tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88759599452304661882024-03-13T12:37:57.314-07:00Christine M. Irvin, Writer/EditorChristine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.comBlogger101125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-17645723428464701832018-04-23T16:18:00.001-07:002018-04-23T16:18:25.503-07:00ReFoReMo 2018 Day 21 Book Reviews<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
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AFTER THE FALL by Dan Santat </div>
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Have you ever wondered what happened to Humpty Dumpty after
he fell off the wall? Well, wonder no more. Unsurprisingly, not all the parts
went back together in the proper manner, leaving a few bumps and cracks.
Understandably, Humpty Dumpty developed a fear of heights. Was he able to
overcome his fear? You'll have to read the book to find out.<o:p></o:p></div>
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BUG IN A VACUUM by Melanie Watt <o:p></o:p></div>
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When a bug flies into a house, through an open door, it gets
sucked into a vacuum. Determining that he is there for good, the bug goes
through all five stages of grief - denial, bargaining, anger, despair and
acceptance. After he has accepted his fate, that he will be stuck in the vacuum
for the rest of his life, something happens. Will the bug be stuck forever, or
will there be a way out?</div>
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Author Melanie Watt has taken a silly situation and turned
it into a lesson about acceptance, making the story suspenseful and humorous at
the same time.<br />
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DEAR SUBSTITUTE by Liz Garton Scanlon</div>
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I haven't had a chance to read this book yet, but when I do,
I will update this review list.<o:p></o:p></div>
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MADDI'S FRIDGE by Lois Brandt<o:p></o:p><br />
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Sofia's fridge is filled with lots of good things to eat - eggs and tortillas and cheese and jam and salsa and tofu. But, her friend Maddi's fridge is almost empty. Sofia feels bad that Maddi has so little to eat. Sofia wants to help her friend, but Maddi doesn't want Sofia to tell anybody about the lack of food. Can Sofia figure out a way to help her friend?<br />
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This is a great story that illustrates a very real need in this country. So many people have so little to eat and there are ways that people can help. The last page in the book is titled "Let's Help Friends Who Have Empty Refrigerators." The author lists six ideas for ways kids can help make sure everyone has food to eat. There is also a webpage address given when kids (and adults) can go to find out more about hunger organizations.<br />
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MONSTER NEEDS YOUR VOTE by Paul Czajak</div>
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Monster wants to run for office. He wants to be president. But, monster can't seem to drum up any enthusiasm for his pet policies: First, he wants to extend the seasons. But potential voters don't really care about that. Then, he wants to make sure that every person has dessert for dinner. Potential voters don't really care about that, either. Monster is about to give up when he finds something else to campaign on. The local library is going to close. Monster campaigns on the idea that the library needs to remain open because education is so important. Will Monster be able to convince the voters to vote for him?<br />
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The illustrations are great, but the story is written in rhyme. The rhyme scheme seems just a bit off. I think the story would have been stronger if it hadn't been written in rhyme. However, it's a great story and a good lesson in civics. </div>
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NEW SHOES by Susan Lynn Meyer</div>
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Ella Mae is used to getting hand-me-down shoes when her
shoes wear out or she outgrows them. But, this time, there are no other shoes
for her to wear. So, she and her mother head to Mr. Johnson's shoe store to buy
a new pair. Ella Mae is excited until she finds out what it's like for a black
girl to buy shoes in a store. Even though she was there first, she has to wait
until the white customers are served first. Then, she is not even allowed to
try on the shoes to make sure they fit.</div>
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Ella Mae is so disheartened by the whole incident that she
decides to do something about it. She and her friend, Charlotte, go around the
neighborhood collecting old shoes. They spend hours and hours cleaning them and
making them as good as new. Then, they have a shoe sale where anyone in the
neighborhood can come in buy shoes and be treated like real people. They are
even allow to try on the shoes first.</div>
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This is a touching story, set in the South when segregation
was running rampant. It makes the reader feel, to a certain extent, what it
must have been like for a young black girl in that situation in that time in
history.<o:p></o:p></div>
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SOPHIE'S SQUASH by Pat Zietlow Miller</div>
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When Sophie goes to the farmers' market, her parents let her
pick out a squash. They expect to cook it, but Sophie wants to keep it. She
names it Bernice and treats it like a little baby. But, when Bernice starts to
change, how will Sophie handle it?<o:p></o:p></div>
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On a trip to the farmers' market with her parents, Sophie chooses
a squash, but instead of letting her mom cook it, she names it Bernice. From
then on, Sophie brings Bernice everywhere, despite her parents' gentle warnings
that Bernice will begin to rot. As winter nears, Sophie does start to notice
changes.... What's a girl to do when the squash she loves is in trouble? <o:p></o:p></div>
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THE DAY I BECAME A BIRD by Ingrid Chabbert Guridi <o:p></o:p></div>
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On his first day of school, a young boy falls in love with a
girl named Sylvia. He thinks she's incredible, and he can't take his eyes off
of her, but she doesn't even notice him. The boy is very sad about that until
he discovers that Sylvia loves birds. So, the boy dresses up as a bird just to
get Sylvia's attention. Of course, he is teased mercilessly for doing this, but
will it be worth it in the end?</div>
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This is a short but touching story on the topic of love,
when sometimes you just have to "follow your heart and spread your
wings" and hope for the best.<o:p></o:p></div>
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THE GREAT PUPPY INVASION by Alastair Heim<o:p></o:p></div>
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The town of <st1:city>Strictville</st1:city>
is suddenly overrun with puppies, hundreds of cute, adorable puppies. The
townspeople have never seen puppies before and don't know what to do with them.
And, the town is very "strict" when it comes to anything being cute
or cuddly - that's downright criminal. </div>
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The townspeople want to get rid of the puppies. So, they
throw sticks at them. Of course, the puppies love that and just bring the
sticks back. Then the people try chasing the puppies. Of course, the puppies
love that and join in the chase. And, let's face it, the puppies are
soooooooooooo cute and sooooooooooo adorable.</div>
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What are the people to do? Will one little boy be able to
save the day?</div>
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THE RAINDROP WHO COULDN'T FALL</div>
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Pink is a raindrop that is having trouble falling from her cloud. She has to change her way of thinking and start believing in herself in order to do what she needs to do. The narrative includes lots of information about the water cycle and is a great introduction to the topic. There are extra hands-on activities at the end of the book, as well as a glossary, and both author and illustrator bios.</div>
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UNICORN THINKS HE'S PRETTY GREAT by Bob Shea</div>
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Goat thinks he's doing okay until Unicorn moves in.
Everything Goat can do, Unicorn can do better. But Unicorn discovers there are some things that Goat can do
that he, Unicorn, can't do. Can the two manage to become friends?</div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">WE </span><st1:stockticker><span style="font-size: 12pt;">DON</span></st1:stockticker><span style="font-size: 12pt;">'T </span><st1:stockticker><span style="font-size: 12pt;">EAT</span></st1:stockticker><span style="font-size: 12pt;">
OUR CLASSMATES</span> by Ryan T. Higgins<o:p></o:p></div>
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I haven't had a chance to read this book yet, but when I do,
I will update this review list.<o:p></o:p></div>
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WOLFIE THE BUNNY by Ame Dyckman</div>
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When the bunny family adopts a baby, they adopt a baby wolf
and not a baby bunny. The parents are head over heels in love with their new
baby, but little Dot is not too sure. She is always warning them of the dangers
of having a wolf in the house. But, as Dot spends more time with her baby
brother, she realizes he might not be so bad after all. When his life is in
danger, will Dot be able to save the day?<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is a great take on the age-old subject of sibling
rivalry. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-14319468729631008112018-03-28T12:26:00.000-07:002018-04-03T12:48:46.135-07:00ReFoReMo 2018 Day 20 Book Reviews<br />
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BABY'S <st1:stockticker>GOT</st1:stockticker> THE BLUES by
Carol Diggory Shields</div>
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So, you think babies have an easy life? Think again. This
baby will show you that life as a baby isn't all that it seems to be.</div>
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First of all, if you're a baby, how are you supposed to tell
someone you have a dirty diaper? Also, what if pizza or macaroni or beef stew
look and smell delicious, but you can't eat any of them because you have no
teeth? See, life ain't easy when you're a baby.</div>
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This delightful look at babyhood is made all the funnier
with wonderful, rhyming, bluesy text and colorful, expressive illustrations.</div>
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FIONA'S LITTLE ACCIDENT by Rosemary Wells </div>
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Fiona is very busy today. She has a presentation to do with
Felix for show-and-tell. They made a volcano that get to show off. Fiona is so
busy getting ready for school she doesn't have time to go to the bathroom. She didn't
get a chance to go when she got to school because the bus was late. When she
asked to go to the bathroom during class, it was being used, so she went back
to class.</div>
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By the time it was her and Felix's turn for show-and-tell,
she really had to go. She had to go so badly that she had a "little
accident" during the presentation. She was so embarrassed that she ran
away and hid. He friend, Felix, said that it was no big deal, but Fiona wasn't
convinced. What could make the humiliation go away?</div>
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In addition to providing a great little story that every
little child can relate to, the end papers for the book provide pictorial
directions for creating your own homemade volcano.</div>
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GREEN PANTS by Kenneth Kraegel</div>
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Jameson loves his green pants. In fact, the only color pants
you will find in his wardrobe are green. With his green pants on, Jameson can
do anything. And, he simply refuses to wear any pants that aren't green.</div>
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But, one day, he is asked to be in a wedding. He says
"Yes" before he is told that he will have to wear a tuxedo - - with
BLACK pants. Jameson really, really, really wants to be in the wedding, but he
really, really, really doesn't want to wear black pants. But, if he wants to be
in the wedding, he <st1:stockticker>HAS</st1:stockticker> to wear black pants. </div>
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It's his choice, and it's a tough one to make. What will
Jameson decide?<o:p></o:p></div>
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I DARE YOU NOT TO YAWN by Hélène Boudreau </div>
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A young boy tries to stifle a yawn, but it gets away from
him. His mom notices and whisks him off to bed. Problem is, he's not really all
that tired. So, he has some advice for anyone who doesn't want to end up in
bed.</div>
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* Stay away from huggable stuffed animals.</div>
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* Stay away from cozy pajamas.</div>
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* Avoid bedtime stories about sleepy animals.</div>
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All these things, and more, are sure to make you yawn and
get you sent to bed. And, I'll bet you'll be yawning by the time you get to the
end of this book, because like the book says, "Yawns are like colds. They spread."
Nite, nite.<br />
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Jabari has finished his swimming lessons and he has passed
his swimming test. Now, he's ready for the diving board. He knows he's a great
jumper, so he tells himself he's not scared at all. He gets in line to climb
the ladder to the big board. When it's his turn he starts climbing, up and up
and up. Then, he stops. His dad asks him if he's okay. He says he is, but he's
just a bit tired. "Maybe you should climb down and take a tiny rest,"
his dad suggests. So, Jabari does just that.</div>
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Jabari keeps coming up with excuses for not jumping. His
father tells him it's okay to feel a little scared. He says, "Sometimes,
if I feel a little scared, I take a deep breath and tell myself I am
ready." Jabari finally works up the courage to take the big jump the next
day.</div>
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This is a great story that any kid can relate to. We all
have fears; sometimes we just need a little extra encouragement to overcome
them. </div>
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-69098767931306585692018-03-27T16:51:00.000-07:002018-03-27T16:51:06.369-07:00ReFoReMo 2018 Day 19 Book Reviews<br />
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EACH KINDNESS by Jacqueline Woodson </div>
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When a new girl comes to class, she is ignored by everyone.
Try as she might, she can't get the kids in the class to accept her. No one
seems to be bothered by this until the girl doesn't show up for class. Then the
teacher presents a lesson about kindness. </div>
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The teacher dropped a small stone into a bowl of water.
"This is what kindness does," the teacher says. "Each little
thing we do goes out, like a ripple, into the world." The students took
turns telling the class what kind acts they had done. One little girl couldn't
think of anything to say, so she remained silent.</div>
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This little girl is bothered by the idea that she didn't
show any kindness towards the new girl. She wants so much for the new girl to
come back so she can have a chance to be kind to her. But when the teacher
announces the new girl moved away, this little girl realizes that it is too
late to express any kindness to her.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is a touching story, but I am troubled by two things in
the storyline. First, didn't the teacher notice that the new girl was being
left out? Why didn't the teacher do something about it by encouraging the kids
to play with her. Why didn't the teacher provide this object lesson in kindness
while they new girl was still in the class?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also, the book ends with the idea that the other girl
realizes that her chance to be nice to the new girl is "forever
gone." Those are the last two lines in the book. I think the book should
have ended with the idea that even though that chance was forever gone, the
girl would have other chances to be kind and she could resolve to take
advantage of them in the future. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
HENRY'S FREEDOM <st1:stockticker>BOX</st1:stockticker> by
Ellen Levine</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Henry Brown was born a slave. When his master died, he was
taken from his mother and "given" to the master's son. When he got
older, he got married and had two children. One day, his wife and children were
sold without any warning.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This, unfortunately, was common back in the days of slavery.
But, what makes Henry's story different is what happened next. With the help of
a white doctor named Dr. Smith, who was part of the Underground Railroad, Henry
was able to escape his old life. He did this by being "mailed" in a
crate. He traveled from <st1:place><st1:city>Richmond</st1:city>, <st1:state>Virginia</st1:state></st1:place>
to <st1:place><st1:city>Philadelphia</st1:city>, <st1:state>Pennsylvania</st1:state></st1:place>,
a distance of 350 miles. The journey too, just over a full day, but he arrived
safe and sound in his new home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FINDING WINNIE: The True Story of the World's Most Famous
Bear by Lindsay Mattick</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This wonderful book was written by Lindsay Mattick, the
great-granddaughter of Captain Harry Colebourn. Captain Colebourn, a vet, was
on his way to tend to the soldier's horses during the war, when he came upon a
man with a bear cub. The captain bought the cub and named her <st1:city><st1:place>Winnipeg</st1:place></st1:city>,
calling her Winnie, for short. He trained her and she became the mascot for the
Second Canadian Infantry Brigade. When the troops were sent out to fight, Capt.
Colebourn had to leave Winnie behind. He was in<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><st1:country-region><st1:place>England</st1:place></st1:country-region>
at the time, and he drove Winnie to the London Zoo, where she lived out the
rest of her days.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She became a favorite attraction at the zoo. One day, little
Christopher Robin Milne went to the zoo with his father. Christopher Robin fell
in love with Winnie. He and the bear became great friends. Christopher Robin
had a stuffed bear at home that he named Winnie-the-Pooh. His father, A.A.
Milne, wrote great stories about the adventures of Christopher Robin,
Winnie-the-Pooh and their friends in the Hundred Acre Woods.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mattick writes the story in a refreshingly creative way. She
begins by having a young boy curling up with mom while mom reads the story. The
little boy keeps interrupting the mother as she reads, as children often do. In
this manner, Mattick tells the story of how Winnie-the-Pooh became famous.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LILLY'S PURPLE PLASTIC PURSE by Kevin Henkes</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lilly loves school. She loves everything about it. And, she
loves her teacher, Mr. Slinger. She loves school and her teacher so much she
wants to be a teacher when she grows up. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That is until she brings her new purple plastic purse to
school. Lilly loves her new purple plastic purse. It had three shiny quarters
and a pair of glittery glasses in it. And, when you opened it, it played a
jaunty tune. Lilly can't wait to show it off to her classmates. She is so
impatient to do so, that she interrupts class. Mr. Slinger takes the purse from
her and keeps it until after school. Lilly gets angry, very, very angry, and
does something she regrets. How can she make things right?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LOUISE, THE ADVENTURES OF A CHICKEN by Kate DiCamillo</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Louise is a very adventurous chicken. Apparently, she never
got the memo that chickens are supposed to stay on the farm and be contented
with their lot. Louise is certainly not content to stay home and be safe on her
farm.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First, "she left the henhouse and went to sea..."
