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May 07

The Locket - Surviving the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire - A Review

Uncategorized, Book review, historical fiction2 Comments

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Reviewed by Carma Dutra

The Locket, coverTitle: The Locket, Surviving the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire
Author: Suzanne Lieurance
Hardcover: 160 pages
Cover Illustration: Original Painting by Corey Wolfe
Ages: 9 - 12
Publisher: Enslow Publishers, Inc.
ISBN 13: 978-0-7660-2928-6
ISBN-10: 0-7660-2928-X

The Locket, Surviving the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire is a historical novel written for ages 9 to 12. It tells the story of Galena, an eleven-year-old Russian-Jewish immigrant who lives in New York City in 1911 with her family and works at the Triangle Shirtwaist Company factory with her older sister, Anya. The factory pays low wages, has horrendous working conditions and employs underage children like Galena.

In the early 1900’s, joining the union is a dangerous thing to do, but Anya longs to improve working conditions for abused workers. Soon a horrible fire erupts and destroys the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory and shatters a young girl’s dream.

Author Suzanne Lieurance weaves together the fictional and non-fictional aspects of this historical story with ease. By blending dramatic factual accounts of a historical event with realistic fictional characters, Lieurance brings the reader inside the ill-fated factory. Lieurance’s account is truly a step back in time to understand how a young Jewish immigrant girl uses the support of her Jewish traditions, family and friends for inspiration to fight for workers’ rights.

The Locket also has an educator’s guide available for teachers and parents. This guide is a fantastic supplement with additional reading suggestions, discussion questions and other activities.

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Carma DutraCarma Dutra is a children’s writer. She offers author interviews, book reviews, writing tips, and other information for fellow children writers at her blog.

May 03

Do Antelope Eat Cantaloupe - This Week’s Picture Book Review

Picture Books, Book Bites for Kids, Book review, blogtalkradio.com1 Comment

Reviewed by Suzanne Lieurance

do antelope eat cantaloupeTitle: Do Antelope Eat Cantaloupe
Author: Leigh Legere
Illustrator: Aubrey Klein
Hardcover: 36 pages
Publisher: Leathers Pub (January 30, 2008)
ISBN-10: 1585974595
ISBN-13: 978-1585974597
Reading level: Ages 4-8

At some point, most children learn the story of Noah’s Ark. They know that Noah loaded animals, two by two, onto his ark in preparation for the great flood that would cover all dry land on earth.

But in this delightful picture book by first time author, Leigh Legere, children learn that Noah had a big problem once the animals were all aboard.

What would he feed them all?

Noah sat on a log to figure this out.

Should I bring cantaloupe for the antelope? he asked himself. Do I pack grapes for the apes?

Children and adults alike will enjoy the silliness of this book with each turn of the page.

Vivid illustrations by Aubrey Klein add to the fun, until finally, Noah figures out the answers to these questions in a way that gently conveys a comforting message to readers of all ages.

Parents will appreciate the sturdy construction of this picture book (complete with dust cover) since children will want to have it read to them again and again.

The book was a Southwest Writer’s Workshop Award Winner.

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Listen to this interview with author Leigh Legere here on Book Bites for Kids.

Apr 19

Joey Gonzalez, Great American - A Picture Book Review

Picture Books, Book reviewNo Comments

Reviewed by Donna M. McDine

Joey Gonzalez, coverTitle: Joey Gonzalez, Great American
Written by: Tony Robles
Illustrated by: Jim Pryor
Hardcover: 42 pages
Ages: 8-12
Publisher: Kids Ahead
ISBN-13: 978-0-976726-93-7
Publication: March 2008

Tony Robles approaches the subject of affirmative action in a thought provoking way for children in this insightful new picture book.

Third grader, Joey Gonzalez is excited to start the new school year until his teacher points out to him in her narrow-mindlessness that he is a minority and “a little bit different.”

“How can it be that I’m not American?” Joey asks.

“Don’t worry, Joey,” said Mrs. Glass. “There’s a special way to help minorities get ahead. It’s affirmative action. Soon we’ll learn all about it right here in the classroom.”

