tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36600422333752754292024-02-19T18:02:45.238-05:00Reviews in ChalkEnjoying and reviewing children's books.Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.comBlogger226125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-31394895980096269502020-06-29T12:46:00.000-04:002020-06-29T12:46:09.715-04:00Plastic Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1583941561l/52270370.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="265" data-original-width="255" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1583941561l/52270370.jpg" /></a></div>
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by Judith Koppens & Andy Engel</div>
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illustrations by Nynke Mare Talsma</div>
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age range: 4+ years old</div>
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Clavis Publishing</div>
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A group of friends are super excited about a beach day, but they get
very disappointed when plastic grocery bags start getting tangled in
their bodies when they go for a swim. When they look around they see
that there is not only plastic bags, but bottles, plastic containers,
and more. Hedgehog has read about it. All the plastic we throw away ends
in the oceans. They have an idea. They don't want to throw away all the
plastic bags they have brought to the beach. They decide to make kites
with them. <br /><br />I liked this story. It is true that it is simple
compared with the complex plastic problem we have, but this is a picture
book for little kids, and I think that the first step of feeling we can
do something is essential. At the end there is also a plan/suggestion
to paint your own cotton bag to use it for groceries, and never again
use the plastic ones again. A nice and purposeful summer activity. <br />The illustrations are also cute, colorful. I kind of feel like going to the ocean. :) <br /><br />I received this book from Clavis Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</div>
Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-46943197638848675672020-06-28T15:18:00.001-04:002020-06-28T15:28:28.286-04:00All Along the River<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1583941844l/52270113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="351" data-original-width="255" height="320" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1583941844l/52270113.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>
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by Magnus Weightman</div>
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age range: 3+, but any age really</div>
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Clavis Publishing</div>
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The journey starts high up in the mountain, where the river is born from
the glacier in it. A little bunny lost his toy duck in the
river, and with the help of his brothers he sails to find it. All along
the river. Each page is a section of the river they sail chasing the
duck. Each page is a world to discover, full of details, characters, and
stories. The landscape changes and the activities the characters are
engaged in change with it. Of course one of the best parts it's finding
duck in every page, which sometimes is trickier than others. The
illustrations are delightful, and a joy to spend time examining. <br />
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I received this book from Clavis Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</div>
Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-66441888983236463412017-01-06T06:11:00.000-05:002017-01-06T06:11:38.414-05:00Wolfie & Fly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNSGWdz8xcuxlh1_df0DM2xES8de54hCg9ES6pQVOFYzMMjmHT4-423Ndpr6deHq1-I54qpVC8KR8HAQRPkI3tanFUPW3W35fw2nrNqHfbJtRR87aC5HQOkJpV24hLR2BGUdvirarhCGo/s1600/wolfie+and+fly.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNSGWdz8xcuxlh1_df0DM2xES8de54hCg9ES6pQVOFYzMMjmHT4-423Ndpr6deHq1-I54qpVC8KR8HAQRPkI3tanFUPW3W35fw2nrNqHfbJtRR87aC5HQOkJpV24hLR2BGUdvirarhCGo/s320/wolfie+and+fly.png" width="224" /></a></div>
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by Cary Fagan</div>
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illustrations by Zoe Si</div>
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age range: 7 to 10 years old</div>
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Tundra Books</div>
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Renata Wolfman likes only facts, to wear every day the same kind of clothes, and above all to spend time by herself. This is why she is called Wolfie at school. She doesn't have friends, and she does not understand why she would want to have one. Having friends requires "cooperation", "compromise", and "respecting other people's opinions", and Renata is perfectly fine with her own opinions. One afternoon, while building a huge submarine with a fridge box, Renata hears a desperate knock in the door, and when she opens it Livingston Flott is there, asking to go inside right away, since he is running away from his brother. Livingston is not only her neighbor. He also attends the same school as Renata, where he is called Fly for annoying people buzzing. Renata expects Livinsgton to leave quickly, but when he sees her submarine, there is no way to make him go. Renata is not sure how but a few moments later they are both inside the submarine, packed with food supplies, traveling underwater. And to Renata's surprise... she is actually enjoying it!</div>
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Splendid beginning for a series! Renata is so lovable in her own way, and Livingston is such a cute character. The text is uncomplicated and full of humor. I loved all the imaginations involved in their adventure. The illustrations are a great complement to the story. I am already looking forward to more Wolfie and Fly's adventures.</div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</div>
Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-30248125554960983412017-01-05T06:08:00.000-05:002017-01-05T06:08:30.610-05:00Animals do, too!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgaTiai7vym7GN_M6ZOUHufcDp5jt4I3tcJJHkucLYL_GRQ1dOmx-8eKI_Wu0SONVLdK7lO4uisQOWIT3XMdWgV1I_rBCy4J_LW_KmfUTxLXYgFEsAhz_ooUQ0Nd42LIyxvuzebnDIszX/s1600/animals+do+too.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgaTiai7vym7GN_M6ZOUHufcDp5jt4I3tcJJHkucLYL_GRQ1dOmx-8eKI_Wu0SONVLdK7lO4uisQOWIT3XMdWgV1I_rBCy4J_LW_KmfUTxLXYgFEsAhz_ooUQ0Nd42LIyxvuzebnDIszX/s1600/animals+do+too.png" /></a></div>
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by Etta Kaner</div>
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illustrations by Marilyn Faucher</div>
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age range: 4 years old and up</div>
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Kids Can Press</div>
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Kids love to pretend they are animals, and roar, walk on four legs, or move they arms like flying. For this reason I find the idea of this book incredibly interesting. Animals sometimes "act like kids", since they also dance, play tag or leapfrog, have piggyback rides. For each of these examples there is an explanation for this behavior. Grey Tree Frogs, for example, blow bubbles to build a nest on trees above water where they lay their eggs, allowing the tadpole to fall into the water when they hatch.</div>