She enjoyed being on board a ship until it was overrun by pirates and she was
captured. The pirates wanted to eat her. Luckily, a huge storm came along and
sank the ship Louise was on. She managed to escape by "clinging to a piece
of timber." Seven days after being tossed into the waters, Louise spotted
dry land. She "used her wings to paddle" herself to shore. From
there, she "hopped all the way back to the farm." </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When she got back home, one of the other hens asked her
where she had been. "Oh, here and there," said Louise. She then went
back to the henhouse, climbed into her nest and went to sleep. She was content
to be back on the farm, for a short while, until the need for adventure struck
again.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Louise goes on three adventures. Each time, her life is put
into danger. Each time, she escapes and makes her way back home. The book is
divided into four "chapters"; the first three tell the tales about
Louise's adventures. In the last chapter, Louise tells her harrowing story
about her escapades to all the hens, giving them a chance to experience the
adventures with her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SO, YOU WANT TO BE PRESIDENT by Judith St. George</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"There are good things about being President and there
are bad things about being President. One of the good things is that the
President lives in a big whit house called the White House...One of the bad
things is that the President always has to be dressed up." The text goes
on to describe how McKinley dressed in a "frock coat, vest pin-striped
trousers, stiff white shirt, black satin tie, gloves, a top hat, and a red
carnation in his buttonhole every day."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The book is filled with tidbits and trivia about our
country's first 42 presidents. The current president is not mentioned in this
book. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THAT BOOK WOMAN by Heather Henson</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before the days of the modern book mobile, libraries found
ways to get books to the people who needed them the most. One way was by horseback.
A group of mostly women delivered books every two weeks by horseback to people
who lived in the Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky. They were called,
appropriately, the Pack Horse Librarians. The initiative was started in the
1930s by President Roosevelt as part of his WPA, Works Progress Administration.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This story takes a fictional look at how lives were
transformed by books. In this story, <st1:state><st1:place>Cal</st1:place></st1:state>
lives in the mountains with his family. He doesn't know how to read and sees no
need to learn. He can't understand why anyone would travel miles on horseback
to deliver books - at no charge - to people like him and his family. When the
librarian drops off a load of books and says they are free to read, <st1:state><st1:place>Cal</st1:place></st1:state>
is taken aback. But, he doesn't know how to read and he still doesn't see any
sense in learning. When the weather turns nasty and it's time for the librarian
to come back, he's sure she won't come because of the letter. But she comes,
and because she does, he has to wonder what is so special about the books that
would make someone to do that. He understands when he asks his sister to teach
him to read.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is a touching story and it is told in a
"hillbilly" vernacular that takes a bit of getting used to, but it
lends the story an air of authenticity.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THE ROOSTER WHO WOULD NOT BE QUIET! by Carmen Agra Deedy</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once there was a village where everyone made noise. It
became so noisy that it drove everyone crazy. The villagers didn't know what to
do, so they fired their mayor. That didn't help any, so they held an election
for a new mayor.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The man they elected promised to make the village quiet
again. And, he did. It is very, very quiet for seven years until a very noisy
rooster comes along and stirs things up.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The mayor is at his wit's end trying to make the rooster be
quiet. Will he succeed or will the rooster change the village?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is a great story about persistence and bravery.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_VaxBuDpCkM/WrrYbQDSmEI/AAAAAAAACH0/5mc-86Fu7GISE2O3YAypoTA-geQzKYZzACLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_VaxBuDpCkM/WrrYbQDSmEI/AAAAAAAACH0/5mc-86Fu7GISE2O3YAypoTA-geQzKYZzACLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-36894163602979960102018-03-26T21:03:00.000-07:002018-04-02T17:20:21.306-07:00ReFoReMo 2018 Day 18 Book Reviews<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TdqWREkFnFE/WrnBNif7zTI/AAAAAAAACGw/he7fzBK7aJUn6GLGm-WpS_Q3T4uZTVC-ACLcBGAs/s1600/Belly%2BButton%2BBook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="566" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TdqWREkFnFE/WrnBNif7zTI/AAAAAAAACGw/he7fzBK7aJUn6GLGm-WpS_Q3T4uZTVC-ACLcBGAs/s200/Belly%2BButton%2BBook.jpg" width="190" /></a>NOTE: Several other books were suggested for today's lesson,
but our library doesn't have copies of them, so I haven't read them. If I get a
chance to read them, I will update this review list.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BELLY BUTTON BOOK by Sandra Boynton</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Short, rhyming text, color illustrations, and the subject
matter of hippo belly buttons make this a delightfully silly board book for
babies. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
COLOR ZOO by Lois Ehlert </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LmcpQFGKsGc/WrnBS6xnw0I/AAAAAAAACG0/mnqt-ilQM5koZitsXFumpZlhFzJlRswGACLcBGAs/s1600/Color%2BZoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="574" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LmcpQFGKsGc/WrnBS6xnw0I/AAAAAAAACG0/mnqt-ilQM5koZitsXFumpZlhFzJlRswGACLcBGAs/s200/Color%2BZoo.jpg" width="192" /></a><o:p> </o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lois Ehlert combines bright, vibrant colors, cut-outs and
geometric shapes to create a one-of-a-kind book about colors, shapes, and
animals. The geometric cut-outs are done in such a way as to illustrate the
faces of nine different animals, using 10 different shapes and 16 different
colors. This is sure to be a book that your young one will want to look at
again and again.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EzKYeJJ3m1Y/WrnBXKX7feI/AAAAAAAACG4/nc8wHQKBjh0WeCV0iiHfORBcY2QthHv-ACLcBGAs/s1600/Color%2BWonder%2BHooray%2Bfor%2BSpring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="595" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EzKYeJJ3m1Y/WrnBXKX7feI/AAAAAAAACG4/nc8wHQKBjh0WeCV0iiHfORBcY2QthHv-ACLcBGAs/s200/Color%2BWonder%2BHooray%2Bfor%2BSpring.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
COLOR WONDER: HOORAY FOR SPRING! by Chieu Anh Urban</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wake up ladybug,<br />
look what’s here?<br />
Spring brings red,<br />
march and cheer. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So begins this book about nature and the colors associated
with spring - red ladybugs on red tulips, yellow bumblebees on yellow
daffodils, etc. Two rotating wheels at the end of the book make this
interactive as well as delightful.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-383l8TwHTQ0/WrnBtJgaiJI/AAAAAAAACHA/VDCuFpbNOcAWLc01ESyNX_Hu3inpYicHACLcBGAs/s1600/Peek%2Ba%2BBoo%2BFarm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="594" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-383l8TwHTQ0/WrnBtJgaiJI/AAAAAAAACHA/VDCuFpbNOcAWLc01ESyNX_Hu3inpYicHACLcBGAs/s200/Peek%2Ba%2BBoo%2BFarm.jpg" width="199" /></a>PEEK-A-BOO <st1:stockticker>FARM</st1:stockticker> by Joyce
Wan </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
"With a curly tail,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am pink and short.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I play in the mud </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
and go, "Oink, oink, oink."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Guess who? The reader then pulls a flap down to uncover the
animal's face, along with this text: "Peek-a-boo! Pig."<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So begins this delightful little book about farm animals.
There are seven animals in all featured in this book. Each one starts with a
rhyming description on one side of the page, with the flap on the other side of
the page.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is sure to become a favorite for little ones.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k00FBgZQLD4/WrnBxLJQrjI/AAAAAAAACHE/tdcmYHYDx5EtlT4X0nqyGbpxpN9HnKMGwCLcBGAs/s1600/Peek%2Ba%2BMoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="594" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k00FBgZQLD4/WrnBxLJQrjI/AAAAAAAACHE/tdcmYHYDx5EtlT4X0nqyGbpxpN9HnKMGwCLcBGAs/s200/Peek%2Ba%2BMoo.jpg" width="199" /></a>PEEK-A MOO by Nina Laden </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although the titles are similar, this book is quite
different than the PEEK-A-BOO <st1:stockticker>FARM</st1:stockticker> one. This
one has cut-outs throughout the pages. The title of the book is PEEK-A MOO! and
the cover is cut out to show a pair of eyes. When the page is turned, a cow's
face is revealed. The next cut-out shows a field of red with some green leaves.
Turning the page reveals a tomato. Each cut-out is in the same shape in the
same place, but each one reveals something completely different. There is a
rhyme scheme, also, as the first text says "Peek a boo." The next one
(for the tomato) says "Peek a grew."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is another book that is sure to become a favorite for
little ones.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vYFetEdVpp0/WrnB69mU6bI/AAAAAAAACHQ/I4Pj4Ctz9VkPNXNR7fwaASgr7iHaaM1vwCLcBGAs/s1600/Where%2BIs%2BBabys%2BHome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="537" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vYFetEdVpp0/WrnB69mU6bI/AAAAAAAACHQ/I4Pj4Ctz9VkPNXNR7fwaASgr7iHaaM1vwCLcBGAs/s200/Where%2BIs%2BBabys%2BHome.jpg" width="180" /></a>WHERE IS BABY'S HOME by Karen Katz</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is a great book to teach little ones about where other
babies live, like a baby bird and a baby deer. Each double-page spread asks a
question, i.e, "Where is the baby bunny's home?" Then the reader
lifts the flap to discover the answer. In this case, the answer is, "In
the burrow."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The colorful illustrations, fun laps, and interactive play
are sure to make this book a favorite.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iJMPiUfOnf0/WrnCAAwnu3I/AAAAAAAACHU/blYWKOle4vMwIWlQYcRfmKOW7BbnQjqwACLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iJMPiUfOnf0/WrnCAAwnu3I/AAAAAAAACHU/blYWKOle4vMwIWlQYcRfmKOW7BbnQjqwACLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />
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Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-90344316088022708252018-03-23T14:16:00.001-07:002018-03-23T14:16:55.625-07:00ReFoReMo 2018 Day 17 Book Reviews<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Gq_K9MZYcg/WrVuG58kTuI/AAAAAAAACF8/_rCkVIiEWfU3J3Sjwb6lxm4EYcggoazhwCLcBGAs/s1600/Radiant%2BChild.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="487" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Gq_K9MZYcg/WrVuG58kTuI/AAAAAAAACF8/_rCkVIiEWfU3J3Sjwb6lxm4EYcggoazhwCLcBGAs/s200/Radiant%2BChild.jpg" width="163" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
RADIANT CHILD by Javaka Steptoe</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat became well-known for his
collage-style paintings during the 1980s. But, before he found fame and glory,
he spent his time creating art. His mother is a big influence on, and supporter
of, his love for art. She brings him art books to read and look at, gets down
on the floor and draws with him, takes him to art exhibits, and shows him that
art is all around him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jean-Michel decides to pursue his dream of being an artist.
He leaves home when he is a teenager and goes to <st1:city><st1:place>New York
City</st1:place></st1:city>. During the day, he stays with friends. At night,
he roams the streets and sprays graffiti and writes poetry on downtown walls.
Rather than get into trouble, his work catches the attention of the art
galleries, when he is invited to have a show. He then goes on to become a
well-known artist.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Author Javaka Steptoe includes some additional information at
the back of the book about Jean-Michel.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6tgH8YBIwvY/WrVuMynVPjI/AAAAAAAACGA/j5WcMnXQitIaeolnYyXZnusc_gGrXDrEwCLcBGAs/s1600/The%2BBook%2Bof%2BMistakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="494" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6tgH8YBIwvY/WrVuMynVPjI/AAAAAAAACGA/j5WcMnXQitIaeolnYyXZnusc_gGrXDrEwCLcBGAs/s200/The%2BBook%2Bof%2BMistakes.jpg" width="165" /></a>THE BOOK OF MISTAKES by Corinna Luyken </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is a wonderfully creative way for an illustrator to
show how artwork can take on a life of its own. She starts with a head that has
two eyes, one bigger than the other. That was a mistake. So, she tries to
correct her mistake by making the smaller eye bigger, but she makes it too big,
so she adds a pair of glasses. The neck and arms are drawn next. When the neck
ends up looking too long, she adds a high lace collar. And, so it continues, as
we see how the artist can change a mistake into a great finished drawing.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ebw5VZAyZIw/WrVuSpfnfEI/AAAAAAAACGE/VvJDExqDOwwvYKUessQLy39YXmyclB8hQCLcBGAs/s1600/Between%2Bthe%2BLines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="449" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ebw5VZAyZIw/WrVuSpfnfEI/AAAAAAAACGE/VvJDExqDOwwvYKUessQLy39YXmyclB8hQCLcBGAs/s200/Between%2Bthe%2BLines.jpg" width="150" /></a><o:p> </o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BETWEEN THE LINES: How Ernie Barnes Went From the Football
Field to <st1:place><st1:placename>Art</st1:placename> <st1:placename>Gallery</st1:placename></st1:place>
by Sandra Neil Wallace <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ernie Barnes loved art from his childhood all the way
through until his death. His mother nurtured his love for drawing and artwork,
and his father nurtured his love for music. He didn't try out for his high
school football team, but the football coach noticed his physique, and recruited
him to the team, where he became a star player. From there, he went on to play
in the American football League. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But Ernie's real love was art. When he wasn't actually on
the field playing, he would sit on the sidelines and sketch what was happening
on the field. He didn't really want to play football, but as a young black man
in the segregated South, he didn't think he could make a living with his
artwork.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After the last game of the 1964 season, Ernie quick the
game. He didn't have any money, but he had an idea. Over the years he had
produced dozens of drawings and paintings, many of them football-related. He
decided to pitch his idea at a meeting for the owners of the <st1:stockticker>AFL</st1:stockticker>.
He told them he wanted to "become the Official Artist for the American
Football League." And, he did. His paintings now hang in museums in such
places as <st1:city><st1:place>Philadelphia</st1:place></st1:city>, <st1:place><st1:city>Los
Angeles</st1:city>, <st1:state>New York</st1:state></st1:place> and <st1:place><st1:city>Washington</st1:city>,
<st1:state>DC</st1:state></st1:place>.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<st1:stockticker>SAM</st1:stockticker> & EVA by Debbie
Ridpath Ohi </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fVHrGP7185I/WrVuas1wb2I/AAAAAAAACGI/oJpHIIZNKvsdXm85bOKIPtp0HRihgSoLwCLcBGAs/s1600/Sam%2Band%2BEva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="595" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fVHrGP7185I/WrVuas1wb2I/AAAAAAAACGI/oJpHIIZNKvsdXm85bOKIPtp0HRihgSoLwCLcBGAs/s200/Sam%2Band%2BEva.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sam starts drawing a picture of a velociraptor on the wall.
Eva wants to draw, too, but Sam doesn't want her to join him. The two
"battle" it out with markers, each drawing something to counteract
what the other drew. Eva draws a marmot to balance out Sam's velociraptor. Sam
doesn't like the marmot, so he has his velociraptor try to eat the marmot. Eva
draws a big friend to protect the marmot. And, so it continues until Eva gets
frustrated and doesn't want to draw anymore. Sam discovers it might not be so
much fun to draw by himself. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cJc_wtBLUEg/WrVue2Fy2QI/AAAAAAAACGM/1844RKWLh7gljaFtcZNxXmvFf0k9Fjm1gCLcBGAs/s1600/The%2BAmazing%2BCollection%2Bof%2BJoey%2BCornell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="461" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cJc_wtBLUEg/WrVue2Fy2QI/AAAAAAAACGM/1844RKWLh7gljaFtcZNxXmvFf0k9Fjm1gCLcBGAs/s200/The%2BAmazing%2BCollection%2Bof%2BJoey%2BCornell.jpg" width="154" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THE AMAZING COLLECTION OF JOEY CORNELL by Candace Fleming </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Joseph Cornell became known for his ability to turn ordinary
objects into wonderful creations. Author Candace Fleming tells Cornell's story
by showing the reader how he started collecting things when he was a young boy.
His motto was, "If I like it, I keep it." </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He liked many, many different things, and they kept piling
up. When they would no longer fit into his room, he was given space in the barn
for his collections. After the collection grew and grew and grew, he started
putting some of the things together to create new things. After a while, he had
a whole new collection. He then opened the barn to show his family what he had
done. That led to his career as an artist.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HQeQkfZa-Lk/WrVujie5spI/AAAAAAAACGQ/ywx2DczYOpIKvK0aB4_WIMcITnvmlCJ_QCLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HQeQkfZa-Lk/WrVujie5spI/AAAAAAAACGQ/ywx2DczYOpIKvK0aB4_WIMcITnvmlCJ_QCLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-34484649934158431482018-03-22T12:34:00.000-07:002018-03-22T12:34:30.174-07:00ReFoReMo Day 16 Book Reviews<br />
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<st1:city><st1:place>BATTLE</st1:place></st1:city> BUNNY by
Jon Scieszka and Mac Barnett</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vTLtHYQoxHQ/WrQELvGQDNI/AAAAAAAACFI/6TWCQ6Z0-74fuIHgHrDyI1CWbCsZIiD1ACLcBGAs/s1600/Battle%2BBunny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="421" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vTLtHYQoxHQ/WrQELvGQDNI/AAAAAAAACFI/6TWCQ6Z0-74fuIHgHrDyI1CWbCsZIiD1ACLcBGAs/s200/Battle%2BBunny.jpg" width="141" /></a></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Alex receives a book for his birthday called "Birthday
Bunny." Alex thinks the book he received is silly and sappy. He uses a
pencil and turns the birthday bunny story into a story called "Battle
Bunny." He crosses out words and letters from the text and fills them in
with his own text. He also draws cartoon sketches to illustrate his new story.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here's a small sampling of how the story has been changed.
