) encountered the audio version before they saw the book, and loved it. It's got an excitement and rhythm that makes them both dance. The words are fun and easy to memorize, although the kids remain tickled that Dad can't get the scat lines straight. Za baza boo zaba . . . The book adds really fun visuals to the mix. Like the jazz-drumming fly in this book, the CD and book combo "put it all together and served it out hot."

The Jazz Fly is a real Za-ba do-da roni!
I am a teacher in a 3/4 combo class of English Language Learners (native Spanish speakers). I also have 5 year old triplet girls at home. I was fortunate enough to see Matthew Gollub speaking at a teacher's convention and was really enthralled with his animated way of getting the audience in. I ended up buying three of his books. The Jazz Fly was a big hit with my own children. They loved the version I read (although I can't do it justice) and the version on the CD by Mr. Gollub. I can't wait to use this book in my classroom for my music unit!

It's not just for older kids!
I thought my husband was crazy when he ordered this book. Our 2 boys are 3 and 2, and I thought they were just too young for it. As a band director, he's always introducing the kids to every aspect of music. There's a lot of books to introduce children's songs and classical music, but this is the first one we've found on Jazz. The boys have asked for this book every night since we got it (about 1 month ago). They take turns being the different characters and playing their respective instruments. It's so catchy, I find myself singing the words quite often throughout the day.

It's a great book
This book really is awesome. I first read it at school with the CD, and now I love jazz!

My 4 1/2 year old daughter loves this story!!
When my daughter's rhythm and drum teacher read this story aloud during class one morning, my daughter became enthralled with the plight of the jazz fly. She sang the scats all afternoon and event taught them to her older sister. "Za-baza-boo-zaba-zee-za-roni" is something I've come to adore. (Especially when "scatted" by a 4 year old!) Hilarious fun for anyone who loves music!! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Great Book!
This is a great book for little ones. My son loves the lift the flap pages and learning about all the animals. Plus, as always, it is always nice that the Wiggles are always concerned about teaching kids the right things and are properly dressed throughout the book. i.e. they have short outfits on top of their traditional outfits. Really, really like that! Thanks Wiggles for being there to help!

4 Wiggles On Each Page See Diffrent Animals.
The Wiggles love to go on a Wiggly Safari Adventure, and they love to look at animals that live there. Greg has to be careful while seeing snakes, Anthony sees Asian Wolves called Dingos, Murray looks at crocodiles who get fed by Steve Irwin from the movie. Last but not least, Jeff holds a koala in his arms and they sleep about 18 hours a day, that's like Jeff who's always falling asleep.

What I love most about this book, is liffting up the flaps.

The Wiggles Love Their Wiggly Safari Adventure.
Wiggly Safari takes place at the Australia Zoo, only now in four different editions. 1.Video, 2.DVD, 3.Music,4.Lift-the-flap book. I once looked at the pictures inside, and that's how I see Greg, Murray, Anthony and Jeff on one page at a time, I think this book is really a pop-up book-in fact, that's what Lift the flap means in other words. The Wiggles and their friends hope that someday, you'll have your own Wiggly Safari, too.

Good book for very young Wiggles fans
Our son just turned 2 and received this as a gift. He loves the lift the flap format and realistic pictures of australian wildlife but the real attraction is the Wiggles characters. There is a different Wiggle and animal on each page and readers are encouraged to find and count the hidden animals. This is a good book for fans of the Wiggly Safari video or CD too. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Awesome
This book is about a young boy and the fear of his music teacher due to the rumors he hears about her. The main character is a little boy who's name was neve mentioned, but he doesn't like getting up in fromt of the class and he hears he has to sing solos and play instruments. The setting is at an elementary schol. This book would be good for just about anyone because the author chose to write about a topic that everyone has experienced first hand, GOSSIP!! This book is a fantasy. I like the way the author used that topic for the familiarity and the adult oriented jokes that you never notice or even understand until you get older. This book reminds me of my own school. Because, rumors can get so out of hand there in a short amount of time. This reminds me of some of Dr. Seuss' writings. What sets this book aside is the inside jokes that I mentioned earlier, not many children's books include those. I really liked this book because its just like talking to a five year old boy about a teacher he hasn't met yet. It's shockingly realistic. But, what really brought it together was at the end when they explained what the teacher was really like.

