Reviews (2)

The Quilt Story
The Quilt Story is another one of Tomie dePaola's books. This one is about a little girl named Abigail whose mother sews her a quilt. The girl loves the quilt, and takes it everywhere. One day, the girl's family moves to a new home, and the quilt comforts her with thoughts of her old home. Then the quilt is packed into the attic, where a racoon and a family of mice bed in it. A long time later, a girl find the quilt, and her mothers sews it to like new. The girl's family then moves, and once again the quilt is a comfort to a girl in a strange new place. Tomie dePaola does a wonderful job illustrating this book, and it is well written by Tony Johnston.

Multi-generational story about a mother's loving embrace
In essence, this story is about the constancy of motherly love, even when everything else in the world seems to change. The quilt, crafted by a mother's loving hands, wraps the child in love both physically and metaphorically. The story follows the quilt from it's creation in pioneer days, through to its restoration in modern times. It also follows two girls through the experience of moving, one in a wagon, one in a moving van. We see that ours is not the only generation that has had to cope with changes and transitions, and we see that mothers have always comforted their children by rocking them. Of all the books I read to my daughter, this is the one book that I can't get through without choking up. At first, I couldn't figure out why this story seemed to touch me so deeply. In time, I came to see that the importance I attach to this story reflects the importance I attach to rocking my daughter, and my hope that she will see my love as all-encompassing, and permanent. ... Read more

Book Description

Do you know a great girl? A wild girl, a free girl? A happy as can be girl? Asthis fresh, funny take on girl power attests, being a girl is all about being whoever you want to be.A girl can be athletic or artistic, thoughtful or silly or bold. And she can be just as fierce paintinga mural as climbing a mountain.

With an energetic rhyming text and luminous illustrations that showcase the diversity of girls atwork and play, this is a book to make any girl happy just to be herself, and makes a perfect giftfor a favorite girl, whether little or all grown up. ... Read more

Amazon.com

"Miss Fannie has lots of hats. And each one is her favorite." At age 99,Miss Fannie has much history--and even more hats. She was wearing her greenvelour hat when she witnessed a terrible flood in 1916. Her wide-brimmed felthat with the gleaming black feather reminds her of the hawk she caught to keepit from killing her hens and biddies. But her pink straw hat with silk rosestruly is her favorite. For 35 years she's worn this hat to church every EasterSunday, and "it always makes her feel brand-new, like Easter itself." She's notthe only one who thinks it's special. When her handsome young preacher asks herto donate a hat to the church auction, Miss Fannie knows what she has to do. Shetakes a deep breath, thinks of her favorite verse from the Bible, "With God, allthings are possible," and wraps up her pink straw hat. But she doesn't realizejust how much is possible until the Easter Sunday after the auction.

Jan Kuron, popular author of the bestselling series for adults, The Mitford Years, as well asthe children's book, Jeremy: TheTale of an Honest Bunny, crafts a pleasing story of a charming woman(based on Kuron's own grandmother) who reaps the sweet rewards of hergenerosity. Toni Goffe's warm, cartoonish illustrations will make readers smile.(Ages 4 to 8) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (23)

A delightful book for everyone!
Jan Karon has done it again! Not only has she kept me spellbound with The Mitford Years, but Jan Karon has created a terrific platform for children's books as well.

Miss Fannie's Hat is a wonderful, true story about Jan Karon's own grandmother, that demonstrates the joys of sacrifice. A lesson can be learned from Miss FannieÑI can only pray that Jan Karon writes more children's books about her grandmother!

Wonderful Easter story
Having read the Mitford series by Jan Karon, I was thrilled to discover she also has written children's books. I know a lady just like Miss Fannie at my church. It's a wonderful story for old and young alike. My women's group had everyone wear hats to their May meeting and shared this book with all the gals. They loved it. And the surprise at the back of the book is really enjoyed by my granddaughters.

A beautiful story about family, faith, and sharing
Every time my wife or I read this story to our children, we shed a few tears (of happiness, mostly) .... thinking of aging grandmothers, of faith, of the joy of sharing the things we treasure. This short, funny, story is simply the most beautiful children's book we have ever read. You must read it!

A highly recommended story about the joy of sharing
Jan Karon's Miss Fannie's Hat is a picture book for young Christian readers, about a little old lady who loves her hats - yet when her church needs help, she gives up her favorite hat of all for their auction. Playful color illustrations by Toni Goffe mark this whimsical and highly recommended story about the joy of sharing. A cheerfully narrated audio CD accompanies this special edition Christian storybook.

A Great book!
Miss Fannie is ninety-nine years old and lives with her daughter Wanda. She reads the Bible everyday and has worn out three of them. Miss Fannie is known for her hats of various kinds. She never wears the same hat twice in a row. Every hat has a special meaning to her and brings back memories from her childhood. Every Easter Sunday for thirty-five years Miss Fannie wears her pink straw hat with silk roses. She was asked to donate a hat to auction off by the preacher at her church. After a long time deciding she finally chose the pink straw hat with silk roses. Knowing it would raise a lot of money to fix up the church. This year on Easter morning Miss Fannie goes to church without wearing a hat. When she arrives at church they had planted pink roses in her honor. I thought this book was great and would recommend it. I would recommend it because it taught how to give up something that is special to you so other people can benefit from it. ~ Katelyn Carson ... Read more

Book Description

Sensitive and encouraging, Puberty Survival Guide for Girls is an easy-to-read resource for young girls who are anticipating the many physical and emotional changes that accompany puberty.

