Book Description

Filled with action,danger, and suspense this book is sure to keep readers in their seats, following Billy and Bonnie to the exciting conclusion. This is the third saga in a four book series. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Dante Meets King Arther?That and more in Circles of Seven!
Dante meets King Arthur?Dragons that were and dragons to be?Deception and betrayal?Circles of Seven has it all - and that's just Chapter One!

Bryan Davis has done it again, not only creating a book that is as good as the predecessors - but one that surpasses them!Circles of Seven blends brilliant fiction, fascinating new mythology, Biblical truth and more plot twists than you can shake Excalibur at.The action makes this book cool, the players make it fascinating, the plot moves it and the writing of the characters make it real.

Mr. Davis reaffirms his place with greats such as Tolkein and Lewis, by creating characters that you get attached to then showing them in situations that illustrate what character based on faith can over come - all within a story that is so riveting that you can't help but turn the pages.

Circles of Seven introduces several new characters and surprises into the Dragons in our Midst series, characters that you'll love because they're so clever, and hate because they're so evil!But more than that, Circles of Seven brings us into an entirely new realm where science and mythology merge with sound theology and legend to create vivid portraits of places and events that will thrill you.

Underlying it all is the character that provides the baseline of the series.Billy, Bonnie, the Professor and Walter all have decisions to make that hold the fate of their own futures as well as that of the dragons - and even all human kind.Beautifully illustrated is how even the smallest decision can make a large difference - and even how people that are honestly seeking to do right can make mistakes.The good news for the characters as well as for us is that there's a loving Maker that can redeem even our mistaken choices.

On top of all that, Mr. Davis continues to introduce great new twists to the Arthurian Legend - and brings the series to the home of them all Glastonbury, the Isle of Avalon and the Tor from where the legends all spring.

Before you sit down to read this book, be sure that you've got everything else taken care of - you're simply not going to want put this book down!

A one of a kind: Circles of Seven
This story marches were no storys have gone before, to the exiting sci-fi regions and beyond.This is the best book of all the others.I found myself hooked on it through the day and most of the night.
(...)

Better Than the Best of Christian Fantasy
Deep characters, different dimensions, allegorical worlds...Circles of Seven has it all!When I read the first book in this series, I was a bit skeptical--I mean, what sane person would read about half-dragon children?I soon found out that it would be insane NOT to!

In this third installment of the "Dragons in Our Midst" series, Billy Bannister, along with his best friend and fellow anthrozil, Bonnie Silver, embarks on a dangerous journey through the circles to rescue prisoners from the the circles' dark mistress, Morgan Le Faye.What Billy and Bonnie don't realize, however, is the amount of danger that their quest holds for them.When Bonnie is captured by Morgan, things start to go haywire, and Billy is thrust into making a decision that could alter the course of his life forever.This book is impossible to put down!

If you enjoyed "Raising Dragons" and "The Candlestone," you won't want to miss this page turner!It's better than the best of Christian fantasy--and it's hard to find a book that good!

Highly recommended.

Best Book Yet with Spiritual Growth
"Circles of Seven" is the best book yet! It's so hard to put it down!There are very touching moments throughout the story.After reading "Circles of Seven," my faith is stronger than ever.I'm patently waiting to read the next book in the series.

I encourage all readers who love Christian fantasy or just fantasy novels to go out and buy this book for yourself.This brings you into the world of wonders, where dangers, adventures and so much more awaits for your mind.Bryan Davis has once again done another outstanding job, and I believe and know he will do another outstanding job for the next book to come out.I gives this 5 + more stars. :D ... Read more

Book Description

Peter Pan, J. M. Barrie's tale of the boy who wouldn't grow up, remains one of the most beloved children's books ever written. For nearly a hundred years, kids across the world have drifted off to sleep dreaming about Tinker Bell and the Lost Boys, pixie dust and ticking clocks, crocodiles and Captain Hook. But in spite of the story's visual richness, it has never been illustrated photographically until now.

In this lavishly produced edition of the unabridged adventure classic, designer and illustrator Raquel Jaramillo interprets Peter Pan through her wondrous photographic imagery. By blending illustration, photography, and computer technology, she blurs the lines between fiction and reality. The result is fresh and startlingly beautiful -- pure magic. Neverland comes alive with the immediacy and drama of a movie. Pirates stalk savage forests, mermaids swim through sun-kissed seas, children fly above undiscovered islands. Portrayed with a flesh-and-blood intimacy, the beloved characters of Peter Pan, Wendy Darling, Captain Hook, Tinker Bell, and Nana seem more real than ever before.

Part ghost story, part love story, tender, funny, and wise, Peter Pan is a haunting work that appeals equally to boys and girls. But in the wake of numerous abridged retellings, the famous Disney adaptation, and other big-screen updates, the true nature of the novel has been somewhat forgotten, its impact diminished with each passing generation. Jaramillo's stunning re-creation secures the legacy of the tale, in all its complexity, for a second century. It will prove to be as ageless as Peter himself. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Neverland Comes to Life!
This edition of Barrie's classic novel ushers in a new era in illustrated books. Combining photography and state-of-the-art computer wizardry with an illustrator's sensibility that descends directly from the work of such artists as N.C. Wyeth, Arthur Rackham, and Maxfield Parrish, Raquel Jaramillo has brought the tale of Peter Pan and Neverland magically to life. Children will be enthralled by the immediacy and realism of the pictures--able, finally, to see the 'real' Peter, Hook, and Tinker Bell--while adults will appreciate the artistry of her interpretations. This is the original, unabridged novel, though Jaramillo has cleverly found a way to highlight key textual points with captions that can be read aloud to younger fans. This book is a triumph, a joy for young and old alike!

Pure Magic!
Truly, I was taken aback when I first pulled this gorgeous book out of its wrappings. The illustration and pure magic that jumps out from every page will enchant children all of ages (even big kids like me!) This edition of Peter Pan was written and designed with love for the story; that is evident! You'll find a map inside the cover, showing the Lost Boys Territory, Buccaneer Zone, Deadman's Isles, among other things.

