Book Description

"If you're having trouble talking to your children about sex--knowing what to say and when to say it--then here is the book for you.The talented team who created the acclaimed Dino Life Guides for Families is ready to help. With characteristic sensitivity, they present answers to tough questions.Here is an introduction to sex along with the ways girls and boys differ...and are the same.What's the Big Secret is the beginning of one of the most important conversations you and your child will have." ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Good balance
I read this book to 2 10-year olds who were pretty naive. They "got it", without being too embarrassed. It handles all topics appropriately, and gives both reader and listener a few moments for laughter to break up the big news.

Great book but not really for kids under 7....
Last summer I read this book to my then just turned 7 & just turned 4 yr old and the youngest was completely clueless as to what I trying to get across. The oldest understood somewhat, wasn't all that interested, but still managed to let a few giggles out. She took the book and read it herself. When I later asked her if she had any questions for me, she had none but commented that it was "embarrassing". The book was put away to age a little longer....
Earlier this week I re-read the book to both of them, now almost 5 and almost 8. The 5 yr old is still clueless and bored with all of it. The 8 yr old seemed a bit more interested and less embarrassed. She took the book and again read it to herself and asked a few "why" questions but nothing I couldn't handle.
In my opinion, this book is great for 7 - 10 yr olds (1st - 3rd grade), not the pre-school - grade 3 that it is catagorized. Enough for 7 - 10 yr olds to comprehend and enough for this age to know. Not overwhelming in technical terms or detail nor is it written in baby terms. I agree with a previous reviewer. When the teen years arrive, more information, terms & detail will need to be divulged but for this pre-teen age. For pre-teens, this book is perfect.

Not for attachment parents!
While this book is colorful and covers many common questions, it is not for attachment parents - or any parent who wants to teach her child a more natural parenting approach.

It does have one breastfeeding picture, but it also includes pictures of baby bottles and a baby bottle-feeding, newborns in a hospital nursery, a hospital birth with the mom lying on her back (which is very difficult and can lead to unnecessary Caesareans), and a newborn crying (which is not really natural, and rarely happens in a waterbirth), and a bit of rudeness (a child calling another child "silly").

The book also states that puberty can start at "ten or twelve or fourteen" but many children are starting earlier these days (possibly from the growth hormones in cow's milk, a good reason to switch to organic milk), and they may feel worried if they read that statement.

Two better books are Welcome With Love by Jenni Overend and A Child Is Born by Lennart Nilsson.

GREAT for my young step-daughter
I bought this book for my 6 year old step-daughter. She's started asking questions about what a boy looks like and why I won't be having a baby with her daddy (she thinks it just happens because you get married). The pictures in this book are just right for a 6 year old, and there isn't too much information. It certainly settled her "need to know" crisis, and The "I'll show you mine if you show me yours" incident on the playground that I had a nightmare about.

Very good
I read this with my 8 year old daughter. She loved the book, and understood the information without being embarrassed. I really liked how it explained the differences between good, loving touches; and bad, uncomfortable touches. I would say this book is best for children over the age of 6. It may be too advanced for the younger ones. ... Read more

Book Description

Inspired by the issues discussed in Loving Your Body / Loving Yourself, this journal gives teens the opportunity to explore their own feelings about their bodies, themselves, and other related topics in a unique, personal way. Author Kimberly Kirberger provides commentary, questions, and suggested writing activities to help girls use the journal to work toward loving their bodies and themselves. Body image is the #1 issue among preteen and teen girls. This journal is specifically designed to help them express and work through their feelings on this powerful, important topic.
... Read more

Reviews (1)

A great journal!
This is a great journal for teenage girls to discover their personality, values and stuff like that. lol. It's really fun to fill in! I recommend this to every girl from age 11-16. ... Read more

Book Description

Imagine it: a weekend without your parents; a weekend in a hotel with your best friends; a weekend in one of the biggest, loudest, craziest cities in the world. Jealous yet? Well, get ready to turn green with envy because Alice, Pam, Liz, and Gwen are headed to New York City for the weekend! Sure, it's a school trip and there'll be some educational stuff like museums and plays and visiting Ellis Island, but what the girls really can't wait for is everything they're going to do when their teachers go to bed. Bars, clubs, dancing, shopping, and boys...anything is possible. The city awaits them, and all they have to do to have the time of their lives is sneak past a few hotel clerks.

Alice can't wait to hit New York. A weekend with her friends is just what she needs right now. Sophomore year and driving lessons are a lot harder than she thought they would be, and it's time for her to get away from all that work and have some fun. Plus, she's got the loooong bus ride home in the dark with her new boyfriend to look forward to....

Funny, cool, and always provocative, Phyllis Reynolds Naylor does it again, proving that she understands what real girls think and feel, with this seventeenth book in the beloved Alice series.

... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great Book!
I haven't read it yet, but it's great that I can buy the book, 3 days after it's come out! ... Read more

Reviews (57)

Burning questions left unanswered.
Will Nate and Georgina, his new rehab pal, end up being an item?
Will Jenny and her new man live happily ever after? Will Jenny's new best friend Elise interfere?
Will Blair get into Yale? Will Elise's father ever get the chance to explain why he tried to get with Blair romantically? Will Blair stop loving Nate?
Will Serena continue to be famous, ditzy, and wanted on all the runways?
Will Dan and Mystery Craze, the yellow-toothed and yellow nailed poetess, fall madly, deeply in love?