Joey is confused by the revelations of his teacher and arrives home at the end of the school day visibly upset. He discusses what occurred in school with his mother. The next day, armed with confidence, Joey explains his family heritage to his teacher and classmates. Suddenly feeling good about themselves, Joey’s friends also take a stand with Mrs. Glass and they proudly tell about their own heritages.

Colorful illustrations by Jim Pryor help bring the text alive, which is provided in both English and Spanish on every page. Joey Gonzalez, Great American is a wonderful story of determination and pride that will surely hold a place in many families’ bookshelves.

NOTE: Listen to this interview with author Tony Robles on Book Bites for Kids.
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gse_multipart16490.jpgDonna McDine’s publishing credits include Stories for Children Magazine, Stories for Children Newsletter, Kid Magazine Writers, Long Story Short, Institute of Children’s Literature Rx for Writers, SCBWI Metro NY Newsletter, and Once Upon A Time. Her non-fiction children’s article, “Fishing Through a Frozen Lake,” is to be published in Boys’ Quest in December 2012. Learn more about McDine and her writing at: http://www.donnamcdine.com

Apr 16

The Magic Kerchief - a Picture Book Review

Picture Books, Book review, Children's books2 Comments

Reviewed by Carma Dutra

The Magic kerchief - coverTitle: The Magic Kerchief

Author: Kirby Larson

Illustrator: Rosanne Litzinger

Hard Cover: 32 pages

Ages: 4 to 8

Publisher: Holiday House - First edition (September 2000)

ISBN-10: 0823414736

ISBN-13: 978-0823414734

Kirby Larson has written a captivating original folktale with a message everyone can relate to. The story may be set in the past but is all too timely for today. The protagonist, Griselda, the town “grouch”, reluctantly offers a stranger a place to stay after she mysteriously appears at Griselda’s door. In fact, Griselda was quite snappy with the visitor and was ready to have her sleep on the floor by the fire but the visitor fell asleep in Griselda’s bed. The next morning, the kind visitor insisted on repaying for Griselda’s kindness with a magical scarf, promising it held great riches.

Crabby Griselda did not believe, but the scarf was nevertheless charming so Griselda tied it on and went to market. The phenomenon that happened at market was truly miraculous. Griselda lost the sting of her tongue when she shopped at the bakery and when she passed by the Lord Mayor. The only words she usually muttered to the Lord Mayor were “Paah, a donkey on two legs is still a donkey.” Instead, wearing the special kerchief, she greeted the Lord Mayor with “My aches and pains vanish when I greet an old friend.” No one was used to Griselda saying nice words. Everyone was surprised. Griselda learned through the kindness of a stranger that to have a friend you must be a friend.

The charming folk-art illustrations are done in soothing pastels and all the characters are rounded like stuffed pillows, which lends to the humorous flavor of Larson’s words. The art dominates each page and depicts an original scene with bright back ground color. This book is worth owning yourself and for gift giving.

About the author: Kirby Larson is the acclaimed author of the 2007 Newberry Honor Book, Hattie Big Sky, a young adult novel she wrote inspired by her great-grandmother, Hattie Inez Brooks Wright, who homesteaded by herself in eastern Montana as a young woman. In addition, Kirby has written three books for children, including the award-winning picture book, The Magic Kerchief. A frequent speaker, Kirby has presented at more than 200 schools, workshops, and seminars.

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Carma DutraCarma Dutra is a children’s writer. She offers author interviews, book reviews, writing tips, and other information for fellow children writers at her blog.

Apr 04

The Cake Thief by Sally O. Lee

Picture Books, Book Bites for Kids, Book review, blogtalkradio.com1 Comment

The Cake ThiefTitle: The Cake Thief
Written & Illustrated by: Sally O. Lee
Soft cover: 34 pages
Ages: 8-12
Publisher: Book Surge Publishing
ISBN-13: 978-1419683923
Publication: December 2007

Beautifully written and illustrated by Sally Lee, The Cake Thief is about a young boy named Clarence who’s not the most sociable person you’d ever meet. He tends to be a loner. For fun, and because he likes cakes so much, Clarence sneaks into his neighbors’ homes and steals their cakes.

On one particular evening, instead of a cake, Clarence finds a party invitation addressed to him.

