The Open Book

War Horse

2012-01-31T13:42:00.000-08:00

One of the Academy Award nominees for Best Picture is the Stephen Spielberg film, War Horse. While War Horse might be considered a “dark horse” nomination, after seeing the movie a few weeks ago I can understand its being elevated to Best Picture status. Some people have called War Horse a tearjerker. I call it a “heart-tugger.” This story of a beautiful thoroughbred which was sold into the British Cavalry during World War I and the English boy who loved him is a story with which audiences empathize and engage.

The movie works on many different levels. The most obvious is the depiction of love and loyalty between a boy and his horse. Secondly, it is a powerful message about peace. War Horse also demonstrates how technological developments, which occurred quickly during the four years of war, changed the role of the cavalry, and more broadly, how wars are fought.

War Horse is based on the children’s novel, War Horse, by Michael Morpurgo, Children’s Laureate of Britain from 2003 to 2005. Morpurgo is well-known in this country for The Wreck of the Zanzibar and Why the Whales Came. His well-received memoir Singing for Mrs. Pettigrew was published in the United States in 2009. War Horse was written for middle-grade audiences. The explicitly violent scenes in the movie, such as the execution two deserters, some of the war scenes, and some of the cruelty to the horses, are only suggested in the book. Consequently, the recommended audience for the movie is somewhat older than for the book. Parents should consider the maturity and individual sensibilities of the child before allowing them to see War Horse.

War Horse has evolved through several different incarnations. The book first was adapted into a stage play using life size puppets for the horses and with most of the war scenes projected through a gauze curtain, in combination with a cast of live actors. It was staged in London then on the New York Broadway stage. I have not seen the stage play, but from a description by a friend who saw the play in New York I speculate that the movie largely was based on the stage script. A major difference is that the book is told from the perspective of the horse, much in the style of Black Beauty. Telling the story from the third person opens up the possibilities considerably. However, the movie is true to its source material in tone and message. Don’t miss War Horse, the novel, or War Horse, the movie--Wilma Snyder.

(War Horse by Michael Morpurgo; Scholastic, 2007; First published in Great Britain in 1982)

(Singing for Mrs. Pettigrew by Michael Morpurgo, illustrated by Peter Bailey; Candlewick, 2009)

Happy Birthday to my wonderful Mom!

2012-01-22T18:13:00.000-08:00

I know all of you out in the Kidlit blogosphere are excited about the ALA children's book award announcements Monday, but January 23 is an important day for another reason too--it's my mom's 75th birthday!! As you Open Book readers know, Mom and I collaborate on this blog. What I wanted to tell you today is that I totally owe my interest in children's literature to my mom, and I'm so grateful. All through my childhood my mother read to me, shared books with me (well, she still does that), and encouraged my interest in books and reading. She has never lost her enthusiasm for children's literature. Throughout her careers as a classroom teacher, college professor, and now newspaper columnist, she has brought together books and people, always willing to tell someone about that great new book she just read. To all the parents, teachers, librarians, grandparents, etc., keep reading with the kids in your lives! They are listening, and you may never realize all the wonderful things they are learning. I'm so glad my mom introduced me to the Ingalls and March families, Peter Rabbit and friends, Dr. Seuss, Babar, Madeline, the Borrowers, and so many others. Those books and those memories are a priceless treasure. Thanks Mom, and happy birthday!--Lucinda Whitehurst

The Flying Beaver Brothers

2012-01-16T10:46:00.000-08:00

If you know any young graphic novel readers, you will want to look for a new series called The Flying Beaver Brothers. The first and second books in the series were released on January 10, 2012. Ace and Bub live on Beaver Island. In the first adventure The Evil Penguin Plan, the brothers are figuring out how to win the Beaver Island Surfing Competition when they are interrupted by a group of penguins with impressive technical skills. The penguins have built a machine designed to freeze the island so they can construct a polar resort. In The Fishy Business, Ace and Bub investigate the questionable business practices of the Fish Stix Environmental Manufacturing Company. The words and pictures deliver plenty of humor and action, and the clever story lines will please both children and adults--Lucinda Whitehurst. (Written and illustrated by Maxwell Eaton III; Random House Children's Books, 2012)

The Apothecary and Little Women and Me

2011-12-24T07:58:00.000-08:00

Unlike my daughter, Lucinda, science fiction and fantasy is not my favorite genre. In order for books of this genre to capture my attention and imagination, they must have a little something extra. I look for interesting characters, plots which have just enough realism to make me believe in the fantasy, symbolism which makes the story work of multiple levels, and skillful writing which has enough suspense to keep me turning the pages. Some of my favorites are the Narnia books, the Harry Potter books, everything by Madeleine L’Engle, Charlotte’s Web, Stuart Little, and Peter Rabbit. I took The Apothecary by Maile Meloy, illustrations by Ian Schoenherr (Putnam/Penguin, 2011) with me on vacation and couldn’t put it down.

It is 1952 and fourteen-year-old Janie Scott has moved with her family from Los Angeles to London. One of her first acquaintances is Benjamin Burrows, the son of the local apothecary. When the apothecary disappears, Janie and Benjamin are drawn into a dangerous journey to find Mr. Burrows and prevent an impending nuclear disaster. The historical setting of Cold War era London, supporting characters which leap off the page, and a breathtaking rescue operation – all seasoned with a touch of magic – make a wonderful reading experience for ages 10 and up.

Lucinda says that Christmas always makes her think of Little Women. For all of you Alcott fans, I suggest Little Women and Me by Lauren Baratz-Logsted (Bloomsbury, 2011). When Emily March is given the school assignment of describing one thing she’d change about a classic novel, her choice is Little Women. Just like most readers, Emily has always wanted Jo, rather than Amy, to end up with Laurie, and she really did not want Beth to die. As she gets into her assignment, Emily is transported into the 1860s world of the Concord March family. She thinks she might be able to actually alter the events of the story, but discovers things are not always as they seem. The reader is treated to a time travel fantasy and is also able to revisit an old favorite--Wilma Snyder.

Lucinda Whitehurst and Wilma Snyder wish all of our readers a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and wonderful New Year! Please join us in 2012!

Gifts from the Gods

2011-11-29T13:07:00.000-08:00

Lise Lunge-Larsen is a professional storyteller and folklorist. She earned a master’s degree in applied linguistics and wrote her thesis on using storytelling to teach the English language. She combines her academic training, her interest in folklore, and her skill in storytelling to create Gifts from the Gods, a fascinating presentation on the derivation of English words which draw their spelling and meaning from Greek and Roman mythology.

Limiting her scope to words that have their origin in character names, Lunge-Larsen has more than enough material for this illustrated informational book designed for middle grades. If she had broadened her search to include objects and places, she would have found many more examples. The Greeks and the Romans sometimes had different names for the gods and goddesses and both came into the English language. Lunge-Larsen has chosen those whose stories so captured the imaginations that their meanings have endured for centuries.

Lunge-Larsen provides this interesting example: “The Greek goddess of cleanliness and good health, Hygeia, has given us the word hygiene, which we use to describe good, healthful behaviors. The Romans called this goddess Salus, and her name, too, survives in English. As they greeted one another, the Romans called out, ‘Salus!’ meaning ‘How is your health?’ Today we call a greeting a salute, and thus remember the goddess of good health without even realizing it.”

The word fortune means destiny, good or bad luck, or wealth and riches. Fortuna was the goddess of luck. She sometimes appeared carrying a “horn of plenty,” meaning that she would bless those she visited with abundance and riches. A never-ending supply of the most delicious food and drink dripped from this magical horn. The Romans called the horn of plenty a cornucopia. Both terms have come into our modern language carrying the very same meaning, a cone-shaped basket overflowing with delectable foods.

Why is a point of weakness called an Achilles heel? Why do we think of grace as seemingly effortless beauty? Put this amazing book into the hands of those children who are fascinated by words. This book is a treasure for any age--Wilma Snyder. Illustrated by Gareth Hinds; Houghton Mifflin, 2011.

