Currently reading
In the Shadow of Blackbirds
The Worst Hard Time: The Untold Story of Those Who Survived the Great American Dust Bowl
The Storyworld Box: Create-A-Story Kit
A kit for story tellers of all ages. The kit contains a small pamphlet and a deck of card. The pamphlet details instructions and suggestions for how to use the cards to facilitate storytelling. The card deck is oversized and beautifully illustrated with characters, objects or places from the world of storytelling, to guide one's imagination in creating one's own story. There are hidden clues on each card to aid in further inspiration. For one or for many (use as a game for a group), StoryWorld engages the mind as story telllng inspiration. Author Philip Pullman says, "StoryWorld is a very ingenious idea . . . " The pamphlet indicates there are more card sets to come.
The Rooster Prince of Breslov
A traditional Yiddish folktale retold by the author, who's own grandmother told the tale as she knew it a century ago in eastern Europe. The author's note in the back is extremely useful in helping put the folk tale in context of the lessons illustrated in the story, most notably, how all children must be nurtured into adults by practicing good deeds, have true compassion and moral authority.
Queenie: One Elephant's Story
Beautifully illustrated Australian picture book. I don't like sad animal stories.
Calvin Can't Fly: The Story of a Bookworm Birdie
A talented illustrator at work in Calvin Can't Fly, a book about a starling who prefers reading over learning to fly. A celebration of books and libraries, and all the inspiration and knowledge that comes from reading. And it is this knowledge that allows Calvin to save his starling family from flying into a hurricane during their seasonal migration. Recommended.
Ugly Pie
Sure as shootin', rootin', tootin' read-aloud fun! "I'm still itchin', sniffin', wishin' for some Ugly Pie!" Ol' Bear can't find it anywhere, but along the way he collects the ingredients. When back home and in his kitchen, he whips up some Ugly Pie and shares with all his neighbors, and you, too, with a recipe in the back. Bound to be read again and again, and one will be hard pressed not to enjoy it every time!
Tuba Lessons
Of course I'm giving this five stars. A charming celebration of music, notation, nature and tuba lessons.
What Will You Be, Grandma?
A twist on the eternal question, "What are you going to be when you grow up?" Grandma and Lily brainstorm about all the things it might be fun for Grandma to be. Being a Grandma to Lily is the best job of all.
Beat This! Cookbook: Absolutely Unbeatable Knock-'em-Dead Recipes for the Very Best Dishes
The best cookbooks have great recipes AND great writing. This new edition of Beat This! introduces me to a gem I missed the first time around. Can't wait to try these recipes. They all sound good AND fun!
Mouse Bird Snake Wolf
A non-traditional creation tale with an interesting twist on creativity and a subtle message about spirituality. Read as an ARC in black & white. The final book will be in full color, which I imagine will have a significant effect on the power of the Dace McKean illustrations.
Black Dog
From my sales conference notes: design/style early Paul Zelinsky, "Best book of the season" -- UK review. The smallest member of the house is fearless facing the giant black dog outside. An interesting fable for reducing fear to a manageable perspective.
There's Going to Be a Baby
My husband has a "thing" about missing fathers in books, movies, etc. Where is the father in this book? There is the mother, the small existing child, the child developing, and the Grandfather. Hmmm . . . .
New York: A 3D Keepsake Cityscape (Keepsake Cityscapes)
A cute novelty item. Small trim-size, accordion style, pop-up in a slip-case. Iconic NYC landmarks, a perfect keepsake for travelers, or for anyone who wants a remembrance of one of America's most dynamic cities.
Because of You
Lovely illustrations and fresh perspective on what each of us bring to the world, our friends and our family.
