Kids' Corner

Books - the Perfect Gift

The season of gift giving has arrived!   Books make the perfect gift: one size fits all, no batteries are required, and they can be enjoyed over and over again.  Here are some suggestions:

Artist to Artist:  23 Major Illustrators Talk to Children About Their Art     
Compiled by the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art (in Amherst, MA- definitely worth a visit), this offers a fascinating look at artists including Tomie dePaola, Alice Provensen, Paul Zelinsky , Leo Lionni and 19 others.  For ages 4 – adult

Jack Plank Tells Tales   by Natalie Babbitt
The newest book by the author of Tuck Everlasting, this relates the efforts of an unemployed pirate to find work.  A wonderful read-aloud.      For grades 2 – 6

Peter & the Secret of Rundoon by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson
For fans of the Starcatchers series, this is the third and final installment of the prequels to J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan.
For ages 9 – 12

Mother Goose Numbers on the Loose by Leo and Diane Dillon
The 24 traditional counting rhymes, accompanied by lively and colorful illustrations, will be read over and over again.
For preschool – grade 2

Glass Slipper, Gold Sandal:  A Worldwide Cinderella by Paul Fleischman
17 variations of Cinderella are woven together into one charming, multi-cultural story.  The illustrations by Julie Paschkis are perfect.
For K – grade 5

1-2-3: a Child’s First Counting Book  by Alison Jay
This enchanting companion to the author’s A B C includes fairy tale characters such as Jack and the Beanstalk, Little Red Riding Hood, and the Frog Prince.   For preschool – grade 3

Footwork:  The Story of Fred and Adele Astaire by Roxane Orgill
A fascinating look at one of the world’s most famous dancers- from his start at the age of 4 to his fame on Broadway- and his older sister.  For ages 6 – 10

Mythology  by Dugald Steer
Filled with flaps, foldouts and other surprises, here is an energetic and interactive introduction to Greek myths.  For ages 8 – 12

I Am Invited to a Party!  and  There is a Bird on Your Head!  by Mo Willems
The author/illustrator of Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! gives us two delightful beginning readers about Elephant and Piggie.
For K – grade 2

World Almanac and Book of Facts 2008
Over one thousand pages of facts, up to date maps, and answers to everyday questions.  Every home should have a copy of this!
For grades 3 – adult

Happy Reading,  and Happy Holidays!
Ellen Xydias, Children’s Librarian