Jeff Kinney's Cabin Fever tour stop in Richmond, Virginia

2011-11-21T17:57:00.000-08:00

Brenda and Lucinda in our official Cabin Fever tour shirts.

Last week I unexpectedly became a roadie for a day during Jeff Kinney's Cabin Fever book launch tour! The Diary of a Wimpy Kid author asked his publisher Amulet/Abrams to send his tour to independent bookstores. My St. Christopher's colleague, Brenda Snead, and I offered to help our friends at bbgb Tales for Kids. We thought we might be handing out hot chocolate or directing traffic. Imagine our surprise when we found ourselves up close and personal on the Jeff Kinney autograph line! From my vantage point of one foot away from Kinney, I had a chance to witness the power of his books.

3000 people attended the Richmond Cabin Fever event! Some of the fans waited two, three, even four hours to meet their hero, but since I was their last stop, I only saw their smiles of anticipation. My favorite was the 9 or 10 year boy who proclaimed, "This is the MOST exciting night of my life!" A woman who attended middle school with Jeff came through, yearbook in hand. The publishers' representatives gleefully took pictures of the middle school-aged Kinney, no doubt to abuse him with later. A teacher brought an entire busload of students and patiently photographed each happy child with Jeff. Parents rushed to shake Jeff's hand. Several thanked him for getting their children interested in reading. Jeff Kinney's brother stopped by. Children brought Kinney stories and drawings. They proudly displayed Wimpy Kid shirts and toys. One girl handed over a slice of cheese in a plastic bag, spreading the dreaded cheese touch! Kinney happily greeted every fan. "Thank you--that means so much to me," he said several times, but I think he truly did appreciate each gesture of devotion. As my own students came through the line, they were surprised to see me so close to the famous visitor. One asked, "Mrs. Whitehurst, why didn't you tell us you knew Jeff Kinney?!"

Surveying all the hoopla, one mother said, "You'd think it was Aerosmith or something!" Her bewildered child gave us a puzzled look (thinking "who's Aerosmith?" I'm sure) but I was on her same wavelength. I may never go on the road with a rock band, but briefly being on tour with Jeff Kinney has to come close!--Lucinda Whitehurst

One of my students with his sister, me, and Jeff Kinney

Balloons Over Broadway

2011-11-09T15:03:00.000-08:00

On Thanksgiving morning, many of us will be watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. For more than eighty years, the giant balloons have wobbled and swayed down Broadway. Has it occurred to you to wonder how the tradition of the balloons began and who invented those balloons anyway? I have enjoyed a most delightful picture book about that very subject – Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet.

From the time he was a little boy, Tony Sarg loved to figure out how to make things move. As young as six years old, Tony was inventing gadgets which would help him do his chores. When Tony grew up, his only job aspiration was to become a puppeteer. He soon became famous for his marionettes, so he moved to New York City and began performing on Broadway.

R. H. Macy’s Department Store was located on Herald Square. Tony was hired to decorate Macy’s holiday windows with moving puppets. The mechanical puppets drew excited lookers and shoppers to the department store. Many of the Macy’s employees were immigrants who missed the street celebrations of their native countries. They influenced their employer to plan a parade and Tony was drafted to help with the planning. The first Macy’s parade wound its way from Harlem to Herald Square on Thanksgiving Day, 1924. It was such a success they decided to have a parade every Thanksgiving Day.

The story of how Tony Sarg adapted stick puppets to the huge balloons we see today is told beautifully in Balloons Over Broadway. Every child who reads this book will look at the parade with new eyes and with greater enjoyment. Caldecott Honor artist Melissa Sweet has created a picture book which will delight all ages. An interesting tidbit I learned is that Bil Baird, the creator of the “Lonely Goatherd” marionette show which was featured in the movie The Sound of Music was an apprentice of Tony Sarg. In turn, one of Baird’s apprentices was Jim Henson, who invented the Muppets--Wilma Snyder. (Houghton Mifflin, 2011)

The Secret Life of Boys in The Fourth Stall

2011-10-30T11:19:00.000-07:00

Reading Chris Rylander's The Fourth Stall, I felt like I entered a secret “boy world” that adults seldom access. Christian “Mac” Barrett keeps his family and his business separate. He loves his parents, but feels they must be protected from his actual everyday life. Mac’s nickname comes from the television show MacGyver. Like that fabled character, Mac is a fixer. He solves problems for kids and gets them things they need. He and his best friend Vince have been so successful that these sixth graders have cleared almost $6000 in profits. Another screen character Mac calls to mind is Michael Corleone. The book is full of Godfather references, which may be over the heads of its readers but will certainly entertain adults.

Problems are not solved without a cost, however, and Mac faces a fearsome foe in an older boy named Staples. Staples is encroaching on Mac’s elementary school turf by having his young representatives act as bookies in the school yard. Everything is translated to the kid world (they’re betting on the JV football game) but the stakes are still high. Parents may pause over some violence. The kids’ fear is real and so are a few of the “roughing up” scenes. Certainly Mac’s encounters are nothing compared to Alex Rider fighting it out with international terrorists, but the realistic contemporary setting makes this plot element a little more scary.

For me, that concern is far outweighed by the clever writing, superb plot development, and sheer fun of The Fourth Stall. Mac and Vince share a friendship based on personal history and common interests, a relationship which is not often depicted in books for boys. My favorite supporting character might be Kitten, the bully who fools all the teachers with his excellent manners and neat attire. I think I've met a few Kittens during my elementary school years, but none were quite this entertaining. The Fourth Stall would make an excellent family read aloud for children 4^th grade and up--Lucinda Whitehurst. (Walden Pond Press, 2011)

Halloween and Pumpkins

2011-10-24T14:57:00.000-07:00

Halloween is here again. Many kids say it is their favorite holiday, and why not? Jack-o-Lanterns, costumes, Trick or Treating, and at the end of the evening, lots of candy! Here are some wonderful books for this time of year--Wilma Snyder.

In Corinne Demas’ Halloween Surprise, Lily wants to choose the perfect Halloween costume for Trick-or-Treat and to surprise her father. She tries out several traditional costumes and none is just right. Her final solution will offer a fun surprise for every young reader. Artist R. W. Alley makes any picture book more fun. (Walker & Company, 2011)

The youngest readers will enjoy What Am I? Halloween by Anne Margaret Lewis. Every page is interactive as the suspense builds. Big bright pictures and sturdy covers make this perfect for toddlers. This book is a part of the “My Look and See Holiday Book” series. (Illustrated by Tom Mills. Albert Whitman, 2011)

Elizabeth Spurr says that she is very fond of monsters, having raised five of them. She knows the kind of story that appeals to many children and uses her knowledge in Monsters, Mind Your Manners! These ill-mannered monsters are so rude and rowdy that young readers will feel deliciously superior. Good for lots of giggles. (Illustrations by Simon Scales. Albert Whitman, 2011)

Cat and his friend Mouse work together in the garden. Mouse shows Cat how to grow pumpkins – from planting the seeds, giving water and sunlight, planting the seedlings outside to watching them grow, protecting them and building a scarecrow to frighten away the crows. Then when it is time to pick the pumpkin, Mouse has a big surprise for Cat. Anne Mortimer’s gorgeous art makes this charmer a sure winner. Look for Pumpkin Cat. (HarperCollins, 2011)

Vivid Nonfiction

2011-10-13T14:21:00.000-07:00

Young children are endlessly fascinated by pictures of the natural wonders of the plant and animal worlds. Many kids will choose brightly illustrated nonfiction books over fanciful picture books. Here are some new books which will be wonderful additions to home and classroom libraries--Wilma SnyderCaterpillars by Marilyn Singer is a sure favorite. Kids will listen with rapt attention to the fact-filled text, but the main attraction will be the amazing photographs. There are more than 100,000 kinds of moths and butterflies which lay eggs. All of their eggs hatch into larvae – popularly known as caterpillars. Poet and teacher Singer explores the world of caterpillars, explaining morphology and behavior, choosing mysterious facts, and accompanying all of this information with beautiful photographs. Includes quiz, glossary, matching game, references and index.