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The illustrations are colorful and bright, and help to compare kids and animals doing the same activity. I liked that the kids are shown in different spaces, like a park, beach or their home, and accompanied by their family and friends. Each animal is also portrayed in its environment and surrounded by their own. Beautiful picture book. </div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-60761644025881949152017-01-04T08:52:00.001-05:002017-01-04T08:52:13.584-05:00The year of the garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN7TL_pi6Fx1efbQzHriIPIRy5E-CPZVd8oe8PDFu66dgeY38kS2ZoX-rKKHFFARruoO5sgPVpfXzpsQt7F9SWV8U9fk4OixhSwT7ciAKOO5Q-wxPcox-NDWZUs8Tu9k614BfjXyF1-ub9/s1600/the+year+of+the+garden.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN7TL_pi6Fx1efbQzHriIPIRy5E-CPZVd8oe8PDFu66dgeY38kS2ZoX-rKKHFFARruoO5sgPVpfXzpsQt7F9SWV8U9fk4OixhSwT7ciAKOO5Q-wxPcox-NDWZUs8Tu9k614BfjXyF1-ub9/s320/the+year+of+the+garden.png" width="215" /></a></div>
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by Andrea Cheng</div>
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illustrated by Patrice Barton</div>
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age range: 6 to 9 years old</div>
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Houghton Mifflin Harcourt</div>
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<i>The year of the garden </i>is a prequel to <i>The year of the book</i> and the Anna Wang Series. In this novel Anna meets Laura who, like her, has just moved into the neighborhood. They like each other right away, but sometimes it is not that easy to be friends. Even being the same age and prospect of attending the same school at the end of the summer is not always enough. They like to do different things, and have different personalities. Sometimes the different cultural background plays its part too. But they learn to focus in what they have in common, and the importance to know more about each other to better understand their interests, fears and dreams. Making a garden and saving a little bunny prove to be amazing plans to do together. </div>
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This short novel was a pleasure to read. The story is sweet, with lovely characters. It not only is funny, but it has simple facts about seeds, flowers, soil, bunnies, Chinese food and festivities, soccer, and specially friendship, and how some difficulties don't mean it is impossible. Friendship is something we build while growing in the process. And it's worth it. There are many cute illustrations along the pages, which make the layout of the book beautiful. Looking forward to read the rest of the series!</div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-47994180152599272142016-12-21T06:01:00.000-05:002016-12-21T17:42:58.115-05:00Harry and Clare's amazing staycation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Qz30sSxFl7_gC1cSIcfpMasMzagHDNSqtkGs7XstDpplqyL685HOkWG3gd8urk3y2TuVYsxwkeq3R1Dclc6a7rYCf7_LfgWmrfBSkJ2xWjpyA1s8HgIt4fR-3jCV1krnJCDu5t93ZMBh/s1600/staycation.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Qz30sSxFl7_gC1cSIcfpMasMzagHDNSqtkGs7XstDpplqyL685HOkWG3gd8urk3y2TuVYsxwkeq3R1Dclc6a7rYCf7_LfgWmrfBSkJ2xWjpyA1s8HgIt4fR-3jCV1krnJCDu5t93ZMBh/s1600/staycation.png" /></a></div>
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by Ted Staunton</div>
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illustrated by Mika Song</div>
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age range: 4 to 7 years old</div>
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Tundra Books</div>
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Harry and Clare are staying home this spring break, and to make things worse the weather is not helping. They don't seem to care, though. They do an expedition to Mars, and also a cars race. They play pirates, and school, and circus, and jungle. Everything would be perfect if Clare wasn't the only one making the rules, and, what it is worse, if she wouldn't manage to always eat both their snacks... Harry has a plan, and when he gets to hoard some supplies of "asteroid burgers" and "volcano sticks" in this pockets, things start to change.<br />
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The story made me laugh out loud. Harry and Clare are very funny, and it is impossible not to relate with their little conflicts. At the same time they manage to solve them in a friendly way. These siblings are so imaginative and creative, and the illustrations accompany so perfectly their games.<br />
In the overall it was a great reading, amusing, enjoyable and sweet. Adorable characters, and lovely pics. It is also very appropriate, since we are just starting a freezing staycation here...<br />
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.<br />
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-65372484074751429202016-12-16T06:14:00.001-05:002016-12-16T06:14:34.304-05:00Sam sorts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi82wHt9tgL9jYXngviqDqGYqzkFUCmS3aBaE6tTeTOv_Vs0AXCk1t6oCUaoZfsYVZ6iFlmqzh_mDpJbzs1kVEh2BMexsjRkjFvnU-bnaNbLe7j-K324TxDA455FyaAv5SRh3Q6lP-oPFDu/s1600/sam+sorts.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi82wHt9tgL9jYXngviqDqGYqzkFUCmS3aBaE6tTeTOv_Vs0AXCk1t6oCUaoZfsYVZ6iFlmqzh_mDpJbzs1kVEh2BMexsjRkjFvnU-bnaNbLe7j-K324TxDA455FyaAv5SRh3Q6lP-oPFDu/s1600/sam+sorts.png" /></a></div>
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by Marthe Jocelyn</div>
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age range: 3 to 6 years old</div>
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Tundra Books</div>
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Sam's bedroom is a complete mess. It is time to clean it up. Sam begins to sort all his stuff to put it away, and he discovers there are so many ways of sorting things! Like in many other sorting books Sam sorts by shape, color, type and function. But what I loved about this book is that Sam dares to go beyond and he sorts his stuff in original and creative ways: things that come in pairs, things whose names rhyme, things with dots, holes, stripes or checks, soft, bumpy, fuzzy, noisy, pointy, smelly. No, that's not all. There are thing that float, and things that fly. Wait. Actually there are things that fly with wings, and things that fly without wings. Even things with wings that do not fly! The outcome is that Sam's stuff is still in a pile, but he has learned a lot of things, and had a lot of fun.</div>
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The pictures are wonderful. The complete book is a huge collage in different colors and textures. The author uses Venn diagrams in such a natural way as part of the story, no explanation is needed. But not all the objects are sorted using Venn diagrams, some times different color backgrounds, or even a rainbow or a pac-man "screen" do the trick. I was happily surprised by this book. A decided 5 stars. </div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.<br />
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-13387040813178085572016-12-13T06:07:00.000-05:002016-12-13T06:08:01.219-05:00Miles McHale, tattletale.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzeM-AJJy9_-dRf29t_a-ZX0sriBWKRrqYgDAtC1m0rqqIwLjQUWPVa8I7lSkSTr2g_beBFH2LmYPjZ_2dZI2KMifSk7yXSmSJ3KOLzdP3ma9fwJZOAgnv2NL7iIfUmHje3e4fVn-Q_5Pv/s1600/tattletale.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzeM-AJJy9_-dRf29t_a-ZX0sriBWKRrqYgDAtC1m0rqqIwLjQUWPVa8I7lSkSTr2g_beBFH2LmYPjZ_2dZI2KMifSk7yXSmSJ3KOLzdP3ma9fwJZOAgnv2NL7iIfUmHje3e4fVn-Q_5Pv/s1600/tattletale.png" /></a></div>
