Book Description

Little ones love to play peek-a-boo. With its oversize flaps and bright, bold illustrations, this follow-up to the highly successful Peek-a-Moo! is sure to be another hit with young readers. On every page, kids play peek-a-boo with a different animal found at the zoo, guessing what it is, then lifting the flap to find out. Each animal has a different sound that becomes part of the peek-a-boo game: Guess who? "Peek-a-roar!" says the lion. "Peek-a-ooo-ooo-ooo!" says the chimpanzee. The sweet, funny animals will keep kids laughing, while the large trim size and sturdy binding will ensure many hours of lift-the-flap fun! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Giggles galore
My son lights up and laughs when he sees this book. He loves the peekaboo concept, but giggles even harder when mommy gets the sound "wrong." If you are signing with your child, this book provides a great opportunity to reinforce the sign with the animal sound.

One note, my niece was scared of this book when she first got it. We think it was the was the eyes are drawn...but who knows!

Highly recommended.

Strange Animals but Baby Loves It
My daughter is now 9 months old and peek-a-boo is her favorite game. She really likes this book. The flaps are big enough for her to lift by herself. Personally I find it a strange choice of animals for me to mimic their noises. E.g. "snort! goes the rhinocerous". I didn't realise there was a "Peek-a-moo" book which I'd probably prefer. My daughter doesn't seem to care though and loves this book. ... Read more

Book Description

When Joe Stoshack hears about Shoeless Joe Jackson -- and the gambling scandal that destroyed the star player's career -- he knows what he has to do. If he travels back in time with a 1919 baseball card in his hand, he just might be able to prevent the infamous Black Sox Scandal from ever taking place. And if he could do that, Shoeless Joe Jackson would finally take his rightful place in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

But can Stosh prevent that tempting envelope full of money from making its way to Shoeless Joe's hotel room before the big game?

Reviews (9)

SHOELESS JOE AND ME
This book rocked so much it was the best book i've ever read!!! It was my favorite book of all times. I did a report on this book and got a A. This book tells a lot of facts about the "Black Sox Scandle" It is helpful for trus facts. I would give this ten stars if I could.

Shoeless Joe Jackson and Me
Shoeless Joe Jackson and Me is a great book written by Dan Gutman. It is a story about a boy named Stosh who can travel back into time using baseball cards. He learns the story about the White Sox scandal with 9 players who got kicked out of baseball for throwing the World Series. He tries to go back into time to the 1920's and stop Shoeless Joe Jackson player for the Chicago White Sox, from throwing the World Series. This book has great detail and really shows how it was in the 1920's. This is a great time travel book, and I would recommend this book to any one that likes a good thrill. You might know some other books written by Dan Gutman, like Honus and Me, Jackie and Me, and Babe and Me . I hope you check out some of the other great books that Dan Gutman has written.

"Shoeless Joe & Me" is an awesome book!
"Shoeless Joe & Me" is awesome. You might want to read ten chapters a day, so that on the third day, you'll be at my favorite part of the story. When you start Chapter 1, it's nothing like you would expect. Don't you think it would be eleven chapters or something? Well, you already know it's not eleven because I'm talking about Chapter 21. The book has 24 chapters, but it doesn't seem too long because it is so much fun to read.

Baseball fans will like this book because it is 100% about baseball. I learned that Joe Jackson had the the one and only homer in the whole 1919 World Series. I also learned that after the 1919 World Series, he got thrown out of baseball, but he didn't stop playing. I think he played in a different league, and everyone was noticing him!

I'm going to read...ummmmm..."Jackie and Me" next!

You must read/buy this book !!!!
This an amzing book with an intresting end. I read this book in the car for 5 days. I read it 2 hours a day. At first I just read 5 to 6 pages a day Monday. But after that I couldn't put it down!! ... My teacher also read us Jackie and Me which I would also rate 5 stars!! I'm now trying to get Honus and Me, Babe and Me, and Mickey and Me. I made myself ONLY read it in the car it gave me something to do in the car. I am 10 and I think this book should be for 7 and a half to 13 year olds. Get this or check it out today!! Some other books you will like if you liked or are intrested in Shoeless Joe and Me are: Fever 1793 for ages 9-15 it is a very good book too! The School Story ages 7-13 this is a REALLY GOOD BOOK by Andrew Clements!!!! And last but not least A Week In The Woods and The Laudry News both by Andrew Clemtents too ( a week in the woods ages 9-14 The Landry News 8-12). I hope you pick up this book and the others I recomended today!! today!! As you can see many others like this book to!! I hope my
review helped you a lot!! And thank-you for reading my review. (All other books I reviewed are my favorites 5 stars, 4 stars, and 4 and a half stars). 2 other good books are Dear Whiskers ages 7-10 4 and a half stars and Lizzie At Last ages 8-14 5 stars. Any American Girl Doll or Amelia or even other types are also great for girls 7-12. Thanks again!!!!!