Here is the original story: "Birthday Bunny made himself his favorite
breakfast: carrot juice and a bowl of Carrot Crispies. 'My birthday is the most
special day of the year because I get super birthday present from all my
friends.'"</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here's how Alex has changed the original story: "Battle
Bunny made himself his favorite breakfast: brain juice and a bowl of Greasy
Guts. 'My birthday is the most special day of the year because I get super
birthday powers over all my enemies.'"</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The story continues in this matter throughout.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I must say this is one of the most creative ways I've ever
seen a story told. It's like two stories in one. You can almost see Alex
scratching out words and writing in his own to make the story go the way he
wants. It's delightful fun.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCTXR0uMQyY/WrQETFabhXI/AAAAAAAACFM/43DoQiodkJQb4EMQH749Zfmh8A2bYrZDQCLcBGAs/s1600/Flora%2Band%2Bthe%2BFlamingo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="473" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCTXR0uMQyY/WrQETFabhXI/AAAAAAAACFM/43DoQiodkJQb4EMQH749Zfmh8A2bYrZDQCLcBGAs/s200/Flora%2Band%2Bthe%2BFlamingo.jpg" width="158" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FLORA <st1:stockticker>AND</st1:stockticker> THE FLAMINGO by
Molly Idle</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This book has no words but it certainly tells a story. The
wonderfully expressive illustrations by Molly Idle, along with some interactive
flaps along the way, tell the story of Flora as she makes friends with a
flamingo.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I <st1:stockticker>DON</st1:stockticker>'T LIKE KOALA by
Sean Ferrell </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xeBI3lPxZ3I/WrQElO-xYyI/AAAAAAAACFY/_xmo2mtykm859wQ29bNc7o9hWr2TW1ewgCLcBGAs/s1600/I%2BDon%2527t%2BLike%2BKoala.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="600" height="195" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xeBI3lPxZ3I/WrQElO-xYyI/AAAAAAAACFY/_xmo2mtykm859wQ29bNc7o9hWr2TW1ewgCLcBGAs/s200/I%2BDon%2527t%2BLike%2BKoala.jpg" width="200" /></a>Adam's parents got him a stuffed koala bear. Adam doesn't
like it. He thinks it is creepy. He tries to get rid of it, but somehow, the
bear keeps turning back up. He tries everything he can think of because he just
doesn't like koala. Will anything happen to change his mind?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VF1u6O-1gYs/WrQEXlRRhHI/AAAAAAAACFQ/0fDjmRkGl38S4zNNx1jgRksXEmYYZN2UgCLcBGAs/s1600/Press%2BHere.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="492" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VF1u6O-1gYs/WrQEXlRRhHI/AAAAAAAACFQ/0fDjmRkGl38S4zNNx1jgRksXEmYYZN2UgCLcBGAs/s200/Press%2BHere.jpg" width="165" /></a>PRESS HERE by Hervé Tullet </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What a delightful book. On the first page is a yellow dot,
just like the one on the cover. The reader is instructed to "Press here
and turn the page." Of course, young children will press the yellow dot
and then turn the page. When they do....they'll find a page with two yellow
dots. They'll wonder how that happened and they will be anxious to keep going
and find out what happens next.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Like I said, what a delightful book. I can see kids asking
to go through this book time and time again.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k54lE1Bn138/WrQEdmcr7XI/AAAAAAAACFU/KAG2Ag_OR8gdJ4w5-QwrGqgHCupgIyg1wCLcBGAs/s1600/Ten%2BLittle%2BNinjas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="479" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k54lE1Bn138/WrQEdmcr7XI/AAAAAAAACFU/KAG2Ag_OR8gdJ4w5-QwrGqgHCupgIyg1wCLcBGAs/s200/Ten%2BLittle%2BNinjas.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:stockticker>TEN</st1:stockticker> LITTLE NINJAS by
Miranda Paul</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It's time for bed, but the little ninjas are not tired.
They're slipping and sliding and swinging out of bed. Can Daddy and the sensei
get them to settle down?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is an adorable counting book. Instead of going from 10
little ninjas to 9 little ninjas to 8 little ninjas, etc., author Miranda Paul
has changed things up a bit. After the first little ninja gets tucked into bed,
then their are 9 little astronauts and then 8 little race car drivers, etc. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kids will enjoy the many different antics of these
boisterous kiddies as mom and dad tried to get them all into bed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MltmUcbYPXo/WrQEzoVWSyI/AAAAAAAACFg/NYJL242sL_cJvQjEN3A5ICodwUEOTLGzACLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MltmUcbYPXo/WrQEzoVWSyI/AAAAAAAACFg/NYJL242sL_cJvQjEN3A5ICodwUEOTLGzACLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-88645963517789766762018-03-21T17:12:00.000-07:002018-04-03T11:54:34.610-07:00ReFoReMo Day 15 Book Reviews<br />
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A MORNING WITH GRANDPA by Sylvia Liu
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<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mei Mei spends the morning with Grandpa (Gong Gong). Grandpa
is practicing his Tai Chi. Mei Mei wants to learn. Grandpa shows her some basic
moves. She struggles some with the moves, but she doesn't give up. She manages
to make them work her way.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When they're done with Tai Chi, Mei Mei suggests they do
Yoga together. Mei Mei show Grandpa some basic moves. Grandpa struggles some
with the moves, but he doesn't give up. He manages to make them work for him.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Together, they have a wonderful morning, spending time
together and sharing their interests. This is a touching story of how the young
can teach the old and the old can teach the young.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the end of the boo, author Sylvia Liu includes
instructions for the for Tai Chi and the four Yoga positions mentioned in the
text. She also adds a list of Author's Sources for additional reading.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BAGEL IN LOVE by Natasha Wing<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fancy-stepping Bagel loves to dance. It makes him
"happier than a birthday cake." He wants to enter the Cherry Jubilee,
a couples only dance contest, but he can't find a dance partner. Pretzel won't
dance with him because she says his moves "don't cut the mustard."
Croissant says his steps "are stale." Doughnut's eyes just glazed
over when he asked her to dance. Will Bagel be able to find a dance partner in
time.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is such a clever book, filled with sweet puns and
sugary-sweet illustrations. They make the perfect recipe for a book that
totally takes the cake.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BE KIND by Pat Zietlow Miller</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
A little girl is at school when her classmate, Tanisha, spills
grape juice on her dress. Everyone else in the class laughs, but not this
little girl. Her mother has taught her to be kind. So she tells Tanisha that
purple is her favorite color. She thought that would make Tanisha feel better,
but it didn't. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During art class, while the little girl is painting a bunch
of violets, she's thinking about what it really means to be kind. Is it giving
cooking to your neighbor who lives alone? Is it giving your brother the shoes
you've outgrown? It is helping with the laundry?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The little girl realizes these are all ways to be kind. She also
realizes she can't undo Tanisha's paint mess on her dress, but she can paint a
pretty picture for her because they both like purple. And, maybe it will make
Tanisha feel a little better. She also realizes that what she can do to be kind
are just small things. But, if everyone does something small to be kind, then
"together, they could grow into something big."</div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GASTON by Kelly DiPucchio</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gaston has three sisters, but he doesn't look anything like
them. They and his mother all look like poodles, but Gaston looks like a bull
dog. Despite the way he looks, Gaston has been taught to mind his manners like
any well-bred poodle would.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One day when Gaston's mother takes her brood to the park,
they meet a mother with four children, all of which look like bull dogs, except
for one, Antoinette. Antoinette looks like a poodle. But, she has been raised
with her bull dog brothers so she has the manners of a bull dog, which are a
far cry from those of the dainty poodles.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When the two mother dogs meet in the park, and they notice
that each of them has a child that looks more like the other mother, they
realize that some how the babies were switched: the poodle mom raised one of
the bull dog pups and the bull dog mom raised one of the poodle pups. The moms
decide to switch the pups so they can be with their real mothers. The decision <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">looks </i>like the right one, but is it?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GOODBYE SUMMER, HELLO AUTUMN by Kenard Pak<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A young girl takes a walk through the woods and to town
during a late summer morning, noticing things along the way. She says
"Hello" to the trees and the foxes and the blue jays and other things
in the woods. Each return her greeting and tell how they are preparing for the
upcoming winter. In town she says hello to the breezy wind. It answers by
telling her it's time to bring out "thick sweaters and scarves." </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When she returns to her house, she says, "Goodbye,
summer." The next day she says, "Hello, autumn."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
IF YOUR MONSTER <st1:stockticker>WON</st1:stockticker>'T GO
TO <st1:stockticker>BED</st1:stockticker> by Denise Vega</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What should you do if your monster refuses to go to bed?
"Don't ask your parents for help. They know a lot about putting kids to bed,
but nothing about putting monsters to bed. It's not their fault; they're just
not good at it." In order to know what to do, you are advised to read this
book. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here are some things you should NOT do: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
* Do not bring in your dog to cuddle. That will cause a
problem between your dog and your monster.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
* Don't do the Monster Stomp. The Monster Stomp should be
reserved for daytime fun.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
* Don't let you monster count sheep...because he will want
to eat them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In order to get your monster to go to bed, you should follow
the six steps outlined in this book. I'm not going to tell you what they are;
you will have to read the book and find out for yourself. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MAYBE SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL: How Art Transformed a
Neighborhood by F. Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mira loved to draw, paint and color. She turned blank pieces
of paper into colorful art. Then she gave away her artwork to people she met
around her neighborhood. She even posted some of her art on the walls around
her.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One day, she met an artist who said he painted on walls. He
invited her to join him to paint a mural. As they painted, more people joined
in. Soon, the whole neighborhood was involved and the gray walls around Mira's
neighborhood were filled with color and life.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mira is a fictional character but the story is based on the
real-life events of Rafael and Candice Lopez who transformed the <st1:place><st1:placename>East</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype>Village</st1:placetype></st1:place> in Sand Diego, <st1:state><st1:place>California</st1:place></st1:state>
from a drab landscape into a vibrant, colorful one. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The book is illustrated by Rafael Lopez, the artist
mentioned in the end of the book.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NO KIMCHI FOR ME by <st1:country-region><st1:place>Aram</st1:place></st1:country-region>
Kim </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yoomi and her two siblings are at Grandma's house for lunch.
Yoomi loves the seaweed, anchovies, egg omelet, and bean sprouts Grandma gives
her to eat. But she refuses to eat her kimchi. She says it is stinky and spicy.
Her siblings eat theirs and then taunt her by calling her a baby because she
would eat hers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After lunch, her siblings won't let her play with them
because the game they are playing is "not for babies." Yoomi doesn't
want to be treated like a baby, but she really, really doesn't link kimchi.
What can she do?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The end papers of the book are filled with pictures of
Korean foods. There is a page in the back of the book that explains what
kimchi. There is also a recipe for Kimchi Pancakes readers might like to try.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ROSCO VS. THE BABY by Lindsay Ward</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rosco was "the heavyweight champ of <st1:street><st1:address>17
Parkwood Avenue</st1:address></st1:street>...." until the baby came to
live. Now, Rosco has to compete with a cute, cuddly baby for attention, and
Rosco is losing the fight. Rosco and the baby sparred with each other for
months, with the baby always winning the fight. Until one day, when they are
both very tired, they curl up together to sleep. They discover they like being
together.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All is well until....the twins come along!</div>
<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-9857681636687335142018-03-20T13:47:00.000-07:002018-03-20T13:47:19.273-07:00ReFoReMo Day 14 Book Reviews<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tJ0QdMJMX-w/WrFynZgoNZI/AAAAAAAACEA/qnuQdF-dDeQwZ3QR2wa6ZGS2c_8Ba_i3wCLcBGAs/s1600/Bear%2BHas%2Ba%2BStory%2Bto%2BTell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="600" height="183" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tJ0QdMJMX-w/WrFynZgoNZI/AAAAAAAACEA/qnuQdF-dDeQwZ3QR2wa6ZGS2c_8Ba_i3wCLcBGAs/s200/Bear%2BHas%2Ba%2BStory%2Bto%2BTell.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<st1:stockticker>BEAR</st1:stockticker> <st1:stockticker>HAS</st1:stockticker>
A STORY TO TELL by Philip Stead<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bear is sleepy, but before settling down for his long
winter's nap he has a story he wants to tell. He finds Mouse and asks him if he
would like to listen to a story. But, Mouse is too busy gathering seeds for the
upcoming winter. Mouse says he will listen to the story in the spring. Then
Bear asks Duck and Frog, but each of them are preparing for the long winter
ahead. Unable to find a listener, and unable to stay awake any longer, Bear
falls asleep. What will happen when he awakes in the spring?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fs_l2pNSF64/WrFyrcTmZOI/AAAAAAAACEE/4Rre9gQmQdYLC_dhZhLypNlwUN7mE8J9ACLcBGAs/s1600/Before%2BMorning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="457" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fs_l2pNSF64/WrFyrcTmZOI/AAAAAAAACEE/4Rre9gQmQdYLC_dhZhLypNlwUN7mE8J9ACLcBGAs/s200/Before%2BMorning.jpg" width="153" /></a></div>
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BEFORE MORNING by Joyce Sidman<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Before going to bed, a young boy prays for snow. When he
wakes up, his prayer has been granted, and his harsh world has been transformed
by a soft blanket of snow.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This isn't your typical story about a boy making a wish or
saying a prayer. Rather is it more of a visual telling of the transformation
from a cold, hard world to a cold but soft one. I counted just 66 words in all.
The book begins with four pages with not text at all and ends with two pages of
no text. The writing is poetic and the illustrations are magical.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YhFQGM8raQo/WrFywYusigI/AAAAAAAACEI/ZTPutjDtIK0LJdegbpNHQEo5qKznskiaACLcBGAs/s1600/Flashlight%2BNight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="600" height="158" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YhFQGM8raQo/WrFywYusigI/AAAAAAAACEI/ZTPutjDtIK0LJdegbpNHQEo5qKznskiaACLcBGAs/s200/Flashlight%2BNight.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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FLASHLIGHT NIGHT by Matt Forrest Esenwine </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A short rhyming text by Mat Forrest Esenwine and
delightfully spooky illustrations by Fred Koehler combine for a look at how
much of an adventure it can be to read an adventurous tale by the light of a
flashlight.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kIw6D2SqBXk/WrFy4-Ets_I/AAAAAAAACEM/jWUUKy1kH3M74g3J8hHmHE1pfTQ4z52LACLcBGAs/s1600/This%2BHouse%2BOnce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="479" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kIw6D2SqBXk/WrFy4-Ets_I/AAAAAAAACEM/jWUUKy1kH3M74g3J8hHmHE1pfTQ4z52LACLcBGAs/s200/This%2BHouse%2BOnce.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
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THIS HOUSE, ONCE by Deborah Freedman<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With just over 100 words, beautifully expressive
illustrations, author/illustrator Deborah Freedman tells readers how things
that were once other things, or that were once in other places, have been
changed and moved to build that house. For instance, the door for the house was
once a mighty oak, and the stones foundation around the house were buried under
the ground. She goes on to describe the brick walls, the windows and the roof.
Kids will learn a bit about home construction that they probably never knew.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the end of the book, Freedman tells her readers that her
house<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>in <st1:place>New England</st1:place>
is similar to the one described in the book. Then she asks: "Where do you
live? What was your home, once?" This provides a great springboard for
discussion about where people live, what type of house they live in, and what
their house is made of.</div>
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<br /></div>
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THE UNCORKER OF OCEAN BOTTLES by Michelle Cuevas </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_nPxzVIMudk/WrFy-eq4slI/AAAAAAAACEQ/3-J9WqzQyXA1cUpw_aIpeYS0MxCTdmDEgCLcBGAs/s1600/The%2BUncorker%2Bof%2BOcean%2BBottles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="600" height="183" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_nPxzVIMudk/WrFy-eq4slI/AAAAAAAACEQ/3-J9WqzQyXA1cUpw_aIpeYS0MxCTdmDEgCLcBGAs/s200/The%2BUncorker%2Bof%2BOcean%2BBottles.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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The Uncorker of Ocean Bottles lives alone at the top of a
hill. He has a very important job, that of opening bottles that have been
dropped into the sea and delivering the messages found in those bottles. His
job is very rewarding, as he loves delivering otherwise lost messages to their
recipients, and he travels far and wide making sure all the messages are
delivered.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But, one day, he finds a message that isn't addressed to
anyone. It is simply a party invitation. It says: "I'm not sure you'll get
this in time, but I am having a party. Tomorrow, evening tide, at the seashore.