Seymour Simon focuses on monarch butterflies and their migration patterns in Butterflies. In classic Simon fashion, he connects facts about butterflies with scientific research, history, poetry and a great respect for nature. Kids ages 5 to 9 will enjoy Simon’s accessible text, beautiful photography, and directions for planting a butterfly garden. Includes glossary, index and list of resources.

Catherine Ham comes up with an original idea in Animal Naps. This book is chock-full of photographs showing how various animals sleep. Rhyming text provides information about every pictured animal making this one perfect for sharing with a group.

Troy Howell and The Dragon of Cripple Creek

2011-10-03T17:01:00.000-07:00

Troy Howell will be signing books at bbgb Tales for Kids http://bbgbbooks.com/ on Thursday, Oct. 6, 2011, from 3:30 to 5:30 pm. Troy will be in town to appear at the James River Writers Conference which runs Oct. 6-8, 2011. http://www.jamesriverwriters.org/jrw_programs/conference/.

Troy kindly agreed to answer a few questions about his work in an interview with Lucinda Whitehurst.

LW: When you started The Dragon of Cripple Creek, did you have any idea how topical your story would be with the economy stalling and gold prices skyrocketing?
TH: Actually, yes. I started writing the book six years ago and kind of projected what I thought might happen with the economy. Silver prices had been going up; I thought gold prices would be next.

LW: I wish I had your forethought! Now so many children are facing a situation similar to Kat's, where the loss of a job means possibly losing their house, school, friends—essentially their way of life.
TH: Yes, I have seen this happening to so many people, including friends and family members. It's been a terrible time to try to make a living. My first inspiration for Dragon of Cripple Creek, though, was that there should be a dragon in North America. Then I thought of putting him in a gold mine in the American West. I wanted to break dragon stereotypes; to not follow reader expectations based on other dragon stories and legends.

LW: Greed as a concept is not often discussed in children's books, but it is such an important issue for children to confront.
TH: I think materialism is the cause of evil in society. I'm working on a YA book about that topic right now.

LW: You include references to other works throughout The Dragon in Cripple Creek.
TH: Yes, it's a way for me to be more creative. You start with a reference point that others may recognize, then go beyond that original source.

LW: I thought about the Alice in Wonderland references, but I did not come up with the Beatles' Magical Mystery Tour until reading your author notes. Kat certainly goes on a Magical Mystery Tour of her own, veering off track, meeting unusual people and of course Ye. When I looked at the title list, I could see that "All You Need is Love," "Penny Lane," "Hello Goodbye," "Flying," and "Baby You’re a Rich Man" definitely could relate to your story. Did you listen to the album as you wrote?
TH: No, actually I listened to Western music! I've always been a Beatles fan, and Kat's mother is a Beatles fan, so the songs just came into the story that way.

Howell first became famous in the children's book world through his cover illustrations for Brian Jacques' Redwall series. His dramatically posed warrior-animals caught the imagination of a generation of young readers. Since Mr. Jacques recently died, I asked Troy if he would miss the series.
TH: Actually, I've been ready to move on from those books for some time now. I always read the manuscripts and came up with ideas for the covers, but as time went on, I was allowed less and less creative expression. As an artist, it's difficult to have someone else control what elements should be included in a painting. {For more information about Troy's work with the Redwall series, check out this excellent interview www.longpatrolclub.com/interviews/howell.html}

LW: You've had success as an artist. Are you going to continue to illustrate or turn more to writing now?
TH: I'm still doing some picture books and illustrated books, such as a new version of The Grey Fairy Book by Andrew Lang, but I'm moving more into writing. I have several projects going right now, including a middle grade book about a boy who meets Hans Christian Andersen's ghost in Copenhagen. My hope for my work is that I will touch people with what I do and do my best.

LW: Are you going to talk about anything particular at the James River Writers Conference?
TH: I'm going to tell people that we're all in this together. I'll never stop learning, but I'm glad to share what I have learned with others.

Many thanks to Troy Howell for a wonderful conversation!

William Joyce's Guardians of Childhood series

2011-09-26T15:58:00.000-07:00

William Joyce entered the picture book scene in the mid-1980s with George Shrinks and Dinosaur Bob and His Adventures with the Family Lazardo. Although all of his books are inventive and entertaining, two more of my favorites came in the 1990s, Bently & Egg and Santa Calls. The 2000s saw Joyce spending a lot of time in Hollywood, working on his TV series Rolie Polie Olie (based on his books), designing for major studios, and producing feature films. I feared that Joyce would never return to original picture books. Thankfully, I was wrong!

Beginning this fall, Joyce is releasing a major new series that combines picture books and novels. The Guardians of Childhood develops "origin stories" for beloved figures such as Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny, and more. The first book in the series, a picture book called The Man in the Moon, is gloriously beautiful.

Joyce does not write for idealized carefree children living what adults view as an idyllic existence. Joyce knows that even happy children have fears and concerns about their world. Joyce creates fantasy worlds where scary or sad things happen, but children (or their animal counterparts) are strong enough to find ways to cope. In Bently & Egg, Bently the frog loses his duck friend's egg, the equivalent of a human babysitter forgetting where she put the baby. This potentially frightening concept is leavened by the caring nature of all the characters Bently encounters in his quest to regain the egg and in the unwavering affection Kack-Kack the duck shows Bently. The premise of Santa Calls is that a little girl whose parents have died writes to Santa to ask that her older brother pay attention to her; in essence, to love her.

The theme of loss is present in The Man in the Moon as well. The Man in the Moon started life with loving parents and a dear friend Nightlight, who watched over him. A terrible attack on the family's space ship by Pitch, the King of Nightmares, leaves MiM without human companions. Moonbots, Moonmice, and Glowworms love and protect the baby as he grows.

Joyce's artwork is simply stunning. Drawing on the visual style of early films and classic cartoons, Joyce arrives at images that are familiar enough to seem comforting, yet are uniquely his own.

The novel, Nicholas St. North and the Battle of the Nightmare King, incorporates the story of the Man in the Moon into a much larger narrative. I am looking forward to seeing how Joyce has imagined the series as a whole and how each part will relate to the others.

For a special family gift this holiday season, look no further than The Guardians of Childhood series.

The Man in the Moon is available now; Nicholas St. North is coming Oct. 4, 2011; both are published by Atheneum/Simon & Schuster--Lucinda Whitehurst.

Joy of Children's Literature Conference at William & Mary

2011-09-21T17:25:00.000-07:00

A new conference devoted to children's books and authors will premiere this October in Williamsburg. Organized by William and Mary professor Denise Johnson, the conference will be held Saturday, Oct. 15, from 8 am to 5 pm. Speakers include Pamela Duncan Edwards, Candice Ransom, Sara Lewis Holmes, Kim Norman, and Laurie Kreb. Get all the details here: http://jclconference.blogspot.com/--Lucinda Whitehurst

James River Writers Conference

2011-09-15T15:16:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought about writing a children's book? Or do you just love meeting writers and assorted "book people"? The James River Writers Conference will be held in Richmond October 6-8, 2011, at the Library of Virginia. You can hear terrific children's authors such as Newbery Honor winner Kathi Appelt, Gigi Amateau, Meg Medina, and illustrator/author Troy Howell. Here's the place to go for registration information: http://www.jamesriverwriters.org/jrw_programs/conference/--Lucinda Whitehurst

Children's Authors Coming to Richmond

2011-09-11T11:34:00.000-07:00

bbgb Books for Kids will have Michael Buckley in the shop from 3:30-5:30 PM. Buckley is the author of wonderful middle grade books such as NERDS and the Sisters Grimm series. bbgb is located at 3100 Kensington Avenue, Richmond, VA, 23221 (formerly Narnia Books for Children). Phone 804-353-5675 or go to www.bbgbbooks.com for more information.