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by Christianne Jones</div>
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Elina Ellis</div>
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age range: 4 to 8 years old</div>
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Capstone</div>
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Miles McHale is a great boy. He is funny, and smart, but he has a big problem, he is a tattletale. He tattled all day long, and even during night. At school he wasn't the only tattletale, but he was definitively the worst. So one day Mrs. Snitcher decides to start the Tattletale Battle, whith the pledge <i>"If a friend is sick, hurt, on in harm's way, then telling someone is OK". </i>The team with fewest number of tattles at the end of the week gets extra recess. Miles is not doing really well. He is trying hard, but sometimes it is difficult to know if he was tattling or not. By the end of the week his team is loosing, and his friends don't want to talk to him. Then is when he decides it. No more tattling. Ever.</div>
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Poor Miles had to learn the difference between tattling and telling the hard way. The story shows in funny and exaggerated examples why tattling is so annoying and also useless. At the same time, deciding to never tell anything again is wrong. Sometimes someone might need our help, and it is necessary to tell an adult what is going on. It can be difficult in some occasions to know if that would be tattling or telling, but as any other social skill, it can be learned and improved. I immediately fell in love with the colorful illustrations, that look fluffy and so expressive. I would say this is a wonderful picture book who focuses in enhance social health in kids, something important to better fit in a community, and enjoy the social experience. </div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.<br />
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<br />Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-76491904756668454122016-12-08T06:20:00.000-05:002016-12-08T06:20:39.876-05:00Very Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4oNbugNamCnu3MUIJ-RWErRkcUY6BVfDyyyXncK4-zeKF149uOJq8g0NsGivXBB6TXze7Yd-CZ1Qb2nOwXrR9hrT47oukd7ijJgGFOsCU27ym0kSDXlhJvSdFwEAcau9-L5w3lj2mAQO8/s1600/Very+Christmas.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4oNbugNamCnu3MUIJ-RWErRkcUY6BVfDyyyXncK4-zeKF149uOJq8g0NsGivXBB6TXze7Yd-CZ1Qb2nOwXrR9hrT47oukd7ijJgGFOsCU27ym0kSDXlhJvSdFwEAcau9-L5w3lj2mAQO8/s320/Very+Christmas.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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by Simone Mets</div>
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cover illustration Jana Pivkova</div>
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age range: 5 years old and up</div>
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What a wonderful Christmas Story! </div>
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This is the blurb from the book's <a href="http://www.verychristmasbook.com/" target="_blank">webpage</a>:</div>
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<i>"When Santa’s workshop is destroyed by a ferocious storm, even the richest man in the world is stumped for a way to save Christmas. Just when everyone seems to give up all hope, the unstumpable Ava Buttons, together with her friends, discover a way to make Christmas wishes come true. Motivated by a desire to help others, Ava converts even her naughtiest friend, Rowdy Meyers, from an enthusiastic getter to a champion giver." </i></div>
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It is a fact. Santa workshop is destroyed, all the presents are lost, and all the "Dear Santa" letters returned to the senders. Not even the richest man in the city with all his money can fix this. Christmas is not coming this year. </div>
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Ava and her friends are incredibly sad. There must be something they can do to save Christmas. But what? Reading the returned letters, Ava realized that she can fulfill one of the wishes giving one of her toys. What if each of them do the same? Would they be able to fulfill all the wishes? They can at least try. The outcome is exceptional. The pile of presents is huge, but more important the good feeling of give to other is gigantic. So gigantic it also reaches Rowdy, the most self-interested kid at school. </div>
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Focused in how it is more important and comforting to give than receive, this story is funny and heartwarming. It left you smiling and hopeful. It is also funny, with lovely characters, and an interesting layout. All of this without giving away Santa's identity secret. </div>
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As you can see the cover is beautiful. This is not exactly a picture book, but more of a short story. Although there are some small illustration, these are particularly details, not full page pictures. I decide to label it for kids 5 years old and up thinking in the amount of text, and specially the amount of time it needs to be read, that probably it is too much for a toddler. </div>
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Great story! Give it a try. </div>
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I received this copy from the author through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. </div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-9436855990110583252016-12-06T13:45:00.000-05:002016-12-06T13:45:54.905-05:00I am a lot of sometimes!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVHQ2bo5a3M4XSk8Dm2hzQy0jAQRbRneVjjE26i-DZ9c0k8HuuqkW6USCTIED_6JEoTbXZg7akpC7KiV5qEbjp93LG4N2Lj1RM-BxDghsWWA6vAZu6QLg9AhZt3WI-ZzDzX_ZPtnjTj_X/s1600/I+am+a+lot+of+sometimes.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVHQ2bo5a3M4XSk8Dm2hzQy0jAQRbRneVjjE26i-DZ9c0k8HuuqkW6USCTIED_6JEoTbXZg7akpC7KiV5qEbjp93LG4N2Lj1RM-BxDghsWWA6vAZu6QLg9AhZt3WI-ZzDzX_ZPtnjTj_X/s1600/I+am+a+lot+of+sometimes.png" /></a></div>
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A growing-up story of identity.</div>
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by Jack Guinan</div>
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illustrated by Lars Rudebjer</div>
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age range: 3 to 5 years old</div>
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Red Chair Press</div>
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We are not always the same way. Sometimes we are big, and sometimes we are small. Sometimes we are strong, and sometimes we are weak. Sometimes we are shy, and sometimes we are loud. That's why we are a lot of sometimes. All those sometimes is who we are. </div>
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The text of this story is really playful, and it is easy for the kids to recognize themselves in the different situations the character goes through along the way. It also keeps the door open to add many other things the kids feel they sometimes are, but that are not in the book. In the way it is written, the book becomes plastic, workable to introduce examples of how the reader feels. I would say the best thing about <i>I am a lot of sometimes</i> is how easy it is to make it your own. The funny and cute illustrations perfectly fit the story. </div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-82678804684940900992016-12-02T06:25:00.001-05:002016-12-02T06:25:07.699-05:00The art of the possible<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxOkZYiTc38n6MiUDbqzPJIPbdHRQzRe5JJ940jLLjRyXoKuWGbpki8adQRugGPbR5lZTMr2i5vBHPtbYHq-53GSu1rTMmswOXBJIGJMqK4jNDT5CSYwRfelyxhPNxmh-08s7StbpeHSx/s1600/art+of+possible.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxOkZYiTc38n6MiUDbqzPJIPbdHRQzRe5JJ940jLLjRyXoKuWGbpki8adQRugGPbR5lZTMr2i5vBHPtbYHq-53GSu1rTMmswOXBJIGJMqK4jNDT5CSYwRfelyxhPNxmh-08s7StbpeHSx/s320/art+of+possible.png" width="250" /></a></div>