Will you please come?"</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not sure what to do, he travels through the village where he
lives and asks each person if they had put the invitation in the bottle of if
they might know anything about it. No one knows what it's about. The Uncorker
of Ocean Bottles decides to go to the seashore the next evening, just to see
what happens. The ending is very sweet and satisfying.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qTnhW26KXYE/WrFzD6kgw4I/AAAAAAAACEU/UvabyFqd7UApGNs_3asi18L0ClAhA92ZACLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qTnhW26KXYE/WrFzD6kgw4I/AAAAAAAACEU/UvabyFqd7UApGNs_3asi18L0ClAhA92ZACLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-76361643157808592822018-03-19T14:32:00.000-07:002018-03-26T19:57:25.350-07:00ReFoReMo Day 13 Book Reviews<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Da2j6nwtzc4/WrANYtDKGaI/AAAAAAAACC0/JHwHcVEICrEQxJckE3IIcE9aRom4J1ssgCLcBGAs/s1600/Be%2Ba%2BKing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="462" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Da2j6nwtzc4/WrANYtDKGaI/AAAAAAAACC0/JHwHcVEICrEQxJckE3IIcE9aRom4J1ssgCLcBGAs/s200/Be%2Ba%2BKing.jpg" width="155" /></a></div>
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BE A KING By Carole Boston Weatherford</div>
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Author Carole Boston Weatherford encourages readers to
"be a king." One way, she says is to, "stamp out hatred. Put
your foot down and walk tall." The author uses words and phrases from
King's life and shows young readers how they can be like King, they can
"Be a King" by doing the things that Martin Luther King did.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2cUaqq6eEfw/WrANcnswewI/AAAAAAAACC4/v-dr7VYnEBEb2axacFpal9YnzKVF-klugCLcBGAs/s1600/Brave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="513" data-original-width="600" height="170" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2cUaqq6eEfw/WrANcnswewI/AAAAAAAACC4/v-dr7VYnEBEb2axacFpal9YnzKVF-klugCLcBGAs/s200/Brave.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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BRAVE<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>by Stacy
McAnulty</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You don't have to have superpowers to be a hero. You can
"save the world, just by being brave." Author Stacy McAnulty shows
readers how they can change their worlds by being brave in the face of
adversity. They can try new things, confront bullies and stand up for what they
think is right.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0hEuzGyPavw/WrANisCn48I/AAAAAAAACC8/pzcBeySXcE4yiEmzwPRP3WHoGH211-XywCLcBGAs/s1600/Dear%2BGirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="595" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0hEuzGyPavw/WrANisCn48I/AAAAAAAACC8/pzcBeySXcE4yiEmzwPRP3WHoGH211-XywCLcBGAs/s200/Dear%2BGirl.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:stockticker>DEAR</st1:stockticker> GIRL by Amy Krouse
Rosenthal and <st1:city><st1:place>Paris</st1:place></st1:city> Rosenthal</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Written like short letters to a girl, each two-page spread
begins, "Dear Girl." The letters are encouraging notes to a girl to
help her in her everyday activities. For instance, one letter reads: "Dear
Girl, Make your room awesome. Make your room you. And while you're at it, make
your bed!" This is the kind of book that any young girl could relate to and
it is the perfect gift, for any occasion, for mothers, big sisters and others
to give to their "dear" girls.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:stockticker><br /></st1:stockticker></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oEvEleOM06s/WrANnZn0McI/AAAAAAAACDA/AUDVjYBLK9QmU3D9Mw5Dgnea7XqEpOJwQCLcBGAs/s1600/Life.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="464" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oEvEleOM06s/WrANnZn0McI/AAAAAAAACDA/AUDVjYBLK9QmU3D9Mw5Dgnea7XqEpOJwQCLcBGAs/s200/Life.jpg" width="155" /></a><st1:stockticker><br /></st1:stockticker></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:stockticker>LIFE</st1:stockticker> by Cynthia Rylant </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For all of us, no matter how big we end up, we all start the
same way: "Life begins small, then grows..." This is a touching book
about life, the good things and the bad things. Author Cynthia Rylant uses
thought-provoking sentences to make the reader think about their life:
"Life is not always easy." And, "there is always a new road to
take." Brendan Wenzel illustrates the book beautifully with nature scenes
that greatly enhance the text.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BAwjlWSta6g/WrANzt4aOzI/AAAAAAAACDE/FHhKOSwqO2c1tTlhGY32Kst-pUf1YxmrwCLcBGAs/s1600/Love%2BIs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="469" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BAwjlWSta6g/WrANzt4aOzI/AAAAAAAACDE/FHhKOSwqO2c1tTlhGY32Kst-pUf1YxmrwCLcBGAs/s200/Love%2BIs.jpg" width="157" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LOVE IS by Diane Adams </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A young girl gets a baby duck for a pet, and as the baby duck grows up, the young girl learns what love really is. The book starts out with this line, "Love is holding something fragile, tiny wings and downy head." The story progresses as the baby duck grows up and "leaves the nest." The young girl goes through all the stages of love with her baby duck that parents do with their human babies.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lwRH2WFwPgc/WrAN5V9Rv4I/AAAAAAAACDI/qp7DcdtCEpMCDRVH-h90-YD4IhmLt2hPQCLcBGAs/s1600/Lovely.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="578" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lwRH2WFwPgc/WrAN5V9Rv4I/AAAAAAAACDI/qp7DcdtCEpMCDRVH-h90-YD4IhmLt2hPQCLcBGAs/s200/Lovely.jpg" width="193" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LOVELY by Jess Hong </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No matter what we look like, whether we are big or tall, we
have curly or straight hair, we are young or old, we are <st1:stockticker>ALL</st1:stockticker>
lovely in our own way. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9GTWFixpPtY/WrAN-2kzNnI/AAAAAAAACDQ/OuWHd0YoaYYYi_pa3n_1x7FiFN4y0PuLQCLcBGAs/s1600/Most%2BPeople.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="536" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9GTWFixpPtY/WrAN-2kzNnI/AAAAAAAACDQ/OuWHd0YoaYYYi_pa3n_1x7FiFN4y0PuLQCLcBGAs/s200/Most%2BPeople.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MOST PEOPLE by Michael Leannah<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This book celebrates the idea that "most people"
are good people, that they want to be kind and helpful. Yes, there are some bad
people in the world, but if "you line up all the people who want to be
good and all the people who want to be bad, the good line would stretch from
here to the tallest mountain. All the people in the bad line could crowd
together in a dark and gloomy room." </div>
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</div>
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<br /></div>
PEACE IS AN OFFERING by Annette LeBox<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fOigzol4fls/WrAOEf9enTI/AAAAAAAACDY/7dU3yePpEO0Dbdq044AsOkoxNIj_4SgbwCLcBGAs/s1600/Peace%2BIs%2Ban%2BOffering.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="466" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fOigzol4fls/WrAOEf9enTI/AAAAAAAACDY/7dU3yePpEO0Dbdq044AsOkoxNIj_4SgbwCLcBGAs/s200/Peace%2BIs%2Ban%2BOffering.jpg" width="156" /></a><o:p> </o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Peace is an offering.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A muffin or a peach.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A birthday invitation.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A trip to the beach."</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So begins this lovely book about being a community and being
good neighbors and finding love - and peace - in the everyday things around
you. The lyrical verse and softly shaded illustrations combine to make a
beautiful book for all to enjoy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P-dvLZFuB_Y/WrAOL6-x_pI/AAAAAAAACDg/7suKkCDbUR0ZYd8ZH98fkn96sRWkrKU9wCLcBGAs/s1600/Why%2BAm%2BI%2BMe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="592" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P-dvLZFuB_Y/WrAOL6-x_pI/AAAAAAAACDg/7suKkCDbUR0ZYd8ZH98fkn96sRWkrKU9wCLcBGAs/s200/Why%2BAm%2BI%2BMe.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
WHY AM I ME? by Paige Britt</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Two characters ask the same question: "Why am I
me?" Then they explore the answers separately until they come together in
the end. The idea is that there is no you or me, just an us and we, that we are
all human and we need to show compassion and love for each other.<o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
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</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5CkuxyWu9EQ/WrAOQRXp6NI/AAAAAAAACDk/ASMTxyBfBfw8tziy8QJu3cJAVEh4lke2gCLcBGAs/s1600/You%2BHold%2BMe%2BUp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="596" height="199" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5CkuxyWu9EQ/WrAOQRXp6NI/AAAAAAAACDk/ASMTxyBfBfw8tziy8QJu3cJAVEh4lke2gCLcBGAs/s200/You%2BHold%2BMe%2BUp.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br />
YOU HOLD ME UP by Monique Gray Smith </div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
"You hold me up when you are kind to me, when you share
with me, when you learn with me." So begins this touching book giving
children examples of simple ways to show their love and support for each other.
Just six sentences and 68 words, paired with colorful, expressive text, create
a picture book that is worth sharing. </div>
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-55625867673663097462018-03-16T11:50:00.000-07:002018-03-16T11:53:26.843-07:00ReFoReMo Day 12 Book Reviews<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IRLJ3u-gqQ4/WqwRY6psolI/AAAAAAAACCE/soCVScozmEsblYoawahoSFm6v22TmDBEgCLcBGAs/s1600/Beautiful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="517" data-original-width="600" height="171" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IRLJ3u-gqQ4/WqwRY6psolI/AAAAAAAACCE/soCVScozmEsblYoawahoSFm6v22TmDBEgCLcBGAs/s200/Beautiful.jpg" width="200" /></a>BEAUTIFUL by Stacy McAnulty </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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With just 71 words and an abundance of wonderful
illustrations, this book celebrates girls and what makes them beautiful. It's
not how they look; it's about how they act and how they accept challenges. The
illustrations show that it's okay for girls to be messy, to enjoy science and
to just be themselves.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hkw98f6dFA0/WqwReYNAajI/AAAAAAAACCI/D1_hBgLH408ZOyl9WwyOOM7iOPsfkQ4EACLcBGAs/s1600/Double%2BTake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="491" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hkw98f6dFA0/WqwReYNAajI/AAAAAAAACCI/D1_hBgLH408ZOyl9WwyOOM7iOPsfkQ4EACLcBGAs/s200/Double%2BTake.jpg" width="165" /></a>DOUBLE TAKE: A New Look at Opposites by Susan Hood </div>
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So, you think you know all about opposites, right? Like the
opposite of yes is no and the opposite of asleep is awake. But, this book takes
the subject of opposites to a whole new level. It discusses (and shows in the
illustrations) concepts like point of view and perspective. Its rhyming text
and lively illustrations ensure that kids will enjoy learning more about
opposites than they had probably ever considered. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wF6rqca6DKc/WqwRktTjjBI/AAAAAAAACCM/gmS71ZG9y0MVsWBeibQKlCrUiYFYf2G7QCLcBGAs/s1600/Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="595" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wF6rqca6DKc/WqwRktTjjBI/AAAAAAAACCM/gmS71ZG9y0MVsWBeibQKlCrUiYFYf2G7QCLcBGAs/s200/Small.jpg" width="200" /></a>SMALL by Gina Perry </div>
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The girl in this book is
small. She rates her size in accordance to the world around her. The first
sentence of the book is "The city is big and I am small." She points
out ways that show that she is small in relation to the world around her. But,
then she discovers ways to feel big - by flying through the air on a swing and
making big chalk drawings on the sidewalk and seeing the world from the top of
a ferris wheel. She might be little in stature but she is also big and strong
in other ways.</div>
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THEY ALL SAW A CAT by Brendan Wenzel<o:p></o:p></div>
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They <st1:stockticker>ALL</st1:stockticker> saw a cat: a child,
a dog, a fox, a fish, a mouse, a bee, a bird, a flea, a snake, a skunk, a worm,
and a bat. But, each one saw the cat a bit differently.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is a great book about perception and imagination. We
can each see the same thing, but we probably won't see it the same way.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7dLtzUwD0_w/WqwRv6DJIjI/AAAAAAAACCU/nzQa0wpaSJ08HmWqCwtdlhp1xUw95UewACLcBGAs/s1600/Windows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="600" height="175" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7dLtzUwD0_w/WqwRv6DJIjI/AAAAAAAACCU/nzQa0wpaSJ08HmWqCwtdlhp1xUw95UewACLcBGAs/s200/Windows.jpg" width="200" /></a>WINDOWS by Julia Denos</div>
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Before going to bed, a young boy heads out for a walk around
is neighborhood. He sees the windows in the houses and other buildings in his
neighborhood, catching glimpses of their nightly routines - brushing their teeth,
fixing dinner, watching television, etc. When the young boy returns home from
his walk, he sees his mother waving to him through the window in his house.
Author Julio Denos and illustrator E.B. Goodale have put together a book that
offers an unique glimpse into the windows of people's lives. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-57684918511329490092018-03-15T13:33:00.000-07:002018-03-15T13:40:45.887-07:00ReFoReMo Day 11 Book Reviews<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o6ad9M8hHak/WqrX45-JqaI/AAAAAAAACBQ/l1Qzp6Kf6BIat-qG0FZR9enWIeBeaEbwwCLcBGAs/s1600/Bird%252C%2BBalloon%252C%2BBear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="396" data-original-width="492" height="160" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o6ad9M8hHak/WqrX45-JqaI/AAAAAAAACBQ/l1Qzp6Kf6BIat-qG0FZR9enWIeBeaEbwwCLcBGAs/s200/Bird%252C%2BBalloon%252C%2BBear.jpg" width="200" /></a>BIRD, BALLOON, <st1:stockticker>BEAR</st1:stockticker> by Il
Sung Na</div>
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It's Bird's first day in the forest. She is looking for a
friend. She sees Bear. Bird wants to introduce herself but she's too shy.
Before she can work up the nerve to say, "Hello," Bear has already
found a </div>
friend. A big, red Balloon floats by Bear and he starts playing with
it. Bear and Balloon play all day long. Poor Bird can only sit and watch. Will
she ever get a chance to be friends with Bear?<br />
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EVERY <st1:stockticker>DAY</st1:stockticker> BIRDS by Amy
Ludwig </div>
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"Every day we watch for birds weaving through the sky.</div>
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We listen to their calls and songs.</div>
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We like to see them fly."</div>
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So begins this poem that has been transformed into a picture
book. From there we learn a bit about the chickadee, the jay, the nuthatch and
the finch, as well as 16 other types of birds. Several pages at the end of the
book contain additional information about each type of bird mentioned in the
book.</div>
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This is a great way to introduce young readers to the
subject of birds. Not only are the illustrations colorful and expressive, and
the text not only rhymes, the sentences are very short. </div>
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LOVE, MAMA by Jeanette Bradley </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5U5A1_uH8l0/WqrYFu-E3YI/AAAAAAAACBY/AFmmEdvE2eUUUJQJA7JKSE5wK8SFTihmACLcBGAs/s1600/Love%252C%2BMama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="593" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5U5A1_uH8l0/WqrYFu-E3YI/AAAAAAAACBY/AFmmEdvE2eUUUJQJA7JKSE5wK8SFTihmACLcBGAs/s200/Love%252C%2BMama.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
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When Kipling's mama goes on a long trip and leaves him
behind, she says she'll be home soon. But, she doesn't come back by dinnertime
or by bedtime or even the next day. Or the next... Kipling misses her very much
and searches for ways to comfort himself, but nothing takes the place of Mama's
love.</div>
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Then, a package from Mama arrives in the mail with some of
this favorite things in it and a letter from Mama. She assures Kipling that her
love can reach him wherever he is. She signs the card Love, Mama. Kipling
realizes he has her love even if she isn't right there with him.</div>
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MY BEAUTIFUL BIRDS by Suzanne Del Rizzo</div>
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When Sami is forced to flee his home because it has been
blown apart (along with those of his neighbors), he is forced to leave his
pigeons behind. Even though Sami and his family eventually make it safely to a
refugee camp, Sami wonders about his birds and hopes that they are okay. He is
so concerned about the birds that he finds it difficult to concentrate on
anything else.</div>
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Then one day he begins to notice there are birds around the
camp. He then makes it his job to take care of those birds.</div>
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Author Suzanne Del Rizzo is also the illustrator. The story
is a moving one, to be sure. But her illustrations are just amazing. She used
Plasticine and polymer clay and other things to create 3D images for the illustrations.