Author and practicing gynecologist Dr. Eve Ashby, offers practical and reassuring answers to the many questions that a girl will have as she enters this often confusing and tumultuous time of her life. A veritable “owners manual” for the young female body, Puberty Survival Guide for Girls deals with the issues of self-image and hygiene in a tactful and supportive manner. In a question-and-answer format, Dr. Ashby approaches a variety of topics, including:

· Acne
· Menstruation
· Height and weight spurts
· Female anatomy
· Diet and exercise

Interspersed with quotes and questions from girls Dr. Ashby has met through her medical practice, Puberty Survival Guide for Girls gives voice to the uncertainties faced by adolescent girls. With clear explanations of sensitive and sometimes embarrassing issues, Puberty Survival Guide is an excellent educational tool that will help any young woman gain a better understanding of the changes she will encounter during puberty.

Reviews (3)

mother and daughter quality time
My daughter and I loved this book.It has quality information in a great question and answer based format.Dr. Ashby has very good insight into the questions a young lady has, as well as, the information that a Mother wants to tell her little girl about puberty and the changes her body is going through.

Couldn't put this one down!
What a great mother/daughter book!I showed this book to my daughter and before we knew it, we had read the entire book together! We then spent hours talking! I am going to buy a bunch and give them to friends!Loved it!

This book helped me understand my body.
My father gave me this book and I wished I had it sooner because it explained alot of things about my body and how I am changing. I haven't had a period yet but this book explained how it happens and why being a woman is so special. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

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

Book Description

Robin was always "wandering off" (her mother's words) to get away from the confusion she felt inside her. It was not until Robin's father found a permanent job at the McCurdy ranch, after three years as a migrant worker, that Robin had a place to wander to. As time went by the Velvet Room became more and more of a haven for her--a place to read and dream, a place to bury one's fears and doubts, a place to count on.

The Velvet Room, first published in 1965, was a Junior Library Guild selection, and part of Scholastic Books' Arrow Book Club. ... Read more

Reviews (61)

The Velvet Room - my favorite book
This book was my very favorite, first read ages ago when I was 11 or 12. I related to the main character since I was a member of large family that struggled somewhat to make ends meet. This book validated the feelings I had, needs for privacy, comfort, and an outlet for the imagination. It also teaches a valuable lesson about the importance of family, and finding satisfaction within one's situation in life. I think of this book as a timeless classic, to provide enjoyment and inspiration to every generation.

Escape for the lonely
When I was a young girl in an unhappy family with no escape and no hope, I stumbled on this book. It expressed so many of my thoughts and feelings at that period in my life. It also gave me hope that someday I too would write books that gave others the feeling that they were not alone in their misery. And gave me hope that someday I would find my velvet room. This book has stayed within my heart and my imagination for 30 years. I am currently searching for a copy of this splendid book of a young, unhappy girl searching for a place to call her own. A secret place that can't be lost even if only in her memories. That room becomes her salvation, as the book became mine. I desperately want my daughters to read this book. I have talked about it for years. It certainly warrants republication. Thank you for the opportunity to locate this book once again. I read my copy so often that it fell apart by the time I struck out on my own for my own "Velvet Room".

Secret Place
I think all introverted, bookish youngsters like myself long for a secret place to get away from their family and others who do not understand them. In this book Robin, middle daughter in a large, poor family during the Depression, finds just such a place in the Velvet Room. This is Robin's name for the library in the old McCurdy mansion on Las Palmeras, the California rancho where her family is working picking apricots. Robin loves the library with its precious historical artifacts and wide window seats hidden behind thick velvet curtains. Robin hides from reality in the Velvet Room until she reaches a crossroads and realizes what is most important to her. This book was, and still is a favorite. Can't recommend it highly enough.

My husband curses this book!
I read this book for the first time when I was in 5th grade. It made me want my own round tower library with window seats and velvet drapes! I am now married to an architect, and he wishes I had never read this book, because in planning our own house, my biggest requirement is a round library, with deep window seats, and (maybe) green velvet drapes to shut out the world. A totally awesome book about escaping into imaginary worlds with reading (something I am still prone to do)a wonderful book.

Beverly

Just as I remembered
My book arrived in the morning mail and I spent a quiet early afternoon revisiting a place I loved in fifth grade. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Oscar-winning actor and producer Marlee Matlin makes her writing debutabout a topic she knows very well--the difficulties of growing up deaf.Nine-year-old Megan is thrilled when Cindy moves in down the street, even thoughthe two couldn't be more different. Megan is boisterous; Cindy is shy. Meganloves everything with a passion, especially the color purple; Cindy shrinks fromattention. Megan is deaf; Cindy can hear. Together, they forge an unlikelyfriendship that is tested when the two decide to attend summer camp together.There is another deaf child in their bunk, and suddenly Megan seems to forgetthe promise she made to Cindy to be "BFF," Best Friends Forever. Cindy struggleswith this rejection, even as it forces her to step out from behind Megan'sshadow and learn to speak up for herself. Once they are home again, the tworeconcile when a hair-pulling argument dissolves into laughter.

The preeminent author of fiction about children with disabilities has alwaysbeen the beloved Jean Little (Little by Little, Mine for Keeps, etc.). Havingsaid that, Matlin is no Little, but her writing style is competent and clearlydescribes the realities of Megan's world. And even though Matlin's gently toldstory doesn't rise much above the "message" of Megan's disability, it's still amessage that youngsters need to hear. (Ages 8 to 10) --Jennifer Hubert ... Read more

Reviews (8)

This is a fantastic book
This is a great book for any child, but if you have a deaf child it's a must. It's well written and, let's be frank, there isn't a lot of fiction with deaf characters that kids can relate too. If your child is a little older (teen or adult), Jack Haldeman's "The Fall Of Winter" is a sci-fi story with several deaf characters (and their deafness is definetely *not* a handicap!).