This Book Rocks
I got this book on easter and knew from the start that it was going to be good. If you like adventurous, mysterious, exiting, and sports like books read Shoeless Joe and me. Best of all it's aseries so if you like it you can keep on going! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

better than most skating bios
While not as revealing as a celebrity "tell-all", this book was still much more interesting than most of the other figure skating bios I've read. I can understand why Sasha needs to be a little guarded about her feelings with this year being so close to the Olympic season, but maybe she'll write more openly after the games.All in all, I liked this book and it made me more interested in Sasha's skating career.

Waste of Money
This book is extremely vacant of any interesting insight into Sasha Cohen's life.While she could've explored and actually discussed her reasons for switching coaches and her successes and failures, she gave party line accounts of events and information can be gathered from watching a 4 minute fluff piece on Sasha at a skating competition.It'll take a book from Brennan to unlock the controversies surrounding Sasha Cohen.

Very Engaging!
What a fun, well-written autobiography! Honest and candid, this book really gave me wonderful insight into Sasha's life and into the sport of ice skating. Sasha's writing style is very engaging, and when I finished the book, I felt like I knew her! It also linspired me to go out and challenge myself in some way. What a great read!

A national treasure
Sasha Cohen, a genius on the ice, who burst onto the international scene with her amazing short program at the 2002 Olympics, has never really enjoyed the recognition she deserved. Consistently
undermarked at competitions, she has managed nevertheless by the sheer magnitude of her talent to become one the great skaters of all time, medals or no medals (though by now she has her share of these as well). This book gives us a glimpse at the personal side of her story, on the ice and off, replete with high moments and low. Written in an engaging, frank, informal style -- complemented by striking photos by Kathy Goedekin -- it is a wonderful read that should help draw attention to one of our national treasures, a figure skater whose performances grace the ice with heart stopping beauty. ... Read more

Book Description

A fully photographic how-to feast on kids' face painting.The waterbased face paints themselves come from Kryolan, manufacturers of the most-respected theatrical makeup in the world. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Love the book/paints, need more paints-where to get them?
Excellent Book and Paints.My community has many fundraisers where face painting is a huge draw. Being a local artist, I am often called to paint faces, and armed with these paints and book ideas, I can't go wrong. Problem is-I have 3 books now, & I've used up the paints, and don't know were to get more.

Great fun, great paints
When my daughter (age 4) received this book as a gift I was ready to strangle the family who gave it to her - because I was sure it would be a mess, stain making nightmare. Much to my surprise, this book soon became the hit of the family. We all use it and even take it on vacation with us. Just this summer we spent one long rainy day face painting all of the nieces and nephews - it helped keep everyone from going stir-crazy. we also set up "face painting table" at our big family reunion and created many masterpieces that day!

The paints go one easy, with great instructions, and come off with just water. It's great! My kids and I both love it. AND now we give this book as our gift of choice!

Mother's Favorite!
My nine year old daughter has spent hours creating both the faces shown in the book, plus her own creative masterpieces. We got the book with paints for her a couple of years ago and she has never tired of it! Her friends enjoy the face painting activity for playdates and I never have to worry that it won't wash off of their faces or clothes, and no one has shown any allergic reaction either. We plan on buying more of these fantastic paints for her soon. What a wonderful gift to encourage a child's imagination!

Not an artist? Doesn't matter!
A terrific introduction with reassurance for the uninitiated throughout and superb supplies.

If you are reading this then you have at least as much artistic talent as I do, and probably more. In spite of not being able to pass stick figures in kindergarten I bought this book hoping to learn to create a reasonable painted face while having something fun to do on rainy days with my 5 year old daughter.

IT WORKED! We have a blast with this and I have now painted her friends, my sister, my daughter's classmates and teachers all with great results.

If you are looking to become a professional make up artist, perhaps this is not the book for you. But if you are looking to be a hero to someone you know ages 2 to 102 this book is the ticket.

Note: the terrific kryolan face paints can be purchased separately from several web sites or perhaps even a local theater supply store if you are in a decent sized town/city... (...)

childish, but OK
If you are serious about learning about face painting and making effects, this book IS NOT FOR YOU. I found it to be childish . There isn't as many ideas either. The pictures in the book looked to be slopply done. But I do like the paints. Goes on easy and cleans up easy. ... Read more

Book Description

It was in November, a Thursday after swim practice. The thing with Mr. Tracy, Darren's English teacher.
The thing was how Darren would think of it, afterward.
The thing that was vague and not-named.
The thing that hadn’t happened, anyway.

Darren Flynn has the perfect life -- until that day in November.

After that day, after what happened (did it happen?), life is different. Darren is different. Nothing is as it was –– before. His friends, his family, even the people who are supposed to be in charge are no longer who Darren thought they were. Who can he trust, now?

This compelling, masterfully written novel by acclaimed author Joyce Carol Oates explores one teenager's search for identity in a complex, deceiving world, and the answers he finds in the most unexpected places. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

dissapointed
I really didn't enjoy this book. I can't really say why because it will spoil it for some people. I was just very dissapointed and felt the story could have been great.

Excellent Book
I really enjoyed Sexy. Coming from a teacher point of view and former librarian, I would not have titled it "Sexy". I think the book is so much more than it's title but, that is what the parents are going to see and it might inhibit some students from picking up a great book.
The book explores so may aspects of teen turmoil. I loved the ending!!