They are very detailed and life-like and provide an added dimension (pardon the
pun) to the book.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sb5ur30tClg/WqrYPqJir8I/AAAAAAAACBk/5AQ31yI4MkQ6lLDbwpeuqibalq3QU3WzQCLcBGAs/s1600/The%2BDay%2BI%2BBecame%2Ba%2BBird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="439" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sb5ur30tClg/WqrYPqJir8I/AAAAAAAACBk/5AQ31yI4MkQ6lLDbwpeuqibalq3QU3WzQCLcBGAs/s200/The%2BDay%2BI%2BBecame%2Ba%2BBird.jpg" width="147" /></a><o:p> </o:p></div>
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THE <st1:stockticker>DAY</st1:stockticker> I BECAME A BIRD by
Ingrid Chabbert Guridi</div>
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I haven't read this book yet. I will add my review
after I have had a chance to read the book.</div>
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-12030454347597006552018-03-14T14:38:00.001-07:002018-03-14T14:38:40.274-07:00ReFoReMo Day 10 Book Reviews<br />
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BLOCKHEAD: The Life of Fibonacci by Joseph D'Agnese<o:p></o:p></div>
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Leonardo Fibonacci was a mathematician who lived in the
middle ages. He had a penchant for numbers and all things mathematical. His
nickname was Bigollo, which is loosely translated to mean, Blockhead. Fibonacci
is best known for what is called the Fibonacci Sequence, a sequence of numbers
that describes how things like flowers grow in an orderly fashion. It is also
prevalent in architecture, music, poetry and art.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A page at the back of the book provides some additional
biographical information about Fibonacci. The last page of the book makes this
an interactive picture book. First, it challenges the reader to go back through
the book and find a flower with eight petals, a lemon with eight sections, and
a clover with three leaves. Then, the reader is instructed to continue looking
through the book to see if they can find any additional items that have
Fibonacci numbers in them. There are also several other math and number related
activities listed on the last page.<o:p></o:p></div>
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FINDING WINNIE: The True Story of the World's Most Famous
Bear by Lindsay Mattick </div>
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This wonderful book was written by Lindsay Mattick, the
great-granddaughter of Captain Harry Colebourn. Captain Colebourn, a vet, was
on his way to tend to the soldier's horses during the war, when he came upon a
man with a bear cub. The captain bought the cub and named her <st1:city>Winnipeg</st1:city>,
calling her Winnie, for short. He trained her and she became the mascot for the
Second Canadian Infantry Brigade. When the troops were sent out to fight, Capt.
Colebourn had to leave Winnie behind. He was in
<st1:country-region>England</st1:country-region>
at the time, and he drove Winnie to the London Zoo, where she lived out the
rest of her days.<o:p></o:p></div>
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She became a favorite attraction at the zoo. One day, little
Christopher Robin Milne went to the zoo with his father. Christopher Robin fell
in love with Winnie. He and the bear became great friends. Christopher Robin
had a stuffed bear at home that he named Winnie-the-Pooh. His father, A.A.
Milne, wrote great stories about the adventures of Christopher Robin,
Winnie-the-Pooh and their friends in the Hundred Acre Woods.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mattick writes the story in a refreshingly creative way. She
begins by having a young boy curling up with mom while mom reads the story. The
little boy keeps interrupting the mother as she reads, as children often do. In
this manner, Mattick tells the story of how Winnie-the-Pooh became famous.<o:p></o:p></div>
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IRA'S SHAKESPEARE DREAM by Glenda Armand <o:p></o:p></div>
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Ira Aldridge wanted to be an actor, and not just any actor.
He wanted to act in Shakespeare plays. There were problems with this: (1) He
was black. (2) He lived in the <st1:country-region>United States</st1:country-region>
during a time when slavery was still legal. Even so, he pursued his dream at an
all-black theater located in <st1:city>New York City</st1:city>.
He eventually left the <st1:country-region>United States</st1:country-region>
and went to <st1:country-region>England</st1:country-region>,
where he became the first black man to play the part of Othello on a stage
there. He is also the only black man to have his name inscribed on a plaque at
the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre in <st1:country-region>England</st1:country-region>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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LOST <st1:stockticker>AND</st1:stockticker> FOUND <st1:stockticker>CAT</st1:stockticker>:
The True Story of Kunkush's Incredible Journey by Doug Kuntz and <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ONec3wb2jzo/WqmUVUD56vI/AAAAAAAACA8/uBk0WyZK1Sc5GYomnHwJbgLMBZ9jmgyQgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Lost%2Band%2BFound%2BCat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="547" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ONec3wb2jzo/WqmUVUD56vI/AAAAAAAACA8/uBk0WyZK1Sc5GYomnHwJbgLMBZ9jmgyQgCEwYBhgL/s200/Lost%2Band%2BFound%2BCat.jpg" width="183" /></a></div>
Amy Shrodes<br />
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<br /></div>
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When an Iraqi family leaves their home to flee for safety,
they want to take their cat, Kunkush, with them. They are being smuggled out of
the country by various people, any of whom would either not permit them to take
their cat, or who would charge them a lot of extra money to do so. Because they
can't afford to pay more, and because they can't bear to leave Kunkush with
them, the family manages to hide the cat in a basket where no one would see or
hear him.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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This arrangement works well for much of the journey. But,
after a perilous voyage across the waters to <st1:country-region>Greece</st1:country-region>,
the latch on the cat's basket becomes undone. The cat is frightened when they
finally reach land and he sneaks out of the basket when no one is looking. Although
they search and search, the can not find Kunkush. They are then forced to continue
their journey to their new home in <st1:country-region>Norway</st1:country-region>,
without Kunkush.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kunkush was found a few days later by a couple of people who
volunteered to help Iraqi refugees. Although they had found the cat, they were
unable to contact the family directly. They turned to the only means they had -
the Internet. Finally, after a few months, they found Kunkush's family and he
was returned safely to them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is both a remarkable story about a cat's journey, as
well as a heart-warming one about strangers coming together to reunite a family
with their beloved pet. Their is a page in the back of the book by the authors
explaining more about Kunkush's journey. There are also four pages of color
photographs at the back of the book.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BX15nK-FMXU/WqmUbMFjdxI/AAAAAAAACA4/qUsyujxMURQhAhJuvJvILyer4iurDuLdQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Nina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="464" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BX15nK-FMXU/WqmUbMFjdxI/AAAAAAAACA4/qUsyujxMURQhAhJuvJvILyer4iurDuLdQCEwYBhgL/s200/Nina.jpg" width="155" /></a></div>
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NINA: Jazz Legend and Civil-Rights Activist Nina Simone by Alice
Brière-Haquet <o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
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Author Alice Brière-Haquet present the story of Nina Simone,
a singer of soul music who made her mark in both music and civil rights. Nina
was black, and because of the color of her skin, she lived in a world where she
was discriminated against. She was a talented singer who longed to bring the
world together through her music. This book celebrates Nina's life and her
accomplishments. It also shows how much we have accomplished in terms or civil
rights as well as how far we still have to go before all people are treated
equally. The book is done all in black
and white as a statement to how Nina saw her world. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-45531029175341149902018-03-13T20:49:00.000-07:002018-03-22T15:30:12.698-07:00ReFoReMo Day 9 Book Reviews<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-90NFHAT22wA/WqX67G-cWiI/AAAAAAAAB_k/jO476llVZhQpYbBxfxOAL3hdAB94yquTgCLcBGAs/s1600/Bob%2Band%2BJoss%2BGet%2BLost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="600" height="155" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-90NFHAT22wA/WqX67G-cWiI/AAAAAAAAB_k/jO476llVZhQpYbBxfxOAL3hdAB94yquTgCLcBGAs/s200/Bob%2Band%2BJoss%2BGet%2BLost.jpg" width="200" /></a>BOB <st1:stockticker>AND</st1:stockticker> JOSS <st1:stockticker>GET</st1:stockticker>
LOST! by Peter McCleery<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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What happens when two friends get bored? They decide to take
a boat trip. Bob warns that they will get lost. Joss is convinced they won't.
But, of course, they do. They are also shipwrecked on what appears to be a
deserted island. But, is it?</div>
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STARRING CARMEN! By Anika Denise </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--R3P-pR0mCU/WqX6_ujlgVI/AAAAAAAAB_o/Oixy-yp6FUELVwVFixiSStUhKdOlOJeNACLcBGAs/s1600/Starring%2BCarmen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="473" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--R3P-pR0mCU/WqX6_ujlgVI/AAAAAAAAB_o/Oixy-yp6FUELVwVFixiSStUhKdOlOJeNACLcBGAs/s200/Starring%2BCarmen.jpg" width="158" /></a><o:p> </o:p></div>
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Carmen is the star of all of her shows. She is the writer,
producer, artist, actress, singer, dancer, etc. She does it all. When her
brother begs her for a part in the show, she always gives him one, but she
makes sure to give him a non-speaking part. She employs her parents as her
audience.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although the parents are very supportive of Carmen and her
efforts, after a while, the parents need a little break. And, her brother
decides he wants to do something different, too. What happens when her brother
puts on a show instead? Will Carmen stay in the shadows?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hYNwMZn0hM8/WqhJqIhjABI/AAAAAAAACAE/rUGZ2XKd7cUOOiqsNOwaVDkamtIhvQ1XACLcBGAs/s1600/This%2BIs%2BNot%2Ba%2BNormal%2BAnimal%2BBook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="530" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hYNwMZn0hM8/WqhJqIhjABI/AAAAAAAACAE/rUGZ2XKd7cUOOiqsNOwaVDkamtIhvQ1XACLcBGAs/s200/This%2BIs%2BNot%2Ba%2BNormal%2BAnimal%2BBook.jpg" width="178" /></a></div>
THIS IS NOT A <st1:place>NORMAL</st1:place> ANIMAL BOOK by Julie Segal-Walters<br />
<br />
<br />
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As the title implies, this is NOT a normal animal book or a
normal book about animals. Rather, it is an offbeat look at how picture books
are created. One part of the text reads: "This is a cat." It shows
the picture of a black and white cat. Then the text goes on to read: "If
the cat laid an egg..." When you turn the page, it says, "... it
would be a hen. But, there is a picture of a cat looking like it's about to lay
an egg. Cats don't lay eggs; hens do. On the next page, the text reads, "A
Hen!" The illustrations show a hen who has laid an egg. This interaction
between the text and the illustrations shows how important it is for them to
work together to convey the true meaning of the story. And, this interaction is
continued throughout the rest of the book.</div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_3fP2BGhpPE/WqhKOHN6mKI/AAAAAAAACAM/GpmjBZK_bCcf16BwvzK3N6kQRYpd0K9_ACLcBGAs/s1600/Whobert%2BWhoever%2BOwl%2BDetective.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="546" data-original-width="600" height="181" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_3fP2BGhpPE/WqhKOHN6mKI/AAAAAAAACAM/GpmjBZK_bCcf16BwvzK3N6kQRYpd0K9_ACLcBGAs/s200/Whobert%2BWhoever%2BOwl%2BDetective.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
WHOBERT WHOVER, OWL DETECTIVE by Jason Gallaher<br />
<br />
Our local library doesn't have this book, so I haven't had a chance to read it. If I do, I will add my review at a later date.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
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WOLFIE THE BUNNY by Ame Dyckman</div>
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<br /></div>
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When the bunny family adopts a baby, they adopt a baby wolf
and not a baby bunny. The parents are head over heels in love with their new
baby, but little Dot is not too sure. She is always warning them of the dangers
of having a wolf in the house. But, as Dot spends more time with her baby
brother, she realizes he might not be so bad after all. When his life is in
danger, will Dot be able to save the day?</div>
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<br /></div>
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This is a great take on the age-old subject of sibling
rivalry. </div>
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-81279081833108515372018-03-12T15:11:00.000-07:002018-03-13T17:08:50.519-07:00RefoReMo Day 8 Book Reviews<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LMd44WTMO4o/WqNLG8ii-LI/AAAAAAAAB_M/xJWnsuFcOzgAV94LM9ZRgpPyOyX_kLJAQCLcBGAs/s1600/Books%2Bfor%2BDay%2B8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="755" height="253" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LMd44WTMO4o/WqNLG8ii-LI/AAAAAAAAB_M/xJWnsuFcOzgAV94LM9ZRgpPyOyX_kLJAQCLcBGAs/s320/Books%2Bfor%2BDay%2B8.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
A HUNDRED BILLION TRILLION STARS by Seth Fishman<br />
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<br /></div>
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Author Seth Fishman introduces the concept of number,
really, really, really big numbers, like the idea that there are a hundred
billion trillion stars in the universe and there are about ten quadrillion ants
on the planet. Now, those numbers are big!</div>
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<br /></div>
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This is a great book for teaching kids about big numbers.
The imaginative illustrations by Isabel Greenberg are the perfect accompaniment
to the text. The author also provides an Author's Note in the back of the book
with more information about numbers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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ANOTHER WAY TO CLIMB A <st1:stockticker>TREE</st1:stockticker>
by Liz Garton Scanlon </div>
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<br /></div>
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Lulu loves to climb trees. There is not a tree around that
she can't climb. She feels a special closeness to the trees. But when she is
sick and can't climb a tree, she wonders if the trees miss her. Maybe the birds
do, too. She longs to climb a tree, even while she is stuck indoors. But, how
can she do that? Spoiler alert: She figures out a way!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<st1:city><st1:place>CHARLOTTE</st1:place></st1:city> THE
SCIENTIST IS SQUISHED by Camille Andros <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<st1:city><st1:place>Charlotte</st1:place></st1:city> is a
scientist. She is also a rabbit and she lives in a house with lots of other
rabbits, so many of them that she has no room for all the equipment she needs
to run her experiments. Since <st1:city><st1:place>Charlotte</st1:place></st1:city>
is a scientist, and scientists use the Scientific Method to solve problems, she
decides to follow that procedure to solve her problem. First, she states the
problem: "How can I get some space around here?" Then, she forms a
hypothesis: "If I get rid of my brothers and sisters, I will have room to
be a scientist." But, that's not easy to do. So, <st1:city><st1:place>Charlotte</st1:place></st1:city>
must find another way to get more space.</div>
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<br /></div>
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And, she does. She finds more space on her own planet in
outer space. Now she has lots of room. But, she also has another problem. She
is very lonely. How can she solve that problem and still have space for her
experiments?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Author Camille Andros provides an explanation of the
Scientific Method at the end of the book, using <st1:city><st1:place>Charlotte</st1:place></st1:city>'s
methods as examples of how the Scientific Method works. <br />
<br />
CHIBI SAMURAI WANTS A PET by Sanae Ishida<br />
<br />
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Chibi Samurai's friend, Little Kunoichi, has a pet, a "super-duper ninja bunny." Chibi thinks his friend's pet is so special, that he wants a pet, too. So, Chibi goes on a quest to find the perfect pet. Will it be a giant salamander? No, it's too strong. How about a tanuki, a magical creature that can turn into anything? No, the tanuki turns into a car and drives away. Chibi keeps looking for the perfect pet, rejecting a monkey and a squid and others. Will he finally find the perfect pet for him?</div>
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<br /></div>
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In addition to having a few Japanese words sprinkled throughout the text, there is a page in the back of the book with facts and trivia about different animals and also about things that are Japanese.</div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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DAZZLE SHIPS: WORLD WAR <st1:stockticker>AND</st1:stockticker>
THE <st1:stockticker>ART</st1:stockticker> OF CONFUSION by Chris Barton</div>
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<br /></div>
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During WWI, ships in both the British and American fleets
were being hit in large numbers by enemy torpedoes. In an effort to confuse the
enemy, the ships were painted in bold colors with crazy patterns. The idea was
the brainchild of a British lieutenant-commander named Norman Wilkinson. He
thought that painting the ships would make them harder for the enemy to
determine the ship's speed and direction. The process was called
"dazzling"; hence the name of the book.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are four extra pages in the back of the book with more
information about these ships. There is an Author's Note, an Illustrator's
Note, a Timeline about events in WWI, and some photographs.</div>
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GREAT BIG THINGS by Kate Hoefler </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Minimal text by Kate Hoefler and wonderful illustrations by
Noah Klocek convey the size of "great big things" like mountains and
the ocean and the forest as a small, small mouse braves all big obstacles to
reach his love.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I <st1:stockticker>WON</st1:stockticker>'T <st1:stockticker>EAT</st1:stockticker>
THAT by Christopher Silas Neal<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cat is hungry but he doesn't want to eat his dry, dull cat
food. So, he goes in search of something better to eat. Turtle offers him
worms. Cat doesn't want those, either. Fox eats rabbits, but Cat doesn't want
those, either, or the ants that Chimp enjoys. So, what will Cat eat if he won't
eat those things? The ending has a great little twist to it.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Author/illustrator Christopher Silas Neal serves up the
perfect combination in this delightful book that all kids will relate to.</div>
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<br /></div>
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NIMOSHOM <st1:stockticker>AND</st1:stockticker> HIS BUS by
Penny M. Thomas <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nimoshom was a bus driver. He was a Cree Indian. Nimoshom
means "my grandfather" in Cree. While he was driving the bus, he
would sometimes tell silly stories. He always said, "Tansi," when he
picked someone up, since tansi means "hello" in Cree. He taught the
children other words like "Api" (sit down) and "ehe" (yes).</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This isn't so much a storybook as it is a book about how
someone from one culture can influence someone from another culture. In this
instance, the book serves to teach readers some basic words in the Cree
language. The author includes a glossary of the words in the back of the book. </div>
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SHELTER by Celine Claire <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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When a big storm is coming, all the creatures in the woods
take shelter - the rabbits, the squirrels, the birds and the foxes. All the
creatures have a shelter except for the two bear brothers. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When the storm hits, the bears are left out in the cold.