The best
I know I'm only tweleve and older people dont really listen to us, but hear me out for a second. This book is a heart touching storie that talks about a girl named Megan who is deaf. I read this in my sign language class. Just the first chapter caught my attention. Its shows that a girl, 10 years old, who's deaf, can still be who she wants to be. A leader. Not only of her street but also being proud of being deaf. That is what I like to read. Someone who has a diablility can still feel proud of who she is. Amazing! Now go a buy this book. It will truely turn your life around and have you look at life in a different light.

Mediocre at best
Generally an accurate depiction of a deaf girl's childhood in a hearing family and environment.

If I were younger, I'd enjoy this book a bit better. There are not many books with the main character being Deaf. This book scores solely on the factor that the main character is Deaf. Great for these little girls who are Deaf out there.

But other than that, this book is mediocre at best. The writing is bland, the storyline tired, the characters undeveloped, and the countless typos annoying.

A disappointing book overall.

Good
This book was o.k.

It is about two girls that build a very strong friendship.There is a deaf girl named Megan that just can't wait till the new girl Cindy moves in.Ones she does they learn how to sign to each other and end up going to camp togeter.After they get into a figt and learned the differance between each other they become even closer.

A Story of Friendship
This book is about a deaf child named Megan. The characters were funny, like the kids I know at school. I think the author is telling us that deaf kids are both the same as hearing children and very different at the same time. We all have
misunderstandings and everyone needs to be sensitive to each others needs. This book is very touching-I cried when Megan's dog Apples died. For insight into Megan's world and kids like her you should read this book. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Judy Moody Saves the World
The book Judy Moody Saves the World, is about a little girl Judy Moody. The main characters in this book are: Judy a 11 yer old girl, Stink, Judy's younger brother, Rocky and Frank, Judy's best friends. In school, Judy likes to learn about the world and how she can be a person that will not litter, but throw away trash, and will recycle things, lilke bottles.I would recommend this book it people who like to read about saving the world and nature.

I love this book!
I love this book so much because it is funny, because her friends have to pick up a frog. Then her friends feel something warm -- guess what that was. There are no books better than Judy Moody. There are no books funnier than Judy Moody. And this is all that I can tell you about this book.

A Smart and Funny Book
My seven year old daughter loved this book, and I did, too. There was a lot of humor, and my daughter was laughing out loud to parts of it. One thing I appreciated was that the book doesn't talk down to kids, the way I think the "Junie B. Jones" books do (by using improper grammar and words like "bestest" to seem cute). Highly recommended!

Judy Moody Saves the World
Judy Moody Saves the World, by Megan McDonald, is a great book about a girl who wants to make a difference in the world. Children will love this book because it contains so many feelings and ideas that they can relate to in their everyday lives. Judy Moody is your typical third grade student and sister who takes things to extremes. She is intrigued by science, and she is destined to save the world no matter what she has to do! Judy Moody enters contests, fights for endangered species, and comes up with a great idea to save the rain forest. She does all of these things because she has enough courage to stand up for what she believes in. You will find humor in every chapter. I even laughed out loud as I read the story. I think seven,eight, and nine year olds would enjoy this book very much! ... Read more

Reviews (12)

A Cecile fan!
This book is so good! I cried. I laughed. I felt like I was Cecile!! Mary Casanova is an excellent writer. I don't want to tell you anything about the book, then it'll spoil it and you wont read it!! I also suggest you read the other Girls of Many Lands books, although this is the only one I've read so far.

On a scale from 1 to 10, I choose 12!
Before you press the NO button on the bottom of this review saying that it is not helpful, please read my review because it is OK. This book is so horribly horible it is wonderful. The book begins at 12 year old Cecile Revel's poor village. She finds a woman (the king's sister in-law to be correct) who is injured and has her father help the lady. The lady then lets Cecile come with her, leaving her life as a peasant to be a servant of dogs at the kings palace. And of course even a servant to dogs at a palace is better than being a peasant in a shack. So then she goes to a life at court and recieves word that her father has died. So then she's all depressed and then she starts to fall for Phillipe, a boy her age that often escorts her around. Then she is accused of killing royalty, and then more royalty, and then again, another member of the royal family. She learns of her father's devestating past. She is not allowed to go to the Royal Christmas Ball. (What a shame that was, I was looking forward to her going with Phillipe) She is sent away to a boarding school at the end of the story. About all of the main characters die. It is a book that is so horrible, but, in a funny way, it is good. I would recommend it to all GIRLS aged 11 to 14.

Mary Casanova has done it again!
This awesme book is a perfect example of love and kindness. In this book Cecile,a 13 year old girl and also a commoner, goes to live in court after she saves Madame from when she fell off her horse, and in return she is invited to stay in the palace. While shes there she learns he way of a proper lady. And meets wonderful new people! I recomend this book to anyone who loves adventure!

THE BEST BOOK EVER!!
This book is about 12 year old Cecile Revel who dreams of life at court. She watches madame's dogs and meets new people. This is such a good book I can't write it all down!

