CHILDRENS BOOK REVIEWS

A good children's book is like the perfect macaroni and cheese dinner. Warm and comforting.

Here's some of our very favorite selections this season...a perfect blend of new favorites and classics we love having on our shelves to reach for when we need them. Consider these as a great gift, too, as the holidays get closer. All ages, after all, love a good kids book! (Just like most everyone loves an occasional mac-and-cheese dinner!)

The Best Book of Bikes by Amy Pinchuk

Beautiful pictures and easy-to-read sections make this Popular Mechanics For Kids selection a winner for middle school kids. Reading isn't your pre-teen or teen's favorite pastime? Those who love their bike might be swayed to this book isn't all bad. Includes sections devoted to BMX, racing, basic repair instructions as well as some fabulous photos of early bikes/

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The Rough-Face Girl by Rafe Martin (appearing first)

A tale based on Algonquin Indian folklore gives a haunting and powerful Cinderella story sure to captivate the young reader who likes a slightly more serious fairy tale. Martin is a brilliant children's storyteller. Another Cinderella-esque story he weaves with lovely prose is The Twelve Months. Fans may also want to check out Will's Mammoth, The Brave Little Parrot, and The Language of Birds.

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Stone Girl, Bone Girl by Laurence Anholt

This children's version of Mary Anning's life is a great way to show kids what a 'biography' is...and also share an inspirational story of how even a twelve-year-old girl can discover something amazing. Beautiful pictures, too! A highly recommended HER-stores.com read.

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The Desperate Dog Writes Again by Ellen Christlow

A Valentine's Day treasure for dog lovers. A dog's jealousy sparks a great example of how different people (and dogs) can have a unique perspective on the same situation. An advise column slant adds to the enjoyment. Adults and kids will find this choice a winner. The story has somewhat of a comic book feel...which might be appealing for some young readers.

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The Plot Chicken by Mary Jane and Herm Auch

This is a cute children's book that is also a perfect selection for grown-up authors. A chicken goes through all the efforts of writing a story...and sometimes the other players aren't supportive of the plight. The book has a nice, subtle message on self-esteem for everyone. We love it!

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The Giant Jam Sandwich by John Vernon Lord

A classic selection that seems to captivate young readers and will often remain a favorite. The townspeople are upset by all the wasps and hatch a plan. It's a nice story about people brainstorming and working together, supersized food (in a good way) and a warning to insects everywhere of what can happen if they become too irritating.

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Gus Was a Frienly Ghost by Jane Thayer

Gus loves the family that lives in his summer house. But there's a new challenge cropping up he's never faced before. His new friend, the mouse, get jealous and starts to cause some trouble. It's a classic story that can help kids see a storyook example of how ghosts (and maybe people) react when our feelings get hurt. A good, non-scary Halloween read for youngsters that may help them get enthused for trick-or-treating!

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