They knock on the other creatures' doors, but no one will let them in, even
when they offer to share their food. The foxes don't open their den, but little
fox goes out and gives them a lantern so they will at least have light.</div>
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The bears wander around for a while until it starts snowing.
Then, they use the snow to build a shelter for themselves. When the roof collapses
on the fox den, the fox family goes running. They look for new shelter and they
find it with the bear brothers.</div>
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<br /></div>
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SING, <st1:stockticker>DON</st1:stockticker>'T <st1:stockticker>CRY</st1:stockticker>
by Angela Dominguez</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Every year, the children's Abuelo (grandfather) visits his
family. When he comes, he brings his guitar. He sings songs with the children
and shares his memories. He spreads the idea that whenever you're feeling
scared or sad, you should sing instead of cry and that will make you feel
better.</div>
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This story was inspired by author Angela Dominguez's
grandfather. He made his family realize that whenever they were singing
together would experience true happiness.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y0P_1Fj6GbE/WqX6SsX4m-I/AAAAAAAAB_c/MbkDvhu-mnkYBvKetuzGucGqjUT-5VfwgCLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y0P_1Fj6GbE/WqX6SsX4m-I/AAAAAAAAB_c/MbkDvhu-mnkYBvKetuzGucGqjUT-5VfwgCLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-3289514723917985722018-03-09T12:17:00.000-08:002018-03-09T12:17:37.382-08:00ReFoReMo 2018 Day 7 Book Reviews <div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VaZDyU32Xw4/WqLrQ96oQgI/AAAAAAAAB-g/RTnUDm23H886TTwBTjvRR0ZZW9t0F_sJgCLcBGAs/s1600/How%2Bto%2BRead%2Ba%2BStory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="600" height="192" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VaZDyU32Xw4/WqLrQ96oQgI/AAAAAAAAB-g/RTnUDm23H886TTwBTjvRR0ZZW9t0F_sJgCLcBGAs/s200/How%2Bto%2BRead%2Ba%2BStory.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
HOW TO READ A STORY by Kate Messner </div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="background: white;">To read a story, you must
first select one. That's Step 1. "Find a story. A good one. It can have
princesses and castles, if you like that sort of thing, or witches and trolls.
(As long as they're not too scary.)" Once you've finished with Step 1, you
go to Step 2: "Find a reading buddy." You are advised to select a
story you both agree on. "If you don't agree....go back to Step 1.
Sometimes it takes a few tries to find just the right book." If you follow
all 10 steps, you are sure of a satisfying read!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
IF YOU PLANT A SEED by Kadir Nelson </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ddb9ETzy4VA/WqLrWDjvI_I/AAAAAAAAB-k/PkcKH7M8Yo0qtMY9tKrjE6IOQF01NJ27gCLcBGAs/s1600/If%2BYou%2BPlant%2Ba%2BSeed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="595" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ddb9ETzy4VA/WqLrWDjvI_I/AAAAAAAAB-k/PkcKH7M8Yo0qtMY9tKrjE6IOQF01NJ27gCLcBGAs/s200/If%2BYou%2BPlant%2Ba%2BSeed.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">If you plant a tomato seed or
a carrot seed or a cabbage seed, your garden will sprout tomatoes, carrots and
cabbage. If you plant a seed of selfishness, you will soon have big problems.
But, if you plant a seed of kindness, the kindness will grow and grow and grow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">The minimal text (I counted
80 words) and the glorious illustrations by author/illustrator Kadir Nelson
create a sentiment that is so much bigger than the sum of its parts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UvNlAHjYRE4/WqLrdNifCEI/AAAAAAAAB-o/AtI5K4l9G8s7hMT7AKVL_4E4xOcPalOtwCLcBGAs/s1600/Love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="516" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UvNlAHjYRE4/WqLrdNifCEI/AAAAAAAAB-o/AtI5K4l9G8s7hMT7AKVL_4E4xOcPalOtwCLcBGAs/s200/Love.jpg" width="173" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LOVE by Matt de la Pena</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Like other books that have been highlighted in this year's
edition of 2018, this is not a storybook. Rather, it is a celebration of the
many ways we can experience love in our lives. The book starts with a baby
experiencing the love from his parents and ends with telling the reader that
when the time comes for them to leave home, they can take the love with them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WHEN A DRAGON MOVES IN by Jodi Moore </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WpMInEBmzj0/WqLrjGUfIeI/AAAAAAAAB-s/Gj8OD42hQWkgUdIMewSP1dpsakzqflxJgCLcBGAs/s1600/When%2Ba%2BDragon%2BMoves%2BIn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="595" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WpMInEBmzj0/WqLrjGUfIeI/AAAAAAAAB-s/Gj8OD42hQWkgUdIMewSP1dpsakzqflxJgCLcBGAs/s200/When%2Ba%2BDragon%2BMoves%2BIn.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Imagination is a wonderful thing. A young boy builds a
perfect sand castle on the beach. As soon as he's done, a dragon moves in. The
two spend their afternoon playing on the shore, wading in the waves, flying a
kite, and doing other wonderful things while both mom and dad are not paying
much attention. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The boy wants to share his dragon adventures with his
parents, but of course, neither one of them believe him. That's when trouble
starts as the boy and his dragon vie for the parents' attention. Young children
will love the naughty antics of the young boy and parents will identify with
him, too.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xGc2RqBOxOQ/WqLrnc-0DBI/AAAAAAAAB-w/flzyH-STpq4mSddY3suv_vnFz74MxZAzgCLcBGAs/s1600/Your%2BAlien.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="600" height="196" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xGc2RqBOxOQ/WqLrnc-0DBI/AAAAAAAAB-w/flzyH-STpq4mSddY3suv_vnFz74MxZAzgCLcBGAs/s200/Your%2BAlien.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
YOUR ALIEN by Tammi Sauer</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"You'll be looking out your window when something
wonderful comes your way. You will want to keep him." So begins this story
of a little boy who takes in an alien who has crash-landed in his back yard.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He tells his parents about his new friend, but they are too
busy to notice what he is saying. He takes his alien to school; all his friends
think the alien is great. His teacher thinks she needs new glasses.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everything seems to be going well until it is time for bed.
That's when the little boy realizes the alien misses his family, much the same
way the little boy would miss his if the situation were reversed. Can the
little boy help the alien find his way back home?</div>
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dAWCpTNnLGo/WqICzwIT-qI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/DUcq7ifdlFQgTKrH6Y-xiGGl0JWlVF1mACLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dAWCpTNnLGo/WqICzwIT-qI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/DUcq7ifdlFQgTKrH6Y-xiGGl0JWlVF1mACLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-53278323345501964762018-03-08T19:42:00.000-08:002018-03-08T19:42:17.968-08:00ReFoReMo 2018 Day 6 Book Reviews<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dk7Wf7TMc6A/WqICAlsegOI/AAAAAAAAB90/5YHAlIxc69krG2HNCEgBCPn8UqMZqMO4QCLcBGAs/s1600/Come%2BWith%2BMe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="530" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dk7Wf7TMc6A/WqICAlsegOI/AAAAAAAAB90/5YHAlIxc69krG2HNCEgBCPn8UqMZqMO4QCLcBGAs/s200/Come%2BWith%2BMe.jpg" width="178" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
COME WITH ME by Holly M. McGhee</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When a little girl is terrified by all the terrible news she
hears about what is going on in the world, she asks her Papa what she can do to
make things better. He says, "Come with me." Together, they go out
and meet people, offering a smile and a kind word to everyone they can. She
learned that even a small kindness can make a difference.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When she asks her mother what she can do, her mother says,
"Come with me." Together they go to a market where they see people
from many backgrounds and cultures. She learns not to be afraid of people who
look different than she does.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then the little girl prepares to go out into the world by
herself. Her neighbor wants to come, too. She says to him, "Come with
me." Together they start drawing pictures on the sidewalks with chalk.
Others join them and she learns that she can brighten her world with just a bit
of chalk.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Minimal text and expressive illustrations convey a message
of hope in a world that might otherwise seem to have goon crazy.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IJTmk1fAFs0/WqICF9v90iI/AAAAAAAAB94/xF-u3O6aywU2vClK_-Xv6jyfKGm-YT4HQCLcBGAs/s1600/Malala%2527s%2BMagic%2BPencil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="539" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IJTmk1fAFs0/WqICF9v90iI/AAAAAAAAB94/xF-u3O6aywU2vClK_-Xv6jyfKGm-YT4HQCLcBGAs/s200/Malala%2527s%2BMagic%2BPencil.jpg" width="180" /></a>MALALA'S MAGIC PENCIL by Malala Yousafzai </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When Malala was young she believed in magic. She dreamed of
a magic pencil, one she could use to draw beautiful dresses for her mom to
wear, as well as a proper ball to play with for herself and her brother. She
would use the pencil to draw a world where everyone was treated equally. She
would also use the eraser to eliminate the smells in her neighborhood. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When she got older, she quit dreaming about a magic pencil.
Instead, she decided to work hard in school. When the girls in her school were
threatened, she spoke out. The Taliban tried to kill her for being so vocal,
but they didn't succeed. Instead, they made her more determined to change the
world and make use the magic of the written word.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Malala writes a letter to the reader that is included in the
back of the book. There is also a page of biographical information about this
remarkable young lady.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cYUsTq2T1QA/WqICM1Lss7I/AAAAAAAAB98/YA31H6hxsrEl9veHhiibMLYiYVSaiTJrACLcBGAs/s1600/Maybe%2BSomething%2BBeautiful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="595" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cYUsTq2T1QA/WqICM1Lss7I/AAAAAAAAB98/YA31H6hxsrEl9veHhiibMLYiYVSaiTJrACLcBGAs/s200/Maybe%2BSomething%2BBeautiful.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MAYBE SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL: How Art Transformed a
Neighborhood by F. Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mira loved to draw, paint and color. She turned blank pieces
of paper into colorful art. Then she gave away her artwork to people she met
around her neighborhood. She even posted some of her art on the walls around
her.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One day, she met an artist who said he painted on walls. He
invited her to join him to paint a mural. As they painted, more people joined
in. Soon, the whole neighborhood was involved and the gray walls around Mira's
neighborhood were filled with color and life.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mira is a fictional character but the story is based on the
real-life events of Rafael and Candice Lopez who transformed the <st1:place><st1:placename>East</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype>Village</st1:placetype></st1:place> in Sand Diego, <st1:state><st1:place>California</st1:place></st1:state>
from a drab landscape into a vibrant, colorful one. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The book is illustrated by Rafael Lopez, the artist
mentioned in the end of the book.</div>
<h3 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;"> </span></o:p></span></u></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THE WATER PRINCESS by Susan Verde </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RfU2DyLfHeM/WqICSOgUq5I/AAAAAAAAB-A/Y_InsU8xYVUpDcY4kSgMdvS3nJX4N3l8wCLcBGAs/s1600/The%2BWater%2BPrincess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="595" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RfU2DyLfHeM/WqICSOgUq5I/AAAAAAAAB-A/Y_InsU8xYVUpDcY4kSgMdvS3nJX4N3l8wCLcBGAs/s200/The%2BWater%2BPrincess.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When Gie Gie plays, she pretends she can tame wild dogs with
her song, make tall grass sway when she dances and she can make the wind play
hide and seek. But when her family needs water, she can't make the water come
to her. She must go to it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Every day she and her mother make the long walk to the well
for water, along with hundreds of other villagers. They bring the water back in
large jugs on their heads, just enough water for one day. The next day, they have
to do the same thing again. Will she ever be able to find a way to make the
water come to her and her village?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Additional information in the back of the book explains what
it's like to live in a place without running water and what is being done to
bring water to everyone.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gTDse7E_SOE/WpyxKkQ-6xI/AAAAAAAAB9g/u1TTrHEN-wA5BxcnmnO3-mf2gEqMhJNZQCEwYBhgL/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gTDse7E_SOE/WpyxKkQ-6xI/AAAAAAAAB9g/u1TTrHEN-wA5BxcnmnO3-mf2gEqMhJNZQCEwYBhgL/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-72046304284839854512018-03-07T16:23:00.000-08:002018-03-07T16:23:06.318-08:00ReFoReMo 2018 Day 5 Book Reviews<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ctBqTvMi-Tk/WpyxEvQWflI/AAAAAAAAB9c/cvFijbsyojAzPDK__S2XjjxSPCCOrvrSgCLcBGAs/s1600/ReFoReMo%2B2018%2BDay%2B5%2BBooks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="349" data-original-width="489" height="228" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ctBqTvMi-Tk/WpyxEvQWflI/AAAAAAAAB9c/cvFijbsyojAzPDK__S2XjjxSPCCOrvrSgCLcBGAs/s320/ReFoReMo%2B2018%2BDay%2B5%2BBooks.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background: white;">CARING FOR YOUR </span><st1:stockticker><span style="background: white;">LION</span></st1:stockticker><span style="background: white;"> by Tammi Sauer</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">If you ever get a lion, or
perhaps BEFORE you get a lion, you should read this book. Author Tammi Sauer
offers 14 sensible steps to follow while caring for your beast. Step 1 says,
"Take a deep breath. Then carefully open the crate." That sounds like
sound advice, don't you think? The illustrations by Troy Cummings add great
depth and humor to the text.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">HOW TO READ A STORY by Kate
Messner<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">To read a story, you must
first select one. That's Step 1. "Find a story. A good one. It can have
princesses and castles, if you like that sort of thing, or witches and trolls.
(As long as they're not too scary.)" Once you've finished with Step 1, you
go to Step 2: "Find a reading buddy." You are advised to select a
story you both agree on. "If you don't agree....go back to Step 1.
Sometimes it takes a few tries to find just the right book." If you follow
all 10 steps, you are sure of a satisfying read!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">IF A T-REX CRASHES YOUR
BIRTHDAY PARTY by Jill Esbaum<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">It might sound like fun if a
T-Rex crashes your birthday party, but you might run into some problems if that
happens. For instance, a T-Rex is verrrrryyyyy big and he takes up a lot of
room. He will knock things over and make a mess, even if he doesn't mean to. A
T-Rex will get mad when he doesn't get to blow out the candles or open the
gifts. And, it's really hard for a T-Rex to play hide-and-seek. This is a fun
story with a bit of a twist at the end.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">IF YOU PLANT A SEED by Kadir
Nelson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">If you plant a tomato seed or
a carrot seed or a cabbage seed, your garden will sprout tomatoes, carrots and
cabbage. If you plant a seed of selfishness, you will soon have big problems.
