Book Description

Will anyone take on Jake Semple?

Jake Semple is notorious. Rumor has it he burned down his old school and got kicked out of every school in his home state.

Only one place will take him now, and that's a home school run by the Applewhites, a chaotic and hilarious family of artists. The only one who doesn't fit the Applewhite mold is E.D. -- a smart, sensible girl who immediately clashes with the unruly Jake.

Jake thinks surviving this one will be a breeze . . . but is he really as tough or as bad as he seems?

Reviews (44)

Survivng The Applewhites Book Review
Surviving the Applewhites, is a witty story about a
family out of the ordinary. Each member has his or her
own individual talent and come together at the end of
the book to put on a unique version of the Musical The
Sound Of Music. In this story, the Applewhites except
a boy into their home named Jake Semple. Jake has been
kicked out of many institutions and schools and this
home school called "The Creative Academy", is his last
hope. The setting of the story is modern time, which

makes all the mishaps in the book believable. Jake is a
unique character because like many teenage boys, he is
rebellious and causes some problems. The dialogue used
in this story provides the reader with a clear,
descriptive insight to the characters. For example,
the youngest Applewhite boy named Destiny, is a
typical, curious little boy who just wants to be
treated like everyone else. He especially likes Jake
and is always following him around. Destiny likes to
ask Jake all types of questions, and even dies his
hair to look just like Jake. The words and vocabulary
used in this book are precise and mainly to the point.
It is a very easy book to read and follow. The reader
can see the use of figurative language in the story,
when the schoolroom Jake's classes are held in, is
being described. A banner decorating the wall reads,
"Education is an adventurous quest for meaning of the
life, involving an ability to think things through"
(pg 27).
In the story, there are many observations and
dilemmas that occur that almost kill the plot. It also
kills the major dramatic question of the book which
is, Will the group all pull together, over come all
the problems that have happened and still put on this
modernized version of The Sound of Music? This makes
the reader want to continue reading to the end, to see
if this question is answered. The pacing and style are
very appropriate in this book. Each event proceeds
after the next one and one event leads into another,
in an organized manner.
This book could be enjoyed and appreciated by various
groups of people. It would mainly be found in an upper
elementary school or middle school classroom. There
are references made in the book and some concepts
talked about, that show this book needs to be used
with older children. It also is a neat book because it
gives a great background and incorporates the famous
musical, "The Sound Of Music". I always loved that
musical and I am sure many people do too. Mentioning
The Sound Of Music is a great eye catcher to have in
the summary of the book, because someone might see
this and automatically pick up the book because he or
she likes this musical. This book can be used in a
classroom, to teach children not to give up and that
everyone has a special talent inside them. He or she
just needs the opportunity and time to show it.

A Crazy Family and School
In the book Surviving the Applewhites by Stephanie S. Tolan, a bad city kid, Jake Semple, has been kicked out of every school he's been to. He was taken to a school called the Creative Academy, where you study what you want to, when you want to. A family called the Applewhites owns the school and they both are crazy, chaotic, and creative. During his stay, Jake learns new things and his life starts to change. He becomes part of a production of The Sound of Music along with other Applewhites. Through this school Jake finds deep inside himself who he really is, without being a bad boy.
We personally thought the book Surviving the Applewhites was a great book. We really liked it because it was funny, especially when a four year old named Destiny tried to dye and spike his hair. Many times we could relate to the characters because their interests and personalities were a lot like our own. It was very fun to read because of these things. We would recommend it to sixth - eighth graders or anyone who wants to read a really great book.

Disappointing 45th Review
Tolan's writing could have been more than just an average farce. The protagonist, a troubled youth, does not test for trust and acceptance with his arrival to the eccentric Applewhite household. She misses an opportunity to challenge the reader to wonder whether they could tolerate and overcome his past and form a bond.

surviving the applewhites
this book is about a sixteen year old boy by the name of Jake.
one day his parents stop a car outside their house. they asked the person driving it if they had any drugs, and to their surprise, it was an undercover cop ! oops, bad idea! anyway, the cop read them their rights and off to jail they went. so with his parents in jail, jake was sent to live with his grandfather and his grandfather lived with this wierd family , the applewhites.after awhile, jake gets tired of being bored so,
he decides to get into a little trouble! so, he gets aciggarette and smokes it ! if you want to find out if he gets into trouble , read the book.

APPLEWHITES REVIEW
SURVIVING THE APPLEWHITES IS ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS I HAVE EVER READ. THE WEIRDNESS OF THE APPLEWHITES AND JAKES PUNK ATTITUDE REALLY MAKE THIS A SPECTACULAR BOOK. THIS BOOK WOULD PROBABLY ENTERTAIN KIDS IN 6TH TO TO 8TH GRADE THE MOST BUT ADULTS WOULD GET KICK OUT OF IT BECAUSE OF ITS TINY SINCE OF HUMOR. AS A 7TRH GRADER I READ THIS BOOK IN ABOUT 2 WEEKS READING WHENEVER I HAD TIME SO THIS IS A QUICK BUT INTERESTING BOOK. BUT DON'T LET ME SPOIL EVERYTHING FOR YOU , READ IT AND ENJOY FOR YOURSELF! ... Read more