Will Vanessa, Dan's girlfriend, find out that he hasn't merely been cheating, but CHEATING CHEATING??? Will she survive?
Is Chuck Bass bisexual?
And, the most burning question of them all...
WHO IS GOSSIP GIRL?
All of these questions are left unanswered till book number five. Quite frankly, it's infuriating. What leads to the end is suspenseful and enthralling - you will be so absorbed you'll be unable to put this book down till it's over. Nate ends up caught for his weed smoking and is forced to attend rehab meetings, where he meets a beautiful Snow White lookalike named Georgina Sparks. Blair decides she wants to go to rehab too for her bulimia, yet really wants to be close to Nate again. She sees him with Georgina and her entire plan is thrown off. Not only that, but she finds that a handsome Yale graduate who she senses has feelings for her is the FATHER of one of her younger classmates at Constance Billard. Dan, on the other hand, thinks he is in love with Vanessa until he meets eccentric Mystery Craze and ends up cheating. Clearly, his fame over his poetry has diluded his mind. Jenny meets her admirer and bonds with Elise, her new best friend, over nude figure painting and 'experimentation,' which she deems 'overrated.' Serena lives a carefree, no-worries life, becoming a model and having success practically knock at her door. So much more happens in this book, you'll be dying to read the next so that all of these loose ends can finally be tied together. Recommended age: 13 and up.

Sex, fashion, drugs and...Yale?!
This, in my opinion, is one of the better Gossip Girl books, despite some of the less kind reviews. The GG gang makes a plethora of effortless achievments: Dan's published poem in the New Yorker, Serena suddenly transforming into a glam model, Vanessa's film being used as a backdrop for the long-anticipated NYC fashion show.

And then there are some things not to flaunt and take pride in. Like Blair's botched Yale interview and Nate's getting busted for smoking weed, for example. Blair tries to redeem herself by speaking to one of the Yale alumni and prospects of him putting in a good word for her seem good. But then, an affair begins between them (innocent type, I'd say). As for Nate, his landing into a clinic for problem teens introduces Georgina Sparks, an ethereal Snow White-type beauty who has an ugly problem with prescription drugs. They chill at her grandiose palace and Nate saves her from nearly dying of a prescription overdose. Blair, meanwhile, realizes her sexy leading man isn't the Clark Gable to her Audrey Hepburn she thought he was. When Blair tries to win back Nate's love, she humiliates herself at the clinic, first by admitting to her bulimia. Plus, she meets her new competition. Now, Georgina Sparks is vying for Nate's affections, only the vying really seems to be over with. Georgie's clearly won.

I find it irking Serena has no real issues in any of the books, unless you count her almost being a leper when she first returned to New York from boarding school. Still, she was quickly able to bounce back from that "trauma." Now, she debuts as a runway model in the fashion show, one in which Christina Ricci is a guest. Meanwhile, she's fallen head over heels in "love" with Aaron, Blair's sexy, herbal cigarette-smoking stepbrother.

Vanessa submits Dan's poem, "Sluts," to the New Yorker. "Sluts" proceeds to head on towards worldwide fame. Mention the title and instantaneously, the New York population knows just what you're talking about. And despite the fact that Dan is angry at Vanessa (he channeled the anger into the poem), he is pleased to have that recognition - it goes to his head. Proof of this is his affair with Mystery Craze, the yellow-toothed and yellow-nailed poet who Dan finds incredibly sexy for some peculiar reason. Also proof of his insanity is his agent, who feels the need to use the expression, "%$^& me!" in almost every sentence. I wanted to smack her, strangle her, or both.

In conclusion, Von Ziegesar's novel can either make you yearn to be one of the members of the GG gang or feel sorry for them. Their parents are self-centered and don't care at all for the well-being of their children. These spoiled Manhattanites are permitted do do whatever they want, whenever they want, as long as they keep up their appearances up so that it doesn't reflect badly on the family. No matter what, however, this novel is entertaining and an ideal addition to the GG series.

Great book!
I really love this book. Being 17, being their age, really makes it a lot more enjoyable to read. I even suggested this book to my 14 year old cousin! It truly is a pretty accurate representation of teens today, even though these teens are uber-rich, super cool, trendy, and did I mention rich? I love the interesting, dynamic people (even though Serena is pretty shallow, I still think she'd make a pretty awesome best friend), and I like the way the author balanced the super rich kids (Blair, Serena, Nate, etc.) with the kids that live in their world, but live in it rather on the outskirts (Dan, Vanessa, etc.) I loved this book so much, I couldn't resist buying the newest Gossip Girl (number 5!) a few days after it was released. Super read, pure fun, great beach/teen fiction!

addictive
these books are so addictive! i read them in one sitting (usually becuase i cant tear myself away from them) i suggest if you want to read one, get the other ones because you will want to read those ones too!
i am so pissed that lindsey lohan is playing blair in the gossip girl movie. i just dont see her as that part at all. shes a little too---immature, i guess. i mean shes a good actress but she just doesnt fit the part. i think that someone like samarie armstrong of rachel leigh cook should play her. it will probably be rated like PG even though the books are more PG-13-R.
ANYWAY i really reccommend these books to everyone they are light easy addictive funny and amusing. Have fun!
~you know you love me

Because I'm worth it
My 14 year old Daughter read this book rather quickly. She said it was interesting but predicatible and the ending was weird. ... Read more

Book Description

Even the most angelic babies sometimes hit or bite, and no one-not Mommy, or playmates, or even the family pet!-is exempt when the adorable, but frustrated, toddlers in No Biting! decide to act out. But just lift the flaps, and you'll discover that these babies know a better way to act after all. Refreshingly honest and all-too-true, this funny book is one that babies and parents will want to share again and again. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

NOT ALL ABOUT BITING
I bought this book because I thought it was all about biting. The book title is misleading. It includes biting, hiting, kicking, spitting.... There's only one page about biting. I'm not even going to show this to my daughter because she doesn't have a brother (referenced on--don't spit on your brother) nor do we have a dog (referenced on--don't kick the dog). Don't want to confuse her.

Great learning tool
My 19-month old son can't get enough of this book. He loves it. He was a slow talker, but this book helped him to say new words. He took pride in the fact that he knew all the answers before we lifted the flaps! The book is simple and holds toddlers' attention well too. I'd highly recommend it.

An excellent book for toddlers!
We bought this book for my daughter when she started biting other kids at her daycare (around 17 months old). It was such a hit with her, I also bought a few more copies for the daycare. Besides biting, it also addresses all the other negative behaviors we don't want our children engaging in. My daughter loves to lift the flaps and yell out the answers. When she does slip with one of the behaviors, I gently say, "No hitting. What can you hit?" She knows the answer right away and knows to apologize. At 2 years old, the book is still a hit and one we continue to ready daily. Fidning fun interactive books that teach a good message can be hard. This one makes it very easy for the parent!