Wonderful and thought provoking YA effort by Ms. Oates!
I decided to give this book a whirl because I have heard wonderful things about Joyce Carol Oates's Young Adult offerings.Sexy is quite a compelling and thought-provoking novella.When an English teacher is accused of committing a sexual crime, it is up to young Darren to speak in his favor.But Darren is overwhelmed with confusions regarding his sexuality.Darren is quite a popular sixteen-year-old who is part of the swimming team that one of the boys, out of spite for having been flunked, accuses Mr. Tracy of being a pedophile. Darren struggles with his identity and the reader wonders whether or not he is indeed gay.There are various twists throughout the novel.

The novella may seem disjointed at times -- especially toward the end -- but that is because Oates wants you to read between the lines and understand the sort of confusion Darren is going through.The language is remarkable; you feel as though you are having a conversation with the narrator.The language is also quite stark and ambiguous at times, which leaves a lot of room for interpretation.That is the reason why the writing may seem disjointed at times, but this is done on purpose.I was able to feel Darren's loneliness and confusions as though it were my own.His inability to share his insecurities with others spoke volumes.That is what makes Sexy an incredible book that all adolescents, male or female, should read.The novella is thought provoking in more ways than one.Once again, Joyce Carol Oates has wowed me with this effort.This isn't her best book -- her short-story collections are much more literary -- but it is one of the best YA books I have read in a long time.I cannot recommend Sexy enough.

Is Oates the young adult novel's new Cormier?
I love Oates. This time around, I felt like she had picked up where Robert Cormier left off. She's our new Cormier! She explores complex ideas, which is always a reason to put your hands together. In swift, smart strokes, she creates breathing characters. Our hero Darren is no exception. But I'm not convinced she's mastered the art of the short novel (teenage or otherwise). This book is crowded with so much drama that demands further exploration, and you see this in some of the more minor characters. Stereotypical jock friends. Give-themselves-over-too-easily girlfriends. Vacuous parents. School administrators who are like chess pieces in Oates' game of plotting. And a sneaky little subplot about Darren's sexuality that is barely mined, almost as if some editor told Oates she couldn't dig deeper in a young adult novel.

Swimming at the Shallow End of Teen Sexuality Issues
I chose to read this book based on a memory of Ms. Oates powerful short story "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?" since the description on the book jacket seemed to indicate that this would cover similar ground...only with a young male protagonist.

That older short story was an unsettling, haunting look into the world of emerging teen sexuality that produces an effect that only a great writer could.That was Oates at the top of her game and she was able to connect with readers of all ages, creating a powerful impact.

This book however is a "different story" all together.

While the writing is capable and the structure makes for a quick read, there is ultimately little of consequence here.We are confronted with issues that should be taken seriously rather than touched upon lightly.And it would have been very nice to have a little more depth to most of the characters.

Oates relies heavily on our understanding common types of people and situations -- presenting attributes and behaviors of these types rather than giving us fully developed characters.This borders on stereotyping.

In this book, we are presented with tragedy.But the conclusion is sadly weak and soulless.Great writing should be more than dumping a collection of "hot" issues on the reader -- even if you can do so in a seamlessly artistic manner.It needs to call to something in our hearts and minds, and raise us up to consider our lives more fully.

To be confronted with superficiality in a book that deals with a main character who is troubled by people seeing only his looks and not understanding the person underneath.That is ironic indeed. ... Read more

Book Description

Alfred Brooks is scared. He's a highschool dropout and his grocery store job is leading nowhere. His best friend is sinking further and further into drug addiction. Some street kids are after him for something he didn't even do. So Alfred begins going to Donatelli's Gym, a boxing club in Harlem that has trained champions. There he learns it's the effort, not the win, that makes the man -- that last desperate struggle to get back on your feet when you thought you were down for the count.

Reviews (258)

The Contender
First thing I want to say: Excellent book! I think Lipsyte did a wondrous job portraying a young, scared boy growing into a determined, mature man.
Alfred Brooks is scared. He is a high school dropout with a job at a grocery store that is going nowhere, and fast. His best friend is sinking more and more into drugs. The neighborhood thugs want him, to either beat him up or to join them. After one of these beatings, Alfred decides to start going to Donatelli's Gym, a boxing club in Harlem that is notorious for champions. While training, he learns from Donatelli that it's the effort, not the win, that makes the man. It's if you can be hit and hurt, but still struggle to stand on your feet when everyone thought you were done. I loved the book. I think it would make an excellent movie and should be done so soon.
While reading this book I was inspired to start working out and feel better about myself. After reading this book I understood the importance of determination, discipline, and dedication when trying for your goals. I learned that if you have what it takes to become a contender, then you can do anything you want to.