Tres Bien!
I originally picked this up because it was by the same publisher as the American Girls Series (I am a huge fan of the Josephine and the Felicity books), along with Spring Pearl. I dove into this book, to say the least. The story is about the daughter of a widowed French man, named Cecile. One day while out in the woodlands, a royal entourage passes by and a woman losses her course and finds Cecile. As it turns out, she is the Duchesse de Orleans from the Versailles Court. Madame as she known as around Versailles adopts Cecile and takes her to the frivolous court where Cecile is introduced to the royal family and the grandeur of France. The stories of the Versailles intrigues w/ Cecile are wonderful. They are very detailed, very amusing, very entertaining, and full of hidden morals. Although some of the scenes were unecessary, the story overall was a grand treat. The best scene I think was perhaps the Christmas ball, as entertaining and scandalous as it was. The story ends in tragedy, with the death of one of the little dauphins. Cecile is banished because she helped keep the other dauphin from his family, therefore putting him in danger (but really saving him). Cecile is sent to a girls' school, and forever leaves behind Versailles behind the gates of gold.
This story was great, the best in the series I'd say. Great details, development, characters, and enough to capture your mind. Although, I may be overating this book, as I am obsessed with the French courts of Versailles, Marie Antoinette, and all French royalty, I am sure everyone who tries this book will enjoy it. And of course, since I am one of the biggest fans of the Royal Diaries out there, I have to add that Marie Antoinette, Princess of Versailles, would be an excellent book to read alongside Cecile.
Bon travail Mary Casanova! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

another good Lily book
Just when Lily Robbins is starting to get along with her sister Tessa, she has to leave for Camp Galilee with the Girlz. But the Girlz plans for a cabin of their own go awry when they discover that the counselors would not let them have a cabin together. Lily finds herself in a cabin with best friends Alexandria and Genevieve who look like models from a magazine, DJ, who becomes the outspoken leader of the group, and Maggie, who does nothing but talk incessantly and make Lily feel rotten. Lily goes through homesickeness, and it only gets worse when her friend Zooey is sent home with a severe allergic reaction to poison ivy. Lily herself attempts to contract the disease, but her attempts fail. The only highlight is the fact that Lily will get the chance to use a sailboat, but even that goes bad when Lily capsizes the boat from not follwing her instructor's directions. Lily finally has a talk with her counselor, Jackie, who helps Lily with her walk with God at camp. Lily learns, once again, about a servant's heart, and learns some more lessons from the Bible. I gave the book four stars because there is some sailing lingo that I did not understand and ended up skipping, because it confused me. But other than that this book is an excellent addition to the Lily series. ... Read more

Book Description

The Little House books have captivated generations of readers with theirstory of the little pioneer girt Laura Ingalls growing up on the American frontier. Now the Little House story continues with The Rocky Ridge Years, books that tell the story of Laura and Almanzo Wilder's daughter, Rose.

The first three books in the series, Little House On Rocky Ridge, Little Farm In the Ozarks, and In the Land of the Big Red Apple, describe the Wilders' covered-wagon journey to Missouri and their first two years in their new farmhouse. On The Other Side of the Hill continues their story as the young Wilder family struggles to overcome a series of natural disasters that beset their little farm.

On The Other Side of the Hill continues the story that Laura Ingalls Wilder began more than sixty years ago -- a story whose wonder and adventure have charmed millions of readers.

Reviews (7)

Disappointing series for Little House fans
I found this entire series of books to be disappointing because it was more cynical than the original series. On doing some research I discovered that chapters in least one of the final books were actually taken (almost verbatim) from Rose's writings for an adult audience. The story is totally out of character with the series. Rose and her friend sneak out for several nights to meet a traveling salesman. He eventually makes a pass at her...
The listed author for this book (MacBride) died before the last few books were published and whether he had anything to do with the books is questionable.
This series is okay as light reading for adolescents but if you are looking for a piece of americana, and/or a wholesome book for your child this is not the best choice. It grossly fails to live up to the original series of books. The Caroline series is a better choice.

A fantastic book!
On the Other Side of the Hill is a terrific book! Nine going on ten, Rose gets to participate in a shivaree after a wedding and goes to her friend Blanche's party. A cyclone comes, and a long drought and a fire invade Rocky Ridge Farm, but Rose and her family help each other through the hard times, and at the end they must move into town. Rose is sad to say good-bye to Rocky Ridge Farm, but knows she'll later return.

On the Other Side of the Hill: Book review
I loved On the Other Side of the Hill! It was so exciting that I could never put it down. Out of all the books I've read about Rose, this is my favorite.

Keeps on delighting
The girl was quite a firecracker. Again, just as charming as Little House, but the storytelling is rich and more reflective of who Rose was. This series truly equals the charm and storytelling of Laura's story. Kudos to those who thought to bring this series to print.

This book starts out nice but there are disaster at the end.
It's time for new beginng! The wilders' have their first real Buchering Time, and Rose goes to her first party. But then their life is full of disasters: a cyclone, a long drought and a trerrble fire hits Rocky Ridge Farm. What can they do? ... Read more

Book Description

The secret life of Emily the Strange is quite a bit more strange than was previously understood. Uncover the truth behind her mysterious world in this recently discovered volume, Emily’s Secret Book of Strange, the revealing companion to the best-selling Emily the Strange. Enter, if you dare, the house that Emily built. Decipher the secret language of the Emily Strange Posse: Morose Code. Learn little known facts, like what’s developing in Emily’s darkroom. In the same graphic style, with the same high production values, and featuring all new art, Emily’s Secret Book of Strange is an irresistible sequel for Emily fans everywhere. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Long live Emily!
Emily is an intelligent little black and white child who started out as a small internet idea but spawned into a large merchandise line and nows the chance to see for yourself why this little goth girl is so popular. With wit, sarcasm, insight, and her four dangerous cats, Emily will show you the dark side of life that has already been favored by many of us. I love the awesome cover, the illustrations and each page in the book has many secret codes and messages for you to find. I've had this book for months and theres still things i find myself noticing for the very first time! Rock on Emily!

read this then go away!
It's essential for any chick who is drawn to the darker things in life to own at least one Emily item but once you enter her bizarre world it's hard to go back. I received both "Emily's Book Of Strange" along with the 2004 calendar for my birthday and those were a perfect introduction to this quiet (but nowhere near shy) cat-luvin' Goth grrl who's preferred favorite color is everything black...or red. Her attitude is anything but cheery but sometimes us open-minded people have to shield ourselves from the ones that are afraid to venture outside the box and to explore what's beyond the edges. I could be wrong but I believe her image is a symbol of encouraging individuality. Or, in other words, to think for yourself without following the crowd by listening and dressing according to what's considered "normal".