Peter Pan presented like this makes a beautiful coffee table book. You'll be anxious to read this to your children, and your older kids will engross themselves over it, too.  

This is not the Peter Pan we had growing up! I highly recommend this book to parents and children who really appreciate a classic and a keepsake.

Success of digital photo in storytelling.
I've read the story/play before getting this book, and I must say the digital images really elaborates a new wave of magic. The digital imaging photographs are great in company with the writing. The colors are fantastic and the typography really promotes the tension of the plotline. For any illustration or fine art student this is one book you must have for reference. It is like taking Disney's Peter Pan into live action, except with lesser background scenes.

at last the full story- again!
For those who have never read J. M. Barrie's long, quirky & involved story of a boy who can fly, loses his shadow & talks with fairies & the girl who befriends him & learns to fly too. It's all there & I was surprised at how long it is. It could take a month of daily reading to your children to finish it!

This complete & unabridged original tale of Neverland(no, it was not ever Never Never Land!) is rich in Victorian/Edwardian England's sense of humor & propriety; of starched strangers getting to know each other across social barriers; of precious parents torn with guilt & passionate dogs bereft of duty. Of cocky young boys & mean-spirited pirates; of exotic redskins & luring mermaids & that dreadful ticking crocodile! Certainly not for the politically correct!

It is also rich in an entirely new way for Raquel Jaramillo has set Barrie's story to photographs in an immediate, fantastically textured, dreamy & magical way. This illustrator has refreshed the images to this oft-abbreviated story & revived its delightful & scary philosophies.

Psychology & political correctness aside, Raquel Jaramillo has done well with this master storyteller's greatest tale. Adults & children alike will be able to identify with the whole cast & once again become immersed in the magic.

"Second to the right & then straight on until morning..." how many nights did I slip into sleep, murmuring that phrase & dreaming I was on my way to Neverland where the Lost Boys made their homes(after all, girls were much too clever ever to fall out of their prams & get lost!)

Unabridged and relived
Simon and Schuster present the original, unabridged tale of Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie to a new generation of readers. The 1911 tale is in a large sized book with 134 pages and colorfully illustrated life-like pictures.

I remember the story of Wendy Darling, her brothers, parents, Peter Pan, Tinkerbell, Neverland, the mermaids, Tiger Lily, and all the wonderful situations that made up this animated fairytale in print. From the moment Wendy and Peter Pan meet, to the first flight, to the trips to Neverland and all the escapades that followed, to the end with a grown up Wendy and her own child -- it's all here in the manner in which it was really meant to be told. It's too unique to be missed by young or old. Rereading it as a grown-up was a magical experience.

Although I see nothing wrong with the Disney adaptation of Peter Pan, I am glad to see the original version back in fresh print. There isn't anything in Peter Pan I feel would affect young children, it's just a lengthy tale that would most likely take a week of bedtime reads to finish. ... Read more

Book Description

Fifteen years ago, long before anyone else thought of tucking actual letters and notes inside a book, Little, Brown published The Jolly Postman by Allan and Janet Ahlberg.This wonderful book gave children a chance to read letters sent from one fairy tale or Mother Goose character to another.Among the funny notes was one from Jack, who lolled on a sun-drenched island, thanking the Giant for the gold that let him afford such a nifty vacation.All this amusing correspondence was deftly illustrated and the book attracted hordes of eager readers. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Ever wonder what type of junk mail a wicked witch gets?
In this book, the Jolly Postman is delivering the mail to the residents of a quaint fairy tale village, and you get to read all the letters -- even the junk mail! Every other page is an envelope with some type of correspondence tucked inside. The Three Bears get a handwritten apology from Goldilocks, complete with misspellings and invitation to a birthday party. The occupant of Gingerbread Bungalow in The Woods, who happens to be the Wicked Witch, gets an advertising circular from Hobgoblin Supplies Ltd. A certain snout-nosed grandma gets a demand letter addressed to Mr. B.B. Wolf from Miss Riding-Hood's attorney, who also states, "On a separate matter, we must inform you that The Three Little Pigs Ltd. are now firmly resolved to sue for damages. . .all this huffing and puffing will get you nowhere." Some of the funniest moments in this book come from the illustrations of the Jolly Postman stopping for tea with each mail delivery. At the Wicked Witch's cottage, he peruses the newspaper, the Mirror Mirror, while the witch reads her mail and her black cat does the dishes. At Cinderella's castle, he enjoys a glass of champagne poured by Prince Charming, who is still in his honeymoon Hawaiian print shirt and white slacks. This book is perfect for sharing one on one with a child, but if there aren't any children available, it's also amusing for solitary adults.

The Jolly Postman or some funny letters
This was one of my favorite books when I was very little. I remember that there was a lot of funny letters, one having to do with a witch. A good book for kids just learning to read or for someone reading to a little kid, I remember my second grade teacher reading this to us.

Just impressed!!!
I admit - Im 15 years old, and i just fell in love with this book! It's an original piece, using stories that are familiar to every child. This could be one of the best presents you can give someone.
Very reckmended!!!

The BEST book to grow up with
I had this book when i was little and i really liked it! on every page there was some sort of package or letter to a different fairy tale. i believe humpty dumpty had a puzzle and the giant (jack and the beanstalk) had a lot of tiny letters from jack. i would totally reccomend it for any little kid who likes fairy tales!

a simple joy
I remember receiving this book for my eighth birthday and fifteen years later the novelty of removing the little letters to all the fairytale characters hasn't worn off.I recently rediscovered the book when a young friend was given it for his birthday and it was wonderful to experience The Jolly Postman through the eyes of a child once again.
This book is an absolute treasure to be enjoyed by children and adults alike,take the opportunity to read this fun creation. ... Read more

Book Description

From one of the swamp moons of Naboo, to the war-torn cityscapes of Brentaal IV, the battles of the Clone Wars have thrown the galaxy into turmoil. New Separatist threats, ranging from deadly biological weapons, to dark Jedi, to unkillable alien bounty hunters, have the loyalist Jedi and their clone troops pushed to their limits. This graphic novel collection contains three separate, yet linked stories of heroism and sacrifice set during the time between Episode II and Episode III! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

SUPERB QUALITY CONTROL WORKS.
I have been critical of the occasional lack of quality control by lazy editors at dark horse. But this comic is magnificent! I had tripidations when i realized that two writters, 3 pencilers and 3 inkers were involved. But the editors and everyone else did their jobs and the results are tremendous.