The Contender
This book is about Alfred Brooks. He is a high school dropout and doesn't know what to do with his life. His mom died and he is living with his Aunt Pearl. He works at Epstein's Grocery Store which is owned by 3 Epstein brothers. Alfred hangs out with people that want to break into the store. Alfred doesn't tell them that there is a silent alarm in the store. His best friend James gets caught and the others don't trust him anymore. He goes to Donatelli's gym to workout and he goes there every chance he can. He finds out that Lou Epstein used to be a great boxer. Alfred learns how to box and gets a chance to fight. Will Alfred win the fight? Will he continue boxing? What will happen next? Find out by reading The Contender.
I liked this book because the good descriptions made it easy to imagine the people. You could also tell how Alfred felt at every point in the book. For example before he was going to fight in a match his stomach felt like an "ice ball". The sounds you could imagine too. "When Alfred was hitting the peanut bag it sounded like a machine gun". The one thing I didn't like about it is the way the city was described. There wasn't enough detail to imagine it. All I knew was that it took place in Harlem. I don't think that the author should just assume that people know what Harlem looks like. I read other books that took place in Harlem and the author described it much better.

Alfred and His Problems
I read the book THE CONTENDER by Robert Lipsyte. I really enjoyed the book because it's not really long nor hard to understand. The book is really action packed and keeps you wanting to read it more and more. The main character is Alfred. Alfred's conflict is that his best friend James want's him to go to the store he works at and help him break in so they can steal. The place Alfred works is at the supermarket that James wants to rob. Alfred gets jumped on the way home from the supermarket one night by one of James' friends who wanted help to rob the store.After Alfred gets jumped he decides that he wants to take boxing lessons. Alfred goes to the gym to see what it was like and tries to walk out but Mr.Donatellie stops him. Alfred decides to give boxing lessons a try and doesn't realize how much work it would really be. If you want to know more I recommend that you read the book THE CONTENDER.

THE CONTENDER
The Contender
The contender is a great book explaining some of the problems people have in the ghetto with great detail. I especially like the way in which the author works around the problem which Alfred (main character) getting beat up, bullied and having racists always on his back. Alfred tells his friend about his job and how sometimes that the store he works at is empty on Sundays. His friends decide to break in and steal money from the store but Alfred doesn't go and forgets to tell them about the new alarm in which goes off and cops come and arrest his friends. Alfred hides, but all of his friends who didn't get caught want to kill him, so he must learn how to fight. He actually becomes a Boxer. I think this book greatly describes the thinking of teenagers today and gives meaning of what teenagers face everyday. Also on pages 8 and 9 in chapter one it describes a place where he can be himself and can hide and get away from the world, which is a secret place. Overall I think Contender is a must read!

a knockout of a book
the contender was an exellent book that I would recomend for others. you read along a young man's path from a school dropout to an in shape boxer.through boxing, alfred brooks, is able to find himself. I thought this book was good because it deals with real life problems such as drugs, education, and violence. this is a very good book for a teenaged boy. it teaches good ethics like never give up, never lose faith, and always keep punching. ... Read more

Book Description

Charming coloring book includes 30 black-and-white designs based on patterns made by a kaleidoscope (a Greek word meaning "beautiful form"). Optically enchanting, these images will appeal to colorists of all ages. Artists and craftworkers will also find them an exciting source of inspiration and design.
... Read more

Reviews (8)

My Favorite!
I ordered 4 "coloring" books at the same time. I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly I received my order. They shipped 3 of my books so I wouldn't have to wait (impressive!) & the last book came the very next day. The kaleidoscope coloring book is my absolute favorite, so I'm back looking for more.

A peaceful journey
I have found this book useful in putting to rest some of the exhausting days of being 'housebound' over the past few months. I have used every medium you can think of, from colored pencils, markers, and the myriad gel pens. the outcome has been exquisite. I have even copied some of the results on clear plastic and used them for suncatchers. They make me smile, and remind me of the snowflakes and kaleidoscopes of my childhood. I hope there are more coming.

creative childhood
I really enjoyed this coloring book--as in my very early yrs., I had kaleidoscopes to play with. I was always intriqued with the color spectrum in them.I was hoping to find more on line with the illustrator of this book. Sadly disappointed. Will keep looking at other book sites. By the way, I am 56 yrs. old--and I love to color. It's wonderful therapy for relaxing and bringing back some childhood fun.

ATTENTION BIG KIDS!
I am a 48 year old kid who loves to color! This is one of the best books that I have purchased. The designs are all different and wonderful therapy after a busy, hectic day! I take a copy with me in the car for those times of waiting - I even took it to the ballfield while my son waited for 2 hours for autographs! I recommend this book very, very highly.

A great teaching tool!
I teach middle school art. I use this book in my classroom to practice applying color schemes. My students enjoy this activity because the designs are unique and challenging. Unlike with some other coloring books, they have to think about where they are putting color.When they are finished with a group of three designs of the same pattern they have something "cool" to take home and display. I will use this book for years! ... Read more

Book Description

It's been two months since his dad's fatal accident, and eleven-year- old Ricky is still haunted by memories of violent beatings and hurtfulwords. The kids at school won't let him forget, either, and he's gotteninto so many fights, he's on the edge of serious trouble. Ricky canwalk away from taunts on the playground, but not when the kids cornerhim on the bus. So he comes up with a new way to get to school. Notonly will he run every morning and afternoon-he'll race the bus.Andone day he will leave the past behind-and win. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Racing The Past
Racing The Past is about Ricky, 6th grader, trying to so the right thing. One day Ricky gets in trouble for fighting so he makes a deal with the principal. That he wouldn't go to recess if the principal wouldn't tell his mother. Ricky rode the same bus as the kid he fought, so Ricky started to walk home from school. The first day his friend walked the 3 1/2 mile walk. Ricky hated the look the kids gave him as they rode by on the bus. After the look his decided tobeat the bus home.Training and training he was faster and faster. Until he was going to beat the bus. The book shows the strength of a young boy and what he tries to overcome. If you have a dream in life you should read this book.