But, if you plant a seed of kindness, the kindness will grow and grow and grow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">The minimal text (I counted
80 words) and the glorious illustrations by author/illustrator Kadir Nelson
create a sentiment that is so much bigger than the sum of its parts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">WHAT TO DO WITH A </span><st1:stockticker><span style="background: white;">BOX</span></st1:stockticker><span style="background: white;"> by Jane Yolen<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">What can you do with a box?
You can use it as a library, a castle, a reading nook, a boat, a race car and
many other things. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">Author Jane Yolen uses
rhyming verse to expound the jobs any child feels when they have a box, a box
they can do anything they want with.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gTDse7E_SOE/WpyxKkQ-6xI/AAAAAAAAB9g/mhImySYS7JkdLBYXozCi5eHGZi5f9-DfgCLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gTDse7E_SOE/WpyxKkQ-6xI/AAAAAAAAB9g/mhImySYS7JkdLBYXozCi5eHGZi5f9-DfgCLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-2853146504601574802018-03-06T13:39:00.000-08:002018-03-06T16:32:15.201-08:00ReFoReMo Day 4 Book Reviews<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xl0MlKJduV4/WpnWIuwLmkI/AAAAAAAAB9M/Rw2b84lrpOQWTXA5DO7Qpc8muz-osU8EgCLcBGAs/s1600/ReFoReMo%2B2018%2BDay%2B4%2BBooks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="739" height="86" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xl0MlKJduV4/WpnWIuwLmkI/AAAAAAAAB9M/Rw2b84lrpOQWTXA5DO7Qpc8muz-osU8EgCLcBGAs/s400/ReFoReMo%2B2018%2BDay%2B4%2BBooks.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;">FLOAT by Daniel Miyares</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">A wordless book depicts the
day a young boy makes a paper boat and goes out in the rain to launch it down
the street. He is having a good time until the wind blows the boat away faster
than he can keep up with it. The boat sails through a culvert and is ruined.
Will the young boy's day now be ruined or will he find a way to make things
better?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">I not usually a big fan of
wordless picture books. I realize that a book that tells a story ONLY through
pictures is the pure definition of a "picture book," but so often, I
find it difficult to really get into the wordless "story." Not this
time. Daniel Miyares does a great job of "telling" a story, from
beginning to end without the use of a single word.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">The front matter of the book
includes the folding directions to make a paper boat. The back matter includes
the folding directions to make a paper plane. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">I WISH YOU MORE by Amy Krouse
Rosenthal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This isn't a story book. It isn't about dogs or baseball or
parties. This is a feel-good book that will make your heart glow with joy. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Expressive illustrations, by Tom Lichtenheld, perfectly
capture the joy and loved expressed in the text. The first two lines of the
book are: "I wish you more ups than downs (with an illustration of two
kids flying a kite). I wish you more give than take (with an illustration of
two kids sharing a piece of fruit). This pattern continues throughout the book,
and you will be smiling by the time you get to the last page.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">KING JACK </span><st1:stockticker><span style="background: white;">AND</span></st1:stockticker><span style="background: white;"> THE DRAGON by Peter Bentley<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">Jack, Zack and Caspar built a
castle in the back yard with sticks and blankets and a cardboard box. Jack is
the king and the other two are knights. The three play together all day
fighting off dragons. They are prepared to spend the night in their castle, but
then a giant comes along and takes Zack away. That leaves Jack and Caspar. They
are prepared to spend the night by themselves, but then another giant comes
along and takes Caspar to bed. That leaves Jack by himself. He is prepared to
spend the night by himself until something with four feet comes for him. What
is it? What is his fate?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">The story is written in rhyme.
The illustrations by Helen Oxenbury are somewhat reminiscent of those from
WHERE THE WILD THINGS </span><st1:stockticker><span style="background: white;">ARE</span></st1:stockticker><span style="background: white;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:stockticker><span style="background: white;">RAIN</span></st1:stockticker><span style="background: white;"> by Sam Usher<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">It's raining when a young boy
wakes up. He wants to go outside and play in the rain. But, his granddad says,
"Perhaps it's best to stay indoors." So, the young boy waits and
waits and waits but it doesn't stop raining. He tells his granddad that he
wants to go out in the rain. Again, his granddad puts him off. It finally stops
raining and Granddad tells him to hurry and get ready. Granddad needs to mail a
letter and he wants to do that before it rains. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">So, they put on their rain
gear, grab their umbrellas and head out the door. Sure enough, it starts
raining before they make it back home. What will Granddad to, now that he's
stuck out in the rain?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">THE WAY BACK HOME by Oliver
Jeffers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">When a boy finds a plane in
his closet, he decides to take it out and fly in it. Up, up and away he goes,
until he runs out of gas and gets stuck on the moon. While trying to figure out
what to do, a Martian crash lands his spaceship on the moon. the two figure out
a way to help each other fix their flying machines so they can both go back
home. But, will they ever hear from each other again?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hVd4djSzw3s/WpnLxmBB0FI/AAAAAAAAB80/IJjurSNxFa8Ax-XUh80qJdVU_WDuvqVGQCEwYBhgL/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hVd4djSzw3s/WpnLxmBB0FI/AAAAAAAAB80/IJjurSNxFa8Ax-XUh80qJdVU_WDuvqVGQCEwYBhgL/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-35503849422619549372018-03-05T17:14:00.000-08:002018-03-05T17:14:07.639-08:00ReFoReMo 2018 Day 3 Book Reviews<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-chGiuksWKWY/WpnPjtATVqI/AAAAAAAAB88/JbFZl74g8IE19v4W-e8s0VJMuDysWUz7gCLcBGAs/s1600/ReFoReMo%2B2018%2BDay%2B3%2BBooks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="496" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-chGiuksWKWY/WpnPjtATVqI/AAAAAAAAB88/JbFZl74g8IE19v4W-e8s0VJMuDysWUz7gCLcBGAs/s320/ReFoReMo%2B2018%2BDay%2B3%2BBooks.JPG" width="232" /></a></div>
Today's list of books is a long one:<br />
<br />
A PERFECT <st1:stockticker>DAY</st1:stockticker> FOR AN
ALBATROSS by Caren Loebel-Fried<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is a creative non-fiction story about the albatross,
told from the perspective of a female bird. The bird tells about her life in a
narrative fashion. Many interesting tidbits are embedded in the text. The back
matter provides three additional pages of information about these fascinating
birds.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
BEST IN <st1:stockticker>SNOW</st1:stockticker> by April
Pulley</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Minimal rhyming text and beautiful photos combine for the
perfect picture book about snow. Two pages of back matter explain the concepts
of snow mentioned in the text.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FINDING WINNIE: The True Story of the World's Most Famous
Bear by Lindsay Mattick</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This wonderful book was written by Lindsay Mattick, the
great-granddaughter of Captain Harry Colebourn. Captain Colebourn, a vet, was
on his way to tend to the soldier's horses during the war, when he came upon a
man with a bear cub. The captain bought the cub and named her <st1:city>Winnipeg</st1:city>,
calling her Winnie, for short. He trained her and she became the mascot for the
Second Canadian Infantry Brigade. When the troops were sent out to fight, Capt.
Colebourn had to leave Winnie behind. He was in
<st1:country-region>England</st1:country-region>
at the time, and he drove Winnie to the London Zoo, where she lived out the
rest of her days.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She became a favorite attraction at the zoo. One day, little
Christopher Robin Milne went to the zoo with his father. Christopher Robin fell
in love with Winnie. He and the bear became great friends. Christopher Robin
had a stuffed bear at home that he named Winnie-the-Pooh. His father, A.A.
Milne, wrote great stories about the adventures of Christopher Robin,
Winnie-the-Pooh and their friends in the Hundred Acre Woods.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mattick writes the story in a refreshingly creative way. She
begins by having a young boy curling up with mom while mom reads the story. The
little boy keeps interrupting the mother as she reads, as children often do. In
this manner, Mattick tells the story of how Winnie-the-Pooh became famous.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I TOOK THE MOON FOR A <st1:stockticker>WALK</st1:stockticker>
by Carolyn Curtis</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A young boy imagines that he is
taking the moon for a walk one night when the moon is shining bright. The
rhyming verse, repetition and kid-friendly illustrations create a book that any
child will love and appreciate. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Two pages at the end of the book
give facts and information about the moon. One page is headed "The
Mysterious Moon" and the "The World at Night."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
IMANI'S MOON by JaNay Brown-Wood</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Imani lives in <st1:country-region>Tanzania</st1:country-region>
in <st1:country-region>Kenya</st1:country-region> and is
part of the Maasai tribe there. She is small for her age and her peers are
always making fun of her size. Imani's dream is to touch the moon. She tries
several ways to make that happen. When she succeeds, she is given a moon rock
to take back to her mother.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Author JaNay Brown-Wood not only
tells a lovely tale, she includes an Author's Note in the back of the book that
provides more information about the Maasai culture and people.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">LISTEN TO OUR WORLD by Bill
Martin, Jr. & Michael Sampson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">Each morning, Mama wakes her
children up and tells them to listen to their world. Their world is filled with
wonderful sounds from the parrots in the rain forest, Gila monsters in the
desert, eagles in the wilderness, monkeys in the jungle, as well as other
animals. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white;">This is both an entertaining
and an educational look at the world around us, as the illustrations, by
Melissa Sweet, show each of the animals in their natural habitats. And, the end
matter of the book includes a section called Facts About the Animals in the
Book, with a bit of trivia about each animal mentioned in the text.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LOCOMOTIVE by Brian Floca</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hop aboard the train and travel across the country from East
to West, as the mighty steam locomotive goes across the country. Share the
experiences of the people on board as they make the long trek across the
country. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This book is chockfull of information about the history of
the railroad industry. Not only is a great deal of information woven throughout
the text, more details are provided in the back of the book in a section called
"A Note On the Locomotive." The author also includes a lengthy list
of resources that he used when writing the book. Even the end pages provide
maps and pictures at the front of the book, and a detailed drawing of a
locomotive at the end of the book.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MORE-IGAMI by Dori Kleber</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Joey likes things that fold, like maps and accordions. When
he first saw a crane made out of folded paper, he was fascinated and wanted to
learn how to make one for himself. He was told it would take a lot of practice
and patience to be an origami master.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Joey practices and practices making cranes. He uses all
kinds of paper, like construction paper and notebook paper, and his homework
papers and his sister's sheet music. His folding mania becomes a nuisance until
he finds an acceptable and creative outlet for it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
QUICK LITTLE MONKEY by Sarah L. Thomson</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Little monkey loves flying through the trees in the jungle,
safe on Papa's back. But when he falls off and goes down, down, down, will he
be able to get away from the hungry lion or the terrifying snake?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Author Sarah L. Thomson provides an Author's Note at the
back of the book that explains the story is about pygmy marmoset monkeys. She
gives a few facts about these interesting creatures that will be sure to
interest youngsters.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> </o:p> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SOME PETS by Angela DiTerlizzi</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Author Angela Diterlizzi will put a smile on your face with
her poem about pets, all kinds of pets. Illustrator Brendan Wenzel will put a
smile on your face with his colorful, expressive and very kid-friendly text.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The back matter at the end of the book is a section called
"What's the Pet?" It names all of the animals that are highlighted in
the text.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THE ALLIGATOR'S SMILE by Jane Yolen</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just about everything you always wanted to know about
alligator's is included in this great little book. Author Jane Yolen combines
unique poems and text boxes to describe the different aspects of an alligator -
its size and shape, its nesting habits, what it eats, its longevity, etc. Each
poem is accompanied by a short blurb that provides more detail about a certain
aspect of an alligator. More Gator Facts, a Glossary and a list of additional
resources are found at the back of the book. Photos by Jason Stemple make this
a great book for anyone who is interested in alligators.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THUNDER UNDERGROUND by Jane Yolen</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How many things do you think about that are underground?
There are basements and animals and tree roots and buried treasure and all
sorts of wonderful things under the ground. Author Jane Yolen uses verse to
interest children in what lies under the ground.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The back matter at the end of the book gives more
information about all the under ground things that are mentioned in the text.</div>
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hVd4djSzw3s/WpnLxmBB0FI/AAAAAAAAB8w/WygyQeKiZuYg3ItnF4IG-wLCi1VgstUYgCLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hVd4djSzw3s/WpnLxmBB0FI/AAAAAAAAB8w/WygyQeKiZuYg3ItnF4IG-wLCi1VgstUYgCLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-29616155762014503772018-03-02T14:06:00.001-08:002018-04-23T16:20:02.506-07:00ReFoReMo 2018 Day 2 Book Reviews<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLdAZGT0K5U/WpiALwyrYWI/AAAAAAAAB8c/BmcKtzYjC14V1YPYy49sRlhSND2dqhi1ACLcBGAs/s1600/ReFoReMo%2B2018%2BDay%2B2%2BBooks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="544" height="214" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLdAZGT0K5U/WpiALwyrYWI/AAAAAAAAB8c/BmcKtzYjC14V1YPYy49sRlhSND2dqhi1ACLcBGAs/s320/ReFoReMo%2B2018%2BDay%2B2%2BBooks.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I haven't read NOT QUITE NARWAL as I was unable to get a copy of it from our local library, so this list includes only the other five books pictured here.<br />
<br />
AFTER THE FALL: How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again by Dan
Santat<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Have you ever wondered what might have happened if the
king's men <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">had </i>been able to put
Humpty Dumpty back together again? What would his life have been like?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well, author Pierre Collet-Derby answers that question. Not
surprisingly, when Humpty Dumpty was put back together, there were cracks in
his shell and there were a few parts missing. Also not surprisingly, HD
developed a fear of heights. Who wouldn't, right?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The title of the book sort of gives away the ending as it
says that Humpty Dumpty got back up again. But the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">way</i> it happened might surprise you.<br />
<br />
BARNABY NEVER FORGETS by Pierre Collet-Derby<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Barnaby takes great pride in his memory. He always remembers
to brush his teeth and he always remembers to feed his grasshoppers. He never
forgets when it's ice cream night and he never forgets to write a letter to
Santa every year. But, maybe he forgets things occasionally, like where he put
his glasses, or that his books are due at the library, or that he needs to wash
his dirty hands. But, that's not really a problem, because sometimes it's fun
to find things you've forgotten - like a dollar bill he left in his pocket, or
an old stuffed bear he finds in a box, or an old lollipop left in his backpack.
But, one day he forgets something really important. How will he react?</div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ESCARGOT BY Dashka Slater</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Escargot, the beautiful French snail, wants two things: He
wants to reach the end of the book where there is a lovely salad waiting for
him to eat, and he wants you, the reader, to choose him as your most favorite
animal.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As you read through the book, Escargot asks questions and
interacts with the readers. He makes a case for why snails should be your
favorite animal.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The text is creative, the illustrations are delightful, and
there are even French words and phrases sprinkled throughout, making this a
perfect book for young readers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PRUDENCE THE PART-TIME COW by Jody Jensen Shaffer</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Prudence looked like a full-time cow," but
Prudence didn't act like one. Sure, she ate grass and chewed her cud, and got
milked, just like all of the rest of the herd. But, she just didn't fit in with
them. She was interested in so many other things that the other cows didn't
care about, like wind speed and air temperature and how to make a hat and all
sorts of things that had nothing to do with grazing all day.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Prudence is an outcast until she makes a
"cow-culator" that every member of the herd thinks is pretty nifty.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TWINDERELLA: A Fractioned Fairy Tale by Corey Rosen Schwartz</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Author Corey Rosen Schwartz, who is being well-known for her
creative take on well-known fairy tales, with such titles as THREE NINJA PIGS,
NINJA RED RIDING HOOD, and GOLDI ROCKS <st1:stockticker>AND</st1:stockticker>
THE THREE BEARS, brings us yet another twist on an old tale about Cinderalla. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Did you know Cinderella had a twin sister named Tinderella?