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An everyday guide to politics.</div>
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by Edward Keenan</div>
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art by Julie McLaughlin</div>
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age range: 10 to 14 years old</div>
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Owlkids </div>
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You are a politician. This is the approach and reason for this book. Even if you are not old enough to vote, or think you don't need politics, or you choose not to pay attention to politics. Politics is the way we decide as a group how we do things. As a part of a community the decisions your make, or do not make, have an influence in the group. We need politics, and politics needs us. This is why is important to be a good politician, and that means being an informed and active member of the group.<br />
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This idea is repeated and explained along the different chapters of the book, and always in a positive way. The point is not to make the reader feel the burden of this responsibility, but understand how politics are the <i>art of the possible</i>. What is politics; how we decide things as a group, how do you make a good argument, and on the other hand how do you listen at other people's arguments, why conflict is good, and when it starts to be bad, how to keep all of this process honest, are some of the questions addressed by the book. The text is very accessible, and the author manages to avoid difficult or "big" words. The only few that are used are very well explained. The chapters include case studies to better illustrate how things work in real life, and at the end of the book there is also a glossary, index, and list of sources. I was surprised by the fresh and hopeful approach of this book. I am glad I crossed paths with it, and plan to buy a copy for my kids soon. Indisputable 5 stars to me.<br />
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Take a look at the author's introduction to the book in this short <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stjV0lWWUbI&list=PLlVJZdGJqNSg0udtrGvXPXvu1KzIyZ2xp&loop=1&autoplay=1" target="_blank">video</a>.<br />
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-80034282318514558432016-11-30T06:14:00.002-05:002016-11-30T06:14:31.511-05:00Agnes and Clarabelle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXTVKD_leQue_Ya6OMi7KI-ab2ySG48a7Ad9xE1m7pwP5-8nRvB9UmO7PVzDEUzL-ikPXgn5eryWL-AtKYmEjaE1VeVyFTwSOANMG6HJf__NwtPb8Ez-ra5krCRhXHBAEG4KvrQyHGU-XR/s1600/agnes+and+clarabelle.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXTVKD_leQue_Ya6OMi7KI-ab2ySG48a7Ad9xE1m7pwP5-8nRvB9UmO7PVzDEUzL-ikPXgn5eryWL-AtKYmEjaE1VeVyFTwSOANMG6HJf__NwtPb8Ez-ra5krCRhXHBAEG4KvrQyHGU-XR/s320/agnes+and+clarabelle.png" width="237" /></a></div>
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by Adele Griffin and Courtney Sheinmel</div>
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illustrations by Sara Palacios</div>
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age range: 5 to 7 years old</div>
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Bloomsbury</div>
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Agnes and Clarabelle are best friends, and that means everything es better when they are together. This is the soul of this inspiring book. Many sweet stories talk about Agnes and Clarabelle friendship. A surprise party for Clarabelle, that Clarabelle helps to organize too. Agnes' fear of the beach, and how her friend is there to support her and accommodate the plan so everybody has a good time. Agnes' turn of being supportive comes when Clarabelle feels frightened of getting lost in a huge store. And what makes a perfect pizza? Is not the chestnut and chocolate chips toppings, but the joy of making it together.<br />
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This short novel for early readers is divide in four chapter/stories called after the seasons that can be read independently. Agnes and Clarabelle are lovely characters, and their stories will make you smile. They remind me in some way the old <i>Little Bear</i> books, where the focus is put on the good things we can do and experience together. <i>Agnes and Clarabelle</i> have this kids of purity and blessedness. The illustrations are gorgeous. Look at that cover! Colorful and uncomplicated. Bright and with texture. I felt like jumping into the book! Thankfully the stories are thoroughly illustrated. Wonderful option for reading aloud at bedtime, or for independent readers. <br />
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.<br />
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<br />Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-47519658501771862082016-11-28T14:02:00.000-05:002016-11-28T14:02:43.916-05:00I feel worried<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0HiZJsZzM6zEeX9T9fVQoljXoml66W86MVd5U-uwCLIc0Ia0A3x4RGZWH48glIwmfu84VSvW_8T_UKK2XT2ZA9c3gaiAXs43_1hbxyZK0qc30Vn4PV_ogHil6K5mT2oLVs7lYBRsbS0B/s1600/I+feel+worried.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0HiZJsZzM6zEeX9T9fVQoljXoml66W86MVd5U-uwCLIc0Ia0A3x4RGZWH48glIwmfu84VSvW_8T_UKK2XT2ZA9c3gaiAXs43_1hbxyZK0qc30Vn4PV_ogHil6K5mT2oLVs7lYBRsbS0B/s320/I+feel+worried.png" width="249" /></a></div>
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Tips for kids on overcoming anxiety.</div>
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by Nadine Briggs & Donna Shea</div>
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illustrations by Ryan Flynn</div>
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age range: 7 years old and up</div>
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Written in the form of a guide, this book definitively looks like an appropriate tool for kids who have trouble controlling their unjustified worries. It starts thoroughly explaining what worrying is, how it is also known as stress, fear and anxiety, what are the symptoms we experience when we worry, how it is useful to worry when we are in danger since it make us to take action, but how it can be a problem when the worry doesn't have any other function but make us feel bad.<br />
This explanation is followed by ways to find what causes the anxiety, and how to know if the worry is real, or if it is about something that only might happen. Many "tools" are offered so kids can find at least one that works to manage their worries: positive thoughts; relaxation through breathing, "calm scene", and "comfort zone" poster; encouragement cards; among many, many more.<br />
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I found the approach of this book, "you can be stronger than your worries", very honest and age appropriate. It is a book a kid can perfectly read by him or herself, but probably having an adult for sharing the reading, ask questions and find support is a great complement. I also find out about other titles by the authors that also address the importance of growing as an emotionally smart kid: <i>How to make and keep friends</i> (tips for kids and a guide for parents), and <i>I feel mad</i>. I'm really happy to see how mental health issues are being brought to kids in a language they can understand and relate to. Highly recommended!<br />