Awesome
This was my favorite book when I was little. I love the way they use the way kids exaggerate. The rumors about this teacher get completely out of hand and they use humorous "inside jokes" that only older kids would know about. It was silly yet oddly genious at the same time. I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Music Teacher
We have to take music class at school. I have heard she is rude and unfriendly. A kid has heard rumors about the music teacher, but she is actually very, very, very, very, very, very, very nice. ... Read more

Book Description

A story for children of all ages, Nicky The Jazz Cat teaches young people about the joy of jazz, the importance of friends and mentors and the power of imagination and originality. When Nicky is just a tiny kitten, he meets Roy, a great trumpet player who takes him under his wing. Roy teaches Nicky how to play and word travels fast--soon all the jazz greats hear about this jazz cat and want to play with him. The book is illustrated with wonderful photographs of Nicky and jazz legends Roy Eldridge, Quincy Jones, Lena Horne, Gerry Mulligan, Abbey Lincoln and Lionel Hampton as they meet and make friends. The brightly colored graphics and rhyming text--call and response conversations between Nicky and his musician friends--reflect the humor, rhythm and spirit of jazz itself. Children and adults alike will delight in this cool cat's journey from curious jazz kitten to acclaimed jazz cat. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Diz Kool Kat gits around!
A wonderful photo-filled rhyme story of this lucky cat Nicky and his cast of jazz music's greatest performers. I bought the book and CD, "Nicky's jazz for Kids" for my two young sons. They loved reading/singing the story and then they jammed along with the CD on their own instruments. This is a great opportunity for parents to get their kids turned onto jazz before they take them to see Wynton Marsalis at Lincoln Center. It really helps Jazz to be fun for kids to enjoy!

Wow! Such a Great Idea for a Book
Nicky is a cat-- a fashionably all-black feline. In this book he's rhyming his way through encounters with several jazz musicians. The text is fun, the book is beautiful, and the pictures are very, very cool. The Lena Horne shot is my favorite-- she is gazing elegantly down at Nicky. The author has had a lifetime career of photographing Jazz musicians, and the Nicky pictures are my favorite. If only I can keep the baby from drooling on it until he's big enough to appreciate it! ... Read more

Book Description

Harry's had it!

The lady next door sings too loudly and too often, but every time Harry tries to stop her he gets in trouble. Can Harry solve the neighborhood's problem before he's sent to the doghouse?

Reviews (3)

As Much Fun Now As When I was a Kid
I grew up with this book and never knew of the others in the series. Seeing as my daughter loves dogs I had to buy this when I saw it in this new edition.

An opera singer has moved into the house next to Harry's. The singer practices all day long, singing loud and high. Harry does not like this sound. Harry tries a number of ways to get her to stop. These do not please his family. But finally, a good way is found and everyone is happy.

As a parent, one of the things I like about this book is that it is clear that Harry is not being good when he howls, leads cows or a marching band, or other tricks. Although we want Harry to succeed, we also want it to be in the right and good way. This book knows the difference.

I loved this book as a kid and I still do. My daughter loves it (hopefully my son will too).

harry and the lady next door
I like Harry and the lady Next Door because Harry doesnt like her sining. I also like this book because Harry brings all these animals. home and the lady sings louder than them. These are reasons why you should read these books.

Harry the Wonder Dog!
Harry goes to desperate lengths to silence the lady next door - her singing is too high and loud. He howls, bits piano legs, steals music, chases cows and bands, but finally succeeds, to everyones' relief. Even the lady next door is happy.

I read this as a child, as did my brothers. This is the first story that my 5 year old has shown an interest in reading by himself. Thanks Harry! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Star of 3rd Rock from the Sun, actor John Lithgow is less well known as a music enthusiast, but in his comical verse story The Remarkable Farkle McBride, he has created the musical prodigy he would perhaps like to have been. Farkle is a little boy with astounding talents (he's playing violin with the orchestra by the age of 3) but little perseverance. Each year he gets bored with his instrument, takes up and masters a new one, and then gets bored with that. Of his recently beloved trombone, he says, "The racket is more than my eardrums can bear! So return it or throw it away! I don't care!" In the end, Farkle realizes that the whole orchestra is his instrument: he finds satisfaction as a conductor, and the book ends with a gatefold of him triumphantly leading all the other musicians. C.F. Payne's illustrations combine a Norman Rockwell realism with a caricaturist's sense of humor. (Ages 5 and older) --Richard Farr ... Read more

Reviews (23)

The Remarkable Farkle is Fantastic!
This is one of the best children's books out there. I have read this book to several grade school classes (K - 3rd) and it's always a winner. Mr. Lithgow does a wonderful job of putting words to the sounds of instruments and his rhyme is fantastic.