“What should I do? thought Clarence. I have been invited to a party. And I have never been invited to a party before, and I have never baked a cake.”

Clarence frets about what he should do and discovers that with some planning and action he is a welcomed party guest.

You will be dazzled by the wonderful illustrations and the storyline that teaches children it is much more fun to be part of something than to be alone.

About the author:
Sally Lee has a Bachelor of Arts degree in studio art and art history from Colby College. Her work has been exhibited in several shows and in private collections, and she is the recipient of an art grant from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Her illustrations have been published in Worldlink Magazine, IEEE Magazine, and more. She lives and works in Massachusetts. Visit Sally Lee at: http://www.leepublishing.net

NOTE: Suzanne Lieurance recently interviewed Sally Lee on Book Bites for Kids. Listen to that interview at www.blogtalkradio.com.

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gse_multipart16490.jpgReviewed by Donna M. McDine for the National Writing for Children Center. Donna’s publishing credits include Stories for Children Magazine, Stories for Children Newsletter, Kid Magazine Writers, Long Story Short, Institute of Children’s Literature Rx for Writers, SCBWI Metro NY Newsletter, and Once Upon A Time. And an acceptance from Boys’ Quest magazine to publish her non-fiction children’s article entitled, “Fishing Through a Frozen Lake,” to be published December 2012. Visit her at: http://www.donnamcdine.com

Mar 30

Diary of a Wimpy Kid - A Middle Grade Book Review

Book review, Children's books, middle grade novels7 Comments

Diary of a Wimpy Kid coverTitle: Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Written & Illustrated by: Jeff Kinney
Ages: 10-up
Publisher: Amulet Books
ISBN-13: 978-0-8109-9313-6
Publication: April 2007

No wonder Diary of a Wimpy Kid has been nominated for a Kids’ Choice Award for Favorite Book. Author, Jeff Kinney immediately immerses you into the thoughts and actions of sixth grader, Greg Heffley. Greg’s antics wouldn’t be complete without his best friend, Rowley, who at times, Greg can’t stand.

Greg finds himself in the sea of middle grade students ranging from the small and ordinary to the ones who have muscles and are growing facial hair. Where is one to fit in?

“If it was up to me, grade levels would be based on height, not age. But then again, I guess that would mean kids like Chirag Gupta would still be in the first grade.”

Greg finds himself writing in his journal about his life as a sixth grader and how to fit in. “Just don’t expect me to be all ‘Dear Diary’ this and ‘Dear Diary’ that. That’s for girls.” Rowley begins to make strides in popularity and Greg latches on to bring himself popularity, which kicks off a domino effect that tests their friendship in hilarious fashion.

This laugh out loud book is a must read not only for boys but for anyone who has gone through the tribulations of middle school.

Visit Jeff Kinney at: http://www.wimpykid.com

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gse_multipart16490.jpgReviewed by Donna M. McDine
For more articles, tips, and resources for children’s writing, visit Donna’s blog.

Mar 26

Just Mom and Me from American Girl

Children's Nonfiction, Book review, Children's booksNo Comments

Reviewed by Suzanne Lieurance

Just mom and me coverTitle: Just Mom and Me: The tear-out, punch out, fill-out book of fun for girls and their moms

Reading Level: Ages 9-12

Publisher: American Girl

Publication Date: March 2008

ISBN-10: 1593693400

ISBN-13: 978-1593693404

Format: Spiral Bound

Suggested Retail Price: $9.95

Here’s a great new book, just in time for Mother’s Day because it will make the perfect gift for any young girl to give her mom. The book is full of fun activities that will help mother and daughter really get to know each other better and enjoy themselves in the process. For example, they can write a story together, or plant a garden, or just create an at-home spa and enjoy some “girl time” without the men in the family.

The book includes recipes, fun surveys for mother and daughter to take together, spots for photographs, and all sorts of ideas for both silly and serious activities that are bound to become traditional rituals for women with daughters. Punch out door hangers, bookmarks, coupons, and CD case covers add to the fun.