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.<br />
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-37876111547952946802016-11-22T06:07:00.002-05:002016-11-22T06:07:58.747-05:00Dreaming of Mocha<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQnwkNc7bMo5_ZL_xdG8vol3URO_mR2HfikIiuZiMRkBe16Z4PBfyZ7BAzEEYX2bQQiqgVsV-xrVfhxapOfs6a10ZaEjHFlQhG_uVWmBpyla_XGcdKpSBIMM4NrOEPEs_4JwaASwFn3GDi/s1600/dreaming+of+mocha.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQnwkNc7bMo5_ZL_xdG8vol3URO_mR2HfikIiuZiMRkBe16Z4PBfyZ7BAzEEYX2bQQiqgVsV-xrVfhxapOfs6a10ZaEjHFlQhG_uVWmBpyla_XGcdKpSBIMM4NrOEPEs_4JwaASwFn3GDi/s1600/dreaming+of+mocha.png" /></a></div>
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by An Swerts</div>
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illustrations by Eline Van Lindenhuizen</div>
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age range: 4 years old and up</div>
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Clavis Books</div>
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Florence wants a dog so bad... Any dog. It doesn't matter if it is fat, or thin. Quite or wild. Florence would love to have a dog to play and take care of. Mom and dad don't think it is a good idea, so Florence dreams of finding a homeless dog. And the way sometimes happens, her dreams come true. One afternoon a sloppy dog appears in her own garden! His name is Mocha, and it is love at first sight...<br />At first Florence tries to hide Mocha in her bedroom, but mom finds out in no time. After that she boycotts her parents' posters in search for Mocha's owner. She changes the phone number, and even draws eyeglasses and a mustache in Mocha's picture in order to disguise him. But despite all her efforts Leon appears one day at Florence's door looking for his dog, and he is nothing like her imagined he would be. He is not a despicable person who frightens Mocha away. He is actually a sweet old man happy to find his dog, and Mocha evidently loves him. What is Florence suppose to do now?</div>
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Loving story which crushes your heart, but finally leaves you with a big smile in your face. Florence is like any other kid, and her feelings are the main theme in this book. She goes from hopeful to happy, and from nervous to sad, and even confused and guilty.<br />The illustrations are gorgeous, with an ideal balance between white and color, and focused in all those feelings and in Florence and Mocha relationship. <em>Dreaming of Mocha</em> is a book made for read and reread. </div>
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<span style="color: #272727; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Tahoma, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</span></span></div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-50078158750438434122016-11-17T06:07:00.001-05:002016-11-17T06:08:07.316-05:00Grandma's face tells her story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_9VB46_8ApKcK-3hCDxE7m4UH-456ilX4q_I9Te6dXU27FK9uEc55_gQG0qc3pnMCxYLM8kWog33hW1CvcqP0wvuBhTCGslN8kUPKVWFHcfBO1mA26U5nv6uzdLz7-Z_H33HVY0k7lLlR/s1600/grandma%2527s+face.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_9VB46_8ApKcK-3hCDxE7m4UH-456ilX4q_I9Te6dXU27FK9uEc55_gQG0qc3pnMCxYLM8kWog33hW1CvcqP0wvuBhTCGslN8kUPKVWFHcfBO1mA26U5nv6uzdLz7-Z_H33HVY0k7lLlR/s1600/grandma%2527s+face.png" /></a></div>
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by Elaine McKay</div>
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illustrated by Lynne Bendoly</div>
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age range: 3 to 5 years old</div>
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eTreasures Publishing</div>
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At bedtime, while Grandma sings a lullaby, all the girl is really interested in is the story her face tells. Grandma has spectacular dark brown eyes, and freckles in her chin. And also two little dimples in her cheeks, and a twitchy nose. She even can move her eyebrows separately! All of this tells about when grandma laughs, sneeze, whistle and frowns. </div>
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This is such a sweet story! The girl not only observes her grandma's facial expression marks, she loves them because they tell who her grandma is. Grandma is the referee in family soccer games, because she is very good at whistling through the gap between her front teeth. Grandma puffs her cheeks at the dentist to help the girl feel relaxed. Grandma's face is the best bedtime story. </div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-12253042414128240122016-11-15T06:01:00.000-05:002016-11-15T06:03:29.845-05:00Animal planet strange, unusual, gross and cool animals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZGBqD3v5doYJCCK83CX2BPK_272i9a8aVvccdUt36EUO6wImXOwXhFMo35E6Ku63Xy5WfBwfZy9NUx3ExQWAcbPJg_aTd9LcpNVT0BOsOo-tbCdr9wQmsYMf5bUWUSn08DuoG7GigbRC_/s1600/strange+unusual.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZGBqD3v5doYJCCK83CX2BPK_272i9a8aVvccdUt36EUO6wImXOwXhFMo35E6Ku63Xy5WfBwfZy9NUx3ExQWAcbPJg_aTd9LcpNVT0BOsOo-tbCdr9wQmsYMf5bUWUSn08DuoG7GigbRC_/s320/strange+unusual.png" width="240" /></a></div>
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by Charles Ghigna</div>
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age range: 7 years old and up</div>
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Animal Planet<br />
Time Inc. Books</div>
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Have you ever seen a vampire squid? Did you know that the proboscis monkeys are born with blue faces? Would you like to take a close look at a water dragon's eye? This book contains a huge amount of interesting things to read and learn about a wide range of animals. It is diveded in four parts, Strange, Unusual, Gross and Cool, although many animals are all these things at the same time! And the pictures are wonderful and abundant.<br />
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I found this book surprisingly absorbing. It is all a curious kid would enjoy. The facts are punctual and concrete. The text accessible for the age range. To make the content more clear some animals are joined according to one feature, like "Venomous Creatures" or "Newly Discovered Cratures", while some other are portrayed individually for a deeper view, as in chapter such as "Thorny Dragon" or "Blue-footed booby". And again, the photography is amazing. A strange, unusual, gross and cool addition for the non fiction shelf!</div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.<br />
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<br />Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-7240823483518455952016-10-24T07:49:00.000-04:002016-10-24T07:49:28.113-04:00Whose poop is that?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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by Darrin Lunde</div>
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illustrated by Kelsey Oseid</div>
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age: 4 to 7 years old</div>
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Charlesbridge</div>