The master plan for the entire PRE-QUEL endeavor has been very satisfying so far, unlike the extremely disappointing NJO. Here the master plan combines excellent novels and comic books with the movies to tell the story.

Excellent followup to volume 1. Great job Lucas films and darkhorse.

The New Face of War
The Clone Wars rage on in this exciting volume.

This book contains the first appearances of the two new villains of the Clone Wars: the bounty hunter Durge, and Asajj Ventress, the female Dark Jedi.

If you saw the CW animated series than you are familiar with these villains. They are great new characters, and are the new face of war. Durge has a very cool look as well as an entertaining personality and dialogue.

The art is handled by three artists, all of them excellent. This features the first time Brian Ching drew an issue (Republic #53), and it's nice detailed work. Jan Duuresma is outstanding, as usual. Tomas Giorello also does a commendable job.

Dark Horse is really doing tremendous work with Star Wars right now. In my opinion, the current SW comics are among the best they've ever published.

The Wars continue...
Anyone who has read the first collected comic "Star Wars: Clone Wars; Volume 1" knows that the art work and story lines are excellent!!!

This issue expands on the conflict of the Clone Wars and develops the characters more so you can really get a feel for who they are and how they act, especially the Sith Warriors. Volume 2 contains much more action than Volume 1 and leaves you wanting the next Volume already!

If you have a love for Star Wars and the expanded universe of the comics; or if you just love a few great war stories in a sci-fi setting, this is the comic for you. However it should be said that although this comic can be read without reading the first volume, those that have read the first will enjoy this comic more as they can notice the character development and know the origins of some of the conflicts in this volume.

Happy reading and (Always wanted to say this), May the Force be with you! ... Read more

Book Description

The Magic Tree House whisks Jack and Annie back to the eve of the first Thanksgiving. There they meet the Pilgrims as well as Squanto, a Native American who helped them. The story offers an age-appropriate, in-depth picture of what life was really like for early settlers, as well as the usual Magic Tree House adventure and excitement. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Make History Fun!
This book allows children to experience another time and place. This is an excellent supplement to the elementary curriculum. This book is easy to read and makes learning about history, fun. This book will teach children about a way of life that they are unfamiliar with. Students will learn how people back then dressed, how they hunted and prepared food, and how they worked together as a community. Children will learn more than just history from this book. This book emphasizes the value of others and of working together. This book will also get children excited about reading and it will also encourage them to write and to keep their own personal journal of adventures. This book is an excellent teaching resource.

Great Classroom Read Aloud
My 1st graders loved this book. The text allows the child to form mental images of what the very first Thanksgiving was like. The class is looking forward to "Christmas in Camelot" as our next read aloud chapter book.

Better books about Thanksgiving available
The Magic Treehouse books are great for young readers to read independently. After they're done with one, they usually can't wait for the next. Unfortunately, the first Thanksgiving feast is treated in a rather superficial way. If you're just looking for another MT book, fine, go ahead and buy this...

why oh why do we lie
is there some reason for the perpetuation of stereotypes? the story of squanto, the helpful noble savage. the story of indians selling their land for $24 in beads. does anyone really look into the validity behind these tales? since history books teach our young children enough lies about colonialism and the indigenous people in the Americas it is the duty of the parents to help stop these sometimes hurtful myths. do your kid a favor and quit lying to them about history. learn the truth.

GREAT BOOK!
I like this book very much. Jack and Annie are whisked back to the first Thanksgiving in 1621. But they failed to catch eels and clams and burnt Priscilla's Thanksgiving turkey when Jack dropped it into the fire. They found the magic of community, however, in spite of everything.
Read more Magic Tree House books! "High Tide in Hawaii" is coming soon! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great for keeping kids quiet in car
This series has been a life saver for me with 2 boys, 3 and 5yrs old who used to bicker all the time in the car. They love the stories and beg me to put them on. I don't know what I will do when I finish book 16, hopefully the rest come out on cd soon.

Magic Tree House CD Collection Books 9-16
My 6 year old and I have enjoyed listening to these fantastic adventure books on CD. Mary Pope Osborne did an incredible job of weaving her stories chapter by chapter. The story plot keeps a child engrossed for the duration of the book. It is a great mode of entertainment for long trips. We recommend this to parents of young children. Her stories are G rated for ages of 3-4 year olds and up. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

Must have!
this book is really cool, beacause billy gets adopted by two evil people called the de Greys and they make billy sign an oath (which puts him in severe pain if he breaks it) Ezekiel brings back a warhorse with a heart labeled "b" which they assume is borlath, but its not! the castle of mirrors is a magical place that rightfully belongs to ........... and we find out billy's relative in this book. also one of charlie's unendowed friends are really endowed... find out! ... Read more

Book Description

What if I were to TELL you that this is an all-true story, every word?

You see, once there was a VERY REAL girl named Fern who found out that she'd been swapped at birth. This might disturb some people, but it made Fern happy because she'd never felt at home with her tragically dull parents, the Drudgers. Fern finds out about the mix-up when the Bone (er, her father) and his "son," Howard, show up at Fern's front door. Now both families decide to UNSWAP the kids for the summer, and Fern heads off with the Bone on a wild adventure into a world inhabited by the Miser, a sinister fellow; and the Great Realdo, a true hero, to name just two.

This book promises suspense! Intrigue! Mystery! Fairies fall out of books! Birds turn into dogs! Nuns turn into lampposts! So I have no idea why you're still lingering here. . . . Start reading!