Amazon.com's Best of 2001

When it comes time to tell the class what she did on her vacation,Olivia isn't at all nervous. In fact, she remembers it quite clearly--she wentto the circus, you see. "But when we got there, all the circus people were outsick with ear infections." What are the odds? But the show must go on!Fortunately, Olivia jumps right in to help out--riding elephants, posing as theTattooed Lady (she draws on the pictures with a marker), taming lions, walkingtightropes, juggling, clowning around, and more. In a marvelous fold-out,four-panel spread, our porcine heroine even reigns supreme as the Queen of theTrampoline. "And that's how I saved the circus. And now I am famous." Olivialooks proud. Her teacher looks mad. Ian Falconer shines in this dryly hilarioussequel to his 2001 Caldecott Honor Book Olivia. The charcoal andgouache illustrations perfectly capture Olivia's earnest expressions. Beprepared to be charmed anew! (Ages 4 to 8) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (49)

Olivia...You've Gotta Love Her.....
It's Olivia's turn to tell the class about her vacation, and she can't wait. "Olivia always blossoms in front of an audience." And so our feisty little pig begins the story about her day at the circus. Of course, all the performers were out sick with ear infections, but "luckily I knew how to do everything." She tames lions and walks tightropes, performs on stilts, juggles, and even rides a unicycle. Then she clowns, swings high on the trapeze, and is Queen of the Trampoline. Finally, she ends her show as Madame Olivia and her trained dogs. "And that's how I saved the circus. And now I am famous." Olivia is very proud. Her teacher is exasperated. "True?", she asks again and again. "Yes, to the best of my recollection", answers Olivia..... Ian Falconer has bettered last year's, Olivia, debut, and fans won't be able to get enough of this adorable and precocious little pig with her queen-size imagination. His witty, yet simple text is kept to a minimum and really captures the preschool mind. But it's his charming and clever charcoal artwork, with just a creative splash of color here and there to highlight his scenes, that really makes this book stand out. Both children and adults will laugh out loud at the antics of this delightful little heroine. Perfect for youngsters 3-7, Olivia Saves the Circus is a must for home libraries and a picture book kids will beg to read again and again. Olivia is back and better than ever!

Call me a fuddy duddy, but...
Yes, okay, we parents can appreciate the humor, and yes, the drawings are pretty adorable and the pig is cute and it's a smart, snappy tale - but - but -
BUT
Has anyone bothered to notice that Olivia is basically miserable? That she is sarcastic and lonely? That her relationship with her mother is disconnected at best? (My wife, when reading the part where Olivia comes home from school and answers her mother's clearly rote question of how was school with the rote answer 'fine,' invariably adds, for the sake of our 2 and a half year old - 'but of course we don't do that, we tell Mommy all about our day, whatever happened, good or bad.' or words to that effect....)
I'm all for stories about sad people (or pigs), but it would help if we knew they were sad, not just given a lot of pop cultural whip-smarts and irony and cleverness and told that that is happiness. It isn't. If you read this book to your child, please: make it clear to them how isolated Olivia is. If you don't, you're liable to create your own miserable little clown - amusing now, but there will be hell to pay in later years....

Lying is okay?
The book is funny, but it advocates lying. It makes lying 'cute' and does not explain the consequences of lying. I will not want my daughter to read it and think that lying done right is acceptable.

Original is MUCH better
This book teaches lying. It is not as good as the first.

We will keep it because we like Olivia in general. But, like another reviewer, I feel as though I need to explain many of Olivia's behaviors to my child. ("Right now Olivia is pretending", "She should have told the teacher the truth" and "Olivia and her Mommy need to spend some time together talking") I wish Mr.Falconer had been able to make these explinations for me...

We are still holding out hope for the Olivia and Missing Toy.

There are better spunky imaginative kid stories
On a first, not-so-critical read, the story was enjoyable. The pictures, in black and white accessorized with red (see cover for example), are charming, serene and elegant. The poster of Eleanor Roosevelt in Olivia's bedroom can actually make it worth reading and is definitely a five star detail. The spotlighting of a different circus act on each page was great for my 2 1/2 year old who loves the circus. Olivia is a spunky and imaginative child. She is also spoiled and obnoxious with a badly stereotyped mother (passive) and female teacher (presumably anti-imagination and -fun). There is definitely a need for positive assertive and independent creative female protaginists in children's stories but there is no need to assume that the only alternatives are passive or killjoy older females. The pejorative portrayl of the teacher is enough to make this book a definite do not read. Given the problems with education and the images that children already receive, the last thing we need to do is unnecessarily make it worse by propogating more negative stereotypes about school. Olivia's attitude in responding to her teacher and her mother is unfortunately too realistic - there's no need to assume that such obnoxious behavior is admirable as long as one can be clever and individualistic. Adults need to take responsibility for the character traits that we are willing to validate as admirable and provide "people" in books and other media that we want children to emulate. For truly more admirable spunky and creative girls, try Pippi Longstocking, Amelia Bedelia, Pirate Pink, or Treva ("Trouble with Trolls"). The Caldecott Award is given to honor artists/illustrators, which also happens to be a key component to books for very young children. And this book is beautifully and uniquely illustrated. But given the nature of our society and the problems that parents and children must face, we need to be more diligent in what we expose our children to and that means being willing to take a stand and say no to books that don't remove the pejorative stereotypes and negative values. There are literally 1000s of books out there for young children. It's actually very easy to find really good stories-- with beautiful illustrations - so there's no need to have to settle for this story. ... Read more

Book Description

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

Book Description

Inside the Worlds of Star Wars is the complete guide to the locations from the Star Wars Classic Trilogy. The book is illustrated with 20 full-color, fantastically intricate cross-sections, and features an array of spot artworks, 3-D plans, more than 60 crystal-clear photographs, and detailed orthographic keys to create an extraordinary visual experience. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

An "amazing" book!
This is an excellent children's book. I use it every year in my classroom because my students can identify so well with Grace. There are so many language arts activities that can be used with it. Grace is an unforgettable character. She knows what she wants and is undaunted by would-be obstacles in her path. With the help of loving family members she can do anything she sets her mind to!