Mr. Payne's illustrations are brilliant and are the finishing touch to this a new "classic"

It seems that there is a rush of actors writing children's books with varying degrees of success, but Mr. Lithgow does a first class job. If he decides to abandon his day job - he has a brilliant future as a children's author.

Buy the book - you or your children won't be dissappointed.

Music Made Wonderful
Farkle McBride is definitely a remarkable little guy. He could play the violin at three. But was bored with violin playing at four. At five he discovered the flute. But at six decided it was not for him. When Farkle was seven, he took up the trombone, but then gave it up too. Next he tried percussion, but decided that was not quite right for him either. After thinking and thinking he realized that his very favorite sound was all the different instruments playing together...the orchestra. And so when the conductor gets sick, Maestro Farkle McBride steps in, finding what he really likes to do most at last. John Lithgow as written a terrific children's book, full of rhythm, rhyme and wonderful sound effects. His text is complimented by C.F. Payne's very expressive and detailed, larger than life illustrations. This is a delightful story that will charm and amuse all youngsters aged 4-8 and is a wonderful introduction to both musical instruments and the orchestra. The Remarkable Farkle McBride is a winner and a wonderful addition to all home libraries.

Musical Fun
I judge a great children's book by how easily the words flow, how captivating and relevant the illustrations are, and most importantly, if my children enjoy it. The illustrations are what first caught my eye and since I have a very musical family, I thought this would be a nice addition to our library. My children loved it immediately! The rhythym is fun and the sheer silliness of this boy who is so musically talented but cannot seem to find his place, sends my kids into fits of laughter. Sometimes, as adults, I think we need to stop taking ourselves so seriously and find simple pleasure in things the way our kids do. This book comes highly recommended.

Way To Go, Mr. Lithgow!
Farkle McBride is not satisfied. He's a musical genius who masters every instrument he picks up, only to toss it away out of boredom soon after. By the end of this story, told in fun, lilting verse, Farkle has found a way to be involved in music; a way that also holds his interest.

John Lithgow's books are a cut above many other children's books written by celebrities. The rhymed verse that he uses to tell Farkle's story bounces and rambles along, and it's almost impossible not to hear Lithgow's voice in your head, "reading" the book to you.

The illustrations by C.F. Payne are at once sensitive and wonderfully silly; they're a perfect match for Lithgow's text. I have been known to bring this book out for friends and just open it to certain pages (such as the one showing Farkle with the cymbals) to exclaim, "Look at this painting! Look at the kid's face. Isn't that a riot? And the story's really good too!"

Fantastic Story
I purchased this book through day care for my 6 month old daughter. She loved it from the start. She is now 13 months, and this is her favorite bedtime story. She can point out farkle, the birds, and the instruments. Nice rhymes, clever story. The paperback version rips easily with a toddler, so I'm purchasing the hardback now. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (13)

Thank You David McPhail
I would like to take this opportunity to thank David McPhail's parents for having a child who grew to write this book. MOLE MUSIC will surely be a classic, loved by future generations of creative dreamers. Seldom does such a simple story resonate so deeply. It takes a great talent to wield so few words to mean so much.

When Mole sees a violinist on television he is so touched by the music he wants to make beautiful music of his very own, so he orders a violin for himself. When it arrives he can only cajole it to make horrid, screeching sounds. But Mole, the industrious, kind-hearted and hard worker that he is continues to practice (and practic and practice). After many years his music is even more lovely than the violinist he saw so long ago. Dear, dear Mole wishes he could change the world with his music--and Mr. McPhail shows the change that occured because of Mole's efforts strictly through the art. I won't give it away, but it is a great change indeed, and all the more touching because Mole played his music not for fame, but for the love of the music itself and a desire to share beauty with the world.