Be careful with this one
I got this to teach my son not to bite, and it works fine for him and that behavior. However, my daughter who is 3 1/2 and who has had no problems with biting or causing trouble read it to herself. The book covers biting, hitting, and pushing, which she has long heard were wrong because they can hurt people. The book also covers spitting. This is really weird. I don't think toddlers have problems with spitting unless someone teaches them to do it. They do a page on "Don't spit on your brother" -- I don't think my daughter would have ever thought about this on her own, but next thing I know that evening she spits on her brother. We had to have a discussion about even though spitting doesn't hurt people, it is still wrong.

I wouldn't recommend it, since it basically teaches children how to spit, and that they can spit at people -- even though they mention it is wrong, it puts the idea into the child's head. I think the author just needed one more page of bad behavior to finish the book and came up with spitting, which really doesn't fit as a bad toddler behavior.

My toddler loved it so much we had to buy a replacement book
My daughter is now a little over a year and a half and she's been so attached to this book for MONTHS. In fact, she loves this book so much that she's torn the lift up flap pages because she gets so eager to see what's next. There is so much scotch tape holding up her current book that my husband and I thought we should just get a replacement book as well as order other Karen Katz books. I hope your little one enjoys the book as much as my little one has. ... Read more

Book Description

PREGNANCY AND BIRTH-GOD'S MIRACLE OF CREATION ALL OVER AGAIN.Before I Was Born is the second book in the GOD'S DESIGN FOR SEX series, written to be read with children ages 5-8.With an age-appropriate, straightforward text and informative illustrations, Before I Was Born explains sex as a special gift God gives to a husband and wife and covers such topics as: 1) Why God made boys' and girls' bodies different; 2) God's plan for loving marriages and families; 3) The basic facts about intercourse, presented in the context of marital love and intimacy; 4) Conception and fetal development; and 5) Childbirth and breastfeeding.Created to answer the questions inevitably asked by young children, Before I Was Born will help you give your child a vital head start in understanding God's intended purpose for procreation and sex. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

very appropriate for Christian families
I had a hard time finding a book that I was comfortable giving to my 8 year old daughter, but this book did the job! We are a Mormon family, and I am very happy with this book, as it puts sex into the context of being a gift from God for husbands and wives. It refers to Bible scriptures, and discusses sex as a way to begin a family within marriage. The pictures are beautiful watercolors, so they aren't shocking for a child to view. It explained how sex works, and helped to begin a comfortable discussion with my daughter. I am very impressed with this book, and would recommend it to anyone wanting to begin a similar discussion with their children.

overwhelmingly Christian
The info is complete, but I could really do without the preachy Christian world view.

Having said that, if you are a devout Christian and a frustrated with having you beliefs undermined, then this is the book for you. Good knowlege, and solid writing.

For Everyone Else: a better pick would be:
Where Do Babies Come From?: For Ages 6 to 8 and Parents (Learning About Sex Series, Bk. 2)
by Ruth S. Hummel,

Both books are solid picks for Public and School Libraries, dependant on your service area

Informative at a childs level
My husband and I have two boys under the age of ten and we are facing issues with sex. Our children are hearing about sex from children at school and on the bus. We are a Christian family and want our children to have Christian views on something so important. We bought the whole series and our boys now have all the answers they need from us. Thank you so much for this series.

An Important Topic about an important issue
To the parents who wrote that children ARE NOT thinking about these issues, you are really fooling yourself and in denial. I'm certainly not pleased to be facing this topic with my seven year old, however children are questioning these issues a lot sooner than we ever did.
This book is a good tool to explain to an already inquisitive child.

why bother?
There is no point to these books. kids that are 5-8 really dont care about sex and the consequences. They wont remember it, and by the time that they start to care, they will most likely be atheists anyway. God has nothing to do with sex. Your creationism ideals are old-fashioned and have no place in modern society. The facts are that the human race was produced from natural selection and survival of the fittest. Kids are going to have sex anyway, no matter how much you preach to them. You shouldn't force your childern into your own religious dogma. If you really need to teach children about sex talk to them yourselves instead of having a lifeless substitute. ... Read more

Book Description

Family connections are vitally important to children as they begin to find their place in the world. For transracial and transcultural adoptees, domestic adoptees, and for children in foster care or kinship placements, celebrating the differences within their families as well as the similarities that connect them, is the foundation for belonging. As parents or caregivers, we can strengthen our children’s tie to family and embrace the differences that make them unique. Each child will have their own story and their own special place to belong.

This beautifully illustrated and uplifting book, for the 2-5 set, will help to create the intimate parent/caregiver and child bond that is so important. While others may notice the physical differences between us on the outside, inside we are the same. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Seeking Similarities
My 8-year-old loved this book. She was fascinated by the illustrations and the idea that despite our physical differences as a racially blended family, we are very much the same inside, where it makes all the difference. Excellent source for starting a dialogue with any child.

Excellent balance
I have found this book to be an excellent connecting point with our children who were adopted. The way that Kitze acknowledges physical differences and yet affirms the similarities that truly matter is reassuring for children who have concerns about not resembling their adoptive or foster parents. Multicultural illustrations add to the thoughtful writing.

An Excellent Book for All Families
Carrie Kitz has written a wonderful story for all families to enjoy together. My girls, ages 5 and 2, ask me to read it over and over. As a mom to one daughter from China and one from Cambodia, I especially enjoy the message the book sends- we may look different on the outside, but on the inside, we are the same.

A New Adoption Classic !
Don't be fooled by the cover. Carrie's newest creation speaks to the entire adoption and foster community. " I Don't Have Your Eyes" is the novel, one-of-a kind kids' adoption book we have needed.

Although a " feel good" book, there is nothing sterotypical about how adoption is discussed. The illustrations include and normalize all different type of families.