Read Aloud Virginia/Children's Book Bank will be hosting Kathryn Erskine, winner of the 2010 National Book Award for Mockingbird. Session A will be held at 11:30 AM at the Library of Virginia; Session B will be at 4:30 PM at the Children's Museum of Richmond. Go to www.readaloudva.org to register and to learn more about austim workshops and lunch and dinner options. Contact Joanie Bache at 804-627-2847 or joaniebache@readaloudva.org for more information.

Forget about political elections--Richmond is having its very own SUPER TUESDAY on September 27. Two amazing authors will be in town that day. If you plan carefully, you might even be able to see them both--Lucinda Whitehurst.

First Garden: The White House Garden and How it Grew by Robbin Gourley

2011-08-29T12:07:00.000-07:00

First Lady Michelle Obama is concerned about improving the health of American people, especially the children. Early in the Obama presidency, Mrs. Obama proposed a kitchen garden on the White House lawn which would encourage Americans to eat more fruits and vegetables. This beautifully illustrated book by Robbin Gourley begins with a fascinating section on how past presidential families have used the White House lawns and gardens, from the pony and goat carts of early White House children to the fountain in which John Kennedy, Jr., liked to play. It then shows the garden in every stage, beginning with preparing the soil and planting the seeds and plants. Mrs. Obama enlisted the participation of student gardeners from Bancroft Elementary School in Washington, D. C. These students helped to cultivate the garden and harvest the crops. The White House kitchen staff prepared foods from the garden for the presidential family to enjoy. Recipes and gardening tips complete the package. (Houghton Mifflin, 2011)--Wilma Snyder

New School Year

2011-08-29T07:36:00.000-07:00

A new school year is always exciting for children, parents, and teachers. Try these picture books for the early days of school--Wilma Snyder.

Eddie Gets Ready for School by David Milgrim is told in funny lists and pictures. I love how "Wash up" is pictured with the young student outfitted with goggles. "Watch cartoons" is closely followed by "Turn off TV this instant." "Get dressed is followed by "Really get dressed." Cartoon art just might inspire young readers to begin their own illustrated lists (Scholastic, 2011).

Every teacher has somewhat differing rules for the classroom. A part of each year's school beginning is becoming familiar with the expectations of the new classroom teacher. Back to School Rules by Laurie Friedman with illustrations by Teresa Murfin takes the approach of looking a 10 simple rules and then elaborating of what not to do. For example, "Don't forget to use your brain," means "No hanging from the ceiling, no flying through the air, no swimming in the fish tank, no glitter in your hair." This book is sure to stimulate thought about why teachers have so many rules (Carolrhoda/Lerner, 2011).

If you are a fan of Louise the Big Cheese and Louise the Big Cheese and the La-Di-Da Shoes, be sure to be on the lookout for Louise the Big Cheese and the Back-to-School Smarty Pants, written by Elise Primavera with illustrations by Diane Goode. Once Louise decides to get straight As in the new school year, she has big expectations. She thinks she might get to skip a grade or even be promoted to college soon. However, her new teacher, Mrs. Pearl, does not award As unless they are earned and Louise has trouble doing her best. Louise learns some important lessons about schoolwork and grades. This picture book will offer the opportunity for discussion about grades and their meaning (Simon and Schuster, 2011).

A fun read-aloud is Pirates Go to School, written by Corinne Demas and illustrated by John Manders. When pirates and their parrots go to school, they bring a whole new attitude to the classroom. Kids can live vicariously through the out-of-bounds behavior of the pirates. They also see the consequences of such outrageous antics (Orchard/Scholastic, 2011).

Visiting Beatrix Potter's house

2011-07-28T09:02:00.000-07:00

Hilltop Farm

Near Sawrey, The Lake District

Sorry for no blog postings for a few weeks, but we've been in England and Scotland. One place my mom and I were excited to visit was Beatrix Potter's home, Hilltop, in the charming English Lake District village of Near Sawrey. Potter fans will recognize buildings from the village since Beatrix used them for backgrounds in many of her books. What a delight to see her home and environment! I read Beatrix Potter: A Life in Nature by Linda Lear (St. Martin's Press, 2007) before the trip, while my mom read all of Susan Wittg Albert's mystery series Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter. If you haven't read Potter to children in a while, pick up Peter Rabbit, Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, Jeremy Fisher, or The Tale of Two Bad Mice (a personal favorite because I like the doll, Lucinda). Potter's beautiful artwork and gentle stories should belong to each new generation of children--Lucinda Whitehurst.

Tia Isa Wants a Car

2011-06-20T13:22:00.000-07:00

Meg Medina and Lucinda Whitehurst at bbgb Tales for Kids bookstore

Summertime is the perfect time for Meg Medina's new picture book. Tia Isa announces that she wants a car "to take us to the beach!" Her niece thinks a car is a terrific idea and creatively finds several jobs on her own to help Tia Isa save up the money. As the story continues, we see how the car and the beach mean more than a simple outing. Several family members still live far away on an island. As they wait for them to move to America and as they wait to save the money for the car, the girl observes, "Sometimes it's hard to wait for good things to happen." The young girl and Isa receive a letter with news of Mami, Papi, and Abuelo. They think of those loved ones in the "breezy house by the sea." For the girl and her aunt, getting to the beach helps them connect with the home and people they miss. Claudio Munoz's sun-splashed, energetic illustrations, rendered in pencil, watercolor, and ink, extend the story perfectly. He shows the warm relationships between the characters, captures both homes, and makes that car look just as wonderful as the girl thinks it is! For an entertaining story, as well as gentle lessons about love and responsibility, look for Tia Isa Wants a Car--Lucinda Whitehurst. (Picture book, gr. preK-3; Candlewick, 2011)

Meg Medina celebrates her birthday at the Tia Isa book launch party at bbgb Tales for Kids in Richmond, VA

Fabulous Frogs

2011-06-06T16:54:00.000-07:00

Leap Back Home to Me, in sprightly rhyming text, features a young frog exploring the world for the first time. He begins with safe things like leaping over a ladybug or a bee. Each adventure ends with his mother saying, “Then leap back home to me.” (Written by Lauren Thompson; illustrated by Matthew Cordell; Simon & Schuster, 2011)

The Hokey Pokey is a favorite children’s singing game which is enjoyed as much today as it was two generations ago. Actually, the origins of this game go back much farther. The oldest known version is “Hinkum-Booby” which appeared in a collection of Scottish rhymes in 1842. The oldest known American printed version appeared in a collection of American games and songs in 1883. The Croaky Pokey! is based on these earlier versions. Frogs sing the Croaky Pokey, playing instruments and chasing flies with those amazing froggy tongues. The unlikely lyrics and funny pictures will provide endless amusement. (Written and illustrated by Ethan Long; Holiday House, 2011)

Rain Brings Frogs reminds us that we have a choice: look on the dark side or look on the bright side. Be a complainer or be happy. Always want more or be grateful for what you have. Nate always looks on the bright side. When Mom says, “I hate rain.” Nate says, “Rain brings frogs.” This picture book with its simple text and colorful illustrations teaches a gentle lesson that many children and adults need to hear. (Written and illustrated by Maryann Cocca-Leffler; HarperCollins, 2011)--Wilma Snyder.

Book Expo

2011-05-31T16:36:00.000-07:00

Book Expo America is a joint production of the American Booksellers Association, the Association of Authors' Representatives, and the Association of American Publishers. Luckily those nice people invite librarians to join their party! In two days, I got to meet and/or hear an amazing array of children's authors. My list of luminaries included Brian Selznick, Chris van Allsburg, William Joyce, Katherine Paterson, Sarah Dessen, Kevin Henkes, Jon Scieszka, Jarrett Krosoczka, Jack Gantos, Eoin Colfer, Mac Barnett, Matt Phelan, Mo Willems, David Lubar, Nick Bruel, Gordon Korman, Bruce Lansky, Harry Bliss, Ridley Pearson, Carmen Deedy, N. D. Wilson, Temple Grandin, Barry Moser, Jan Brett, and even Julianne Moore.

