The Valentine’s Bears is an exceedingly sweet book about the unlikely celebration of Valentine’s Day for two bears who would traditionally miss the special day due to hibernation. This engaging tale provides an important lesson in how to love others well. It would make a great read-aloud for Valentine’s Day.
This review was originally posted on November 30, 2015.
I love Beekle! This story features an imaginary friend who has not yet met the real child who will be his friend. After a great deal of waiting, Beekle takes matter into his own hands. The subsequent discovery of the perfect friend provides a tale that can be appreciated by young children as well as adults. Colorful, engaging illustrations enhance the text.
This review was originally posted on December 19, 2011.
A Magical Christmas is a lovely story written in rhyme. Little Mouse wants to know what exactly is the magic of Christmas. In order to find the answer he goes and asks each member of his family, but each family member has a different answer. Finally on Christmas Day Mommy Mouse shares with Little Mouse that all the answers were correct because…”The magic is love, Little Mouse.”
The illustrations in this book are particularly noteworthy. They are simply beautiful. Each page includes sections that are gently enhanced with glitter which truly bring the illustration to life.
Jesus Came for Me is a wonderful board book that shares the true reason for Christmas. Colorful illustrations enhance the text. This is a perfect early Christmas gift for a pre-school aged child.
While this complimentary book was provided for review by New Growth Press, no other compensation was given. All remarks are my personal and honest opinion.
This review was originally published on December 17, 2018.
A Christmas Story is a lovely book that tells the story of an angel who is uncertain what to bring to celebrate the birth of Baby Jesus. Ultimately, she realizes a star that shines brightly is the perfect gift for a king. The text and illustrations in this book work together beautifully to create a wonderful holiday read. This book is not to be missed!
This review was originally posted on February 15, 2010.
The Clever Stick is an enchanting tale. Who would ever imagine using a stick as the main character of a children’s picture book?! I found this one on the new picture book shelf at our local library and quickly realized I had found a winner. The expressive pictures couple perfectly with the smart text.
The stick is clever in countless ways from solving problems to enjoying poetry, but since he cannot speak his cleverness is not fully known. The stick’s journey of self-discovery takes the reader to unexpected places that ultimately delight.
This book is a perfect to share as a read aloud!
Straw is the final book in a series by Rosenthal which also includes Spoon and Chopsticks. Delightful illustrations coupled with a heartfelt story about the importance of taking time to enjoy the moment make this book a winner. It is a great option for a fun read aloud!
This review was originally posted on February 1, 2010.
Creativity and self expression are celebrated in Iggy Peck, Architect. Iggy Peck is a little boy who loves to build. Part of the charm of his creations lies in the nontraditional building supplies he often utilizes. When he reaches the second grade trouble strikes. His spirit appears as though it will be broken as a result of his teacher who does not see a place for building in second grade.
A class trip quickly changes the view of his teacher Miss Lila Greer. After the unexpected collapse of a bridge Iggy Peck is able to rally his classmates and build another which allows the class and Miss Greer to cross back over the stream and get back to school. After the rescue, the importance of encouraging Iggy as well as the other students in class is recognized and Iggy become a weekly guest speaker who extols the merits of building.
Engaging pictures and clever use of rhyme makes this one a favorite!
I Wish You More is a delightful book filled with wishes for the future. It is a great text to use at the end of the year with students, but it is also a great option that can be used at the beginning of the year as you discuss classroom expectations and goals for the school year and beyond with learners of varying ages.
Remarkably You is a wonderful picture book that provides encouragement to embrace your unique you-ness. Uplifting text is coupled with delightful illustrations. This book would be a phenomenal resource to use at the beginning of the school year no matter what age learners you might be working with this year.