The Beauty of Childhood Superbly Done
A child's imagination is one of the purest forms of expression. Author Hoffman has captured that innocence in this superb tale. Grace, like so many youngsters, spends much of her day in the pleasures of "acting out" the characters that populate the pages of the books she reads. She feels that she can do and be anything that she desires. The theme of pursuing one's dreams is the type of message to which all can relate.

As one turns the pages of this beautifully illustrated book, one can enjoy the little girl's imaginary adventures. When Grace learns of the part in "Peter Pan," the reader is able to identify with this as a part of school life. The illustrator has also balanced the classroom with children of varied ethnic and racial backgrounds. This is a plus in the age of being "politically correct."

The language of the book is reflective with the age of the intended reading audience. With a little adult help, the average primary child will "read" this one with great relish.

The resolve of the adults in the family to encourage Grace in pursuit of her dreams is refreshing. Most of us let barriers prevent us from doing the same.

This is one great children's book!

Amazing Grace
Synopsis: Grace is a little girl who loves stories of all kinds, but especially adventure stories and fairy tales. Grace enjoys acting out the most exciting part in each story, no matter if that part is Hiawatha or Anansi the Spider. When she can, she makes her friends and family a part of her story-plays, but Grace can act out all the parts in a story on her own too. When Grace’s class is scheduled to perform Peter Pan, Grace knows immediately that she wants to fly in the part of Peter Pan. Her hopes are soon dampened, however, by classmates who tell her she’s not “right” for the role of Peter Pan. With encouragement from her Ma, and help from her Nana who takes Grace to see a ballerina from Trinidad, Grace realizes that she can be anything she wants to be. The result is a very amazing Peter Pan.

Evaluation: Amazing Grace is a lovely picture book story that stars a feisty heroine. The watercolor illustrations of Caroline Binch are as vibrant and real as Grace herself, and they reinforce the plot by depicting aspects of Grace’s life with Ma and Nana, and how Grace enthusiastically acts out the characters she loves. The illustrations are particularly effective in communicating the movement and color that characterize the world of Grace’s imagination. Young readers will relate well to both Grace and to her story. Grace is the kind of person that many of us â€"kids and adults alike-- long to be: a fun, take-charge kind of girl who sees life as an exciting adventure. Grace’s story, though simple enough to be told in a picture book, incorporates some traditional plot elements, including a problem for the heroine to overcome and a resolution to that problem. Amazing Grace would be a good addition to Kindergarten through 2nd grade reading curriculum for several reasons. It brings multi-culturalism into the classroom through its dynamic main character. It tells a positive message story about a girl who follows her dreams, without being preachy. And, it includes eye-catching illustrations that bring the heroine and her story to life.

Inspiring Tale with Superb Illustrations
This inspiring tale celebrates the innocence of youth, presents lessons of equality, and encourages children to pursue their dreams. Illustrator Caroline Binch provides stunning watercolor drawings that compliment the text. Recommended for children ages 4-8, this book will be enjoyed by children and adults.

As the mom of a very creative child, I appreciate the realism offered via every illustration. The watercolor drawings by illustrator Caroline Binch captivate the reader, child or adult. The detail is remarkable, adding immense compliment to the story. I appreciate the realistic expressions on each character. After the initial read, I gazed back at each illustration. In addition to facial detail, the props within the pictures are realistic. It is no surprise that this book is a Reading Rainbow Book.

On the page in which Grace is acting Anansi the Spider, we see her on a schoolyard type of bar. She is looking forward, her eyes exhibit a serious glare, her feet dangle with confidence, and her arms are postured in a stern manner. This child has a mismatched outfit, her right tennis shoe is untied, and she is using pantyhose for the webs. This illustration supports the text, "...and wove a wicked web as Anansi the Spider." But more importantly this - and other - illustrations show true childlike creativity unfolding. This is a mere example of the multiple high quality drawings.

After initial read of Amazing Grace, My daughter told me that she thought it was really sad that the classmates questioned Graces ability to be Peter Pan. This led to open discussion with regard to gender and race prejudice. Thankfully my daughter doesn't exhibit prejudice thoughts, but this story allowed her to realize that some children are subjected to prejudicial judgment of others.

When I asked My daughter what she liked about this book, she told me that she likes Grace. She expanded on this by telling me that Grace has a lot of fun, has a Mom and Grandma that love her, and that Grace does what she wants to do. In addition she told me, "The pictures are beautiful Mom!"

There are multiple messages in this story. Overall my reasoning for adoring Amazing Grace is that the tale is good and the illustrations are superb. But the true measure of success is based on the reaction that my child has. It is books like this that lend toward my 7-year-old maintaining adoration for the written word.

You Can Do Anything
This story is about a girl that pretends to play the parts of all kinds of different people and one day thiers a play and she wants to play the part of Peter Pan and some kids tell er she can't then she goes home. Later on they her parents tell her she can do anything she wants as long as she puts her mind to it, and she did. ... Read more

Book Description

Ask Annie your most complex interpersonal relationship questions. Go on, we dare you!

All letters to Annie are subject to publication in the Clayton High School Register. Names and e-mail addresses of correspondents guaranteed confidential.

High school junior Jenny Greenley is good at solving problems ... so good she's the school newspaper's anonymous advice columnist. Even if solving other people's problems doesn't make her own -- like not having a boyfriend -- go away, it's still fun. But when nineteen-year-old screen sensation Luke Striker comes to Jen's small town to research a role, he creates havoc that even levelheaded Jenny isn't sure she can repair ... especially since she's right in the middle of it.