"I Don't Have Your Eyes" helps kids go beyond " blood" and "genes" as the only important ties between family members. Instead, Carrie gently points out, even more important, shared strengths and similarities. The book's concrete examples ( with a little dab of houmor) are delightful.

Congratulations to Ms. Kitze for carefully considering the needs of the adoption community as she publishes her 'adoption and empowerment- themed' books.

Beth O'Malley M.Ed adoptee and newly adoptive Mom .... ... Read more

Amazon.com

"I kept wanting it to happen. When it did I remember thinking, 'It'sabout time.'"

"I was worried at first. Then it really wasn't so bad after all."

"I remember my brothers weren't allowed to hit me in the chest anymore. I waskind of pleased about that."

What mysterious condition are these now grown-up girls talking about? Ah, yes,puberty! With scads of personal stories and an abundance of useful, detailedinformation about girls' changing bodies and feelings, author Lynda Madaras andher daughter Area Madaras have expanded their guide for girls on the verge ofchange. First published in 1983, the bestselling classic has been revised andupdated several times over the years to keep up with ever evolving facts andwisdom about puberty in girls. In this third edition, the authors continue theirstraight talk on the menstrual cycle, reproductive organs, breasts, emotionalchanges, puberty in boys, body hair, pimples, masturbation, and all the otherfun, scary, and interesting things that go along with growing up. Filled withanecdotes, illustrations, diagrams, and honest, sensitive, nonjudgmentalinformation for the young girl, the revised edition also addresses the newscientific facts about when a girl actually begins puberty (earlier thanpreviously thought), advice on "female athletic syndrome," eating disorders,unwanted attention because of early development, and information on eatingright, exercise, AIDS, STDs, birth control, and so much more. A welcome,reassuring book for parents and daughters, designed with the understanding thatsome girls and parents will want to read it together, and some will want to readit on their own; without a doubt, though, all will benefit. Got boys?Don't miss What's Happening to MyBody? Book for Boys. (Ages 8 to 15) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (36)

Good info, but better for older readers...
I have to agree somewhat (not completely) with one of the reviewers... This book is not well suited for girls who are nine or ten (my daughter is nine and a half). It's got a lot of good information, but some of the illustrations are too graphic (my daughter found the ones of male genitalia very disturbing, and she is not immature for her age). The age span on this book should be adjusted upwards to more like 12 and up, not 9 to 13.

That being said, this book covers a lot of ground, and for the most part does so well. It has a lot of important information found in books of this type: stages of puberty, signs to look for, the female reproductive cycle, bras, getting one's period, and so on. All these things are presented clearly, although again, I feel they're geared more towards older girls, rather than pre-teens.

All in all this is an ok book, but not excellent, and is not appropriate for the age range it's listed for. Buy this book for a 12 year-old or up, but don't push the envelope with younger girls, they don't need the pressure that such graphically displayed information provides, which can overwhelm them.

All girls should be as lucky as I was...
I am 21 years old now and stumbled upon this page looking for "our bodies, ourselves". When I was about 10 years old my mother gave me this book as a way to help bridge our inability to communicate well on personal topics. It helped me immensly, as well as a few of my girl friends who's mothers (gasp!) never said a word to them about anything they were going through. I had one friend who didn't understand when her mother told her their were "napkins" in the hall closet when she needed them, and that's all she ever said to her daughter. I reccomend that ALL mothers (and fathers, too) give their daughter at least one book like this, in addition to open, frank conversations. There is nothing pornographic about the pictures in this book. They are NOT photographs - they are drawings that are informative, rather than specific examples. Madaras is careful to explain that her illustrations are not what every girl's body looks like - and explains how things can vary. I read this book over and over again when I needed it, and was able to easy navigate to the information I was looking for. One of the most important aspects of this particular book for girls is that is has information about what is going on with their male counterparts, which helps girls feel less insecure when they read about how embarrassing things can be for the boys. I highly reccomend this book to girls 9 and up, but if your daughter is immature for her age, 10 or 11 might be a better age to introduce her to some of the information, as the book deals touches on topics such as sex and AIDS - which are better left to the parents' disgression at that age.

Great
My Mom bought this book for me when i was 12 and it really helped. It answered all of the questions that i wanted to know but was too embarrassed to ask. Plus it had things that other girls my age had writen in. I recomend it to girls 12 and +

ALL A YOUNG GIRL NEEDS IN A BOOK ABOUT BECOMING A WOMAN
This book covers every topic a girl is curious about as she enters puberty, (a few she might not be curious about yet, but will need to know about BEFORE she is twelve. With children becoming sexually active at 13 and not knowing how easily a girl become pregnant and teen AIDS on the rise--this is information that every girl needs to have. Buit are parents ready to let them have it before they need it, so they can be prepared to make informed choices and know why NO is the correct answer???

ONLY FOR PARENTS WHO WANT THEIR DAUGHTERS WELL INFORMED
This book has draeings and diagrams and honest language about body changes and sexuality and it answers many questions that most 9-14 year old girls are thinking. (Many don't ask because they are either too shy or too afraid). Warning, if you think giving children information is going to cause them to be sexually active, don't buy this book. Because it has all the information a preteen could want. ... Read more

Book Description

Potty training can be fun. With warmth and sensitivity, Joanna Cole and Maxie Chambliss guide young boys though the challenges and rewards potty training--from the first steps to the joy of graduating to big boy underpants! A helpful "Note to parents" is included.

Reviews (11)

This potty book will make your child into a big boy!
This book is a great source for potty training toddlers. It will build their confidence, and will gently teach them how they are expected to act as big boys. It has easy to understand text, and visual illustrations that allow children to relate on a more personal level. With warmth and sensitivity, the authors guide young boys though the challenges and rewards of potty training--from the first steps to the joy of graduating to big boy underpants! I highly recommend this book!

My son LOVES this book
We are just starting potty training and my son LOVES this book. He can totally relate to Michael, the little boy in the story. I think it does a great job of explaining the potty training process in simple, easy-to-understand terms. Each time we read it he gets excited about trying to use the potty. I highly recommend it.