The words and art blend seamlessly together, one never overshadowing the other. This book is as a bright star in the world of Children's literature. I can only imagine that Mr. McPhail himself is like Mole--for who else could write a book like this? It's a visual song from the heart that could possibly change the world by inspiring young children to create some lovliness of their own. Thank you David McPhail--and thanks to your parents too.

A Child & Adult Inspiration
I first heard this story as a part of a sermon given to a congregation of mixed ages. The children were enthralled with the illustrations (as were many adults) but the "message" was deeply felt by the "older" child in all of us there. It is the message that no one really knows how much influence they have. Mole was just doing something that really intrigued and interested him, and brought him pleasure. He wished that he could influence others, but never knew what his music did for the world. Maybe this is true for each of us as we pursue what we really have a passion for. The message is true for children and adults alike. I will share this with my young 8 year old violinist friend, and from the pulpit. Thank you, David McPhail!

A Beautiful Lesson for Us All
I'm 43 and checked this book out of the library to read to my kids. I was so moved by it that I plan to buy several copies as gifts for both adults and kids. I'd like to have the artwork on the walls of my music studio to remind me . . .it's all about the energy we put out into the world. A timeless and most important lesson! Thank you David McPhail!

Mole's Music
Not only is the story itself quite clever but the music notes in the growing tree are also quite well chosen. When Mole begins to play the violin the music that is produced on the tree is what almost every beginner learns to play, "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star". The music of Brahms and Beethoven are illustrated in the tree throughout the book. When the soldiers first stop at the tree, the notes are from Beethoven's 6th Symphony,"The Pastoral". When the soldiers drop their weapons and shake hands, Mole is playing "Ode to Joy" from Beethoven's 9th Symphony. And what better way to go to sleep than to Brahms' Lullaby, shown on the very last page as Mole goes to sleep. A wonderful book for adults and children.

Sweet book shows shy kids confidence
Gentle book, tells shy kids that they can influence the world in a positive way just by being themselves. Also helps kids losing the energy on a chosen instrument. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

The Cheetah Girls are starring in a movie of their own on the Disney Channel in 2003. They're spicier than hot sauce and as cool as iced cappuccino. They outshine any diamond with their supa-dupa inner sparkle! Now see how it all began in the first books of the series starring Galleria, Chanel, Dorinda, Anginette, and Aquanette. Each bind-up features four Cheetah-licious tales about girls having guts, brains, courage, and friends (while flashin' some style and always shining from the heart). ... Read more

Reviews (3)

everyones wrong
All the reviews I've read are nothing like the book the book is much more different than the movie. It turns out that there are 5 grls instead of 4 and its really different like a totally different book except wit the same names. It is really good though.

worth every penny
i bought this for my 11 year old. she loves this book. kiki started reading it on saturday afternoon and was half way finshised by sunday night. she even took it in the bathroom. thahk god we have two. she is on her second or third time reading it and has recomended it to all her friends. she won't loan it to them yet. i will be purchasing the rest of the series.

BYE CHEETAHGALLERIA!
i want this book so bad!just when they got into the tallentshow!
sumthing supriseing cameup! jackeljhonson! one demo from him could make them rich!dorindas the one who needs that money! but
ill tell you about that in a differnt cheetahgirlbook!galleriea
told jackel that she was the founder of thecheetahgirls!hermom
stops her and it took alot for her to say yes!so on there way
she steped in dogstuff!channels the one who helps her clean it
off!so galleriea told her thanks for havin my back!channel really needs talk toher about how she fells!the nextday jackuel
told them to where mask!galleriea had a cheetahmask dorinda had a panda mask!aqua had to get a babyseelmask!and channel had a
snowleppordmask!gallerieasaid no and played threre newest song
GIRLPOWER!drinka sure was mad that they couldnt dothe tallent show!thengalleriea told dorinda she looked tornup!aqua grabbed
channels arm and said the time is NOW!so then jackel wanted them
to sing adiffernt song!but shes the only one who didnt like it
SO BYECHEETAHGALLERIEA ... Read more

Book Description

Holly Faye Lovell sure can sing. Everyone in Biscay, Mississippi, knows that. And when at fourteen she becomes the youngest student ever to win a scholarship to the prestigious Haverty School of Music, her dream of pursuing a singing career is on its way. But for the first time in her life, Holly must leave behind her mother, Wanda. Although they don't have much in the way of money, there's always been plenty of love . . . and there's always been Wanda's birthmark, an ugly red scar on the side of her face that makes people who don't know her turn away. Now that Holly's off with her posh new friends and new life, she's ashamed to find herself embarrassed by her mom and their humble background. And Wanda finds herself wanting to reveal a long-hidden secret . . . a secret that could destroy their bond forever.