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Although it might sound like an accusation, the title is actually a scientific inquiry. Using seven different animals as example, the author shows how many things we can learn from observing and studying (in the case of scientists) poop. In poop we can find bits of bones, feathers, fur, and twigs. Poop also has different appearance, shape, color depending on the animal and its diet. Sometimes something that looks like poop could be vomit, since this is another way animals waste undigested food. A list of facts at the end of the books adds some more interesting information like the importance of poop for the environment, and how it is used to build a nest, mark territory, or spread seeds. </div>
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This topic is very interesting for kids. We all know kids love "gross stuff". The information is presented in a funny and concise way. The pictures illustrate well the differences between the different "samples" without being gross, and without distracting the attention from the nutritional and digestive facts being discussed. And the animals are cute. I really think this non fiction picture book will be a win.</div>
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By the way... I never thought I would write a review with the word "poop" so many times in it... </div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-63341563041119675302016-10-21T08:44:00.000-04:002016-10-21T08:47:26.533-04:00Author's faves: Melissa IwaiHere you have <a href="https://twitter.com/meliwai" target="_blank">Melissa Iwai</a>'s favorite picture books, and her comments on them. Melissa is the illustrator of many wonderful books, among them <a href="http://reviewsinchalk.blogspot.com/2016/09/ill-hug-you-more.html" target="_blank">I'll hug you more</a>, which I have recently reviewed. Enjoy!<br />
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Arm In Arm</div>
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by Remy Charlip</div>
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I remember receiving this book when I was four in 1970 as part of a monthly book club my mother signed up for via the now defunct Parents Magazine Press. I was captivated by the strangeness of this book -- one like no other I had ever seen, and one that was ahead of its time. The cover opens to the back of the book, for one (it has since been re-released by Tricycle Press in 1997 and this newer version doesn't have this feature)! The book is filled with little stories and drawings, almost all of which intrinsically are entwined with each other, much like the title's reference of this story: "The two octopuses got married and walked down the aisle arm in arm in arm in arm in arm in arm in arm in arm in arm in arm in arm in arm in arm in arm in arm in arm"! </div>
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Piero Ventura's Book of Cities</div>
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by Piero Ventura</div>
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This is another childhood favorite. I remember asking my dad to buy me this book when I was a tween -- much older than your average picture book reader. I was and still am captivated by his spare, yet highly detailed illustrations of great cities in the world. He describes the unique features of each place, as well as what it's like to live there: What are the houses like? What kind of work do people do? What do the inhabitants do for fun? Each scene is full of activity, and it is so enjoyable to see what all the tiny city people are doing. I literally wanted to live in his drawings! Now, as an adult, I'm happy to say that I've visited most of them and now live in one of my favorite illustrated city, New York! </div>
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Sylvester and the Magic Pebble</div>
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by William Stieg</div>
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This classic by William Stieg, which won him the Caldecott, is a family favorite. I received it from a dear friend when I was pregnant with our son thirteen years ago. Sylvester, a donkey, comes across a magic pebble, unwittingly cuts himself off from his family, and turns into a rock. The text is straightforward and the drawings are simple, but they capture the depth of emotion and pathos and humor that is all part of life. I still can't help choking up every time I read this story aloud when Sylvester is finally reunited with his parents and they all realize that they don't need a magic pebble to grant them anything ---"they had all that they needed". </div>
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The Chicken Sisters by Laura Numeroff,</div>
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illustrated by Sharleen Collicott</div>
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Laura Numeroff delivers in this zany, hilarious story about three hens with quirky personalities (annoying to their neighbors) who drive away a scary wolf who's moved into town. On the surface the premise isn't that compelling, but the way it's executed is brilliant. The story is told in a dry, dead-pan manner, which when read aloud, is hilarious. Sharleen Collicott's amazing gouache paintings take it to another level with her humor and attention to detail. I bought this book long before we had our son, and I pored over the wonderful artwork for hours. Collicott perfectly illustrates the characters' eccentricities and their relationships with each other. And my husband and I still quote the phrase, "Boy, do I love to ____!" over a decade later, invoking the memory of the Chicken Sisters, as an inside joke.</div>
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The Little Fur Family, by Margaret Wise Brown </div>
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illustrated by Garth Williams</div>
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The little fur child explores the "wild wild wood" where he lives with his fur mother and father in a "warm wooden tree". Margaret Wise Brown expertly and gently writes about the fur child's exploration and discovery and growth in such simple words! And Garth Williams perfectly captures the warmth and love of the fur family, "warm as toast, smaller than most, in little fur coats". My husband and I like to believe he depicts a biracial family using animals, though Williams has never said this was on purpose. In 1959, The Rabbits' Wedding was controversial in Alabama, because some believed Williams was subliminally criticizing racial segregation with his paintings of a black and white rabbit getting married. He denied it was his intention - that he made them black and white, so he could tell them apart.<br />
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Still, my husband and I like to pretend we are the fur family in The Little Fur Family, living in with our "little fur child" in our "little fur world".<br />
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<b>Thank you, Melissa!</b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">"The Little Fur Family that we own, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">which was released more recently. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">We love the furry book cover! :)"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Melissa</span><br />
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-25213328920695047342016-10-19T12:11:00.000-04:002016-10-19T12:11:58.050-04:00Gertrude and Toby save the Gingerbread Man<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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#2 in the Gertrude and Toby Series</div>