Great for a Stubborn 3 year old
My son is now 3 years and 7 months old and FINALLY potty trained. Alhtough other books were cute, this one was practical explaining accidents and the need for night time diapers after day time training. Very cute and one of my sons favorite books.

Potty Problems.. Get This Book!!!!
This book is a great example for potty training toddlers. It clearly illustrates how to show, in easy to understand language, your potty trainer, suggestions on how to use the potty. Such visual illustrations allow the child to relate in a more personal level. This book also shows children that it is o.k. to have an accident, without ridicule. Great Book. Here's a tip for those anxious parents, your child is precious and unique so do not be upset if they do not catch on right away, be patient and kind, and the will succeed with your support. Good Luck.

Almost potty trained!!!
My little boy really saw himself in this book, he has a special teddy that he would sit with while reading on his potty.
Its a good book for introduction to the potty! ... Read more

Book Description

"Allie the Allergic Elephant" helps children learn about food allergies and how to be a good friend when you can't share snacks. "Allie" explains peanut allergies in a way that parents, teachers, and children themselves can talk about allergies and understand them better. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

From a kid whose been there, done that
awesome book! zeroes in on the key parts of having an allergy! great book to read to little kids. I personally have a life threatening allergy to peanuts and all tree nuts. thank you for your time.

Librarians loved it!
I bought the first edition for my nephew with a peanut allergy. He enjoyed it because it addressed his difficulty in explaining his allergy to his classmates.

I bought 2 copies of the second edition and donated them to elementary schools where I volunteer in the library. Both librarians were excited to receive the book and were anxious to read it to their students. One librarian took the book immediately to the Kindergarten teacher because a student had arrived that day with a peanut allergy.

I like the book because it explains how an allergic child must be "excluded" when it pertains to peanuts, but wants to be "included" in everything else. I can't wait for the author to write more books about other allergies.

Brings Compassion to a Clinical Subject
With three children in my family, all of them know people who can't eat nuts. At first, they think it's wierd. "What? No peanuts? Why can't you eat peanuts?"

Allie helps those with the allergy understand, and Allie brings compassion to those who live with, work with, and play with an allergic child.

As the author of three non-fiction books, I appreciate a good tale. And Allie's tail is precious.

Charming story -- Important message
I purchased this book as a gift for a friend with an allergic grandchild. He told me it was a special delight to read the book together with his grandson. The story is charming, and effectively communicates an important message about acceptance and coping... in a way even a very young child can grasp. The wonderful illustrations (by a gifted young artist) captured the boy's imagination and brought the story to life.

Excellent book for kids with food allergies
I bought the 1st edition over a year ago and the teacher in his classroom has said that the children love it. They like to hear it read to them. They love the pictures! She said after a year it was well used as they play with it alot. A book needs to hold up with kids at this age. I just purchased the 2nd edition feeling that it was different enough to own it. I am glad I did. The pictures have changed a bit and look wonderful, but the message is still excellent and kids can understand it. Most messages are lost with kids at this age when dealing with serious issues such as food allergies. Geat job! Even though the book is 100% focused on peanut allergies, which is why I got it, the rules remains the same with all food allergies in how they relate to other children playing with the children with the food allergy. I would recommend any parent that has a pre-schooler or a child in K-5 or thier school to buy this book! ... Read more

Book Description

Illus. in full color. "In this gentle, moving story, Elfie, a dachshund, and

her special boy progress happily through life together. One morning Elfie does

not wake up. The family grieves and buries her. The watercolor illustrations,

tender and warm in color and mood, suit the simple text perfectly."--School

Library Journal.




... Read more

Reviews (14)

Still Has The Same Magic
As a little girl I read this book when my dog was dying. It truly helped me deal with his death and realize that is okay to be sad. It is a wonderful tool to help children understand death a bit better. Few books since my childhood have made such an impression on me as this one, and it is the only book from my childhood I still keep on my shelf as a college student. In fact, my cat grew very sick of cancer and I read this book again to make myself feel better about the situation. And I have never forgotten to utter Hans Wilhelm's words into my pets' ears. And right before my cat died, I whispered "I will always love you" just as the little boy in the story did.

A wonderful book...
There are some books I think should be in every household, and if you have both children and pets, this is one of them. Dealing with the death of a beloved pet is difficult enough for anyone, let alone a child, but this book helps. In fact, I would recommend this book to adult pet owners as well. Nothing will stop the pain of the loss of course, but "I'll Always Love You" helps bring back the happiness and lets the healing begin. I have been a booster of this book for years and hope it NEVER goes out of print. Do yourself a favor and buy this warm story of Effie, "the best dog in the whole world" and her boy....

The perfect book for all ages
This is the perfect pet loss book for all ages. A good gift to give when words do not seem appropriate. Similar to Boomerang - A Miracle Trilogy, about the short but miraculous life of a remarable Boston Terrier. And, how through love, all things are possible.

Great for Saying Goodbye
I got this book to help my daughter deal with the loss of our dog who had become sick and had to be put down. I liked the way the book was to the point and very sweet at the same time. The book also stays away from taking a religious stand point which I was greatful for. My daughter is too young to have to deal with that aspect of life or death. This book teaches that sometimes something you love will go away forever, but even though they are gone, you can always love and remember them.

Heartwarming
Such a touching and heartwarming read. What a wonderful way to help children and adults deal with the pain of losing a beloved pet. Especially helpful for anyone with an old or ailing dog, and the heartache of "anticipatory grief". As Boomerang would say, as part of his Kindness Network Bylaws, "See with your heart, what may be invisible to your eyes."
Arlene Millman, author of BOOMERANG - A MIRACLE TRILOGY ... Read more

Book Description

Chester and Wilson had their own way of doing things, and they did everything together. When they cut their sandwiches, it was always diagonally. When they rode their bikes, they always used hand signals. If Chester was hungry, Wilson was too. They were two of a kind, and that's the way it was - until indomitable Lilly, who had her own way of doing things, moved into the neighborhood.