Mar 19

Trading Places by Claudia Mills - a Middle Grade Book Review

Book review, middle grade novelsNo Comments

tradingplacesTitle: Trading Places
Written by: Claudia Mills
Hardback: 138 pages
Ages: 8 to 12
Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux
ISBN: 13: 978-0-374-31798-0
Publication: First Edition 2006

Amy and Todd Davidson learn that things in life rarely turn out perfectly and that labels don’t always fit. Amy and Todd are fraternal twins who get along as well as any other brother or sister except they share the same birthday and the same classroom. This is where the similarity stops. Amy is the poet, sentimental and a bookworm while Todd is the engineer, super organized and an over achiever.

As the twins begin their Mini-Society school project things get flipped upside down at home. The twins’ father loses his engineering job and their mother takes a job at the local craft store. The father becomes depressed and hangs around the house in his pajamas all day. This turns out to be an embarrassing situation for Amy when her best friends come home with her after school one day. Learning how to cope with change becomes a daily
experience.

Through the alternating view points of Amy and Todd, Trading Places shows how acceptance of non-traditional roles can open minds to change. Claudia Mills has artfully written about a common problem for many families in today’s changing economy. Her easy going prose presents a realistic solution to a difficult situation in words for the “tween” years. The fundamental message is about how change affects everyone in the family, even Wiggles the dog. Amy and Todd learn that change can be good and they learn that opportunities in life pop up when you least expect them.
This story has all the characters that you would expect to find in a regular classroom. The super shy girl with no friends, the clumsy kid who is a walking accident, the class show off and several more. This is an attention-grabbing read for middle graders.

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Carma DutraReviewed by Carma Dutra

Carma Dutra is a children’s writer. She offers author interviews, book reviews, writing tips, and other information for fellow children writers at her blog.

Mar 13

Lessons from a Dead Girl by Jo Knowles - a Middle Grade Book Review

Book review, middle grade novelsNo Comments

Reviewed by Donna M. McDine

Lessons from a Dead GirlTitle: Lessons from a Dead Girl
Written by: Jo Knowles
Hardback: 215 pages
Ages: 12 and up
Publisher: Candlewick Press
ISBN: 978-0-7636-3279-3
Publication: November 2007

In the mind of Laine, the death of Leah Greene falls on her shoulders. Can it be her fault because she wished it? Throughout her childhood Laine finds herself explicitly drawn to Leah, even though the circumstances of their friendship are bizarre beyond Laine’s comprehension. Laine never tells her parents the abuse she sustained at the hands of Leah.

“Leah used me. She picked me because somehow she knew I would keep her secrets. Somehow she knew I would do whatever she wanted.”

Laine attempts to break free from Leah by forging new friendships. At one point, Laine feels she is finally free, but once again finds herself pulled back in. To come to terms with Leah’s death, Laine must learn to forgive Leah for her actions so she can move on and live without shame.

Jo Knowles brings to life the touching ties that bind from childhood. She shows how events from our past shape our future. Visit Jo Knowles, award winning author of the 2005 PEN New England Children’s Book Discovery Award at http://www.joknowles.com.

Mar 04

Griffin’s Castle - This Week’s Middle Grade Book Review

Book review, Children's books, middle grade novelsNo Comments

Griffin’s castle coverTitle: Griffin’s Castle
Written by: Jenny Nimmo
Hardback: 278 pages
Ages: 12 and up
Publisher: Orchard Books
ISBN: 978-0-439-02554-6
Publication: November 2007

Twelve-year old Dinah is desperate to find a place to call her own home. Even though her mother Rosalie loves her, taking care of a child is beyond Rosalie’s capabilities. Dinah, wise beyond her years, attempts to make their latest dwelling, a run down mansion, much more than a dump.

While longing to belong and to be taken care of, Dinah finds herself magically thrown into the midst of stone animals that come to life to protect her. Before it’s too late Dinah must realize the stone animals want to entrap her.

“Dinah knew then that she was their prisoner and would never reach the gate where the vulture waited. There was only one way out. ‘I shall fly,’ she announced. ‘You’ll see.’”

Award-winning author, Jenny Nimmo combines the here and now with a fantasy aspect that will surely draw the reader in from the onset. Visit Jenny Nimmo at www.jennynimmo.com to learn more about her and her acclaimed Charlie Bone Series.

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Reviewed by Donna M. McDine, middle grade novel reviewer for the National Writing for Children Center

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