Although I'm usually not happy about celebrities writing children's books, Julianne Moore, author of the Freckleface Strawberry series, won me over talking about her girlhood reading. She said, "I remember the day I was in the kitchen with my mother and she told me I was old enough to appreciate Louisa May Alcott. After Little Women, I read ALL the Alcott books, including Rose in Bloom and Jack and Jill. Anyone else remember those books?" My eleven-year-old self responded, "I do! I do!" My parents have a great picture of me at Christmas buried in my boxed set of Alcott while others busily open presents around me.

My acceptance of Moore grew when Brian Selznick presented an illustrated tribute to her and Freckleface! If she's BFFs with Brian, she must be OK.

As to the rest of the list, if you are not familiar with all of those authors, I will be featuring their books in upcoming blog posts. If you ever get the chance to go to Book Expo, say yes!--Lucinda Whitehurst

Spring Picture Books

2011-05-09T15:10:00.000-07:00

Before spring passes quickly into summer, take a look at two new springtime picture books. In Like a Lion Out Like a Lamb (Holiday House, 2011) teams Newbery Honor winner Marion Dane Bauer with Caldecott Medal winner Emily Arnold McCully for a romp in which the roaring lion is lulled to sleep when it is time for the gentle lamb. Spring is Here (Holiday House, 2011) by Will Hillenbrand is a celebration of friendship as the mole wakes his friend Bear so that they can enjoy spring together—Wilma Snyder.

For Alex Rider fans--Try Steel Trapp

2011-05-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

Scorpia Rising, the final entry in Anthony Horowitz’s Alex Rider series, hit stores last month. If you have finished that series and are ready for a new one, check out Steel Trapp by Ridley Pearson. Book one The Challenge was published in 2008, followed by The Academy in 2010. Hopefully Steel’s adventures are just getting started.

The Challenge begins with Steel and his mother on a train heading to Washington, D. C., for a science project competition. Steel tries to do a good deed when he notices a woman leaving the train without her briefcase. No, the briefcase does not explode, but its contents do ignite complications for Steel. Soon the woman, a dangerous gang leader, and U. S. Marshals all are looking for Steel and the mysterious briefcase. On the trip, Steel finds an ally in Kaileigh, a girl who was supposed to be part of the science competition until her project was stolen. Fast-paced and full of twists, Steel’s story will keep readers engaged until the last breathless page—Lucinda Whitehurst. (Fiction, grades 4-8; Disney Editions, 2008)

Children's Choice Awards

2011-05-03T14:51:00.000-07:00

The Children's Choice Book Awards were announced last night! See list below. For more information, go to http://www.cbcbooks.org/news/102

Don't miss host Jarrett Krosoczka's face as "Snookie" (aka Jon Scieszka) makes a special appearance at the Awards Gala http://blog.schoollibraryjournal.com/afuse8production/2011/05/03/the-childrens-book-council-2011-awards/

Author of the Year

Rick Riordan for The Lost Hero (The Heroes of Olympus, Book 1) (Disney-Hyperion)

Illustrator of the Year

David Wiesner for Art & Max (Clarion/Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)

Kindergarten to Second Grade Book of the Year

Little Pink Pup by Johanna Kerby (Putnam/Penguin)

Third Grade to Fourth Grade Book of the Year

Lunch Lady and the Summer Camp Shakedown by Jarrett J. Krosoczka (Knopf/Random House)

Fifth Grade to Sixth Grade Book of the Year

The Red Pyramid (The Kane Chronicles, Book 1) by Rick Riordan (Disney-Hyperion)

Teen Choice Book of the Year

Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan (Dutton/Penguin)

Last Few Days of Poetry Month

2011-04-27T13:10:00.000-07:00

April is National Poetry Month. For the last few days of celebration, consider reading Dark Emperor and Other Poems of the Night by Joyce Sidman. The 2011 Newbery Honor book is filled with beautiful poetry and marvelous scientific information about the natural world at night. It is a rich combination of literature, art and factual observation which will be a fine addition to school and classroom libraries as well as a great read-aloud picture book for use at home. It is appropriate for all ages. Even the scientific information, when read aloud to a young child, will hold the interest and help with concept building. The art, created by a process of relief printing, invites close inspection and offers new discoveries with every look. I highly recommend this lovely book and commend the Newbery Committee for thinking slightly outside the box in their selection--Wilma Snyder. (Illustrated by Rick Allen; Houghton Mifflin, 2010)

Also consider: Emma Dilemma by Kristine O'Connell George (Illustrated by Nancy Carpenter; Clarion, 2011)
Give Me Wings selected by Lee Bennett Hopkins (Illustrated by Ponder Goembel; Holiday House, 2010)
Amazing Faces selected by Lee Bennett Hopkins (Illustrated by Chris Soentpiet; Lee & Low, 2010)
Switching on the Moon collected by Jane Yolen and Andrew Fusek Peters (Illustrated by G. Brian Karas; Candlewick, 2010)

Little Board Books

2011-04-20T16:21:00.000-07:00

Looking for a special treat for a little one’s Easter basket? Forget the candy and add a board book! Sleeping Bear Press has a new series of board books with rhyming riddle texts. There are “Little States,” such as California, New York, Wyoming, and Texas, and “Little Sports,” such as baseball and football. On one side a riddle is asked; turn the page to find the answer. Illustrations provide additional clues. The puzzles, simple enough for young children to solve, relate to the state or sport. From Helen Foster James’ California: “It’s bright and orange and in the bay. If you go near, it swims away. (fish),” and from Brad Herzog’s Baseball: “Hit the ball? You surely could with a mighty swing from this piece of wood. (bat).” Preschoolers will enjoy the feeling of accomplishment that goes along with solving the challenges, especially if they have older brothers or sisters who have their own puzzle books—Lucinda Whitehurst. (California illustrated by Helle Urban; Baseball illustrated by Doug Bowles; Ages 1-4; Sleeping Bear Press, 2011)

Miss Dorothy and Her Bookmobile by Gloria Houston

2011-04-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

After a twelve-year absence from the children’s literature scene, Gloria Houston returns better than ever! Houston’s new book is Miss Dorothy and Her Bookmobile in which she returns to her roots in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. Houston, the author of such highly-acclaimed books as The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree, Littlejim, and My Great-Aunt Arizona, is known for her beautiful writing and her authenticity. Writing for both middle grade readers and for younger children, Houston provides wonderful material for simultaneous use in classrooms where widely differing reading levels are present. High-interest content entices the young reader, who identifies with the characters and is drawn into the stories.

Miss Dorothy and Her Bookmobile is mined from the depth of Houston’s memory bank and tells the story of a bookmobile librarian who traveled the hills and “hollers” to share her books and love of reading with children who were unable to make the journey to a library. Children will be quick to tap into this story of love, dedication and joy even though it is from another time and place. Susan Condie Lamb's art is a beautiful accompaniment to the story--Wilma Snyder. (Picture Book; HarperCollins, 2011)

Okay For Now by Gary Schmidt

2011-04-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

Gary Schmidt is an amazing author. His books are thoughtful, sensitive, and full of “lump-in-your-throat” scenes, without being preachy or boring. His books are not written with the breathless pace found in many modern books for middle-school and young adult readers, but they have more than enough plot to keep readers involved.

In Schmidt’s newest title, Okay for Now, Doug Swieteck, a character from The Wednesday Wars, takes center stage. Holling Hoodhood has a sweet cameo, but this story is all Doug’s. In the late 1960s, Doug’s father, always prickly and often abusive, has lost his job and the family has to move. Doug is not excited about starting eighth grade in his new home. He thinks the small town has nothing to offer until he meets Lil, and through her, makes an important discovery. The local public library has a folio of original John James Audubon drawings of birds. Noting his interest, one of the librarians gives Doug basic art lessons based on Audubon’s works.