Reviews (6)

I wanted to try and shake things out my own books
I've read Julianna Baggott's books since the moment Girl Talk came out and I have kept up with all of her books and have shown up to almost all of her book signings. And this book is by far the best that I have read from her...ever. Her other books were awesome too, but this one takes everything that makes a children's book good and wrote a creative and extremely imaginative book. I will be spreading the word to anyone who will listen to me.

Finally a female protagonist!!!
I was so excited to find a children's book with a female main character. As a little girl, reading books where most characters, even animals, were boys, I remember thinking, "There must be more boys in the world than girls, or at least boys must be more important." What a relief I can read this book aloud to my nieces without having to sneak and change a few pronouns to "she", just so they won't feel left out. In contrast to the Harry Potter books, which I find too simplistic to enjoy as an adult, The Anybodies kept me turning the pages. Fern is great, and even I, as a grown-up, was inspired by her and by the book's message to be true to yourself, trust your gut, and to accept yourself, quirks and all.

my point of veiw
The Anybodies is a great book!The book is about a girl named Fern
and her Dad trying to find where the Anybodies book (by Ferns mother who died) has gone. The book is exciting because Fern has to be brave (especially being brave to the Miser)and how she has to lie part of the time to her own Grandmother that she's someone else named Ida Bibb. This book made me laugh, cry, Feel excited and scared. I would recommend this book to all ages. This book is for people who love adventure and excitment. I hope all of you who read this review go buy the book because if you don't your missing out on alot of great reading!!

Write More Books
N.E. Bode must write lots more books. This is a very good book one of the most interesting books I have ever read. I love Roald Dahl and I loved this. Read it.

Best Book of the Year
So, on a whim, I picked up this book to read while on vacation. Fortunately (and unfortunately) it didn't make it that far. Fortunately, because it was one of the wittiest books I've ever read. Unfortunately, because I didn't have another book to read on the trip. The characters are all highly imaginative, and the author goes off on these little tangents about his or her writing instructor that are absolutely laugh-out-loud funny. It's great to find a book out there where you feel for the characters and where you can't wait to find out what's going to happen. It's also great to have such a book have such clean language. Please go get the book...You won't regret it. (...) ... Read more

Book Description

When Will's mother informs her that they will be moving, Will is convinced this means the end of the Guardians. It takes a dangerous (and familiar) enemy to prove to the girls that their friendship and powers are still magical. ... Read more

Book Description

Jack and Annie are off on another adventure! This time they are sent to

ancient Greece, where a very important event is taking place. Join them as they

race against time and witness the very first Olympic games!




... Read more

Reviews (10)

Take An Hour And Read This Book
The book you are going to read about is called Hour of the Olympics. Mary Pope Osborne wrote it and she is a great writer. This story is about the first Olympic game. The two main characters are named Jack and Annie. This book comes from a series of books, so this is only one adventure. The problem in this story is that Jack and Annie are at the first Olympics and no girls are allowed. Annie sneaks in and gets caught. Can Jack get her out of this mess? To find out you will have to read Hour of the Olympics.

Hour of BOREDOM
I did not like this book because it had the most boring mysteries I have ever read.Like most boring books,the kids go somewhere, find what there looking for and, in the case of this book, fly back on a horse with wings.They say boring things along the lines of "how did you learn to read and write?My opinion is that it is a very boring book.

Fantastic in more ways than imaginable
"Hour Of The Olympics" is good because of the ways you learn about the Olympics, and the Olympic events, plus the legend of Pegasus, the flying horse. So amazing, I almost applauded so loud my neighborhood could hear me! Trust me, you can't miss out on this one.

Fantastic in more ways than imaginable
"Hour Of The Olympics" is good because of the ways you learn about the Olympics, and the Olympic events, plus the legend of Pegasus, the flying horse. So amazing, I almost applauded so loud my neighborhood could hear me. Trust me, you can't miss out on this one.

Magic Tree House #16: Hour of the Olympics
Magic Tree House is the Harry Potter for the ages 6-9 crowd. The stories are always delightful, and they always have action in it. This is a very good book. I recommend to all kids from the ages 6-9. Kids younger than that can have parents read it to them. ... Read more

Amazon.com

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the publication of L. FrankBaum's The Wizard of Oz,master paper engineer Robert Sabuda has created a pop-up version of Dorothy'sadventures in Oz that fans will find hard to resist. Modeling his depictions ofDorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, and the rest after W. W. Denslow'soriginal art, Sabuda adds a third dimension that would have rockedDenslow's--and Baum's--world. A rapidly spinning cyclone actually casts a breezeover the startled reader's face. Glorious red poppies wave seductively in afield. And the Emerald City positively glitters with green, especially whenyoung readers try on the special tinted "Spectacles for You" provided in apocket on the page. The abridged text, provided in minibooklets set onto eachpage, covers enough basics for the Oz novice, but we recommend a read-aloud ofthe original, as well, for all the glory and detail of Baum's fantastic tale.Sabuda's homage to the classic is truly spectacular; even purists will gasp indelight at the sight of the humbug wizard floating away in his shiny green,gold, and blue hot-air balloon. This great introduction to the story of Ozdoubles as a fun collector's item. (Ages 3 to 7) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (60)

There's no place like a Robert Sabuda pop-up!
I just have to disagree with the folks who say this is not a book for children...this is THE book for children! If you are looking for a book to give this holiday season that rates 100% on the "oooh-ahhhh!" meter, this is the one. Any child, in particular a reluctant reader, will be dazzled and fascinated by the Emerald City jumping to life in the middle of the book, the whirling balloon and spinning tornado. The artwork warrants accolades even without the magnificent engineering, and there is enough text to make this pop-up perfect for older kids as well. This book does great honor to the Wonderful Wizard, and will be as treasured in your home as a pair of ruby slippers. Whether or not this book actually survives the twister of children's handling, you'd be a real wicked witch not to share it with your favorite munchkin.