There's not a lot of text within these pages (there's often a bare minimum of two words) but the illustrations by Rob Reger and Buzz Parker are creatively "strange" and pure (or is that tainted?) candy for the eyes.

I especially enjoy perusing this on cold, rainy days.

emily the strange is amazing!
I really like the Emily's Secret Book of Strange because it has really cool pictures. Although, it doesn't really have that many words in it either but the pictures are amazing and fun to look at. the secret messeges that are on the pages are really cool, but you have to look closely to see them. If you like to look at a lot of pictures, Emily's Book of the strange has a lot of them.

Cool Book
I actually had never heard of the Emily books, untill my friend showed me her autographed copy of this book & I fell in love, my copy is on the way via mail, this book has neat pictures with very cool secret writing on each page. A fun book for anyone.

Another Great Book for the Strange
My name, ironically enough, is Emily. I like this book even better than the first one. I loved it all especially Emily's Web Collection ... This is a great book for anyone who is STRANGE. ... Read more

Book Description

No one ever said being a princess was easy.

Just when Mia thought she had the whole Princess thing under control, things get out of hand, fast. First there's an unexpected announcement from her mother. Then GrandmÈre arranges a national primetime interview for the brand-new crown princess of Genovia. On top of that, intriguing, exasperating letters from a secret admirer begin to arrive.

Before she even has the chance to wonder who those letters are from, Mia is swept up in a whirlwind of royal intrigue the likes of which hasn't been seen since volume I of The Princess Diaries.

Reviews (130)

Princess, in the Spotlight
The first book I read in this quarter, was Princess, in the Spotlight It is written by Meg Cabot and is the second volume of The Princess Diaries. I chose this book because the cover of the book had a really big attraction. I took it off the shelf and read the first page. I wanted to keep on reading, and I figured that if wouldn't be fair if I just read the whole book without paying, so I bought it immediately. After reading the book, it was worth it.
This book is about a girl named, Mia Thermopolis, who finds out that she's actually a princess (her princess name is Amelia Mignonette Grimaldi Thermopolis Renaldo) of Genovia in Europe, after fifteen years! After being suprised and depressed of her mother of not telling her sooner, she realizes that her mother is pregnant with her Algebra teacher's baby! What could go worse! In her diary, she writes that many horrible things already happen to her, and she still has another thing to worry about. In Mia's words: she's flat-chested, doesn't have a boyfriend, is responsible of groceries in the family, has to help her friend make an interesting show on television, finish her always un-done homework, and many more. When her Algebra teacher or father moves in, she'll have to move her furniture and objects back to her room, dump her mother's beer, buy baby foods, and others. Sometimes she and I wonder how come a princess has all these responsilbilities. Her Grandm`ere (grandmother) the queen, has even decided to plan a wedding for her parents! Mia, who has tried to do everything she can, cannot take any more responsibiities. Poor Mia!
In this book (diary), I'm sure a lot of girls can somehow relate themselves with this. Mia goes through a lot of problems, and girls at my age do too, especially when they're growing up. I think every girl should read this book because if they do, they'll be sure to know that they're not the only ones in this world who go throught those kinds of problems.

bridging two great reads
This sequel to The Princess Diaries takes the next month of high school freshman Mia Thermopolis' life. October has Mia getting used to the daily princess lessons and constant publicity and bodyguards. Life is just getting bearable when her mother announces that she's pregnant¡¦with Mia's Algebra teacher's baby! Why, God, why?

Meanwhile, Mia's grandmother sets up a high profile TV interview that goes hopelessly awry. Mia is dealing with her embarrassment and the fallout at school when a secret admirer appears. Could it be the senior who Mia has crushed on forever? But Mia can't concentrate on that right now. Grandmere is on her case again, while her mother is in the throes of morning sickness, and her father is dating her interviewer. Why, God, why?

The book's strange adventures are redeemed by Mia's growing maturation and Meg Cabot's humor and memorable characters. It was very enjoyable and hilarious read in succession to the first volume, although it disappointed a bit on its own. Cabot seems to have been a little distracted from her main point, which is Mia. The wacky events in this sequel overshadow her at times and are far removed from those elements of realism that make these books a lovely visit down adolescent memory lane. A decent, entrertaining read, but recommended you read the first and third as well, in order. 2.5 stars

Book two...
The plot of this book was pretty dry. Just when you think it's getting interesting, it gets a bit dull again. I would only recommend this book if you want to read the others in the series and be able to understand them.

NOT WHAT I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE
I did not like this book because I was looking forward to finding out what happened to Mia when she went to Genovia. The book was so different than the movie. I was disappointed with how much they talked about french kissing and sex.I did't think it was a good influence on me so I put it down.I also didn't like that Mia's mom was pregnant outside of marriage. Wait until you are married than you can french kiss and have sex all you want to.

A fun, light read
This book was cute but incredibly unrealistic. I mean, a princess? One that appears on TV and everything?