The framing device of the birds carries through the novel, adding an element of mystery and beauty to the narrative. Each chapter begins with an Audubon plate illustration, and the birds depicted hold special meaning to that section of the story. The visual and written artistry combine to take the book well beyond the ordinary. Schmidt is at his best in describing Doug’s relationships with Lil, his brothers, his mother, his teachers, and the townspeople he meets on his grocery delivery route. Each unusual character is meticulously drawn.

In this rich tapestry of relationships, the only small disappointment is in the character of Doug’s father. The whole family is impacted by the return of the oldest son from Vietnam, but beyond that situation, Mr. Swieteck’s motivations are unexplained. Doug seems to understand more about his father’s choices, but to the reader he remains somewhat of an enigma.

The title implies impermanence, rebirth, and change, themes which carry through the book. Doug’s growth is expressed through ideas about the power of art, especially painting, drawing, theatre, and literature. This beautiful, satisfying story is a fitting companion to the Newbery Honor-winning Wednesday Wars—Lucinda Whitehurst. (Historical Fiction, gr. 5 and up; Houghton Mifflin, 2011)

Picasso Exhibit

2011-04-07T16:55:00.000-07:00

The Picasso Exhibit will be at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond, Virginia through May 15, 2011. The exhibit is on loan from the Musee National Picasso, Paris. On a recent Saturday, I enjoyed the exhibit with my family.

Pablo Picasso was born in Spain in 1881, but lived in Paris for most of his life where he was an important member of the avant-garde society which grew in the early part of the twentieth century. This group of artists and writers, who revolved mostly around the poet Gertrude Stein, was engaged in exploring new forms of art in painting, sculpture, and literature as well as living by new and different rules for behavior.

The exhibit is hung chronologically, showing Picasso’s progression from one style to another. Although Picasso is credited with “inventing” Cubism, the style for which he is best known, he was equally skillful in other styles such as realism, collage and portraiture. Not only was he a famous painter, but he was also a talented sculptor.

For a classroom study on famous artists or art history and appreciation, here are some books which will be helpful.

Pablo Picasso: Breaking All the Rules. True Kelley. Penguin. 2002. Written and illustrated in the form of a child’s report.

Pablo Picasso. Frances Lincoln. 2006. 6 sheets of re-usable stickers. Graphically illustrates Picasso’s use of cubes and other shapes in his art.

Picasso: Soul on Fire. Rick Jacobson. Illustrated by Laura Fernandez & Rick Jacobson. 2004. Illustrated juvenile biography including reproductions of Picasso’s work.

This exhibit is well worth a visit by both adults and young people--Wilma Snyder.

Jon Scieszka at St. Christopher's School

2011-04-05T14:20:00.000-07:00

Jon admires the "stinky" bulletin board

We had a wonderful time with Jon Scieszka this week at St. Christopher's School. A community program examining boys and reading brought together more than 500 parents, teachers, and librarians from all over the Central Virginia area. The programs with our boys today proved that Jon knows his audience! Those "knuckleheads" came in all afternoon looking for Spaceheadz titles in particular. Thanks again Jon! Come back any time.

Lucinda Whitehurst and Jon Scieszka

Jon Scieszka article from Style Weekly

2011-03-31T13:11:00.000-07:00

Style Weekly writer Valley Haggard spoke to Jon Scieszka in anticipation of his visit to Richmond next week.
http://www.styleweekly.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=Publishing&mod=Publications%3A%3AArticle&mid=8F3A7027421841978F18BE895F87F791&tier=4&id=0FE58928AC3840FF85C49C71AC0E4F75

Storm Runners by Roland Smith

2011-03-30T17:24:00.000-07:00

Storm Runners, the first book in a new series by Roland Smith, tells the story of Chase Masters and his father John. Following a series of traumatic events—the deaths of his wife and daughter; being struck by lightning, then waking from a coma—John Masters decides to pack up Chase and his work tools and hit the road. Father, son, and their trusted friend Tomas become M. D. Emergency Services. They follow the weather. Wherever a big storm hits, M. D. follows to help repair the damage. These “masters of disaster” think they are prepared for anything, until they encounter Hurricane Emily. Chase’s father has trained him well, but will it be enough to survive the storm?

Roland Smith loves to cross the United States in his RV, accompanied by his delightful wife and fellow author Marie. When he came to Richmond for a visit to St. Christopher’s school several years ago, I went to a campground in nearby Hanover to pick him up. Roland told me how much he enjoyed travelling in the RV and meeting new people in the parks. Richmond had been hit by hurricane a few weeks before Roland’s visit. He explained that several of the people in the campground were itinerant workers, skilled repairmen who followed the storms in order to find work. When I started reading Storm Runners, I had to wonder if any of the people Roland met in Richmond helped him form the characters of John and Tomas.

With plenty of threatening storm action, two important girl characters, and a subplot about circus animals and a family of little people, Storm Runners has enough action to keep boys, girls, and reluctant readers engaged in the story. The cliffhanger ending makes me wish that book two would be out sooner than September!—Lucinda Whitehurst. (Scholastic, 2011; Fiction, gr. 4-7)

The PreK-2 Writing Classroom: Growing Confident Writers

2011-03-24T16:14:00.000-07:00

Full of useful, hands-on examples, descriptions, and activities, this new book will inspire any primary grade teacher. Based on both research and practice, the authors share their classroom experiences in an easily-replicable fashion. The first step is engagement. Chapters describe how to encourage children to draw, talk, and create communities of interested classmates as initial steps in the writing process. When the students are ready to “finesse their work,” they can move on to experimenting with spaces, using spelling strategies, and understanding the purposes of periods. The final section details how to keep young writers engaged, using an evaluation-instruction loop, providing time to share with the class, and honoring the children’s complete lives. The book’s team of writers includes Jane Hansen, a University of Virginia professor; Jenesse Evertson, one of the co-owners of bbgb Tales for Kids bookstore in Richmond, VA; and Dorothy Suskind, fifth grade teacher at St. Christopher’s School in Richmond, VA—Lucinda Whitehurst. (Adult; Scholastic, 2010)

R. W. and Zoe Alley: A Picture Perfect Partnership

2011-03-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

While graphic novels have been around for quite a while, their primary audience had been adults and teenagers. The market for younger graphic novels has exploded in the last five years. With There’s a Wolf at the Door, author Zoe Alley says, “We hit the right combination of timing and creativity.” Bob Alley is a familiar figure in the children’s book world, having illustrated more than 100 titles in his career! Pearl and Wagner, Paddington Bear, Detective Dinosaur, and Jigsaw Jones are just a few of the memorable characters he has drawn. In There’s a Wolf at the Door and its sequel There’s a Princess in the Palace (Roaring Brook, 2010), he takes his art to an even higher level. His wife Zoe’s clever retellings of familiar fairy tales pair perfectly with Bob’s images. Visual jokes expand on the writing to create the perfect partnership. In the typical system of picture book production, the author and illustrator may never meet. Their communications, if any, are carried out by email or through their editor. With the Alleys, their collaboration is evident on every page. Zoe’s words make Bob’s pictures funnier, and vice-versa.

I asked Zoe how it feels to work with her husband. Her reply: “In a word…Wonderful! It is so much easier to work closely with someone you know well in this arena. Bob is so used to how I think that he innately understands my “vision”—he knows just how I imagine my characters—and I write knowing instinctively how he’ll make them look. Scary, huh?! I’m pretty sure that such a rapport would not exist with un-related author/illustrator combos. One also certainly cannot discount the importance of being able to run room-to-room with ideas and comments—beats email all to heck!” We look forward to more wonderful books from this talented duo. Find out more about the Alleys at their websites www.zoeballey.com and www.rwalley.com—Lucinda Whitehurst.