"Magical experience"
I collect children's books that are "special" and added this book to my collection as one of my favorites! The experience of looking through the pop-ups can only be described as a "magical experience". The illustrations are done in a nostalgic format with vivid colors. The first page really grabbed me...when you open it up a tornato rises up in a whirling motion and goes completely off of the page. There is fine detail (look under the house in "Munchkinland" and you will actually see the wicked witches feet underneath). Emerald City pops up and actually glitters before your eyes (you would swear it was really made of emeralds)! Oz's hot air balloon rises out of one page and spins in suspension. This is more of a collector book and I would not recommend putting it in the hands of a young child to do with as he/she pleases! It is just too beautiful! But, you would definately have fun viewing/reading the book to a young child...and a child of seven or eight would probably be old enough to care for it! There are also several small pop-ups within the sections you open up and read that are quite charming! There is quite alot of story to read within small sections of the pages, or within flaps that open up. But; if you are a collector of "Oz" memorabilia, or love creative pop-up books... this book would be a great addition to your family!

Spectacular Pop-Ups Illustrate A Timeless Classic!
Robert Sabuda is one of my favorite illustrators and certainly the most renowned pop-up book artist and paper engineer working today. Combine Sabuda's entrancing three dimensional illustrations with Frank Baum's glorious story about Dorothy, the Tin Woodman, the Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion, Toto and their amazing adventures in the Land of Oz and you have pure magic!

The pop-up illustrations are quite intricate, with artwork that's faithful to W. W. Denslow's original illustrations. Sabuda works in a fresh, new style here using prints made from cut linoleum blocks. He brings the drawings to life in a way that will enchant children and adults alike. Each page contains a large pop-up and a small booklet which tells part of the story. And each mini-book contains small pop-ups too. There's a cyclone that really twists, a wizard's balloon that sails into the sky, holographic foil creates a true, sparkling Emerald City made even greener with the included green glasses for the reader

The text is slightly abridged so I would suggest that true "Wizard of Oz" fans include an unabridged copy in their library. I recently bought a copy for my cousin's little girl. She calls it her "magic book" and can't seem to put it down. This very special edition, published to commemorate the book's 100th Anniversary, is well worth the price and will surely find a place of honor on your bookshelf. It is spectacular!
JANA

WOW!
This is impressive! Something really great for Wizard of Oz enthusiasts to keep for years. Don't buy it intending it for small children to handle independently, though. The amazing detail is somewhat fragile. But don't be afraid to get it and hang onto it until they're old enough to be careful with it. It's really incredible!

The Best Pop up book ever!
Hey buy this one for your young friends and read it with them and share the 3-D glasses! Its wonderful you gotta see it to belive it! I am one happy reader!! ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

Sailing toward dawn, and I was perched atop the crow's nest, being the ship's eyes. We were two nights out of Sydney, and there'd been no weather to speak of so far. I was keeping watch on a dark stack of nimbus clouds off to the northwest, but we were leaving it far behind, and it looked to be smooth going all the way back to Lionsgate City. Like riding a cloud. . . .

Matt Cruse is a cabin boy on the Aurora, a huge airship that sails hundreds of feet above the ocean, ferrying wealthy passengers from city to city. It is the life Matt's always wanted; convinced he's lighter than air, he imagines himself as buoyant as the hydrium gas that powers his ship. One night he meets a dying balloonist who speaks of beautiful creatures drifting through the skies. It is only after Matt meets the balloonist's granddaughter that he realizes that the man's ravings may, in fact, have been true, and that the creatures are completely real and utterly mysterious.

In a swashbuckling adventure reminiscent of Jules Verne and Robert Louis Stevenson, Kenneth Oppel, author of the best-selling Silverwing trilogy, creates an imagined world in which the air is populated by transcontinental voyagers, pirates, and beings never before dreamed of by the humans who sail the skies. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Superb Adventure!!
Wow, what a fantastic adventure. I was a little skeptical to read it as the cover didn't seem very interesting, but after I started reading Airborn, I was enthusiatically entralled. Airborn brings together the ideas of Treasure Island and Treasure Planet for a gripping adventure. The descriptive, vivid writing of Kenneth Oppel makes the reader feel they are there expereincing all the ups and downs of the characters. I enjoyed accompanying Matt and Kate aboard the airship, Aurora, as they search for an uncharted species that Kate's grandfather had briefly documented before he died aboard a hotair balloon. Pirates, a shipwreck, a typhoon, jumping snakes, and a beautiful yet deadly uncharted species makes the book hard to put down. Bravo Mr. Oppel! Well done!

Not your typical Treasure Island
"Sailing toward dawn, and I was perched atop the crow's nest, being the ship's eyes." This is a normal occurrence for Matt Cruse, cabin boy aboard the Aurora, a luxury class passenger and cargo ship, and a fitting beginning to this book. What should be a normal voyage becomes an exciting adventure as the Aurora is boarded by pirates, caught in a typhoon, and shipwrecked on an uncharted tropical island where Matt and his friends make an amazing discovery.

This book isn't your typical Treasure Island, however. The Aurora is an airship (think the Good Year Blimp with a full crew and rich passengers) that sails the skies 800 feet above the ocean surface. The airplane has never been invented, and the airships are powered by a light-weight gas called hydrium (a mango-scented gas than all other molecules and pushes any other air out of the space it is in) and propellers to guide the ships through the air.

In this tale, the Aurora, and more specifically Matt Cruse, rescues a stranded balloonist over the Pacificus. One year later, the balloonist's granddaughter, Kate, appears as a passenger on the ship, intent on finding a mysterious creature her grandfather saw on his final voyage. Kate shares her grandfather's story with Matt, who aids her in her quest. Together they face many dangers, including the wrath of Kate's overbearing chaperone, Miss Simpkins, who does not feel that proper ladies should associate with the crew of an airship.

This book is very well written. Kenneth Oppel describes the events, people and places fully, without letting potentially gruesome incidents get to graphic. All of the plot lines intertwine gracefully throughout the narrative until they connect in the book's climax. The characters are interesting and multi-dimensional. For example, Matt's overwhelming sense of duty and single-minded protectiveness of the Aurora contrasts with his sense of adventure and his new friendship with Kate in which he often must choose between her and the ship. Kate is willful and adventurous. She can take care of herself, but is not beyond asking for help when she needs to do so. Even the "villains" in this book have multiple sides. Captain Szpirglas of the pirate ship loots every ship he can, but is only violent when he needs to be in order keep the crew and passengers under control. He also has a soft and caring side that no one would suspect.