*SPOILER ALERT*
The secret admirer thing was cute, but it totally couldn't have been Michael. I'm suprised that Mia didn't figure that earlier either. It kind of disappointed me a little bit at the end because Mia hooked up with Kenny. He's seems sweet, but she doesn't like him! The whole thing with Hank and Lilly, and he being an aspiring model was not necessary, in my opinion. I suppose it might have been some light-hearted humor or something. It also kind of pissed me off how, IN THE END, Michael complimented Mia, you know, after she said 'yes' to Kenny. God, what's wrong with boys...some are too shy and some are too arrogant.

Overall, 'Princess in the Spotlight' is a quick, easy read if you're looking for and entertaining, enjoyable book. ... Read more

Amazon.com

"Rule #10: Don't eat like a bird on a date."
"Rule #14: You don't have to bungee jump to impress a guy."
"Rule #24: Don't ask a boy if he loves you."

Looking for some real guidance in the strange new world of dating, boys,and relationships? If advice from your Great Aunt Petunia ("Boys are only afterone thing, honey. Watch out!") or your big sister ("Oh puh-lease, you'reso immature!") isn't quite cutting it, this book is for you. Thirty-onerules offer girls solid advice (not laws!) on difficult dating questions. Forexample, is it okay to cancel plans with a friend if that hottie in AmericanHistory class asks you out? What if you see your best friend's boyfriend makingout with another girl? How can you tell--or show--the guy you have a crush onthat you want to kiss him? Each rule provides commonsense suggestions forhandling different situations, and includes comments from teens who have dealtwith the same issues. The emphasis is on building strong, healthy, honestrelationships. A fun, lighthearted tone encourages teens to explore thisterritory without getting bogged down in unnecessary games or heavy commitment.(Ages 13 and older) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Excellent Book
Being my age, 16, and never having been on a date, I began to worry I wouldn't know what to do on one when the time comes. So, I got this book. I never realized it would be this informative. There are special chapters on everything, from "Don't Eat Like A Bird On A Date" to "Don't Flirt If You're Not Really Interested". This book has it all, and is a must have for any teenage girl.

Great Book!
this is a great help. I found it helped me alot! im gooing to buy on for my friend for her birthday. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

Have a teen? She needs/wants/ would adore this book!
What a christmas/Chanukah gift! Teenagers will fall in love with this book and notch up their self-esteem 100 points, as they read and experiment. Vincent is the best and he understands teen girls and their hair better than anyone else in the world! ... Read more

Book Description

The Heroine: Tiffany Aching, incipient witch and cheese maker extraordinaire. Once saved world from Queen of the Elves. Is about to discover that battling evil monarchs is child's play compared to mortal combat with a Hiver (see below). At eleven years old, is boldest heroine ever to have confronted the Forces of Darkness while armed with a frying pan.

The Threat: A Hiver, insidious disembodied presence drawn to powerful magic. highly dangerous, frequently lethal. Cannot be stopped with iron or fire. Its target: Tiffany Aching (see above).

The Nac Mac Feegle: A.k.a. the Wee Free Men. Height: six inches. Color: blue. Famed for drinking, stealing, and fighting. Will attack anything larger than themselves. Members include: Rob Anybody, Daft Wullie, and Awfully Wee Billy Bigchin. Allies to Tiffany Aching (see above).

The Book: Hilarious, breathtaking, spine-tingling sequel to the acclaimed Wee Free Men.

The Author: Terry Pratchett, celebrated creator of the internationally best-selling Discworld series. Carnegie Medalist and writer extraordinaire.

Reviews (27)

Stitch This, Bigjobs !
First published in 2004 and set on the Discworld, "A Hat Full of Sky" is the sequel to "The Wee Free Men" and sees Tiffany Aching return as the book's heroine. Tiffany, now eleven years old, has been brought up on a farm in an area on the Chalk. She has six older sisters, one younger brother, wields a mean frying pan, is very good with cheese and has already impressed the Discworld's greatest witch. Granny Aching, who dies when Tiffany was seven, continues to be a big influence on her grand-daughter. Granny was a shepherdess, very fond of Jolly Sailor tobacco and - Tiffany is convinced - a witch. Remembering how Granny said it was important to stand up for those who have no voice, Tiffany has decided she wants to follow in her footsteps.

The book also features an exceptionally rowdy, and thoroughly entertaining, bunch of fairies. The Wee Free Men, we also known as the Nac Mac Feegle, are a Pictsie race who were thrown out of Fairyland for being drunk, disorderly and rebellious. They are covered in tattoos, have red hair and blue skin and wear little other thank kilts and swords. An extremely fast and strong race, they are fond of fighting, stealing and drinking - Granny Aching's Special Sheep Liniment us a particular favorite. There have been a few changes since "The Wee Free Men", however. The clan now has a new gonnagle, Awf'ly Wee Billy Bigchin Mac Feegle, and a new Kelda, Jeannie of the Long Lake. Jeannie, as tradition demands, has married the Big Man o' the Clan, Rob Anybody Feegle. She is also responsible for possibly the biggest change of them all. The Nac Mac Feegle had once been afraid of reading and writing, believing it to be a dangerous type of magic. Jeannie now wants the clan, beginning with Rob Anybody, to learn how to read and write. For a while during "The Wee Free Men", however, Tiffany was the clan's temporary Kelda - as a result, they have never forgotten her and still try to protect her. It also means that Jeannie doesn't like or trust the young hag at all.