Can Jen, who always manages to be there for everybody else, learn to take her own advice, and find true love at last?

Amazon.com

Gerald the giraffe doesn't really have delusions of grandeur. He justwants to dance. But his knees are crooked and his legs are thin, and all theother animals mock him when he approaches the dance floor at the annual JungleDance. "Hey, look at clumsy Gerald," they sneer. "Oh, Gerald, you're so weird."Poor Gerald slinks away as the chimps cha-cha, rhinos rock 'n' roll, andwarthogs waltz. But an encouraging word from an unlikely source shows this glumgiraffe that those who are different "just need a different song," and soon heis prancing and sashaying and boogying to moon music (with a cricketaccompanist). In the vein of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Gerald'sfickle "friends" quickly decide he's worthy of their attention again.

With this rhyming, poignant (in a cartoonish way) tale, Giles Andreae, author ofRumble in the Jungle, andnumerous other picture books, shows insecure young readers that everyone can bewonderful, even those that march to the beat of a different cricket. The rhymesare somewhat awkward, but the bold, bright watercolors by Guy Parker-Rees willinvite readers to kick up their heels and find their own internal harmony. (Ages3 to 6) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (21)

This is why we liked this book:
The kindergarten class at Eliza Kelly School liked this book very much. We liked when Gerald did the backwards sommersault in the air. We like to dance too! We also liked the part when Gerald closed his eyes and listened to the sounds of the jungle. The cricket was a good friend to Gerald.
The illustrations were colorful and beautiful.
Gerald is a great dancer!

Kindergarten at
Eliza Kelly School

There is something special in all of us
This book is wonderful. It demonstrates, in its storyline and text, that there isn't always just one right way to do something. In other words, we may all have a unique approach. In this case Gerald thinks he's a bad dancer. His negative perception is reinforced by the other jungle animals whom Gerald thinks dances perfectly. The other animals tease Gerald. He doesn't seem to "fit in" with the crowd. Gerald's problem is, he is trying to dance their way. He needs to find his own style.

Good and bad examples abound in real life, and with our guidance they all provide rich learning experiences for our children. Given that, with your guidance, this book imparts to children a) There is often more than one way to do something, b) courage and perseverance pay off, and c) teasing hurts. Not bad for 29 pages of delightful rhyming text and colorful illustrations.

A Wonderful Lesson!
This is the most precious story about how being different is okay and how you can still be good at something even though you have to go about it a little "differently." I bought this for my 4 yr old son with cerebral palsy who can't walk and he absolutely adores it! "We can all dance if we find the right music." Gerald, who initially was ridiculed by the other animals for being a terrible dancer, gets a little help from a friend in finding the "right music." His dancing is admired by the other animals in the end. My husband demonstrates the different dances with my son as he reads the book to him which my son thoroughly enjoys! We have a very extensive book collection for my son, but this would have to be one of his (and my) all-time favorites. I have also bought several copies of this book for my son's school. The illustrations are the best that I've ever seen in a children's book. Can't recommend this highly enough!

Boogie on, Gerald!
Gerald the Giraffe is one clumsy animal. He's good at standing still and munching shoots off trees but when he wants to join the other animals at the Jungle Dance, they only laugh at him. Not for long, though. His friend the cricket knows how to play the music that inspires Gerald to dance like John Travolta in his best days. Gerald is transformed because "we all can dance ... when we find music that we love."

"Giraffes Can't Dance" is my personal favorite among Max's books. The story is familiar to many kids who go to kindergarten and learn that their peers can be picky about who belongs to the pack and who does not. In the book, the exuberant illustrations of Guy Parker-Rees take the sting out of Gerald's initial rejection by the other animals. Watching the Rhinos rock'n'roll and the lions "dance a tango that was elegant and bold," balances Gerald's sadness. The emphasis of the story is on Gerald's joyful transformation, anyway. Just read Gerald's jubilant "I am dancing! Yes, I'm dancing! I AM DANCING!" with enough liveliness and watch the kids identify with a flying giraffe. After all, the lesson is that you can excel and enjoy who you are even if, at first, the world does not play your tune. With a little help from his friends, Gerald finds out that "sometimes when you're different you just need a different song."

Let me add one short paragraph on Gerald's helpful friends, the cricket and the three small bugs that are hiding on every page. These four little fellows are an ingenious device to soften the impact of the emotional story. Kids are in love with details; once they know what to look for, they will tirelessly search for the bugs and the cricket, and point them out to you. Hint: play dumb and they will have a party.

I read this book to my disabled child (4 years old)
This is a wonderful book about a Gerald, a giraffe who attempts to dance at the yearly jungle dance, but shies away from the stage when other animals laugh at him. This book express beautifully how it feels to be different - 'Gerald had never felt so sad and so alone' - and ends on a very positive note: 'Sometimes when you're different, you just need a different song' and 'we all can dance, when we find music that we love.' It was a perfect book to help my child with his feelings towards his weakness. ... Read more

Book Description

Welcome to Echo Falls.Home of a thousand secrets, where Ingrid Levin-Hill, super sleuth, never knows what will happen next.

Ingrid is in the wrong place at the wrong time. Or at least her shoes are. Getting them back means getting involved in a murder investigation rivaling those solved by her idol, Sherlock Holmes, and Ingrid has enough on her plate with club soccer, school, and the plum role of Alice in the Echo Falls production of Alice in Wonderland. But much as in Alice's adventures down the rabbit hole, things in Ingrid's small town keep getting curiouser and curiouser. Her favorite director has a serious accident onstage (but is it an accident?), and the police chief is on Ingrid's tail, grilling her about everything from bike-helmet law to the color of her cleats. Echo Falls has turned into a nightmare, and Ingrid is determined to wake up. Edgar Award–nominated novelist Peter Abrahams builds suspense as a smart young girl finds that her small town isn't nearly as safe as it seems.