Beating the Bus
Racing the Past
By: Sis Deans
Reviewed by: J.Lau
Period: 6
Racing the Past is a book about a kid named Ricky who just lost his father. Ricky gets into a lot of trouble at school and doesn't want to get his mom involved because she is already under a lot of stress. So Ricky makes a deal with the principal that he wouldn't get into anymore fights as long as the principal doesn't call his mom. The deal meant that Ricky had to miss recess and riding the bus to avoid getting into fights with Bugsie, the school bully. Since Ricky had to walk to and from school, he thought that it took too much time and decided to run the 7 miles to and from school and just maybe beat the bus home. Ricky makes notes on how to run faster and finally gets what he wants.
I like this book because it shows how you should have endurance when you run and never give up and the book also shows how a family works together after the loss of a close person. Ricky started out walking the 7 miles everyday and then he came up with the idea of beating the bus. So every morning and afternoon Ricky starts out jogging to and from school, working his way up to running the whole thing. Ricky took notes to help him be able to improve his running. While jogging or running Ricky did number problems in his head to pass time. Then one day a high school coach saw him running, "Keep that up and we'll be good friends when you get to high school." The coach supplied him with new shoes and paid for his doctor's bills as long as Ricky would run for him when he got to high school.
After Ricky's father died from drinking and driving, Ricky and his little brother, Matt, were happy that their father wasn't around anymore because of all the abuse and trouble their father caused. Ricky's mom was always at work so Ricky had to stay home to watch his little brother and sister. Ricky also helped take care of housework since his mom was a too busy getting bill paid. Matt was still scared of their father, even though he wasn't alive anymore, that Ricky had to go in the house first after school to make sure that their father wasn't around and Matt held a frying pan while sleeping and still wet his bed at night from bad dreams. When the funeral day came Ricky thought that it was time that they all got rid of the bad memories. Then Ricky decided to get rid of his father's plastic window covering. "Come on!" he told him. "Let's tear it all down."
My favorite part of the book is when Ricky finally beats the bus home. Ricky came out of the building as soon as the school bell rang and did his stretches. Ricky started running home with confidence and strength. When he got to the 2nd mile all he could think about was winning but then the thoughts of Bugsie made him mad so he sped up. Turning the corner, Ricky crashed into Tom Guimond and hit the ground but got up just as quick remembering the race. When he got to the last 100 yards he could hear the bus coming and gaining, he found the energy to sprint the last 25 yards with cheering in the background. Ricky had beaten the bus.

A remarkable first novel
This book is an astonishing book for a first novel (for any novel!)It's heartfelt, honest, and well told.I read it in one sitting because I couldn't put it down.

I couldn't care less
This book is fairly well written though not very challenging. I had to read it, maybe that's one reason why I couldn't really like it. Though the characters are quite convincing and Ricky is likeable enough, I asked myself while reading: Which kid really wants to read this??? The ones with a violent father? Kids who are into running? I don't know, it seems to be a book that's more interesting to adults - it's not really something teenagers will get into. - It's one of the books teachers will give you to read, right there, Mrs. P.? ... Read more

Book Description

Monique Mandali, author of three popular volumes of Everyone's Mandala Coloring Books, is celebrating the millennium by bringing children together in her fourth coloring book."Mandalas are found in all cultures and truly express unity of spirit within humanity's diversity," says Monique."I hope that coloring Peace Mandalas designed by girls and boys from around the world will spread seeds of harmony for the next one thousand years."Coloring mandalas is relaxing, soothing the body, mind, and spirit, and is a fun activity for anyone ages 4 to 104. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Everyone's Mandala Coloirng Book Series
Author, artist, transpersonal psychotherapist and business person all describe what Monique Mandali is, but do not tell you who she is. I've been privileged to meet Monique and I know that she is a seeker traveling her path. Her walking stick is her love for all, especially children. Ms. Mandali offers a series of four coloring books for children and adults. There are three different delights in the original Everyone's Mandala Coloring Book series, each consisting of 22 designs. While the original three books in the series contain designs by the author, the latest (and perhaps greatest) has 25 peace mandalas from children all around the world. The Peace Mandala Coloring Book is very special because the mandalas are designed by children unencumbered by the pressure of adult living. Further, they bring a variety of spiritual as well as geographical cultures to bear. Monique Mandali has given us something special. Not only do we find drawings to color that can aid in health and serenity...Everyone's Mandala Coloring Book Series is additionally special because they represent the best part of Monique Mandali, her love!

Creative Kids make Mandalas a success
We had a great Halloween party last year with the last Mandala coloring book. There's nothing like seeing werewolves, princesses and tofu (two of my friends wearing large white boxes) sitting around a table and coloring beautiful designs. It really helped to get people to meet each other in a mellow way. When we heard this book was out, it was a must for the fall birthdays coming up with our nieces and nephews, as well as for this year's Halloween party. The children are really creative. It's especially interesting to see the designs from the Nepalese children. They're very intricate.