As the book opens, Tiffany is leaving the Chalk for a spell (boom boom !). She's been apprenticed to Miss Level, a very peculiar research witch but clearly with some talent. (Miss Level's cottage is also home to Oswald, a kind of anti-poltergeist : instead of messing things up, he's obsessively tidy). Tiffany travels to Miss Level's with Miss Tick : unknown to either of then, however, they are being followed by a hiver. This is a type of demon without a body, brain or shape of its own. Instead, they search for and take refuge in bodies of great power - and this particular hiver has targeted Tiffany. Tiffany has inadvertently learnt how to 'borrow', a trick which leaves her own body unattended. Unfortunately, this will makes things easier for the hiver to take up residence. Luckily, the Wee Free Men want to follow and protect her - if they can convince their new Kelda it's a good idea.

Like everything else I've read by Pratchett, this is an excellent book. It's easily read, features plenty of likeable characters and there are plenty of laughs. Although I would recommend reading "The Wee Free Men" before this instalment "A Hat Full of Sky" is definitely recommended !

Noble values sewn into a captivating story.
This is the second book in the Tiffany Aching series (after The Wee Free Men and before at least a couple more with the tentative titles of Wintersmith and When I Am Old I Shall Wear Midnight).

Tiffany is now eleven, two years have passed since the events of The Wee Free Men and the incident with the Fairy Queen. She's learnt a few tricks since then, like the ability to step out of her own body, which is actually very handy when your only mirror is too small and you want to check if your hair is well combed at the back of your head. Although she likes wearing that invisible hat Mistress Weatherwax gave her.

Now Miss Tick the witch is bringing her to the mountains, to Miss Level's cottage to be more precise, an old witch with two bodies, where she shall begin her apprenticeship.

Her news friends, the other witches' apprentices, and especially Annagramma Hawkin, mock her because she's only good at sheep and cheese, and Miss Level only helps old people or acts as a midwife and she's not even doing proper magic, and of course Tiffany's not even wearing proper witch clothes with stars and sequins, let alone a real witch hat. In the end, Tiffany's apprenticeship turns out to be not exactly what she expected, but much, much more.

And all that time, the little blue fairy men, the Nac Mac Feegle, are watching over her. And what they find out is that an evil spirit, a Hiver, is pursuing Tiffany, waiting to take up her body the next time she steps out of it. Rob Anybody and his mates set out to help her.

I really really love the Tiffany Aching books. In them, and probably because they're aimed at a younger audience, Terry Pratchett manages to philosophize in a much more accessible and discreet manner than in his lastest (adult) Discworld books (like Thief of Time). The values he teaches here, through the relationship between people, or between people and the land, are very noble ones, and they're seemlessly sewn into a storyline that is in itself very captivating, and of course very funny. I really really love the Tiffany Aching books.

Where chalk meets chirt.
Ok, I admit Terry's 'Guards, Guards', and 'Pyramids' (not to mention Death fly-fishing in 'Mort') were some of the funniest things I've ever read.
This book, however, is not so much funny as very introspective.What would Esmeralda Weatherwax been like on The Chalk?Would she have been as old as a child as Tiffany seems to be, who obviously has never been a little girl?

Read the book.It's worth it, even if you aren't looking for a good laugh AND you can get over the idea that a child thinks like a cynical old woman.

Terry has demonstated a gift over the years for the 'who done it' creepy kind of fantasy drama. (Stop hanging out with Neil Gaiman, Sir Knight!)He didn't leave me dangling over whether the heroine wins, but in what way she would conquer her issues.But he did leave me wondering if he'd ever known any little girls like Tiffany - and I know he has a daughter, who could not possibly have met the expectations of this book.If he did know someone like Tiffany, then that would worry me.

The Mac Nac Feegle are so much fun.As always.

Great book for kids
My 3 boys, ages 9 to 13, begged me not to stop when I was reading this book to them.They loved the humor in it, especially how the Mac Nac Feegle relate to Tiffany and their environment.It reads quick, like a good book should.I found it fun but not specifically an adult based book.It is written with the average adolescent in mind, as the main character, Tiffany, is in that age range.

Again, not just for Children
My review for Pratchett's "A Hat Full of Sky" reads almost exactly like that for Pratchett's "Wee Free Men" (the prequel to this book).First, and most importantly, I don't care what the "official" write-ups for this book say: this is not just a book for pre-pubescent youth. Outside of the fact that the protagonist is an 11-year old and some of the behavior/situations are somewhat simplified (i.e., it doesn't have the layers and layers of meaning buried in Pratchett's other works), this is standard Discworld fare. Some mild complaints are that the book appears to finish up just after the middle.However, that was a faulty assumption on my part and I quickly saw what Pratchett intended.Also, Granny Weatherwax isn't quite in character:she's too warm.I've marked the book down from five stars to four because of the mild simplification, but other than that, it's pretty darn good. ... Read more

Book Description

Meet the
Cobble Street Cousins

* Lily, who wants to be a poet *
* Tess, who wants to be a Broadway star *
* Rosie, who wants a little cottage with flowers by the door *

It's spring on Cobble Street, and Lily has a great idea -- the Cobble Street Cousins' own newspaper! Soon the very first edition of The Cobble Street Courier is hot off the presses, with a poem by Lily, Tess's favorite jokes, and Rosie's yummy recipe for shortbread -- even an interview with Aunt Lucy's boyfriend, Michael. Now it's time to deliver the paper to all the cousins' old friends on Cobble Street -- and a couple of new ones! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

This book is about...
I like this book because I like its' newspaper. It showed me how Lily Rosie and Tess put a newspaper together. It's a lot like the newsletter than Morgan and Julia and I write.