Reviews (9)

Belly Laughin Four year old!!!
My four year old loves this book, when Lilly does her stuff my son loses it, he actually gets belly laughs. We read his book five nights in a row when we first got it, and we didn't mind reading it over and over. Lilly really is a crack up. The moral is great. I have since bought "Julius Baby of the World" and we have read this the past three nights in a row, and we look forward to reading more by Kevin Henkes.

School Counselor
We are going to be using this book on our unit on Friendship. We will discuss the likes of each of the characters in the book, and how different they may be, but how they are friends. Kevin Henkes has a wonderful website as well, where you can get reproducibles. As a counselor and parent it is an invaluable resource!!...

My Eye
When I read this book it made me reminisce about my friend and me. We do everything together.
When Lilly moved in, it was bad for Chester and Wilson to not like her. Then it was nice of her to help them out when they were in a predicament.

Kevin Henkes is humorous and clever, even for adults
I purchased this book because my maiden name is Chester- honestly, it's the only reason I got it! What a delight to find that the story is amusing and worth every penny. Chester is a mouse who does things his own way- he always eats the same thing for breakfast, he always uses hand signals when he rides his bike, and he never leaves the house without double-knotting his shoelaces. Chester's best friend's name is Wilson (my mother's maiden name- another delightful surprise!), and he and Chester are inseperable. When Wilson accidentally swallows a watermelon seed and cries because he's afraid he'll grow a watermelon in his belly, Chester swallows one too, so Wilson won't be alone in his predicament. This pair are like two peas in a pod...and then Lilly moves into the neighborhood. Lilly has HER own way of doing things, and Chester and Wilson avoid her like the plague. That is, until she scares of some neighborhood bullies trying to pick on Wilson and Chester. From then on, the three of them go everywhere together, and Chester and Wilson find that Lilly has many of the same interests that they do. An amusing and chuckle-out-loud story for all. Be sure to get "Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse", too.

Chester's Way is Wonderful
Kevin Henkes is an absolute treasure. His stories are a treat for both children and adults combining rhythmic prose and engaging artwork. "Chester's Way" is a delightful book about friendship. Wilson and Chester are the best of friends, and that's the way it was...until Lilly came along. Lilly does things differently than Chester and Wilson. However, they eventually become friends and learn from one another. My son and his best friend liked the story so much that they dressed as Chester and Wilson for Halloween one year. ... Read more

Book Description

A stunning young adult novel by Rodman Philbrick that tells the heartwrenching story of two ³special ed² boys who pair up to form a unique and empowering friendship.Two boys‹a slow learner stuck in the body of a teenage giant and a tiny Einstein in leg braces‹forge a unique friendship when they pair up to create one formidable human force. Made into the film, The Mighty. ... Read more

Reviews (280)

My review of Freak The Mighty (...)
I thought that the story ,''Freak The Mighty was a very good book ,aswell as a very good movie.In my opinion , the story of ''Freak The Mighty'',was aninteresting ,exciting,funny ,and somewhat sad story. Minus the fact that this story was somewhat sad ,''Freak The Mighty'' contained all of the qualities that I would like to find in a story.When I had first began to read this story ,I figured that it would be a pretty good story .But I never would have guessed that it would be this good of a story.

''Freak The Mighty'' was about two boys ,named Maxwell and Kevin ,also known as Max and Freak . Max and Freak were in the seventh grade .Max was a very big boy who was not very bright .And Freak was a very small boy who was as some would say ,''A genius''.Freak was a crippled boy who lived with his mother,and Max lived with his grandparents ,who he called ,''Grim and Gram''. Max lived with his grandparents because ,his father who everyone called ,''Killer Kane'',killed his mother ,and then went to prison.Max and Freak had one thing in common , and that was the fact that the both of them were different from others.Soon they became friends ,and were compared to a knight and his horse . (spoiler) .

THIS CONCLUDES MY REVIEW OF FREAK THE MIGHTY

Freak the Mighty
Adventure,humor and a litle bit of tear jerking is all in this wonderful young-adult novel, Freak the Mighty.

It's the tale of two competele different boys whos come together for one important porpose, to help the innocent.Max Kane is a huge teenager who is constantly tripping over his own feet, literaly. Max's is haunted by his mass-murderer father, Killer Kane. His father killed his mother when he was a young baby and now he lives with his grandparents.

On the other hand you have Freak. A boy who has never really been out in the world without being stepped on, literaly, the guy is like 3 feet tall. Freak has this problem that does'nt let him walk without a walker or leg brases.

When they are at this festival, Freak can't see anything, so Max's just puts him up on his shoulders and freak starts to like it so he satys up there.

Wanna know the rest........................................................................................................................................................................................................................... read the book.
favorite part page 47 paragraph 2
saddest part page 127 paragraph 3

Best Book Alive
Freak the Mighty is an awsome book. It has a bunch of humorous and sad scenes. The part of it that I especially liked was when Max had the squirt gun full of soap, vinegar, and curry powder and he made Killer Kane think his eyes were burning up. Freak the Mighty has a really cool dictionary that Freak wrote. If I were to rank the book, I would give it four stars because it is very tradedous but adventourous. If you like action books, then this is the book for you. Freak the Mighty is one of the best books I have ever read, so I encourage you to read it.