Peace Mandala Coloring Book
The Peace Mandala Coloring Book is my favorite of the mandala coloring books by Monique Mandali. The mandalas are fun and the kids captured the "peace" message better than any of us adults could ever do! I'm buying it as a gift for a nine year old and for my 84-year old Mother. ... Read more

Book Description

Play games from all around the globe!

Learn to play Mexican kickball. Practice throwing jackstones the way kids do in Kenya.Discover how to construct a galimoto (wire toy from Malawi) with pipe cleaners.With Kids Around the World Play!, you’ll have a great time exploring the traditions of other cultures while you sharpen your wits with the memory game from South Africa called dithwai, or challenge your racing skills in the South Korean flower relay, or make your own cool bilboquet, a toy from France.

Filled with games and activities from places near and far, including China, Japan, india, Mexico, Bolivia, italy, and Russia, among many others, this exciting collection also gives you plenty of fascinating facts about the history and culture of each country.All the toys and games can be made or played with just a few simple materials easily found around the house.So get ready for tons of fun and excitement while you discover just how much you have in common with kids around the world! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Another great book...
>
> This is a fun book!! If you're concerned about
> spending more time with your kids, then buy this book.
> Many of the games, especially Egyptian Senet, German
> Muhle, and Kenyan Bottle Cap Checkers, can be enjoyed
> by all family members. Our family had a great time
> playing these games. Plus, the historical and cultural
> information about games and toys is fascinating!
> Braman has done it again! I highly recommend this
> book. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Mia Hamm and How She Started
I would recommend this book not only to people who love soccer, but to everyone who enjoys a true story about a great athlete and role model. The story of Mia Hamm is basically about how she was introduced to soccer and how she follows her dream to be the best women's soccer player in the world.

The book is really better than it looks like!
On teh field with Mia Hamm by Matt Christopher was a very goodbook. I didn't have a very good idea who Mia Hamm really was though.The only thing I know is a professional soccer player. I aw the book and it looked pretty interesting. I'm about a quarter of the way through the book and I'm liking it so far. Usually I don't read books , let alone a whole book.

This book is the best!
This book is by far the best i've ever read. It has great pictures and has lots of info on Mia. I think she is the best player i've ever seen. So this book was very interesting. If you love to play soccer, and enjoy watching and learning about Mia , this is THE perfect book! Once you start reading it, you won't stop reading until you've finished! SO GET OUT THERE,GET OFF YOUR BUTT, AWAY FROM THE COMPUTER, AND READ! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Jean Marzollo and Walter Wick team up yet again for another perfectlittle I Spy picture book. In this one, kids who are just learning toread can practice their ABC's with Wick's special photo illustrations andMarzollo's clever alphabetical rhymes: "I spy an L wearing lacy white, and ametal M that's screwed on tight." Borrowing from some of their previous books(I Spy, I Spy School Days, and others),the author-illustrator team adds an original twist to the usual alphabet book,with each letter covered in its own letter-inspired design. P is plaid, E is apink eraser, V is veiled with vines. Surrounding each letter are pictures ofobjects beginning with that letter (octopus, orange, ostrich). Young childrenwill enjoy identifying the crisp, detailed pictures and reciting the bouncyrhymes. (Ages 2 to 5) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Great for those learning their letters.
This book is perfect for a child learning their letters, colors and names of familiar objects. My two-year-old has fun finding objects that begin with each letter of the alphabet and the rhymes are just his speed. Parenst of toddlers know how some books can wear on you after a few reads...this one doesn't. :)

Can you find...?
We play a game I invented called "Can you find...?" in many other related books and when I came across the I SPY series, I knew the author had a winner. We own a number of the I SPY books today and they have become our favorites. It teaches patients and focuses her attention on looking for the little details in life. I will admit that I still use my phrase "Can you find?" to this day. Easy to read series. Highly recommended to 3 years old.

Nice, but not what expected
Since I'm restricted to ordering my books online, I'm unable to peek inside to check out the pages.

The alphabet is great with a picture scheme on each of the letters that represent the first letter of the word. It's not difficult to find the letters as they place about 3 large letters on a page with anywhere between 4-7 small pictures around..all on a white background. The inside pages are nothing like the cover.

The numbers and alphabet books might be better for a child up to age 1 (at least in the case for my child).

I bought this for my child's 2nd birthday hoping she'd have to search and find the letters of the alphabet to make it a little more interesting for her. It's still a nice alphabet book for practicing, but not so much for searching.

I found the numbers book to be more interesting since it offered more objects on the page that is more similar to the typical 'I Spy' series. The numbers are still clearly visible, so still not much searching. I'll have to order the older children's I Spy books since young children are more intriqued with complexity than with simple unchallenging pictures.