The places in this book make it realistic despite the fantasy element of airships instead of airplanes. For example, the Aurora is traveling from the west coast of North America to Sydney, Australia, and the Air Academy where some people study to be airship crew is located in Paris. The book has a historical feel to it, with the oceans called the Atlanticus and Pacificus, the women in long dresses and jewelry aboard the ship, and the notion that women should not have adventures or go to university. The characters, however, have a more modern feel to them, especially Kate, who does not buy into the ideals of her society and intends to make great discoveries of her own and make sure that no one else takes the credit.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fantasies, pirate stories, adventures or teenage heros.

Interesting Addition to the Teen Fiction Genre
Matt Cruise is a cabin boy on a tremendous airship that sails hundreds of thousands of feet above the ocean, ferrying enormously wealthy passengers from city to city. The airship is known as the Aurora, and Matt is ecstatic to have the chance to fly upon this ship day in and day out. It's what he's always dreamed of, as he often images himself as the gas that powers the ship. One night while aboard the Aurora, Matt meets a dying balloonist, who tells Matt about all kinds of beautiful creatures that drift through the skies. Matt, knowing that this sounds crazy, ignores what the man says. But later, when he meets the man's granddaughter, Matt realizes that the man's ravings could very well have been true. And that the creatures in which he spoke about, are completely true.

As a fan of Kenneth Oppel's SILVERWING trilogy, I was ecstatic to hear about his newest addition to the literary world, AIRBORN. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed in even the slightest way. AIRBORN is an exciting thrill-ride of an adventure, that takes the reader through space, and clouds, where we get to meet up with pirates, voyagers, and all types of other humans and creatures who tour the sky day and night. Matt was an exciting character, who will be loved by readers, as he is very optimistic, and intelligent, and his imagination is much like a childs, what with his constant fantasies about sailing through the sky, and being the gas that powers the airship. Fans of Oppel's SILVERWING trilogy will find it hard to put down AIRBORN.

Erika Sorocco ... Read more

Book Description

More than anything in the world, Andrew wants freckles. His classmate Nicky has freckles -- they cover his face, his ears, and the whole back of his neck. (Once sitting behind him in class, Andrew counted eighty-six of them, and that was just a start!

One day after school, Andrew screws up enough courage to ask Nicky where he got his freckles. And, as luck would have it, who should overhear him but giggling, teasing Sharon (who makes frog faces at everybody!)

Sharon offers Andrew her secret freckle juice recipe -- for fifty cents.

That's a lot of money to Andrew -- five whole weeks allowance! He spends a sleepless night, torn between his desire for freckles and his reluctance to part with such a substantial sum of money. Finally, the freckles win, and Andrew decides to accept Sharon's offer.

After school, Andrew rushes home (with the recipe tucked into his shoe for safekeeping). He carefully begins to mix the strange combination of ingredients -- and immediately runs into some unforeseen problems.

How Andrew finally manages to achieve a temporary set of freckles -- and then isn't sure he really wants them -- makes a warm and hilarious story. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

hahaha
The first time I read this book, I was in Elementary, and had lots of freckles. I loved it. It was really funny when he drank the "freckle juice" and also when he wrote freckles on his face. I loved the end....well, read it yourself!

A curious freckle quest
Judy Blume's "Freckle Juice" is a short tale for young readers, with illustrations by Sonia O. Lisker. Blume tells the story of Andrew Marcus, a 2nd grade student who wishes he had freckles. Things get freaky when a classmate promises to sell him a "secret recipe for freckle juice."

Blume taps effectively into the culture of children's folk magic and urban legend with this tale. I was a bit turned off, however, by Blume's portrayal of Andrew's shrewish, hysterical, overbearing mother. After finishing the book, I thought, "When this kid grows up, he's going to have some serious issues with women!" I also didn't like the fact that the "villain" of the story essentially lies, swindles, and violates classroom discipline and suffers no consequences. Still, "Freckle Juice" is a fun story with a memorable "gross-out" factor.

Decent plot but hard read-aloud
My thoughts reading this to myself were that Freckle Juice is a fun early chapter book. I thought it fit in well with today's market. Frankly, it's better than many of the serial books that children are zipping through these days. The writing fairly well-paced for young readers and the dialogue is decent.

My thoughts reading it aloud to my children were that it could have been cut by half, my kids were bored and many sentences were cumbersome. It felt like there were many little add-ons that distracted my children instead of holding their attention.

Yet my 7-year-old daughter approved it and we enjoyed the clever ending.

Fantastic Freckles
Freckle Juice by Judy Blume is a fantastic book for everybody to read. It is about a boy named Andrew who really wants freckles like Nick. So Susan says she will give Andrew a recipe for getting freckles, which costs 50 cents. The recipe has a lot of nasty stuff like vinegar, onion juice, ketchup, and lemon juice etc. It is also disgusting at the same time. At the end of the book Andrew learns his lesson, which is don't believe everything will work. I hope you read this book.

Freckles are Everywhere
Freckle Juice by Judy Blume is a disgusting and funny book at the same time. It is about a boy named Andrew. There's a boy in his class whom Andrew wants to be like. The boy's name is Nick. Nick has freckles. Andrew wants freckles. So Andrew met a girl named Susan, who says she has a secret recipe. Its called FRECKLE JUICE!! Andrew gave Susan 50 cents for the recipe. It was so disgusting when Andrew made it. Andrew says Susan has a froggy attitude. Andrew learned a lesson that Nick was born with freckles. ... Read more

Book Description

Hundreds of years in the future, Manhattan has become a deadly slum, run by mutant crime-lords and disinterested cops. Stuck in the middle is a young girl who thought she had no future, but learns she has a great destiny. In a world so poisoned that it doesn't notice the monsters on its streets, how can a street kid like Fray unite a fallen city against a demonic plot to consume mankind? Joss Whedon, the celebrated creator of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, brings his vision to the future in this unique tale. As inventive in the comics medium as in that of television of film, Whedon spins a complex tale of a skilled thief coming of age without the help of friends or family, guided only by a demonic Watcher. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Joss Whedon can do everything!
I loved this book! It is really good. The characters are interesting, although I don't like some of them, such as the villain (I won't name as I don't want to spoil). He didn't look scary at all. I know it was supposed to be a big shocker but they should have made him look scary now. Also, the end seemed kind of rushed. (Spoiler) The big demon whose stomach would open all demensions was a little out there. If you are a fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel this is a good book, and I have a feeling a 2nd is on the way.