Some Very Good News
It was a very good book. I like the characters because they are pretty and it is fun to hear their thoughts. The characters have good ideas. I also like books with pictures, they help me figure out what is going on in the story and this book has several pictures. I really liked the Junie B. Jones books and was looking for other books to read. I finally found the Cobble Street Cousins series and really enjoy them. ... Read more

Book Description

A Girl's Guide to Life offers teen girls a new approach to facing their adolescent years. It’s a totally fresh, totally complete resource on all the traumas and triumphs in teen girls’ lives. The book is divided into Body, Mind, and Soul sections to address the relevant issues in each area of a young woman’s life. It’s THE book for any girl wondering what’s happening to her body, soul, and mind during these crazy years.

With space for journaling, conversations with real teen girls, Scripture challenges, and more!

Reviews (1)

AWESOME BOOK
WHAT A GREAT BOOK FOR TEEN GIRLS!I NEVER HAD ALL THIS INFO AS A TEEN. THIS IS SUCH A GREAT RESOURCE FOR ALL YOUNG GIRLS & I THINK MANY GROWN WOMEN WOULD BENIFIT FROM IT ALSO. IT IS WRITTEN TO REACH OUT TO YOUNG GIRLS& THIER LANGUAGE & UP TO DATE REFERENCES & RESOURCES. THIS IS A MUST HAVE FOR MANY OF MY FRIENDS GIRLS & GRANDCHILDREN A GREAT POWERFUL BOOK TO GIVE !!!! ... Read more

Book Description

There's never been anyone quite like Annie Bananie. So when she has to move away, her playmate cannot believe it -- until she realizes that even far apart, they can still be best friends.

Reviews (8)

Bookmobile best seller
Annie Bananie is the narrator's best friend. They have wild times together, parading around dressed up as queens and tickling bumblebees. But Annie is moving away, and the narrator mourns her departure by reminding her of all the good times they've had together. This is a funny, yet sad story of a kind loss that many kids must face at a young age when they are just making friends for the first time. It is a best seller on the local bookmobile. It has about 200 words.

this book helps so much!!
This book may be a children's book yet it can help people of all ages. Right now i am 17 years old and my bestest friend in the world is gonna move. i couldnt deal with it at first and then a fellow student recommended this book. not only did i read it but i bought it for my friend for her to cherish so she can see how i feel. it is a great book!

Best children's book ever!
My mother purchased this book for me when I was four years old to help during the transition of moving, and leaving my best friend behind. Now that I am almost 17 it continues to be my favorite children's book. It pocesses the central idea of the innocence of a childhood friendships and how important friendships are in general. I feel this story also reveals a unique element of hope that exists inside everyone.

Never forget how important your friends are
I read this book with my preschool class and it reminded me about how important my friends are to me. They laughed through the whole thing and appreciated it in a much different way than I did although I did laugh a lot too!

Pleasure to read, our 4-yr old loved this story!
Though I'm sure our daughter picked the book initially for the colorful photos from the library, we all came to enjoy this story. Given the subject, we found the text silly and fun. This book seemed to be a good tool not only for understanding the loss of a friend moving but also for understanding the value of true good friends. I enjoyed the imaginative antics of the two friends and the creative illustrations. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Heartland is a horse farm with the special mission of healing abused orneglected horses and finding them new homes. Fifteen-year-old Amy worksalongside her talented mother, a gifted horse trainer who uses techniquessimilar to those of the trainer in The Horse Whisperer. While rescuing anabandoned stallion in a thunderstorm, Amy's mother is killed when a falling treehits their car, and everything at Heartland--and everything in Amy's life--isthrown into turmoil. Amy's older sister, Lou, leaves her job to come toHeartland to help, and Amy begins to cope with the new circumstances of herlife, relying on her work with her beloved horses to help her face the futurewithout her mom.

Fans of the Saddle Club, Pine Hollow, and Thoroughbred series of horse novelswill enjoy this sensitively told story that combines lots of authentic horse-farm details with Amy's challenges in dealing with her bossy older sister andher mom's sudden death. The story of Heartland is continued in After the Storm. (Ages 8 to 12)--Marcie Bovetz ... Read more

Reviews (81)

Coming Home
This book is coming home by Lauren Brooke,it is a great realistic book!
This book is #1 in the Heartland Series.
Heartland is a horse farm in the hills of virginia. Heartland is much more than just a horse farm, it is where the scars from the past can be healed. Amy,Ty,and Amy's mother cures horses. One day Amy and Soraya-Soraya is Amy's friend-Goes to a friends house which is an old lady,and the old lady isn't there, but her horse is in the barn,the horse has been in there for like 3 days without food and very little water.So Amy and Soraya goes back to the ranch in search of Amy's mother to go help bring the horse to Heartland.Amy and her mother goes to get the horse, although on the way homse something terrible happens. You will have to read this book to see what happens.

Healing Horses, Healing Hearts- a wonderful series
Heartland is a place Amy's mother started after nursing her husband's show jumper, Pegasus, back to health using alternative remedies and therapies, due to an accident that the horse and rider were both injured, and Amy's father leaves to recover. She started to take in other problem or abused horses and helped them to learn to trust again. When she died, Amy and her older sister, had to take over everything, and tried to keep the place going. Amy finds she has the same horse-whispering talents as her mother, and struggles to take over the work her mother had done so well. Amy works hard to keep Heartland in business and to overcome the sadness of losing her mother, to realize it was not her fault her mother died. This book was very emotional and descriptive, written very well. You could feel Amy's sadness at losing her mother in an accident that she felt was her fault, for she had convinced her mother to go out in a storm to rescue an abandoned horse, Spartan. I recommend this book to everyone who has some connection with the world of the horse, or anyone who loves reading at all