I SPY LITTLE LETTERS
I have worked with children as a pediatric nurse for 31 years and have spent a great deal of time reading children's storybooks to the children under my care. I purchased "I SPY LITTLE LETTERS" for my 29 month old grandchild. There is no better way to give a young child a sense of pride than by asking them to find objects on the page of a book. I am a believer in the "I SPY" concept so we proceeded to read the book together. What a delightful book! It is colorful, cheerful and fun too. The pages will keep a child busy for a while for there is a lot to do. Colorful letters and easily identifiable objects and figures are to be found on every page. The book challenges a child to observe, find and verbally express their discoveries. What a sense of accomplishment it is for a child to be able to discover things. I highly recommend this little board book for toddlers. It is a terrific early introduction to reading. ... Read more

Book Description

You'll laugh! You'll cry! You'll wet your pants with joy when you read Dav Pilkey's All New Captain Underpants Extra-Crunchy Book O' Fun 2. Filled with crossword puzzles, word finds, mazes and more, this is one book o' fun that Captain Underpants fans can't do without! Learn how to draw your favorite characters, tell cheesy jokes, and even make your own silly Captain Underpants story. Best of all, you'll get a brand-new 56 pagecomic called "The Night of the Terror of the Revenge of the Curse of the Bride of Hairy Potty," featuring Captain Underpants, Super Diaper Baby, and Diaper Dog! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

I love Captain Underpants
I love the activities in this book. The comics made me laugh until I wet my pants. The jokes and comics are hilarious. It's not my most favorite Captain Underpants book but I still love it. Though the jokes are a lliittttlle overoffensive.

Captain Underpants books contain free spelling lessons!
I shared the concern of a previous reviewer about the multitude of misspellings in the Captain Underpants books. However, instead of forbidding my 9-year-old son from reading the books (which he loves), I turned the Captain Underpants books into a spelling lesson. I have my son mark the misspelled words and then write them correctly. If he's not sure of the spelling, he looks it up in the dictionary.

A BIG concern
I am not a parent or a teacher. I heard good things about this series of books from public radio. However, I was surprised and distressed when a 10-year-old I know with significant learning disabilities was reading the book with me and I discovered that many many words in this book are spelled WRONG. I can only imagine this was intentional, a style of writing, I guess... Perhaps giving the book an urban "edge"??!!! But I found it quite distressing. In my view, parents and teachers should be warned about this... I see it as very questionable in a book for school aged kids still learning to read. ... Read more

Book Description

The Anything You Can Do series is unprecedented in its concept of offering real stories of new heroes to young girls. The premise of the series is to profile a variety of young athletes, from a variety of ethnic, socio-economic, geographical and family backgrounds who have grown up to achieve excellence in Olympic and professional sports. Series Foreword by Julie Foudy, Member U.S. Women's World Cup-Winning Soccer Team Series Introduction by Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Olympic Track & Field Superstar and Sports Illustrated for Women's Athlete of the Century ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Inspiring role model
I love this book! It's a great story of how sports can shape your life in a positive way. Swimmers and non-swimmers alike will be inspired by Jenny's story. This great book is now available as an e-book for those of you who can't find a copy of the original printing. You can order here from amazon.com, the isbn is B0001GDOUQ.

How Jenny dealt with the negative peer pressure
Fast Lane To Victory is the third in Wish Publishing's outstanding "Anything You Can Do...New Sports Heroes For Girls" series and the story of swim champion Jenny Thompson. Swimming was what Jenny like best, but when her friends at school started to tease her and call her "tomboy" and "Too Tall Thompson", she felt the pressures placed on a lot of young girls to conform to social norms of what was "proper" for girls. Jenny dealt with the negative peer pressure and became so successful as an athlete that she came to be called the "Fastest Swimmer in the World". Also very highly recommended for school and community library collections are the first two volumes in this superbly presented and inspiring sports oriented series for girls: A Drive To Win: The Story Of Nancy Lieberman (40-8, ...) and Sword Of A Champion: The Story Of Sharon Monplaisir (39-4, ...). ... Read more

Book Description

read by Judi Dench, Stephen Fry, et al One cassette Runningtime: 1 hour ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Say "Ho" for the wonderful Pooh!
This amazing dramatization of the Pooh books is performed by a marvelously talented group of British entertainers who truly bring the Pooh characters gently and lovingly to life. As for this tape, I finally got this figured out. This is part of a four-tape program that represents the complete two-book Winnie-the-Pooh story collection, except the stories are out of order (probably so that they would fit equally on the tapes). Book 1, "Winnie-the-Pooh," is represented by "Pooh Goes Visiting" (stories in order: 1, 2, 3, 4, 9, 10) and "Piglet Meets a Heffalump" (stories: 5, 6, 7, 8). Book 2, "The House at Pooh Corner," is dramatized by "Tigger Comes to the Forest" (stories in order: 1 2, 4, 3, 9, 10) and "Pooh Invents a New Game" (stories 5, 6, 7, 8). When stories that depend on previous information are out of order, it gets confusing. My suggestion: Get the "Winnnie-the-Pooh" / "The House at Pooh Corner" gift pack, which is also four tapes (the same recordings), but in the proper order.

Best Version of Pooh Available
If you have a small child, there simply isn't a better way for them to enjoy the magic of these stories as they were meant to be heard. The truncated, illustration-heavy Disney books, which seem to be everywhere, simply don't tell the stories.