Reviews (3)

Really Good!
I just loved the book Down The Rabbit Hole! It really fit into a childrens mystery. I couldn't put it down for a second because there was so much suspense! Every page i read i just wanted to keep reading so i could find out what happened next. I really recommend this to anyone who loves mysteries and suspense!

Harriet the Spy meets Sherlock Holmes
In Echo Falls, thirteen -year-old Ingrid Levin-Hill idolizes Sherlock Holmes for his ability to see the obvious, which mostly people miss, but is proud of being named as Alice in a local production of Wonderland.

However, Ingrid has a new role as life imitates art when someone murders "Cracked-Up Katie" just after the unfortunate victim was visited by the teen sleuth as she rushed from her orthodontist to soccer practice.When the newspaper report the murder, Ingrid worries that the cops will pin the rap on her since she left her soccer cleats at the crime scene.She decides to sneak into the house to reclaim her sneakers.Meanwhile, the police chief wants to interrogate Ingrid on her soccer cleats even as she is beginning to like her adversary's son.Still Ingrid realizes she has to be better than Holmes if she is to get the top cop and a killer off her back.

Sort of like of Harriet the Spy meets Sherlock Holmes; DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE is a terrific young adult amateur sleuth tale.The story line is fast-paced and loaded with action and plenty of twists as Ingrid tries to solve the case out of fear of lock up.The support cast either enhances her sleuthing, her personality, or her hometown.Though her older much bigger brother got away with sibling violence sending the wrong message to the youthful audience, readers of all ages will appreciate Ingrid Levin Hill, teen detective.

Harriet Klausner

Abrahams amazing again!
If you pick up this book make sure you have time to finish it in one sitting because you won't be able to put it down.
Like Harry Potter, this is an all-ages work. Abrahams is an amazing talent whose work thrills me every time and now he's writing for a younger audience which means more people can appreciate his books. If I can't convince you, read the jacket comments from Stephen King. Reviews like that aren't just handed out . . . read the book!
... Read more

Book Description

Illus. in full color."Mirandy is sure she'll win the cake walk if she can

catch Brother Wind for her partner, but he eludes all the tricks her friends

advise. This gets a high score for plot, pace, and characterization. Mirandy

sparkles with energy and determination. Multi-hued watercolors fill the pages

with patterned ferment. A treat to pass on to new generations."--(starred)

Bulletin, Center for Children's Books.Cassette running time: 20 min.




... Read more

Reviews (1)

Can the wind be a partner?
This children's book, illustrated by Jerry Pinkney, is about a young and joyous African-American girl who hopes to win a prize at a cake walk by capturing the wind as her partner. The story takes place around 1900 and is a beautiful view of a happy people. The book was a 1989 Caldecott Honor book (i.e., a runner-up to the Medal winner) for best illustrations in a book for children. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Where does a Jedi go to unwind? Why, to a ContemplationStation, of course. The Jedi Temple on Coruscant has three of them.

But you'd already know that if you had Inside the Worlds of Star Wars: Episode I, yet another lushly illustrated and obscenely detailed Star Wars reference from the folks at DK Publishing. Much like their other excellent cross-section books, most of which focus on vehicles, this title pulls apart Episode I's exotic locales, from Otoh Gunga to the N-1 hangar in Theed to poor Anakin and Shmi's pathetic excuse for a home in Mos Espa.

Each illustration includes a few paragraphs of background information (along with some well-chosen stills from the movie in some cases), but the meat is in the copious call-outs pointing to minute details that would otherwise go unnoticed. In the honeycomb of "species-friendly" offices surrounding the Senate, for example, you can see the Wookiee napping rooms (oh, the Jedis only wish that they had hammocks in their Contemplation Stations) and learn about re-orgs in the Neimoidian diplomatic corps ("To enforce competitiveness, Neimoidians assign identical work to two teams of worker drones, with the incentive that the successful team eats the other").

The book's biggest set piece is a fold-out rendering of the Mos Espa Arena, but fans will likely enjoy the diagrammed blow-by-blows of Episode I's most dramatic scenes even more: What route did the Queen and her retainers take as they scurried through occupied Theed? Exactly how and where did the Trade Federation deploy its droids? And which turn is the tightest on the Boonta Eve Classic? Thanks to DK, it's all there in meticulously drawn detail. --Paul Hughes ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Great!
An excellent book! I have all of the titles in this series and plan to purchase Inside the Worlds of the Classic Star Wars as soon as it comes out. I think that they could have gone a little bit more in depth with this book, but you're talking to a Star Wars freak who could never get enough. I also think that The Attack of the Clones edition could have been longer, but overall, a wonderfull book of detailed maps and explanitory paragraphs.

Ahh thats where they went...
An indepth review of the Episode 1 locations which are quite impressive, such as the Mos Espa arena and the Theed royal palace. An extention of the Pictorial Directory and Cross Sections, this book really explains alot of how why and where things happened in this first chapter of this tail.