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by Shari Tharp</div>
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illustrated by Jim Heath</div>
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age range: 5 to 7 years old</div>
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Atlas Publishing</div>
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Gertrude the goat, and Toby the turtle are best friend. In this second book in the series they try to help the Gingerbread Man, who is being kept in a cage by a giant who lives up in an also giant vine. They count with the help of a flying carpet, and also Hansel and Gretel. </div>
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This book is very humorous with that kind of humor that includes as much ingenuity as absurdity. The presence of so many characters from fairy tales gives it an air of surreal too. Addressed to kids who are leveling up from the "early readers" step, the story would work great ether if it is read by or to the kid. Since I read an ARC copy, many of the illustrations were still in the sketch stage, but all of them, finished and unfinished, look really funny, with expressive characters and only the necessary details. </div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-68834382919222679392016-10-17T06:13:00.000-04:002016-10-17T06:13:54.273-04:00Pilots and what they do<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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by Liesbet Slegers</div>
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age range: 2 to 4 years old</div>
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Clavis Books</div>
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Airplanes are always a source of fascination for kids. There are so many things to ask about them! While telling about what pilots do, this book also guides the reader inside a plane, and instructs about how it flies. From what a pilot wears to a nice and safe landing, we meet the flight attendants and the cockpit; we read about the control tower and the runaway; we checked the fuel, wind, height and speed; we knew about seat belts, snacks and drinks; we learn about wheels and wings; and of course we enjoyed beautiful sights from above.</div>
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The illustrations are simple and colorful. The page layout reminds me a books I used to read when I was a toddler, with a full picture on the right side, and a white page with the text and a small picture of a detail on the left. It is interesting. It encourage questions. It makes you feel like you learn something new and amazing. The author also plays with the idea of many kids dreaming about being pilots when they grow up. In summary, a very good non fiction picture book for little kids on a attractive topic.</div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.<br />
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-57493150686618857552016-10-13T07:53:00.000-04:002016-10-13T07:55:00.422-04:00The case of maker mischief<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVZdTsqhVWFRjd8yeT6AEdhzWWnZ3uKndWxqm_giEDBk78p-vY6NEprjecmYuJKksRpMDrFEvqA6Pw7Z7v7nysP8hUVGqPeIbQdT9hzoW0tGJIGJ003rN-31d_G9Kp8XoJt81v8bc-zr-/s1600/west+meadow+detectives.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVZdTsqhVWFRjd8yeT6AEdhzWWnZ3uKndWxqm_giEDBk78p-vY6NEprjecmYuJKksRpMDrFEvqA6Pw7Z7v7nysP8hUVGqPeIbQdT9hzoW0tGJIGJ003rN-31d_G9Kp8XoJt81v8bc-zr-/s320/west+meadow+detectives.png" width="248" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #272727; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10.0pt;">#2 in the West Meadows
Detectives<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10.0pt;">by Liam O'Donnell<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10.0pt;">illustrated
by Aurélie Grand<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10.0pt;">age range: 7 to 10
years old<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Myron is a detective third grader, and Hajrah
is his partner. In this second book in the series they are trying to find out
who stole Robson, a robot built by their classmates, Jordan and
"Glitch", for the Maker Faire Robot Maze Challenge. So far this
sounds like an good mystery like many other mysteries for this age range. So,
what makes this book different? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10.0pt;">The <em>West
Meadows Detectives </em>series is told in first person by Myron,
who happens to be in the autistic spectrum. The reader will notice from
the very first pages how this is mirrored in the writing style, which is
focused in the facts, without unnecessary descriptions, or needless extra
words. Myron also express in many opportunities along the story how he feels
about the situations in his everyday life, like noisy places, unexpected
changes in the routine, or how sometimes his brain feels overloaded by the
world around him. And at the same time how much he loves logic facts, and his
ability to find and process clues. At the same time Hajrah happens to be
hyper-energetic, with difficulties to sit or stay still, but also a great sense
of how to help Myron when he feels overwhelmed by a situation. And Myron
and Hajrah are not the only ones, since they are part of a neuro diverse group
at the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">West</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Meadows</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">School</st1:placetype></st1:place>.
The readers will also meet Sarah "Smasher" McGintley, who is a female
bully bulling boys, something also uncommon to find in children's novels. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10.0pt;">These nontraditional characters already make
the story more than worthy. Now add a pinch of science, robots, coding, and
challenges. Serve with black & white enjoyable pictures, that also complement
the story showing the characters' body language and actions. And there you
are. A wonderful book I recommend you to
try. I will keep a close eye on this series myself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10.0pt;">I received this copy from the publisher via
NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-68199787983950381062016-10-11T12:05:00.000-04:002016-10-11T12:05:17.683-04:00Move it, Miss Macintosh!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Jx3uyeRs8kuqSMWTXU2joTukLIF064hvwSnQSJsUFiUinONa7TG57bkKP6tkoH88F9V9vuBE7PQ7jqcL4f3E8Ak6VjJzpsTvZxr3uN5QyiMZ3_3W6T5GkYGJrxbYTJtPdXNoX0OU-hii/s1600/move+it.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Jx3uyeRs8kuqSMWTXU2joTukLIF064hvwSnQSJsUFiUinONa7TG57bkKP6tkoH88F9V9vuBE7PQ7jqcL4f3E8Ak6VjJzpsTvZxr3uN5QyiMZ3_3W6T5GkYGJrxbYTJtPdXNoX0OU-hii/s1600/move+it.png" /></a></div>
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by Peggy Robbins Janousky</div>
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art by Meghan Lands</div>
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age range: 4 to 6 years old</div>
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Annick Press</div>
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There are many common worries on the first day of kindergarten: what if nobody likes me? What if I can't find my classroom? What if I can't open my lunch box? Even phrases like "school is not for me" and "I'm not going" are totally normal. But what if all this thoughts are coming from Miss Macintosh, the kindergarten teacher?</div>