The Mighty Truth
Freak The Mighty is a book about two boys who go on many adventures together. The first one of the two is Max or Mighty. He is a very tall bulky individual who is not the smartest person in the3 world. He doesn't like to read too much because he cannot read well. He is discouraged. The other is Freak. He is very smart but he has a problem because he is very small. He has some kind of illness that stopped him from growing much and his legs are of no use to him. He rides on the shoulders of Mighty who is a giant. One day Mighty was in his room when he realized that ther was a boy next door moving in(Freak). he sees that the boy has something he lost some toy in the tree and cant reach it so mighty goes and helps him they become very good freiends aftern a wile and they go on adventures through the town . they out run a local gang and they meet up with a long lost relative that isnt the mosthospitable they get through that barley and after that they will be divided.
I really enjoyed this book it had alot of ploty twists that kept on accuring they go on thrilling adventurers. i would recomend this book very much

Freak the mighty
Awesome, its of da heezy fo shezy.It was very funny how dey dissed dat little remedial Blade an he tried to act a fool but got caught by the police.This book is to hot fo T.V its off the heezy u betta go cop that book fo its sold out. ... Read more

Book Description

Available in paperback for the first time, the modern classic that introduced the beloved baby-sitting rottweiler to the world. ... Read more

Reviews (34)

A great "wordless book"
It's not toally wordless.. there are a total of two sentences; one in the beginning and one at the end. The rest of the story is done through beautiful illustrations of interactions between Carl (a Rottweiller) and a baby he's left to care for. For those who find that absurd I point to every story where children are abandoned by mothers (Cat in the Hat, Hansel and Gretel, for that matter every fairy tale ever written). It's fiction! Also it is intended for a pre-reading audience (I recommend 2-3 years) not those who will be judging its probability.

As a speech language pathologist I find this book to be AMAZING for eliciting spoken language. You can ask what the baby is doing, where is the baby, how did that happen, or even "Can a baby swim in a fish tank???" Even my 2 year old son answers no.

It's a great imaginative story with beautiful pictures, phooey to those who are shocked.

Great book for any dog-loving child!
Beautiful pictures captivate child and adult alike as they tell the adventures of lovable Carl and his small charge. On this day, Carl's job is simply to babysit for an afternoon. What an afternoon it turns out to be for Carl and the baby! Even non-readers can follow Carl's adventures and begin to cultivate a love for books through this creatively told story. Dogs and young children are a perfect combination. After reading this book, you will think the same about books and young children!

A great wordless book
(...) It's a beautifully illustrated book with all of two printed sentences. The child can speak the story, question the story, and describe the probability if they are mature enough. Yes, the parents do leave the child with a Rottweiller, but unless you are buying this as a parenting manual this will not affect your children's behaviour.

I am amazed that anyone finds it shocking, considering the truly shocking we see in our culture all day.. a piece of children's ficiton on par with a giant red dog (Clifford?) or any fairy tale ever spoken. It is truly innocent and appealing to most toddlers I've met.

Try another Carl Book
The dog "Carl" is left alone to babysit. If you read the other reviews, you will see people shocked by the antics (sliding down the laundry shoot, swimming in the fish tank, etc.) I have to agree that you don't want your child thinking these things are fun or funny. However, I recommend you try "Carl's Afternoon in the Park." Same idea (rottweiler left to take care of baby, which you may argue is disturbing in itself, but not if you take it in good fun as it is meant) without the really off-limits stuff that you don't want your child attempting. In this book, Carl, baby, and a puppy do things that you would do with your child (go on the merry-go-round, get ice cream, slide down slide, get their pictures painted). My son loves it... laughs at the dog getting water splashed in his face and the puppy sliding down the slide and toppling over the baby. And enough intrigue for an adult (nice to notice every artist is painting the dogs and baby using different styles). Beautiful pictures throughout. Over all, a good, beautiful, imaginative book.

nothing good about this book
i really don't understand how someone could love this book. my mom bought it for my daughter w/o really reading it first. she saw there was a dog on it and my daughter loves dogs so she bought it. well, she gives it to her and we are looking through it and i couldn't believe how stupid and thoughtless this book was! a classic? HARDLY!
a dog left in charge of a child....dog gets the baby out of the crib, dog lets the child get in the fish tank...i mean, what the heck??!
this book, in my opinion is whacked. we chunked it in the trash!
if i could give ZERO stars, i would! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Fun Stuff - Loved It!
I highly recommend this story.My friends and I all loved it and it reminds us of our group.I am so happy that it is going be a series of books because I am waiting to start on the next one.Definitely read this as it is a really fun book.

awesome read!
I LOVED this book, it was so great! I can't wait for the next one! ... Read more

Book Description

Potty training can be fun. With warmth and sensitivity, Joanna Cole and Maxie Chambliss guide young girls though the challenges and rewards potty training--from the first steps to the joy of graduating to big girl underpants! A helpful "Note to parents" is included.

Reviews (12)

SHE DID IT!
This is to update my review dated September 14, 2000. I read this book to my daughter every afternoon at naptime and every night at bedtime - at her request! Last Wednesday, October 4, 2000 I bought her big girl underpants as an incentive - just like Ashley in the book. And guess what? She started to use the potty! In fact, she still enjoys hearing the story, because now she says that she is "just like Ashley". Thank you so much for a great little book.

SHE DID IT!
I wanted to update my review from September 14,2000 to let everyone know that I read this book to my daughter - at her request! - every afternoon at naptime and every night at bedtime. Last week, October 4, 2000 she was officially "trained" - consistently using the potty. She's had two accidents, but loves her "big girl" underpants. She still asks me to read "My Big Girl Potty" every night, but now she interjects - "I do that" or "I'm a big girl" - throughout. As I said before this is a gentle introduction to potty training that really worked for us. Thank you.

Favorite Potty Book!
I think we've purchased every potty book there is to have and this one is my daughter's FAVORITE! She calls it the RED potty book and we lost our first copy and had to replace it quickly. It's simple and easy to understand without being condescending or cutesy. When my daughter has an accident, I always say, "That's okay, honey -- children have accidents when they're learning. Remember Ashley in your red potty book?" Then we go read it again. And again. Any of you with toddlers know their fourth most favorite word: 'Gain!

Worth A Look
Both Mommy and Daddy actively participating in Ashley's potty training process. Ashley realistic transitions from diapers to "special big-girl underpants" over time, not instantly. Author Joanna Cole uses questions to draw the child into the story ("Do you wear diapers, too?") as an encouraging parent would. The story concludes with ten common sense tips, such as "Don't rush!" and "Never scold or punish." and "Use a diaper at nap time..."