Another cross-sections...another good review
Finally, a cross-sections that gives the audience a look inside the buildings of Star Wars! Why they waited so long to release it is anyone guess, but the wait is over. If you've read my reviews for the other cross-sections books then you know how much I love cross-sections. That said, Inside The Worlds Of Episode 1 breathes new life into The Phantom Menace. Particular favorites of mine include Otoh Gunga, Watto's junkshop, the Galactic Senate building, and the Jedi Temple. Not only does the book talk about particular locations in the movie, but also the very planets that the movie is set on: Naboo, Tatooine, and Coruscant. Inside The Worlds Of Episode 1 is full of wonderful illustrations and is packed with amazing information. Indeed, it's the chosen one...of cross-sections books, that is.

Extraordinary! An amazing idea for a book w/ incredible art
I just saw this book yesterday. I don't think it was marketed as much as the other books. That's a shame because it's magnificient.

I am truly blown away by the content and pictures of the locations from Episode I. The art is unbelievable. The detail level is extreme and it must have taken an enormous amount of time for these two artists to complete this work. Every detail you could possibly want is here.

This is a lot like the Star Wars Cross-Section books of the ships only it is not as technical. Imagine those books but for the locations and you have a pretty good idea of what this is.

What's really great is how you get to look at things from angles that the film doesn't show you. The long shots really put everything into scope. You also get to see areas that you can't in the movie such as this place Watto can fly up to above his countertop in the junk shop. I can't wait to study this book some more and then rewatch The Phantom Menace again. I believe I'll look at it in a whole new way.

My fingers are crossed for an Episode II version. I'd buy it in a heartbeat.

Extends Your Knowledge of Star Wars Beyond the Movies
Have the ultimate experience of The Phantom Menace by extending your understanding with this book.

This book is an excellent expansion of the basic story line of Episode I. Based on reading it, you will have much more appreciation for that movie and the later ones in the series.

The book contains star charts to show you where key planets are located (like Naboo, Tatooine, Coruscant, Alderaan, Corellia), which makes many of the plots much easier to understand.

Beyond that benefit, you get detailed maps of each of the planets where action occurs in Episode I. This allows you to see how the various story lines relate to each other spatially. For example, you can see how the Gungan capital of Otoh Gunda relates to the Naboo capital of Theed. In the case of Naboo, this is supplemented with a geological cutaway of the planet to show you how the two capitals are connected by the ocean.

Next, each city is also mapped. So you see the details of Otoh Gunda, Theed, Mos Espa on Tatooine, and the central area of Coruscant. Then specific buildings and space ships are also shown in cutaways. These include the Droid control ship, Watto's junkshop, Anakin's hovel, the Jedi Temple, the Imperial Senate, and the arena for pod races on Tatooine.

Action sequences are then detailed so that you can see where and when each step takes place. This is done for the duel with Darth Maul and Jedi Qui-Gon Jiun and Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Theed palace generator. You also get the battle between the droids and the Gungans. But the best is the full map of the pod race course, with annotations for where each major part of the race's events occurred.

All of these maps are enlivened by detailed notes on the geology, technology, and history of the places displayed. There are many references to Senator Palpatine and the sources of power on Naboo that will be of interest. I thought the expanded information about the Gungan city was especially well done.

The illustrations are new in many cases, which also adds to the reader's pleasure.

My only complaint is that there are several pages with no new information and no interesting detail. An editor should have taken this out or substituted better content. The only argument in their favor is that they help remind you of the story's continuity.

This must have been a lot of fun to create. My suggestion is that you take another story you like and make a similar series of maps and notes. If you have children or grandchildren, this could be a fun project to do together. You might consider Alice in Wonderland as a first subject. Or if you have a friend who loves Star Wars, you could expand on Episode I or any of the other stories in the same way.

May the Force be with you . . . always! ... Read more

Book Description

Featuring more than 60 full-color reusable stickers - including all thehumorous character of the upcoming Disney/Pixar release - this book offers readers a huge range of interactive stickers and zany facts. ... Read more

Book Description

CD of Pictures at an Exhibition included. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Pictures at an Ehibition
A wonderful picture book which brings true story, art and music together I have ever read. They harmonize well. Reading this book with the accompanying Mussorgsky's music is one of my greatest enjoyment,especially when in late afternoon. I highly recommend this book to the students who now are learning art or music but do not have much time for reading. It is a good opportunity for them to get started from it and will bring in something for them. ... Read more

Book Description

What simpler way could there be to express to children the beauty and the harmony in the world around them than through the lyrics of this song by George David Weiss and Bob Thiele, made famous by the great Louis Armstrong? And what better visual accompaniment than the bright colorful artwork by award-winning Ashley Bryan depicting children of many backgrounds (and Louis Armstrong himself) performing a puppet show that brings the lyrics to life. Here is a book of brightness, wonder, and hope to be shared by all. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

What a wonderful book!
This is a fantastic book! My six and three year old children are already on their second copy - we wore out the first! Both of my daughters love to read it - actually sing it - over, and over, and over. They're fascinated by the pictures as well.

Of course, once they learned to sing the song, it was so easy to introduce them to the music of Louis Armstrong. This book was the perfect bridge. Now my six year old asks me to play "Lewis" for her when we're in the car.

Ultimately soothing
I first saw this book being read/sung to the children in my preschooler's class. I purchased the book for my son and to my amazement,my 1 year old LOVED it as well. The illustrations are bright and captures my baby's attention, he'll sit and "read" the book for minutes! Now, whenever my kids are starting to "meltdown" all I have to do is start singing the song and they both immediately search out this book!

What a Wonderful World
The lyrics to the song, "What a Wonderful World" by David Weiss and Bob Thiele come to life as Ashley Bryan imagines a wonderful world and creates this image in the form of a puppet show. Through the puppet show and the bright colorful illustrations the young audience is captured and can easily relate. It is a great book for young children! It is a book of hope for children and the world!