2011-03-19T14:31:00.000-07:00

Update on the Little Golden Books exhibit at the Richmond Children's Museum--Adults can attend the exhibit without a child and it is free to view just the GB exhibit. You only have to pay admission if you are actually going into the museum (and you need a child to go into the main museum).

American Revolution--Forge, The Crossing, and George Washington's Spy

2011-03-17T13:13:00.000-07:00

2010 was a good year for worthy and well-done books about the American Revolution written for young readers. Both fiction and nonfiction books are immensely authentic and meticulously researched, especially as we compare them with some of the formulaic writing which has been done in the past. Our children and youth deserve the very best in writing. Really good books on history are powerful in their ability to lead young readers into a lifelong interest in history and in the heroic figures whose stories are told in the books—Wilma Snyder.

Forge by Laurie Halse Anderson

This novel is the sequel to the National Book Award Finalist Chains, published in 2008. Chains ends as the young slave girl, Isabel, rescues her friend, Curzon, from prison and certain death. In Forge, the action resumes some months later when we learn that Isabel and Curzon have parted ways. Their basic disagreement is over who is to be in control of their mission. The story is subsequently told from Curzon’s point of view. Curzon finds himself as a part of Washington’s army during its encampment at Valley Forge. The reader is immersed in the people, the sounds, the smells, the intrigues which made the winter of 1777-78 such a crucial period in the Revolutionary War. I look forward to the next volume, Ashes.

(Historical fiction, gr. 5-8: Atheneum/Simon & Schuster, 2010)

The Crossing: How George Washington Saved the American Revolution by Jim Murphy

The crossing refers, of course, to the dramatic crossing of the Delaware River to Trenton, New Jersey, where Washington won a pivotal battle in the war. The great strength of Murphy’s book is in the clear depiction of George Washington from gentleman farmer to brilliant general. Useful, as well, is his discussion of the art and story which helped to present Washington as a mythic hero. (Nonfiction, gr. 4-6; Scholastic, 2010)

George Washington’s Spy by Elvira Woodruff

This time travel adventure story sweeps seven children back in time to Boston in 1776. The boys become separated from the girls resulting in the boys landing in a hotbed of a rebel spy ring while the girls take refuge in a family of British sympathizers. Before the two stories merge, the children learn about colonial medicine, meet Benjamin Franklin, become a part of the spy ring and are almost taken off to England. Action-packed pages and lively writing will make this a favorite of young readers. Sequel to George Washington's Socks.

(Historical fiction, gr. 3-5; Scholastic, 2010)

More suggestions:

Lafayette and the American Revolution by Russell Freedman

(Nonfiction, gr. 5-8; Holiday House, 2010)

Henry Knox: Bookseller, Soldier, Patriot by Anita Silvey and illustrated by Wendell Minor
(Nonfiction picture book, gr. 2-5; Clarion/Houghton Mifflin, 2010)

Phillis Sings Out Freedom by Ann Malaspina and illustrated by Susan Keeter
(Historical fiction picture book, gr. 1-3; Whitman, 2010)

A Picture Book of John and Abigail Adams by David A. and Michael S. Adler and illustrated by Ronald Himler
(Biography picture book, gr. 1-3; Holiday House, 2010)

Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

2011-03-14T14:52:00.000-07:00

What was going on in Lithuania during World War II? Not sure? Before reading Between Shades of Gray, neither was I. Children’s literature includes many important books about World War II and the Holocaust but most well-known titles recount the experience in countries such as Germany, Poland, France, and England. The daughter of a Lithuanian refugee, Ruta Sepetys makes an important contribution to the field with her first novel.

While American readers are accustomed to viewing the Soviet Union as an ally against Hitler in World War II, the situation was somewhat different in Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia. Annexed by the Soviet Union in 1940, those countries ceased to exist as independent nations until 1990. In order to secure their hold, when the Soviets came to power they deported many political and intellectual leaders. Fifteen-year-old Lina’s father is a university professor, which puts him under immediate suspicion. Still, Lina is shocked when her father disappears and she, her mother, and her younger brother are picked up by soldiers and put on a transport to Siberia.

The harshness of the journey only becomes worse when they reach their destination. The fact that anyone survived the Siberian work camps is surprising. While the annihilation was not as immediate or systematic as Hitler’s, the result was chillingly similar. Sepetys vividly conveys Lina’s quick maturation. Lina is not a saint, but she becomes a leader simply because she has no other choice.

In an author’s note, Sepetys explains that “those who survived spent ten to fifteen years in Siberia. Upon returning in the mid-1950s, the Lithuanians found that Soviets had occupied their homes, were enjoying all of their belongings, and had even assumed their names. Everything was lost. The returning deportees were treated as criminals…Speaking about their experience meant immediate imprisonment or deportations back to Siberia. As a result, the horrors they endured went dormant, a hideous secret shared by millions of people.” Sepetys deserves great praise for giving voice to people silenced so long. For more information, go to www.rutasepetys.com

—Lucinda Whitehurst. (Historical fiction, gr. 7 and up; Philomel, 2011)

A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park

2011-02-28T16:38:00.000-08:00

Linda Sue Park, Newbery Medalist for A Single Shard, has written a very timely middle grade novel in A Long Walk to Water. After years of Civil War, Sudan held a referendum in January 2011, declaring that Southern Sudan would become an independent nation. Some of the issues still to be settled are border demarcation and trade barriers. Since the oil-rich Abyei region straddles the north-south border, controversy is sure to continue after the election and for many years to come. The war and violence in the south, which has been declared genocide by the United Nations, has decimated the country for more than 25 years. Stories of the “Lost Boys” of southern Sudan have proliferated in recent years as the surviving youth have reached manhood and have made their way to Europe and the United States. Churches and other relief organizations are active in southern Sudan, even in the face of danger and mounting suffering by the native peoples.

One of the great needs in this war-torn country is clean water. Cut off from traditional water supplies and medical facilities, the people of southern Sudan struggle for the bare necessities of life. Linda Sue Park tells this story in A Long Walk to Water.

Salva Dut, a member of the Dinka tribe, was an eleven-year-old student when the civil war reached his village in 1985. As shots are fired and bombs are dropped, Salva’s teacher instructs his students to run in the other direction. Salva and the other students continue to run away from the attack, beginning a journey which will take him across the Nile River to a refugee camp in Ethiopia. After years in the camp, the refugees are forced out of Ethiopia. Salva becomes the leader of a group of boys which eventually seeks refuge in Kenya. Word from the front tells the boys that anyone returning to their home villages will immediately be conscripted into the revolutionary forces. At the age of 22, Salva is sent from the refugee camp to America, arriving in Rochester, New York, to be met by his new family. After receiving his education, Salva returns to southern Africa. He realizes that one thing he can do to relieve the suffering is to build wells.

Linda Sue Park is a resident of Rochester. She brings her finely-honed writing skills to the task of telling the story of the Lost Boys and of their efforts to bring help and comfort to their people in Sudan. A Long Walk to Water is the best of the several books I have read on this topic. Based on the true story of Salva Dut’s experiences, Park fictionalizes certain events to great effect. I recommend this book for children and adults who want to know more about conditions in an African country which have ramifications around the world—Wilma Snyder. (Historical fiction, gr. 5-8; Clarion, 2010)

Little Golden Books exhibit at the Richmond Children's Museum

2011-02-20T16:45:00.000-08:00

Don't miss this unique experience to view the original art from the Little Golden Books!

This exhibition will present the most extensive public showing ever of original illustration art from American publishing’s best loved and most consequential picture-book series, Little Golden Books—the history-making experiment that celebrated its 65th anniversary in 2007.