We have read almost every potty book available on the market as of 9/2003 (over two dozen!). Most fit into two categories: INSTRUCTIONAL books that introduce the skills needed to master the potty; and those that are primarily ENTERTAINING, for children who understand what is supposed to happen on the potty, but need extra time to make it happen.

I think My Big Girl Potty fits more in the INSTRUCTIONAL category for the following reasons:

1) It identifies the purpose of the potty.
2) It specifies bodily functions such as "poop" and "pee."
3) Shows the transition from diapers to big kid underwear.
4) Includes the hand washing step.

For other potty books that are instructional, check out What to Expect When You Use the Potty by Heidi Murkoff or You Can Go to the Potty by Martha Sears.

Great Resource
I purchased this book for my daughter to help in potty training her. Even though she likes 'The Potty Book - For Girls' by Alyssa Satin Capucilli better, she enjoys this book as well. Showing all the stages of potty training including showing Ashley sitting on the potty w/ her clothes on, then removing her diaper, accidents and finally, 'big girl' underwear, it helps little ones to understand the concept of 'going' on the potty. I gave this book 4 stars only in that it's a little more 'wordy' than 'The Potty Book - For Girls' and isn't as colorful but I do recommend it to anyone. ... Read more

Book Description

When Papa Bear tells the cubs why they should never talk to strangers,

Sister begins to view all strangers as evil until Mama brings some common sense

to the problem. "The Bears' rules for safe conduct among strangers are listed

on the last pages, including a rule about the privacy of a bear's body. A good

book to start awareness in young children."--School Library Journal.




... Read more

Reviews (20)

The best book on strangers for young children
I used this book about 6 years ago to help teach my child about "stranger danger". This book helps to teach about strangers without scaring children away from everyone and everything. All the Berenstain Books are definately worth reading to youngsters - they all teach a lesson or two in a very positive, easy to understand way that is suitable for a wide age range. Most of them also make excellent bedtime stories (I didn't think this one was good for bedtime) and often help children to open up about a subject and discuss what they are thinking or feeling. They are also very good First Books for the cild to read as they get older. I highly recommend this and all of the Berenstain Bears books. My child outgrew them and had given them away, so I am now purchasing a few to give as a Christmas present to a co-workers 3 year old who I think will enjoy them as much as my child did.

One of the least paranoia inducing "stranger books"
I have gotten rid of most "don't talk to strangers" books because they are mostly fear inducing. I want my children to use common sense, and this version emphasises that. Sister (gotta love the names :-) ) fears everyone when first told that not all strangers are trustworthy. Mama comes to the rescue with some much needed common sense and moderation. The book concludes with a plausible example of Brother maybe trusting a stranger too much.

A good starting point for working with young, very trusting children, on appropriate interpersonal interactions, and may help prevent the child from fearing even the grocery store clerk.

What about the rest of the strangers?
The book does teach children about what to do with strangers, but the view of strangers is not appropriate. They are all darkened men. A more developmentally-appropriate, anti-bias book would include strangers of all races, class, personality, and gender.

The Berenstain Bears Learn About Strangers
This is a great book for teaching young children about strangers. My son is 5 and really enjoys reading this book over and over again. The content is informative, but not scary. The comparison momma bear makes between strangers and a barrel of apples is so simple and accurate. The simplicity allows the children to understand you never know what is on the inside of an apple or a stranger. A visual key kids are likely to remember.

Learning About Strangers
This is a good book. My 5 year old son enjoyed the story, and the lessons that I wanted to convey about strangers (what is a stranger, stranger rules, etc.) were covered very well. The story shows how one can become too afraid as well as how one can be lured into leaving with a stranger. Children learn to be careful without being paranoid. Children also learn that "telling" is not the same as being a "tattletell".

We have enjoyed all 8 books that we purchased from this collection. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (67)

The Hundred Dresses
Wanda Petronski is a poor Polish child living with her father in Boggins Heights. She wears the same ill-fitting blue dress every day. One day Wanda tells the other girls that she has one hundred beautiful dresses in her closet. The other girls don't believe her because she wears the same dress every day. The girls make up the hundred dresses game to tease Wanda. Maddie decides one day that the hundred dresses game is wrong but she is afraid to stand up to the other girls. Then Wanda isn't at school for several days. When there is a contest at school nobody thinks about Wanda until her one hundred drawings of her dresses win the contest. All the other children are amazed at Wanda's drawings. The teacher tells them that Wanda has moved away and that they will have to forward her award to her new home. Maddie decides to write Wanda a letter apologizing for teasing her and send it to her new address. She never finds out if Wanda gets the letter but she learns a valuable lesson about the consequences of her actions. This is an older book but it teaches valuable lessons about teasing and prejudice. It also teaches children that there are consequences to their actions. This is a great book to have in your classroom or at home. This book is on reading lists for grades 4 - 6 but the lessons it teaches can be used for children of all ages. This book can be used in connection with language arts, social studies, and math.

It was fun to read!
The Hundred Dresses is about a girl named Wanda Protronski. Wanda is poor and has no mother. She lives up on Boggins Heights. Some girls make fun of her. The name of the mean girl that teases Wanda is Peggy. Peggy is pretty, neat, and very popular. Her best friend is Maddie. Maddie is messy, poor, and sort of popular. Almost all of her clothes are hand-me-down. Classroom 13 has a drawing contest and Wanda wins. Everyone thought that Peggy was going to win. Wanda leaves town and moves to the city. Peggy and Maddie try to get her to come back. This took place at the school's playground, classroom 13, and in Boggins Heights. I thought this was a wonderful book because it tells why you should be nice to people and not tease them. I recommend this book for 3rd-5th graders because it is a little to hard for lower grades and too easy for higher grades.

Missing the Point
(...)
An incredibly ugly depiction of a little Polish girl and her classmates making fun of her. Promotes the stereotypical "Dumb Pollack" without showing any betterment of the little girl's situation. I found this book very offensive. I had ordered it as a gift for a little girl, but this book is wildy inappropriate in that there is no moral resolution at