Note to teachers: This book is great for teaching diversity. Use the book and set it to the music of Louis Armstrong. The children will love it and adults will be moved. Let your children create props for their own puppet show or let children illustrate the book and put together for a class book. Then use Louis Armstrong's music again with the children's class book.

Its colors and text burst with joy!
This book is a joyful, moving tribute to Louis Armstrong and our wonderful world. My kids loved it and it brought me to tears. The words explode with emotion in the colorful illustrations. It is almost as good as hearing Satchmo singing that song. And - like the song - when it's over, you think to yourself, "Isn't it great to be alive!" My only criticism: The book should come packaged with Armstrong's recording.

WONDERFUL!!!
This book is absolutely wonderful, after meeting the author himself I can say his truely colorful personality comes out in this book! I would read this one over and over to my son. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Disney Fans Must Have
This is a must have for the Disney fan. This book gives in depth detail into the man who created the "happiest place on earth", from the people who knew hime best. His family, friends, and employees. I have read many books on Disney, and this ranks in the top 2(along with Imaganineering). It tells the stories of his triumphs as well as his tragedies. I highly recommend this book.

NIce story about a true genius
This book is not a complete and detailed biography, but is a nice tribute to Walt Disney. It has a lot of photos, and the most interesting parts of the book are "personal side" sections.

Proof That Walt Disney Was The Original Dream Worker!
Walt Disney is well on his way to becoming the most written about creative talent in American film.
This is the 100th anniversary of his birth and thankfully any examination of his life can still include careful interviews with people who knew him and worked with him. The book is less an in-depth biography and more like spending a long afternoon hearing how it was from those who knew him best and who can praise him at the same time they acknowledge his frailties. It's an earnest and heartfelt look at the heart and soul of the man, and the authors do their level best to take a frank and thoughtful approach while still being entertaining. Like everything else Disney, it's best to give in to the fact that you're about to be put under a spell. The sooner you give in, the more fun you'll have.
Though some may find it less satisfying than a more critical analysis, this reader is tired of deconstructing American icons and welcomes this lovely look at a historical figure whose impact went well beyond his filmmaking. Disney is arguably the greatest influence on American popular culture and family entertainment in the past 100 years. Most admirable is the way the authors address some of the detractors who've criticized Walt Disney over the years for such things as anti-Semitism or racism. Albeit sentimental, the authors maintain fairly good objectivity. Walt Disney remains enigmatic even to those closest to him. Thankfully, the recollections by family and friends are edited into the layout without making the entire book seem like a posthumous testimonial dinner.
Granted this Disney Editions publication doesn't come without its ulterior motives. With the kind of control Disney has always had over any thing profiling the company one doubts that a harsh light will ever shine on their founder in one of their own pubications. But dreams and dreamers always look better in a soft light, and who but a bitter DreamWorker would ever want to bother trying to detract from such happy success? (And if ever proof was needed that certain ex-studio head turned competitor NEVER was and NEVER WILL be the next Walt Disney, this delivers it!) Though you wish the current Disney brass would pay more attention to the underlying principals of what makes Disney 'Disney' that are spelled out in this book. Hey, we can dream, too, can't we?
Still, this deliciously illustrated oversized scrapbook-styled remembrance of Walt more than makes up for its obvious propaganda focused origins. Imagine(eer) that!
Even though the book serves primarily as a companion to the documentary film of the same title, it's a wonderful read. A gentle reflection with rich illustrations -- some seldom and never before seen photographs -- and a rich and handsome design. Endlessly entertaining. A lovely tribute worth adding to your library. ... Read more

Book Description

In the tradition of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s The Little Princess come Noel Streatfeild’s tales of triumph. In this story, three orphan girls vow to make a name for themselves and find their own special talents. With hard work,
fame just may be in the stars! Originally published in 1937.
... Read more

Reviews (48)

a childhood must-read
Ballet shoes -- and all of Noel Streatfield's "shoes" stories -- were by far my favorite books as a child. My copy of Ballet Shoes is nearly worn out from being read so many times. The mix of fantasy and reality is perfect -- it sparks a child's imagination of what could, just maybe, happen to her. Interestingly, the "shoes" series was given a bit of publicity in the recent flick "You've Got Mail;" perhaps one of the movie's writers was a fan of Streatfield as well? In any case, I'd recommend this book to any child . . . and any adult wishing to relive childhood through the eyes of three orphaned -- but very lucky -- British children.

A delightfully good book!
I didn't actually read this book until I was an adult, but I still enjoyed it very much. Streatfield did a good job with describing the characters of Posy, Pauline and Petrova. Each girl has her own individual characteristics, personality and background. In the book, you'll see their struggles to acheive their dreams; Pauline as an actress, Posy as a ballerina, and Petrova as a pilot. Girls who are theater-minded will relate best to Pauline and Posy; tomboys will relate better to Petrova, who dislikes her ballet and theater training and puts up with it only because she knows she's helping the family out financially. Petrova is the sort of girl who is interested in airplanes and cars, and could care less about being an actress or dancer.

However, while this is a charming story, it is very unrealistic in some ways. The girls, all of whom were orphaned in infancy, never wonder about their real parents, and Posy seems perfectly content with the fact that her mother abandoned her. Gum, who brought all three girls home, simply drops out of their lives before they're old enough to know him -- he never writes to them, comes to visit, asks about them, anything. Yet this never bothers the girls, and they accept his absence as a fact of life. All the girls' problems center around some aspect of their work; there are never any issues about things outside of it.