Launched in 1942—the first full year of America’s involvement in the Second World War—Little Golden Books made high quality illustrated books available at affordable prices for the first time to millions of young children and their parents. Among the artists who contributed to the ambitious series were greats of the European émigré community (including Garth Williams, Feodor Rojankovsky, and Tibor Gergely) who had gathered in New York as the European situation worsened; alumni of the Walt Disney Studios (including Gustaf Tenggren, Martin Provensen, J.P. Miller, and Mary Blair), who came East for the artistic freedom and control associated with picture-book making; and such American originals as Eloise Wilkin, Elizabeth Orton Jones, Richard Scarry, and Hilary Knight.

60 masterpieces of original illustration art by these and other artists—chosen from the vast Random House archive—will be featured in the exhibition, including examples from such picture-book classics as The Poky Little Puppy, Tootle, Home for a Bunny, The Kitten Who Thought He Was a Mouse, The Color Kittens, I Can Fly, and more.

http://www.c-mor.org/events/golden-books

This exhibition was organized by the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, Abilene, Texas.

Guys Read! Jon Scieszka at St. Christopher's

2011-02-16T13:41:00.000-08:00

How can parents and teachers help boys become
self-motivated, lifelong readers?

To find out,
join former National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature
Jon Scieszka
for an evening of laughter and learning.
Adults only, please.

Monday, April 4, 2011
Talk and Book Signing 7:00-9:00 pm

St. Christopher’s Lower School Auditorium
699 Pepper Avenue, Richmond, VA 23226
(804) 282-3185, ext. 2380

This Event is Open to the Public. Admission is Free
but reservations are required at http://guysread.eventbrite.com

Donations accepted to support
Read Aloud Virginia and Guys Read

S is for Smithsonian

2011-02-14T16:05:00.000-08:00

S is for Smithsonian: America’s Museum Alphabet. Marie and Roland Smith. Illustrated by Gijsbert van Frankenhuyzen.

A guided tour of the world’s largest museum complex gives the reader some grasp of the many riches available at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D. C. Are you interested in ballgowns belonging to the First Ladies, the Hope Diamond, inventions, space, aviation, art, science, history, anthropology, and/or Dorothy’s ruby red slippers? Unless you live at the Smithsonian, you probably never will see it all. This book will whet the interest of every reader—Wilma Snyder.

V is for von Trapp

2011-02-13T13:33:00.000-08:00

V is for von Trapp: A Musical Family Alphabet. William Anderson. Illustrated by Linda Dockey Graves.

2010 marks the 45^th anniversary of the Broadway musical, The Sound of Music, which was based on the life of the von Trapp Family Singers. Coinciding with the release of a digitally restored, Blu-Ray limited edition collector’s set of The Sound of Music, William Anderson wrote this book based on interviews with Maria von Trapp shortly before her death in 1987, and with the seven remaining von Trapp children. He also wrote an adult title, The World of the Trapp Family for which he had access to a variety of von Trapp family records and memorabilia. Anderson, known primarily for his work on Laura Ingalls Wilder, is a fine author, historian, and lecturer--Wilma Snyder.

Sleeping Bear Discover the World series

2011-02-10T16:17:00.000-08:00

The Discover the World series introduces the reader to countries of the world. An interactive website for kids at www.discovertheworldbooks.com supports each book. Free downloadable Teachers Guides are also available to accompany each book.

E is for Eiffel Tower: A France Alphabet. Helen L. Wilbur. Illustrated by Yan Nascimbene.
France is one of the most visited countries in the world. The French language is widely studied by students worldwide. This book celebrates the history and culture of France by an author who visits the country frequently. Readers are introduced to landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the palace at Versailles, and Notre Dame Cathedral; historic figures such as Louis XIV, Victor Hugo, and Charles de Gaulle; and elements of culture such as fashion, food, and winemaking.

B is for Bagpipes: A Scotland Alphabet. Eve Begley Kiehm. Illustrated by Alexa Rutherford.
You will find the kilts, the bagpipes, the haggis, and Robert the Bruce, but this book is filled with much, much more. The author and the illustrator, both of whom grew up in Scotland, share their love of their homeland in this extremely beautiful book about history and culture. Both Kiehm and Rutherford are new to the Sleeping Bear stable of artists and writers, but both acquit themselves well and show fine promise.

D is for Down Under: An Australia Alphabet. Devin Scillian. Illustrated by Geoff Cook.
Australia is the world’s smallest continent and the biggest island. Inhabited first by the Aboriginal peoples, it was not until the late 1700s that Australia was colonized by Europeans when England sent unwanted criminals to settle there. The last shipment of convicts arrived in Australia in 1868. From these beginnings grew a nation which is dedicated to its individuality, friendliness, and sport.

D is for Dala Horse: A Nordic Countries Alphabet. Kathy-jo Wargin. Illustrated by Renee Graef.
The term Nordic Countries identifies the Nordic region of Northern Europe and North America. It includes the countries Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, and their associated territories of Greenland, the Faroe Islands, Svalbard, and Aland. The countries cooperate in a Nordic Council and have a population of approximately 25 million people. Little known facts such as these make this book a fascinating read. It is illustrated by Renee Graef, known for her work in the American Girl books and picture books on Laura Ingalls Wilder, in Nordic folk-art style—Wilma Snyder.

touchblue by Cynthia Lord

2011-02-10T14:14:00.000-08:00

Cynthia Lord’s first novel, Rules, was awarded a Newbery Honor, quite an auspicious beginning for a new children’s writer. touchblue, her second book, proves that Lord is not a one-book wonder. Eleven-year-old Tess lives on an island off the coast of Maine. There are so few children on the island that the state announces plans to close the island school. This action will mean that Tess’s family and others on the island will have to move to the mainland in order to provide an education for their children. The fishermen and their families will be giving up the only life they have ever known. The islanders come up with a plan to take in foster children in order to swell the school population. When thirteen-year-old Aaron is placed with Tess’s family, there are serious adjustments required on both sides, not the least of which is combating Aaron’s suspicion of mixed, self-serving motives among the island families. Lord shows great insight into the minds and hearts of adolescents. Her experience as a Maine island school teacher informs her every word—Wilma Snyder. (Fiction, gr. 4-7; Scholastic, 2010)

A Family of Readers

2011-02-07T17:26:00.000-08:00

A Family of Readers: The Book Lover’s Guide to Children’s and Young Adult Literature. Roger Sutton and Martha V. Parravano, editors of The Horn Book Magazine, write as “book lovers addressing book lovers.” Made up of thoughtful essays, entertaining responses and interviews, A Family of Readers has the look of a college textbook, but its chatty style resembles more that of a magazine. Yes, it defines and discusses the genres of children’s literature; yes, it contains book lists and annotations; yes, it contains an extensive bibliography and a useful index, but this book is much more. Interviews and essays by writers and artists, responses by many who are working in the field of children’s literature, and essays by critics and historians give A Family of Readers strength and depth—Wilma Snyder. (Adult--Children’s Literature History and Criticism; Candlewick, 2010)

Sugar Changed the World

2011-02-06T15:06:00.000-08:00

Sugar Changed the World: A Story of Magic, Spice, Slavery, Freedom, and Science

by Marc Aronson and Marina Budhos

Marc Aronson has another winner in this book written in collaboration with his wife, Marina Budhos. The couple became interested in the subject of sugar when they discovered that they both have sugar in their family backgrounds. Aronson’s contact is through an aunt by marriage whose grandfather was a Russian serf who found a way to give raw beet sugar appealing colors. Budhos’ great-grandparents emigrated from India to Guyana to work on the sugar plantations. Aronson has a doctorate in American History and runs the Nonfiction Matters blog at SLJ.com. He was awarded the first Robert F. Sibert Award for Sir Walter Ralegh and the Quest for Eldorado. Budhos is an associate professor English at William Paterson University. She is involved in research into the history of indenture. They see this book as “sugar as a pathway through world history.” It is a fascinating blend of science, history and social commentary—WS. (Nonfiction, gr. 5-9; Clarion, 2010)