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This book bring the<em> "everyone's new in kindergarten"</em> idea a little farther making the reader laugh about all this worries. I think is a great story to share with anxious future kindergartners, and even a perfect read aloud read on the first day of school as an ice breaker. Along the way the readers also meet the principal, the school bus driver, the lunch lady and many other special teachers, who in some funny way let everyone know all the amazing things that are awaiting at school. And before Miss Macintosh could even realize it, she is already loving kindergarten!</div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-65051918259801096252016-10-07T09:29:00.000-04:002016-10-07T09:29:00.800-04:00Everton Miles is stranger than me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5escx3j8sQRvgNoczc3ss6fcTQV3G6og8ZlfN4YGilPvaU3l7gmuAtt6efBFoyxe_7FxBmf1tCuDFlF6sT9xRxGD2DObE8FWS6zVMKLOZ3a87tmbHXpMo_riIglC2YaIvXFzPjaIgTbVZ/s1600/everton+miles.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5escx3j8sQRvgNoczc3ss6fcTQV3G6og8ZlfN4YGilPvaU3l7gmuAtt6efBFoyxe_7FxBmf1tCuDFlF6sT9xRxGD2DObE8FWS6zVMKLOZ3a87tmbHXpMo_riIglC2YaIvXFzPjaIgTbVZ/s320/everton+miles.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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sequel to <em>The strange gift of Gwendolyn Golden</em></div>
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by Philippa Dowding</div>
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age range: 9 to 12 years old</div>
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Dundurn</div>
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Gwendolyn is a fourteen years old girl who also happens to be a Night Flyer, which means she has the ability to fly without mechanical assistance. As every Night Flyer she has a Mentor and a Watcher, and she also has all the problems a "normal" teenager has. Everything gets even more complicated when Everton Miles, another Night Flyer, moves to town. Everton is strange, it's true, but not as strange as the black feathered creature who follows Gwendolyn calling her when she flies at night. What it is happening here?</div>
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This middle grade novel was very enjoyable to read. The plot is absolutely engaging from the very first pages. Although it clearly has fantastic components, the story is set in a pretty normal small town. There are many funny moments, and some scary ones. Some of the issues of being a teenager are addressed along the way: gifts and responsibility, grief and expectations, dreams and reality. Friendship, in its different forms, is probably the main theme. I didn't read the first book in the series, but I will do it soon. And I really would love to see more books in this series. I think Gwendolyn, Everton, Martin and Jez has still much more to give us.</div>
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I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-37742163661724721872016-10-03T06:10:00.000-04:002016-10-03T06:10:15.824-04:00In the land of broken time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Y4aO5A2p5tD0orZcemFEDBGODhZtu7rYTYOExct-lmXO4RW5HRVgEEIbIjf7OGDx4NUCd96P5k60ukOwQQzd5LGql6L9daDIgMV8Q385fM-sOanTjlWkEilvU7JsEW9uF7n6DFZs4Kr5/s1600/land+of+broken+time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Y4aO5A2p5tD0orZcemFEDBGODhZtu7rYTYOExct-lmXO4RW5HRVgEEIbIjf7OGDx4NUCd96P5k60ukOwQQzd5LGql6L9daDIgMV8Q385fM-sOanTjlWkEilvU7JsEW9uF7n6DFZs4Kr5/s320/land+of+broken+time.jpg" width="199" /></a></div>
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by Max Evan</div>
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illustrations by Maria Evan</div>
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translation by Helen Hagon</div>
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age range: 8 to 12 years old</div>
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Everything stars when a circus arrives to town and Christopher decides to sneak away at night to see it. There he meets Sophie, they are chased by a guard, and decided to hide in the basket of a hot air balloon. Afraid of being caught they undo the knot, and the balloon flies free caught in the wind. That's when Duke, a talking golden retriever who was sleeping in the basket, appears. All of this is exciting enough. Now imagine when they land in a strange place where time is broken...</div>
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<i>In the land of broken time</i> is a short fantastic novel in seven chapters full of action, and adorable characters. The themes are time and friendship. Information about how to measure time and how it affect us is exposed as part of the plot, and the way the characters love and take care of each other is beautifully touching. The illustrations are lovely, colorful, and add to the dreamy feeling of the story. I think this book is an interesting option for kids who love fantastic plots, time travel, and action. It is also a quick read. </div>
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I received this copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.</div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3660042233375275429.post-11487452078555112552016-09-28T06:06:00.000-04:002016-09-28T06:07:31.153-04:00Blog Tour: Max at night<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJ1IA_j0QFG2tttLPlf3oTkDIUXzDnb6M5siXoR6YJ3EzOfbUHXXytiGux6A-mIKh49MU8-MlbDJyusyK4BIBU5igaANb16Y_4Jb7QGbcKqQcvhOOQbOvDVOn8LNNqw0RqyD1fAAQicy9/s1600/max+at+night.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJ1IA_j0QFG2tttLPlf3oTkDIUXzDnb6M5siXoR6YJ3EzOfbUHXXytiGux6A-mIKh49MU8-MlbDJyusyK4BIBU5igaANb16Y_4Jb7QGbcKqQcvhOOQbOvDVOn8LNNqw0RqyD1fAAQicy9/s1600/max+at+night.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div>
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<i>Reviews in Chalk</i> is hosting today the <i>Max at Night</i> Blog Tour. I reviewed this book by <a href="https://twitter.com/ed_vere" target="_blank">Ed Vere</a> for the first time nearly 5 months ago, and it is still a favorite bedtime story. It is so calming! I hope you give it a try and enjoy it too!</div>
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text and illustrations by Ed Vere</div>
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age range: 3 and up</div>
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Sourcebooks Jabberwocky</div>
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Max is just a sweet, little cat who wants to say <em>good night </em>to Moon before going to sleep. But Moon is nowhere to be seen. Max goes outside, climbs trees, buildings, and more. He asks the night, the hill and the rooftops where Moon is. Finally the wind blows the clouds away, and the night turns bright and beautiful with a big, wonderful moon. And Max is so sleepy...</div>
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This story is really cute, and Max is an adorable character. The slow pace, and the repetitiveness of the text makes it an ideal bedtime story. The illustrations are simple, but lovely, colorful enough without being bright, as I think a bedtime story needs to be.</div>
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Although the book is recommended for kids 3 years old and up, I would say younger readers will enjoy it too. My 19 months old son loved it.</div>
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Reviews in Chalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10900863024196235715noreply@blogger.com0