Even the ending, while touching, seems a little amiss. Instead of worrying about who she will live with(Posy and Pauline are both moving away to different places when promising opportunites arise for them) Petrova is wondering how she will make the Fossil(the name she and her sisters chose for themselves)name famous. If I was in that situation and my two sisters were going to live in two different places, with each of my guardians going to live separately with them, my concerns would be a little more practical. Thankfully, at this point Gum shows up and solves the dilemma.

In spite of that, this is a sweet, charming book, just delightfully good reading. I think that it would have been even better with some subplots regarding personal, non-work-related issues in the girls' lives, such as wondering about their real families, and what it would be like to have a dad. For this reason I give it four stars. Most likely this style of writing wasn't popular for children's books in Noel Streatfield's time. Nevertheless, I still find it a very enjoyable book, even at 28 years of age, and still recommend it heartily for any young girl.

A Great Kids Book!
When I read this book I wanted to read it every night. Since I've finished reading it (boo hoo!) I've wanted to read more of the Shoe Books. I completely fell in love with the characters from this book, and met them every night when my dad read it to me. I think kids just like me will love this book. (...).

Best Book
The Ballet Shoes was a very good book. If you dont like ballet you probably will not like it. It was a very interesting book.I would recommend it to everyone.

simply an enjoyable read
I usually read sci-fi trilogies and the like. Then I heard so many nice things about this book that I had to read it. It was a happy story about the three little girls was interesting and funny. By reading about the bygone era of the 40s, I learned a lot about the issues of that time period (the illnesses and social issues), and the culture (proper attire, tea time, and formalities). I also some about Shakespeare. Anyway, I'm an adult and I would recommend it. --anjchang ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Magical and Cheerful Story
When I read, "A Midsummer Night's Dream", I thought it was a very happy story. The story takes place in Athens, Greece and the king is about to become engaged to a queen. The story is about love and many magical events. I think "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is an extremely happy and cheerful story and I recommend it to other people.

Stop Kidding Yourselves
Retelling Shakespeare's stories is a valid activity. (Shakespeare after all retold others' stories when he wrote his plays.) Telling kids that they're learning Shakespeare when their taught retellings of the stories in his plays, however, is a terrible practice and should be avoided at all costs.

Unexpected enchantment
I love the works of Shakespeare but I've always thought that children under the age of 11 or 12 wouldn't be able to grasp the complexity both of the stories and of the language. Well, thank goodness Lois Burdett has come to our rescue! It has been her labor of love to rewrite the stories in rhyming couplet. She is quite an accomplished poet and a delight to read.

A Midsummer Night's Dream is extremely funny. Throughout the book Ms Burdett has included pictures and statements relating to the story that were made by her students. Clearly she makes Shakespeare come alive. I was so impressed with her rendition of this story that I couldn't wait to try it out on my eight year old. He loved it! We have a new Shakespeare fan in our house. I am extremely grateful that these books are available. I plan to purchase them all. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

charming introduction into art for youngsters
This book serves more than one purpose. It is a short, but entertaining read for a child or for a parent to read to their children. The story is about Marie, a young girl in France who is loved by her poor, but hard-working parents. They work long hours to save money to send her to ballet school - as it is her dream to become the world's most famous ballerina.

When her father becomes ill and can no longer afford to pay for her classes, the famous artist Edgar Degas offers to pay her for modeling for him. He is mean, short-tempered and impatient with Marie, making her hold poses for hours until her neck aches.

One night, however, she finds out just a little of what is under the surface of Degas' rough exterior and feels sorry for him, giving him her long hair ribbon.

Even her modeling pay cannot sustain the cost of her classes, so she must give up her dream. Later, she and her parents receive an invitation to a gallery showing of Degas' work - the center piece is the only sculpture of his ever displayed during his lifetime - it is of Marie - and unlike other statues, hers is wearing a tutu and the beautiful hair ribbon she gave him.

The story is not only entertaining, but it tells children that while some people may act mean or rude, it may be because they are hurting on the inside - and extending friendship to someone who behaves in such a manner can truly make a difference in their life and in yours.

The story is peppered with illustrations of Marie and her family, as well as photos of Degas' paintings and of course, his famous sculpture. Information about the names of the paintings and the museums where they are displayed is also cited at the end of the book.

This doesn't have to be just a book for girls - even young boys will see a universal truth - we can always have dreams and even though they may not come true the way we envisioned them, we never know what wonderful surprises are around the corner.

Charming little book with lovely illustrations
This is the story of Marie van Goethen, a young dancer at the Paris Opera Ballet School who posed for Edgar Degas (1824-1917). He created the sculpture, "The Little Dancer" based on Marie's likeness. This was the only Degas sculpture to be exhibited during his lifetime. This charming figure was wearing a tutu and a wig.
The illustrations in this children's book are beautiful and even some of Degas' own paintings are included. I wish that more of Degas' life had been included in this story. I also feel that this book would have been perfect if more of his paintings were displayed with descriptions of each work of art.
This book is a good introduction to Degas and should be targeted towards lower elementary students.

A moving story
This is not only a book for children, but also a moving tale illustrating the life of Degas. It is enough to bring tears to the eyes of any lover of Degas art.

This book connects real life with art
This is a wonderful book that helps children (and adults) see the reality that lies behind art. My daughter was first introduced to this book at the age of 8. Now she notices the "Little Dancer" every time she sees it. Knowing the background of both Degas and his young dancer has made the art itself more interesting.

Fabulous integrated arts book!
This book teaches not only about the famous French impressionist Degas, but also would be enjoyed by any child who loves dance. It documents the true story of Degas' dancer paintings as well as one little girl's love for ballet. It's equally inspirational and educational. Perfect for the classroom or the home! ... Read more