Besides being an author, Britney is that rare phenomenon, a megastar-one who still phones her mom every night, no matter where she is. Not only is Britney the bestselling female artist during any one-week period in music history, but her debut album, . . . Baby One More Time, made her the youngest artist to hit the 10-million mark. Her second album, Oops! . . . I Did It Again, sold more than 1.3 million copies in its first week and to date has sold more than 17 million CDs worldwide.

Besides being the mother of the planet's biggest superstar, Lynne taught school in Kentwood, Louisiana, for several years before taking time off to be her daughter's biggest fan. She and her husband, Jamie, are the parents of Bryan, Britney, and Jamie Lynn Spears.

This is Britney and Lynne's first--but definitely not their last--work of fiction together.

A portion of the proceeds from this book will go to The Britney Spears Foundation ... Read more

Reviews (93)

Poor little rich girl...
I bought 'A Mother's Gift' because the summery at the back appied to me, not because of Britney Spears' name on the front, shared with her mother. I read the book in one night and put it down feeling somewhat unsatisfied. The ending was indeed a bit of a surprise but didn't really add much to the book. The whole story line is already so cotton candy sweet, dripping with pure sugar that it's enough to make you ill. The ending only added to the sweetness and it just made me groan.

This book, although well written, has no original plot. Holly and her mother Wanda (the one with the ugly birthmark on her face) are poor, Holly wins a scholarship, feels ashamed of her mother, mother reveals secret, daughter forgives mother, both live happily ever after. Sound familar? Not only is the book screaming "And the moral of this story is" at you with every turn of the page, but Holly is so perfect that no teenager could really relate to this perfect fourteen-year-old with her boyfriend back home (whom she has only gone as far as to kiss), and who help her rich friend get her life back on track. See what I mean about the whole sugar-sweetness story line?

Amazing novel
Holly Faye Lovelly a fourteen yaer old who dreams big to become a singer. Holly wants bigger and better things, and wants to leave her small hometown.She wants to part of an acadamy of the Arts somewhere away from home.Wanda, Hollys mother wants the best for her and supperts her alot.Holly at first may think its easy to leave her mother and home,its harder then it seems. When she is asked to join the acadamy money starts to become very low.Wanda losses her job and losses there home.During all of the difficulty Holly and her mother gain a stronger relationship and learn to appreseate what they have.

A Mothers Gift is an excilent book.It reaches out to young adults Throughout the story oyu will see the main characters grow and you will become part of trh story.I recomend this novel to those who want to become something very big but have lots of closed doors.You will learn how to push the bad stuff aside and let the good on.

Britney Spears writes a book...
I am a huge Britney Spears fan, so of course I am going to pick up this book. I didn't buy it at first, I checked it out at the library just in case I didn't like it. I finished the book in a few days, and I completely love it. It might not be a masterpiece, but it is still a nice story. I read just about all of the reviews prior to writing my own, and some people are really harsh! "Unoriginal" was a word that I saw a lot. Did you people expect a Leo Tolstoy novel? Some people have also criticized Britney and her mother for even attempting to write the novel, and then pointed out typo's in the book. People aren't perfect, it's just a way of life. And I am sure they didn't type the book themselves and then hand it in, and right after that the book became published. Obviously, an editor went through the book and then the book became published. Some people are very narrow minded about things, especially if they do not like Britney Spears, there is already a bias. This book is for people who like nice, heartfelt stories. I recommend that you watch the movie "Brave New Girl" that is based on this book. Britney and her mother produced the movie. It premieres on ABC Family channel on April 26th at 8PM. Keep an eye out for that movie, and then if you like the movie, read the book, or vice versa.