Brilliant
Buffy the Vampire Slayer creator Joss Whedon wrote this eight issue mini-series for Dark Horse Comics. Taking place in the 23rd century in a Blade Runner-esque world; young "grabber" (pretty much a thief) Melaka Fray finds her world turned upside down when a mysterious demon named Urkonn tells her that she is the Slayer. Faced with a newfound destiny, a tragic past, and plot twists and turns galore; Joss Whedon's Fray is pure brilliance from beginning to end. Whedon's interpretation of future dialogue is amusing to say the least, and his quirky humor which has always been apparent throughout his various television shows is here as well. The art by Karl Moline and Andy Owens is amazing stuff indeed; bringing a surreal look to the dark and gritty future world while showing Mel mature more and more as each chapter passes. The only problem with Fray is in it's pacing. From the time that Mel accepts her destiny to the end of the book, the war against the vampires happens too quickly. If you can get past that though, you'll find some pure comic genius here, Joss Whedon style. Hopefully, Joss will do a much requested follow up to Fray after his current run on Marvel's Astonishing X-Men (also highly recommended).

Great artwork, interesting take on the Slayer storyline
I bought this book in part because Joss Whedon is the writer of this and is the creator of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The storyline is set centuries after Buffy and is the story of a young slayer who is more like the Faith we know than Buffy.
I found the setting to be depressing, if that is the future it's sure going to be miserable, but the artwork is great- and the story isn't too bad either.

A brilliant alternate take on the Slayer mythology
I was really impressed by this superb graphic novel written by Buffy creator Joss Whedon. While I was expecting a fun and interesting addition to the Slayerverse mythology, I wasn't expecting such a surprisingly nifty take on the mythology that Whedon had established in Buffy and Angel.

The story takes place at some indeterminate place in the future a couple of hundreds years in the future. No Slayer had been called in ages because magic had moved out of earth's dimension. But the vampires have returned, and for the first time in generations a new slayer has been called. The trouble is, apart from being a thief, she doesn't have many of the marks of a slayer--no dreams, no instincts, only the raw physical fighting ability. She is a slayer, but a flawed one.

FRAY is filled with great graphic designs, a fine central storyline, a remarkably complex set of character relations, and some quite stunning plot reversals. I love the conceit of a not-quite-complete-slayer. The fighting skills are clearly the most important part of being a slayer, but Fray has no sense of her heritage, of her destiny, of her vocation. If Buffy at least struggled against her fate, Fray hasn't a hint of what her fate is. When tells the demon who would train her that she really hasn't had the dreams or visions of previous slayers, she is telling the truth. This makes her even more isolated than other slayers, more a loner.

I think anyone who enjoys either graphic novels or any of the work of Joss Whedon is going to love this. Hopefully there will be a follow up. The story ends with things definitely open to future development. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

Not Just For Buffy Fans...
I must be ernest, I am not a fan of buffy..Yet the story of fray isn't so mutch a new instalment of slayor mythose.
even if you know nothing of joss whedons former work, know the man can write a comic book to make it both engaguing and accessable.
the plot is standerd fare, "cool, kinda bad chick is hauled reluctantly into saving the post modern world".
that is where the simmilarities to other silicone heroines stop and whedons tallent as an author and the other artists that created fray shines. the story brings you to the razor edge of the make or break point of any good comic "is it cliche?" but what we learn about frey from the hip neo-english slang to the sometimes gutwrenching fight sceens is the fact that it takes the tough chick storyline and reinvents it to both be familliar ground and yet something fresh and new.
I want to save the fun for the readers but lets just say when you finish it you will be yurning for a sequel... ... Read more

Book Description

A wondrous journey through the realms of magic

They call him Lump. Ugly, misshapen -- more goblin than human child -- abandoned as an infant and taken in by a witch, he is nursed by a bear, tutored by a djinn; his only playmates are the creatures of the forest, whose language he learns to speak.

But when Lump inevitably stumbles into the human world, his innocence is no match for the depths of people's cruelty, which turns his heart to stone, and fuels a vengeance that places him and his witch mother in deadly peril. Yet these disasters also send Lump on a journey of self-discovery, to realms deep within the earth and far beyond mortal imagination.

In this stunning fantasy debut, Michael Gruber has created a world that is at once deceptively familiar and stunningly original, a world of cruelty, beauty, legend, truth, and above all, wonder. Readers will delight in the author's ingenious retelling of classic fairy tales and will marvel at the stunning new tale of a boy raised by a witch, a cat, a bear, and a demon.

Reviews (1)

A haunting tale of magic, mystery, growth, and love
One lovely spring morning, a witch ventures out to collect her daily herbs. Much to her surprise, she finds a baby in a basket outside her door. But this is no ordinary baby; it is the ugliest child anyone has ever seen, and tied to its basket is a note: "the devil's child for the devil's wife." The witch is taken aback: "Witches are supposed to eat babies, not feed them," she says. But she surprises herself by feeling an odd fondness for the ugly child, who she names Lump, and she assembles a sort of family to help her care for the boy: a she-bear, a malevolent demon, and her familiar, a cat named Falance.