Other notable versions, such as Lionel Jeffries's excellent reading, are no longer available, and Charles Kuralt's, while clearly in the right spirit, can be a little dull for smaller kids.

Sephen Fry is wonderful, and Jane Horrocks's piglet is a delight. Judy Dench and Geoffrey Palmer also bring excellent characterizations to the stories. My 2 year old and I love this version, and it makes her want me to read the book to her. There is no higher recommendation than that from a child!

A whole new Pooh.
This tape represents a whole new Pooh. The readers create an elegant experience that is gentle and at the same time fun and adventurous. My favorite Pooh reader was always Lionel Jeffries, but as those tapes seem to have disappeared from the face of the earth, the Stephen Fry series may become my new favorite. The talented people involved in this production make it a true classic. I have listened to this over and over, and it doesn't lose its freshness. Take it along on your next car trip with the kids! (or without them!)

Edward Bear as he was meant to be heard!
Dame Judi Dench and her husband Michael Williams warmly and with great humor narrate several Pooh stories, with the hilarious Stephen Fry as Pooh, and their daughter Finty making a squeaky cameo appearance as Roo. Geoffrey Palmer has found his niche forever, as far as I'm concerned, as Eeyore. A more forlorn and world-weary Eeyore has never and will never exist! Add to this a delightful piano accompaniment underlying the "hums" and you've got the best Pooh tape ever. When will there be more? ... Read more

Reviews (13)

We love this book
My 1 year old son just got two Maisy books for his birthday. This book was one of them. It is amazing to see how much he loves this book. He brings it to us and makes us read it over and over and loves to lift the flaps. This has made bedtime stories much easier (since he is never still).

KIds Love These Lift the Flap Books
If you are the parent of a young child, you probably know who Maisy is. She's a mouse with a duck, a squirrel, an elephant, and a crocodile for friends. Why the crocodile isn't trying to eat the others is beyond me, but that's life in Maisy's world.

Both of my daughters love the Maisy books; there's something about their simple stories and colorful pictures that even appeals to adults. The books are short and easy to read. But, the stories are never obnoxiously simplistic, like so many other books for small children.

This is a lift the flap book in which the childen are lifting flaps in search of Maisy. They find all of her friends before finally locating Maisy. That sneaky little mouse; hiding at the end of the book. One caution, the kids might get a little aggressive with the flaps and tear a few, resulting in the purchase of a new lift the flap book.

She loves it!
My 5 month old simply loves this books. She gets excited whenever we bring it out to read. It's almost like she's anticipating to see what's behind the flip cover.

Mother of 14-month old
My daughter has had this book for about 6 months now and it's still her favorite (she has dozens of other books). I'm here ordering more of the Maisy series. Among her other favorites are the Baby Einstein books from their website.

Grandmas Take Notice
My two year old granddaughter thinks Maisey is the best. She has been fascinated by all the books and videos. Quiet, kind, simply presented characters teach colors, letters, and friendship. ... Read more

Book Description

Featuring more than 60 full-color, reusable stickers, now you can relive the excitement of Star Wars: Episode III while creating your own sticker galleries of your favorite characters. ... Read more

Book Description

Who do you call when a squirrel is trapped in a mud puddle or a baby opossum is stuck in a drainpipe ?

Meet Jeffrey, Beaner, Raymond, and Mike--the Animal Resuce club! Adventures wait around every corner as this intrepid band of kids, working with a Wildlife Rehabilitator, helps the wild animals in our neighborhood.

John Himmelman's action-packed story and lively art is based on his firsthand experience with wild-animal rescue groups. This inside look at kids saving animals is certain to fascinate young nature lovers. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Wonderful Book
My son picked out this book when he was 2 years old and we were both hooked. Over a year later it is still one of his favorites. Especially good book for vegan children about compassion for wild animals. I always keep a copy on hand to give as a gift.

Girl Scouts loved it!
I used this book to help my Brownie Troop earn a badge. It was a wonderful introduction into discussion of helping animals. The exciting advenutre with its endearing characters is followed by a brief, but effective explanation of what children should and should not attempt with real wild animals. After hearing this story, the girls decided to take on a volunteer project at a local animal shelter. We are waiting for the next adventure of The Animal Rescue Club to see what it inspires.

7 year-old girl loves book!
My second grader is devoring books these days. She has been reading a number of the "I Can Read Chapter Books". Of these books, this was her favorite. She liked the characters - spunky girl, timid boy, and kind boy that took care of the animals. She is hoping that the Animal Rescue Club will come out with more adventures.

She found the story credible and exciting. She would give this book a thumbs up! ... Read more

Book Description

How can kids swim with slimy snakes, munch on wiggly worms, and play their favoriteparty game? By playing Fear Factor Mad Libs: Ultimate Gross Out! Kids love thedaring and disgusting, and Fear Factor Mad Libs: Ultimate Gross Out! serves upboth, along with a big helping of fun! As a follow-up to our best-selling Fear FactorMad Libs, kids will love grossing themselves out with the show’s signature"delicacy" challenges! To tie into the premiere of Fear Factor’s fifth season in September2004, Fear Factor Mad Libs: Ultimate Gross Out! is sure to make MadLibs fans ______ to their_____________________________! ... Read more