Neither did I. But, both of the girls lived with their nasty step-mother and
their nasty step-sisters, and both of them shared the nasty chores. They
divided them in half, fifty-fifty. Also, both of them went to the ball and the
handsome prince danced with them both. They both wanted to be with the prince,
but there were two of them and only one of him. How could their fairy godmother
fix this problem? You'll have to read the story to find out.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Schwartz mixes rhyming verse, a twist on an old favorite
fairy tale, and fractions (Did you notice the sub title? It says "A
Fractioned Fairy Tale.") for a winning combination that will be sure to
entertain and delight. My only criticism (sorry, Corey), is that the word
"bedding" doesn't rhyme with "splitting," but as far as I'm
concerned, if the editors are fine with it, so am I!</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLAP6RBCYsA/Wphz34W4ihI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/515dC7f_xaIqi_gcsgQsTFXL9SViaL3CgCEwYBhgL/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLAP6RBCYsA/Wphz34W4ihI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/515dC7f_xaIqi_gcsgQsTFXL9SViaL3CgCEwYBhgL/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-12465776795377237432018-03-01T13:45:00.000-08:002018-03-02T14:55:45.750-08:00ReFoReMo 2018 - Day 1 Book Reviews<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q0H4abrikE4/WphzfaCbmbI/AAAAAAAAB8E/cdGtJumuVUESNpw7-nO9GlRqhPxfiLIMgCLcBGAs/s1600/ReFoReMo%2B2018%2BDay%2B1%2BBooks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="573" height="228" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q0H4abrikE4/WphzfaCbmbI/AAAAAAAAB8E/cdGtJumuVUESNpw7-nO9GlRqhPxfiLIMgCLcBGAs/s320/ReFoReMo%2B2018%2BDay%2B1%2BBooks.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
A <st1:stockticker>LOUD</st1:stockticker> WINTER'S <st1:stockticker>NAP</st1:stockticker>
by Katy Hudson<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tortoise just wants a quiet place to sleep during the long
cold winter. But, when he finds a quiet spot, he is disturbed by a robin, and
then a rabbit, and then by squirrels, and then by a beaver, each time forcing
him to find another quiet spot. He finally finds what he thinks is the perfect
spot, but he is in for a big surprise. What happens next will make you smile.
The great illustrations and the wonderful repetition make this a wonderful book
for kids.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GO SLEEP IN YOUR OWN <st1:stockticker>BED</st1:stockticker>!
by Candace Fleming and Lori Nichols</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
None of the animals on the farm are in their own beds. Cow
is in Pig's bed. Hen is in Cow's bed. Horse is in Hen's bed....Eventually
everyone gets back to their own beds, where they belong. The expressive
language, rhythmic repetition, and delightful illustrations work together to
make this the perfect book for those youngsters who love to sleep in someone
else's bed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THE GIANT JUMPEREE by Julia Donadson</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Giant Jumperee has taken over Rabbit's burrow. Rabbit is
too scared to go in after him. So is Cat and Bear and Elephant. But, Mama Frog
isn't. A little bit of rhyme, a lot of repetition, and wonderful illustrations
are a winning combination.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:stockticker>ONE</st1:stockticker> PLASTIC BAG by
Miranda Paul</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Isatou lives in <st1:country-region><st1:place>Gambia</st1:place></st1:country-region>.
Her family and people in her village are very poor. When Isatou finds a plastic
bag on the ground, she is grateful to have it because her basket is broken and
can no longer be used. But, when the bag gets a hole in it, what is she to do
with it? When her basket broke, she just threw it on the ground where it would
rot back into the earth in a short time. But when she throws the used plastic
bag on the ground, it stays there, for a very long time.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Over time, many more plastic bags end up on the ground. They
they soon become a problem. The ground is covered with them. Goats who eat them
die. They are just a mess. But, what can Isatou do about it?<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is a story about how people in a village figured out
how to overcome a problem and turn it into something good. It's a great lesson
for everyone.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The story is well-written and has some great repetition, and
the story is based on real events. Author Miranda Paul uses some foreign words
in the text. She provides a glossary of the words at the end of the book. She also
provides an author's not about Gambria, <st1:place>West Africa</st1:place>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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KNOCK KNOCK: My Dad's Dream for Me by Daniel Beaty</div>
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Author Daniel Beaty tells a moving story about a young boy
who waits every morning for his father to knock on his door. The young boy
pretends to be asleep until his dad walks into the room, comes up to the bed,
and tells his son, "I love you." This is the best part of the child's
day, and he looks forward to it.</div>
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But, one day, his father doesn't knock on the door. The boy
waits and waits and waits, but there is no knock. The father has gone away and
the boy doesn't know why. All he knows is that he needs his father and that he
misses him very much.</div>
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Beaty wrote this book to acknowledge the pain he felt when
his own father, his caregiver, was taken away and put in jail. It took Beaty
years to realize that he had to come to terms with the pain of losing his
father this way. Writing this book was his answer. It not only served the
purpose of providing an outlet for the author to cope, but Beaty also hopes
that the book might offer hope to other children who are left in similar
situations.</div>
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The emotional language, coupled with the images created by
illustrator Bryan Collier with watercolor and collage, convey a powerful
message of love, loss, pain and hope.</div>
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SIT-IN: How Four Friends Stoop Up By Sitting Down by Andrea
Davis Pinkney</div>
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The picture book was published in 2010, 50 years after the
incident that inspired it. On <st1:date day="1" month="2" year="1960">February
1, 1960</st1:date>, four black males sat at the "Whites Only" lunch
counter in Woolworth's in <st1:place><st1:city>Greensboro</st1:city>, <st1:state>NC</st1:state></st1:place>.
They sat their all day long, until the business closed for the day; they were
not thrown out, but they were not served, either. The next day, more black
students joined them. As word spread, this peaceful protest became the nexus
for protests all around the country, culminating in the signing of, more than
four years later, of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.</div>
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This picture book was written by well-known author Andrea
Davis Pinkney and illustrated by her equally-well-known husband, Brian. The
expressive language and moving pictures tell a story about how Blacks in <st1:country-region><st1:place>America</st1:place></st1:country-region>
were finally able to break through the "Whites Only" barriers.</div>
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The end matter of the book contains a section called "A
Final Helping," that gives more information about the Civil Rights era.
There is also a list of books and website where readers can find more
information about the subject.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RLAP6RBCYsA/Wphz34W4ihI/AAAAAAAAB8I/ukeymFba9nAPIPiqRMQyvk1lA4YLTr_-wCLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="72" data-original-width="122" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RLAP6RBCYsA/Wphz34W4ihI/AAAAAAAAB8I/ukeymFba9nAPIPiqRMQyvk1lA4YLTr_-wCLcBGAs/s1600/ChristineSig.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-12019108453820991542018-02-18T20:51:00.000-08:002018-02-18T20:52:42.805-08:00ReFoReMo 2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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ReFoReMo 2018 - Reading for Research Month 2018<br />
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Watch this space.<br />
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I will be participating in ReFoReMo this year, like I did last year. Last year, I posted reviews of many of the picture books that I read that were used as references for the daily postings of ReFoReMo. I will be doing the same again this year, only this year, I hope to do a daily posting as I go along, with short reviews of the books that are referenced each day of the challenge. Last year, I did things a bit differently by waiting until the end of the challenge, and then breaking each story down into category - fiction, non-fiction, rhyming, etc.<br />
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Watch this space.<br />
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<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-13504755547545451972018-02-12T15:06:00.001-08:002018-02-12T15:07:44.460-08:00FIRE AND FURY: Inside the Trump White House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I finished reading this much-hyped book. I must say I
thought it was very well-written (I've heard other people say they didn't think
so - - I disagree), and I also must say it was not as salacious as I thought it
would be considering all the media hype when it came out. I guess that was to
be expected. That's not to say I was disappointed in the book. On the contrary,
I think author Michael Wolff hit the nail right on the head in his overall
characterization of the Trump White House as being chaotic, undisciplined,
uninformed and unprepared for the real world of politics.</div>
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Author Michael Wolff's insights into behind-the-scenes at
the White House were equally enlightening and frightening. Although it has been
said, by many news organizations and critics, that this book is not necessarily
completely based on the truth, what I read echoes, in easy-to-understand terms
and scenarios, what we have witnessed during the past year. To think that Trump
didn't think he was going to win the election, to think that Trump didn't even
really WANT to win the election, to think that Trump was in utter shock when he
did win the election, explains so much of what happened during the campaign,
during the transaction period between Obama and Trump, and during the past year
plus that this buffoon has been in office.</div>
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The only thing that I am disappointed in in terms of this
book is the quality of the print. By that I mean there were many pages that
were difficult to read because the ink was very light. It appeared as those
these pages came out of a printer that was low on ink. Also, I found numerous
typos in the text. It would also appear that the unexpected interest in the
book, which required the immediate printing of many more copies, may have
contributed to the lack of quality in the finished product.</div>
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Overall, though, I think this book is well worth the read.
As Wolff has said in numerous interviews, he has put the information forth in
such a way as it offers the reader a chance to review the "evidence"
and make up their own mind about the truth and veracity of the statements. But,
based on what I've seen, heard and read about Trump and his administration thus
far, this book seems to pretty much sum up the true nature of those in the
White House - - most of them don't have a clue as to what they're doing and
most of them are only in it to further their own careers and line their own
pockets. There are a few exceptions to this, but not many.</div>
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Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-40790242779693867382017-09-04T14:00:00.000-07:002017-09-04T14:00:07.387-07:00THE AVALON LADIES SCRAPBOOKING SOCIETY<div class="MsoNormal">
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Avalon, IL is a small Midwestern town with the usual
assortment of colorful characters. In this particular town, a group of ladies,
called the Avalon Ladies Scrapbooking Society, meets monthly to socialize and
learn scrapbooking techniques. The Society was founded by, and is still led by,
Bettie Shelton, an energetic and eccentric gal with loads of experience and
tons of opinions. Her forceful personality has dominated the club for decades.</div>
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Bettie is always trying to get new people involved in her
scrapbooking club. She talks the following women into joining the group: Isabel
Kidd, who has been Bettie's neighbor for years but who has not, until recently,
been interested in the club; Yvonne Tate, a newcomer to town who is a real
looker but who practices the unlikely profession of a plumber (and she's a good
one); Ava Catalina who lives by herself with her little son, Max; and Frances
Latham, the mother of three boisterous boys who is trying to adopt a little
girl from China. These four females not only become entwined in the club, they
become caught up in Bettie's life. When Bettie's health is threatened, all of
them, along with many members of the community, band together to help her out.</div>
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This is a delightful story of small town <st1:country-region>America</st1:country-region>,
showing the true spirit of life in small towns such as this one. It is also
chock full of information about scrapbooking - ideas, techniques, new products,
etc. - as well as with information about the delights of Amish Friendship
Bread. At the end of the book, author Darien Gee includes recipes for eight
dishes that are mentioned in the text, as well as a link to Friendship Bread
Kitchen (www.friendshipbreadkitchen.com), where you can find tons of recipes
for the basic Friendship Bread starter. She also offers hints and tips about
basic scrapbooking, as well as ideas for starting your own scrapbooking group.
And, if that weren't enough, she throws in information about Alzheimers (one of
the characters in the story is diagnosed with this awful disease), and a link
to Half the Sky (www.halfthesky.org), a website where you can learn more about
adopting Chinese children. </div>
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This book is like a fiction and non-fiction story combined
together in a delightful and skillful manner. Enjoy and <i>bon appetit</i>!<br />
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<img src="http://www.kristinaseleshanko.com/ChristineSig.jpg" /><br />
<br />Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8875959945230466188.post-60566682798710833612017-04-26T12:09:00.000-07:002017-04-26T16:31:52.648-07:00READING FOR RESEARCH MONTH BOOK REVIEWS - Post #11This is the last post for my reviews of books I read during <a href="http://www.reforemo.com/2017/02/reforemo-2017-registration-is-open.html">ReFoReMo 2017</a>. The last topic is <i>Things</i><br />
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<i>Kids Like/Do. </i>I hope you have enjoyed my posts. Thanks for reading!<br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1972545239">A DANCE LIKE STARLIGHT: One Ballerina's Dream</a> by Kristy Dempsey <o:p></o:p></div>
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A little black girl, who is living during the time of segregation, dreams of what it would be like to be a ballerina. Her mom works for a dance studio as a seamstress. Sometimes the girl tries on the dance costumes and sometimes she watches the dancers from behind the curtains.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The little girl imitates what she sees the dancers doing and dreams of one day being one stage herself. She is mesmerized when she gets a chance to watch Janet Collins, the first African American ballerina who performed with the Metropolitan Opera.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1970673532"><st1:stockticker>HUG</st1:stockticker> MACHINE</a> by Scott Campbell<o:p></o:p></div>
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A little boy calls himself Hug Machine. He hugs everybody and everything, including mailboxes and trees.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But, will he hug prickly things?<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is a great book that kids will relate to, especially the "huggers".<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1972546280">IF YOU EVER WANT TO BRING AN ALLIGATOR TO SCHOOL, DON'T!</a> by Elise Parsley<o:p></o:p></div>
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An alligator might seem like a good thing to bring to school to share for a nature show-and-tell, but if you do it, you will probably wish you hadn't. Alligators are just way more trouble than they are worth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A few facts about alligators are included in the text of this book, as the alligator is presented for show-and-tell. I think the author and publisher both missed a golden opportunity to make this book more curriculum-friendly by including additional information about alligators. Kids could then use the book just for fun (and it is a fun book!), or they could use the book as reference material about alligators.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Just a thought...<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1972547200">IF YOU EVER WANT TO BRING A PIANO TO THE BEACH, DON'T!</a> by Elise Parsley<o:p></o:p></div>
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From the same author who wrote IF YOU EVER WANT TO BRING AN ALLIGATOR TO SCHOOL, DON'T! comes this delightful book. This time, the young girl wants to take her piano to the beach. Her mother allows her to do so, but she warns her to not lose it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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How can you lose a piano? you might ask. Well, it's like this: First you get it to the beach (which is no easy feat), then you have it sitting in the open where the bird make a mess on it, then you push it into the water to wash it off. Then, you guessed it: It floats away.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Does the little girl get the piano back?<o:p></o:p></div>
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I enjoyed this book, but the ending is just a bit off. I can't tell you the ending as that would give the story away, but let's just say that the mother's reaction just doesn't ring true.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Perhaps you won't agree....<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1972543205">LITTLE BABY BUTTERCUP</a> by Linda Ashman<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is just a delightful book about a day in the life of a toddler. Mom and her baby go through a full day of eating and playing and helping and shopping and all the things moms and kids do together. The colorful, kid-friendly illustrations, coupled with the rhyming text, makes this a sure-to-be favorite for the younger set.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1972548082">THE AIRPORT BOOK</a> by Lisa Brown<o:p></o:p></div>
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A young boy takes the reader along as he embarks on a trip with his mom, dad and little sister. The boy and his family go to a big airport where there are lots of things to do and see. The boy tells the reader about what he is seeing and doing all along the way, from his house to the airport, onto the plane, into the destination airport and then on his way to his grandparents' house.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you're a kid about to embark on an airplane for the first time, this is the book for you. The author goes into detail about what to expect when you're a little kid going to a big airport to take a long flight on a big airplane. They've got that aspect well covered. But, I just wanted to point out that the story would be quite different if one were traveling in a small airplane in a small airport.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There were a couple of things about the book that I didn't really like. First of all, the parents tell each other to not forget "Monkey". No one is paying attention when the little girl packs Monkey into her big suitcase. All through the story, the little girl keeps crying for her monkey. She doesn't realize that she can't take the monkey with her on the plane when it is packed in her suitcase. No one really pays any attention to her. I thought that was a little sad. Yes, she is reunited with Monkey at the end of the trip, but I don't like the way that was handled.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Also, there was one place where the text seemed like it was missing a word. Here's the sentence: <i>"You wait until your group is called then walk down the jetway."</i> I think that sentence would be much stronger if it read: "You wait until your group is called and then you walk down the jetway." Just a thought...<o:p></o:p></div>
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But, I did like the way the book comes full circle with the beginning and the ending.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1972548591">THE MONSTORE</a> by Tara Lazar<o:p></o:p></div>
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When Zack's sister, Gracie, becomes a pest, Zack goes to the Monstore to buy a scary monster, one that will keep her out of his room. That doesn't work, so he buys another one and another one. What can he do to scare his sister away?<o:p></o:p></div>
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A bit of rhyme, a bit of repetition, a bit of alliteration, and great illustrations all add up to a whole lot of fun.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1972549167">VAMPIRINA BALLERINA</a> by Anne Marie Pace<o:p></o:p></div>
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Even if you're a vampire, you can be a ballerina. But you have to follow some simple rules: You have to practice, practice, practice and not give up, no matter what.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And because you're a vampire, you have to do things a bit differently: You need to take night classes, you should keep your mouth shut, and you must resist the temptation to show off by turning yourself into a bat.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Vampire or not, any little girl who dreams of being a ballerina can identify with Vampirina Ballerina.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Christine M. Irvinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792278507050967225noreply@blogger.com0