All in all, this book was pretty good. Give it a try and dont listen to the prior reviews.

Horrendous
This was absolutely the worst book I ever picked up. In fact, it was so bad that I had to wash my hands a few times and then brush my teeth to get rid of the bad taste it left in my mouth. It was the stereotypical rags-to-riches story with a girl who has big dreams but is so poor she feels she can't ever meet them, when, lo and behold, her dreams come true. This is like a bad, childishly-written version of a VC Andrews novel. It's something that never should have been published, yet somehow was lucky enough to make it past the editor. And we all know why. It's because Britney wrote it. Had it been some average schmo, this book would have never even seen the printing press. Just goes to show what the priorities are in this day of age, but we know it doesn't matter to Britney - as far as I'm concerned, she's smiling smugly at the vast amounts of money being raked in from this little endeavor.

In a nutshell, just avoid this book. You'll be so happy you did. I'm glad I didn't waste my money on it and instead just read it while at the bookstore. Trust me. If you need a real good dramatic book, check out Dorothy Allison, Alice Walker, or VC Andrews's old books - you'll be so happy you did.

AVOID AT ALL COSTS!

Yes, spears can write!
I read this book in 2 days. This book is amazing, it is all about a mother daughter relationship and how they overcome obstacles that are hard for many teenagers. A girl gets a chance to change her life and follow her dreams and her mother is right behind her supporting the decision and keeping her daughter in line. Who cares who wrote the book, it is good. Don't judge it by it's cover. My mom even liked it, and she thinks that Britney is a bad role model. This book is good though, and can be really inspiring. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

In the streets and canals of Venice, Gabriella can hear nothing but sweet music. The drying laundry goes slap-slap, the church bells go ting-aling-ling, and the lire go jing-aling-ling. Soon, Gabriella is humming her way through town -- and everyone hears her song! Some find it sad, others smile when they hear it -- but none can forget the beautiful melody. Before long, a certain struggling composer is inspired by Gabriella's song -- and a beautiful symphony is born. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

EVERYTHING I WANT IN A BOOK FOR MY KIDS
This is such an enchanting, smart and magic little book. It has all the elements I look for in a book for the kids I read to. Through it kids can learn about another city (a quite a wonderful one at that), the power of music and the charm and love commen people of a town can provide for each other. I have read a lot of kids books and this one is really, really special.

A whimsical musical
Candace Fleming's prose sings, and you cannot help but be transported to another place by Gisele Potter's charming illustrations.

A creative look at how musical composition is inspired ...
The opening lines of this book hooked me: "Ah, Venice. The Piazza San Marco. The Grand Canal. St. Mark's Cathedral." This is the way to inspire a child to look outside his neighborhood! Gabriella's Song is a wonderful, richly textured book about how music is inspired and passed from person to person. My 3-year old, a music lover, enjoyed this book on the first read! ... Read more

Book Description

Includes a full-length CD recorded by the Orchestra of St. Luke's, conducted by Sir Charles Mackerras.

History and music come alive!

Prince Nicholas isn't easy to work for--just ask composer Joseph Haydn. When the prince isn't demanding chamber music, operas, and ballets to entertain his guests, he wants dance music for balls and dinner music with his meals. Haydn and the other musicians are kept quite busy at the prince's summer estate in Hungary. As summer fades into autumn, however, the musicians grow increasingly homesick. When Haydn mentions the musicians' distress, the prince threatens to fire the entire orchestra! How will the talented composer convince the mighty prince that it's time to bid farewell to the summer palace?

Memorable characters, carefully researched text, and expressive illustrations tell the story behind Haydn's famous Symphony #45. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Wonderful child intro to Haydn
I would read this to a class or child and then enjoy listening to the work. It's a very nice introduction to Haydn and the humor he used when composing. Wonderful book and it comes with a nice performance of several of Haydn's Symphonys.

The Farewell Symphony
I do collect children's books and take into consideration the illustrations as well as the story. I rate this book excellent, the story is True, based on documented evidence. A CD is also included of the complete "The Farewell Symphony'" and I replay it ad infinitum. Excellent investment in quality entertainment. The illustrations are delightful! Dorothy Hope ... Read more