As Lump grows, he struggles to find his own magical powers and his relationship to the other humans nearby. In the meantime, his foster mother has the same problems as working mothers everywhere: how to balance her time between tending the Midsummer fires and caring for her child. The witch, who is more powerful than Lump understands, is mystified by motherhood. She thinks, "I have always known what to do; I see the Pattern clear as my own hand, and I follow it and am content. But there is no guide here, and every path I can see leads to some pain. Perhaps this is part of having a child; the Pattern is of no use, and there is this aching in my heart."

Soon enough, disaster strikes, and Lump, the witch, and Falance hit the road. Robbed of her powers when she makes the ultimate sacrifice for her child, the witch must find a new life for herself: "It is the case that I cannot be both a mother and a witch, or not the sort of witch I was." In the meantime, Lump grows more distant, demanding, and hard to love. Fashioning themselves as The Faeryland Outcasts, the three perform magic and meet dozens of characters who will be vaguely familiar to readers from other fairy tales.

THE WITCH'S BOY, though, is far more than a fractured fairy tale. Although many of the characters, settings, and situations are borrowed from folklore, the complexities of plot and theme go far beyond simple fairy stories. The conflicted relationship between mother and son, the psychological pain inflicted on the boy Lump, the ways all the characters must step out of themselves to find friendship and love, the unexpected places where magic is found --- all these elements elevate THE WITCH'S BOY from a simple fairy story to a haunting, fully developed tale of magic, mystery, growth, and love.

--- Reviewed by Norah Piehl ... Read more

Book Description

In the not-too-distant future, in a place called Satellite City, thirteen-year-old Cosmo Hill is unfortunate enough to come into the world unwanted by his parents. And so, as are all orphaned boys his age, Cosmo is dipped in a vaccine vat and sent to the Clarissa Frayne Institute for Parentally Challenged Boys-freight class.At Clarissa Frayne, the orphans, called "no-sponsors," are put to work by the state, testing dangerous products that never should be allowed near human beings. By the time the no-sponsors are sent to their cardboard utility pipes, given their nightly meal pack, and finally fall asleep, they are often covered in burns, bruises, or sores from the work of the day.Cosmo Hill knows that he must escape, even though he has no idea what might be waiting for him on the outside. He plans for the moment when he can make a break. When that moment finally comes, he nearly dies while escaping. But he is rescued by a gang of "Supernaturalists," a motley crew of kids who all have a special psychic ability-one that Cosmo is about to learn he has as well. They "see" supernatural Parasites-tiny, translucent creatures who feed on the life force of humans. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Excellent and fascinating book!
This book and its author created a fascinating world and reality in which to follow believable characters through the fantastic. Much the way more traditional sci-fi and space opera has done over the years and continues to do: "Stranger in a Strange Land", "Rendezvous with Rama", "2001", "2010", "Childhood's End", "I,Robot", "Ringworld", "Advent of the Corps", and more.

No Artemis Fowl
I became a fan of Eoin Colfer after reading the Artemis Fowl series. Unlike the Supernaturalist, the Artemis Fowl books have in-depth characters, unique plots and witty dialouge. Here, Colfer seems to focus purely on the technological aspect of the story, and forgets the rest. Sure, while we get a blow by blow description of the characters plugging in some electro gadget or other, we wonder what this has to do with the story.
The charactars are pretty stereotypical, with nothing particularily unique or fascinating. The plot is interesting enough, and the setting, while grotesque is well presented.
The problem is, the characters don't seem to interact with the setting or eachother. When Colfer throws in the "plot twists," there is no slow suspensful build up to make them as shocking as they could have been. It's as if someone said, okay the bomb blew up in the Restaurant! Versus, showing people eating and minding their own business, and then showing the villian with the bomb.
What this book did do for me, is help me appreciate how good the Artemis Fowl books really are. I've felt that the Supernaturalist is Eoin Colfer's second dud (counting the Wish List.) I really hope he doesn't suffer from Sophomore Slump, and brings back the sparkle and magic of Artemis Fowl. Perhaps this book should have spent some more time in the editing room, replacing the technology with actual human emotion.

Not a waste of time or money
This is not Aretimis Fowl. If you come in excpecting Artemis Fowl, you are likely to be disappointed. This is a very good book. Eoin Colfer uses his ability to write fantastic characters that you find your self torn between who you like the best, similiar to Aretmis Fowl. Take it from me, an average 14 year old boy much like Cosmo, Colfer captures his feelings greatly. However, sometimes the plot moves a bit to fast and some of the early plot twists are a tad predictable, despite it you will find yourself loving this book. The one thing that seperates this from Aretimis Fowl is the fact that this one has a better ending then any of the three. Overall, a book you won't be sorry you read.

HIS BEST BOOK YET!
I finished this book more than 12 hours ago and I still can't stop thinking about it. The plot was great and it will possibly be one of the best sci-fi books you'll ever read.

The story mainly focuses on Cosmo Hill, but gives the point of veiw of other characters too just like Eoin Colfer does in many of his books. Once you start reading this book, you will not want to put it down. I know I didn't.

I hope it becomes a classic for years to come.

One of Colfer's best
When i first picked up the book i thought that it was another badly written book that was all about what things in the future would have. IT IS NOT. While this does take place in the future (the darker side of the future) it focuses on so many other things. The plot kept me involved from the start, from the exciting and dangerous escape of Cosmo and Ziplock, to the climactic and plot-twisted ending of the book (which just kept me having to tell somebody about).

The characters are so well represented, and i loved reading about how the Supernaturalists were like an immune team. Cosmo is the perfect character to focus on, because of his constant curiosity and charming nature, while Mona, Ditto and Stefan all have traits that are just too much to include here.

The plot is definitely the most exciting and creative part of the story. I don't think i've ever read a book with a plot that built up to the climax so well and left me as surprised at the plot twists (The first one I kinda saw coming, but the one near the end that leads to the climax took me completely by surprise)

this book definitely goes up there with Colfer's other masterpieces - Artemis Fowl 1 + 3 (the second one i found a little boring. The wish list was well written, but i didn't really like the characters or the story)

BUY THIS BOOK, YOU WILL FIND YOURSELF READING IT OVER AND OVER AND OVER AND OVER And over and over......

BRAVO COLFER!!!!! ... Read more