A stunning book to add to the collection of Iroquois storytelling
The Huron-Iroquois lived in Canada prior to the Iroquois Confederacy that lived in and around New York State. The Iroquois Confederacy consists of the following tribes: Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca and Tuscarora. In Wisconsin, the Oneida Nation is represented. This creation myth is rooted in this history. It is a story that has been passed down through time. The illustrations are captivating and geometrical. I love how the artwork interprets the story. Having worked at the Oneida Turtle School I appreciate the cultural significance of the images. I applaud the illustration of the turtle and how the calendar is represented on turtle's back. I am so happy about the imagery of the longhouses. Congratulations to David McLimans for his wonderful and reverential eye for detail. This book is a great springboard for Wisconsin studies in schools. It is a significant contribution for the state of WI and our country. (This title is a recommended book from the Children's Book Award committee from Wisconsin for books published in 2011.)
Fractured and Upside Down
This laugh out loud fractured fairy tale of Goldilocks and Three Bears is another gem from Mo Willems. Goldilocks thinks she knows what she's doing but does she really? The Dinosaurs think they know what they're doing, but do they really? The illustrations have lots of fun surprises so study them closely. Fans of Willems' other books will spot a familar face here and there. The phrasing is funny and well structured and the adult readers will enjoy the book on one level while the young listeners will enjoy it on another. This book is a treat. Children reading on their own who are familiar with Goldilocks will also enjoy this book immensely.
There are alternatives!
Hurray for Ian Falconer. Hurray for Olivia. Leave it up to Olivia to finally take on the pink princesses. Someone had to and I'm so glad it's Olivia. Olivia does a good job of realizing that being a princess, especially a pink princess, is not all there is to be in life. The usual sly references and the iconic picture on Olivia's wall are here as well as the great facial expressions of Olivia and her family members. What does Olivia end up being instead of a princess? Once you find out it will make perfect sense. For adults who are tiring of the princess craze and want to introduce their children (let's be real...girls) to a story about something other than princesses this is the book that will do the trick. For everyone else, it's another great trip inside the head of the great Olivia.
Finding your place in the world
This incredibly funny picture book also has a sweet message about going out into the big world and finding your place in it. Several little rodents are born in a "small dark hole" and when they have to emerge because they are getting too big where they are and the obstacles they face are hilarious. Young listeners will be able to figure where the journey is taking these little creatures and will applaud their bravery when resucing one of their own.
This Book's Powerful Message
How many times have we all missed an opportunity to be kind to someone? Chloe doesn't really know why she turns away from the new girl, Maya, when Maya tries to befriend her. And every time Maya asks if she can play with Chloe and the other girls, the answer is always no. So Maya ends up playing alone. And then one day she's gone. This is a beautiful story with a powerful message that will stick with you long after you close the cover of the book.
I Laughed So Hard....
Perfect for Halloween and just about anytime you need a good laugh. This collection of tombstone poems will delight those who love a good play on words. Here's a sample:
No Longer Horsing Around (Horse): First he was just a little hoarse, then the fever took its course.
Great fun to read aloud to the whole family!
Give it your all!
This fourth "Pete the Cat" book brings us another inspiring and uplifting message about positivity. In this wonderful book the song we sing is "give it your all". This is the perfect refrain to match the annual season of giving. Pete the Cat has to take the place of Santa. We know he can do it! As he sings his song (and keeps moving along) readers of all ages are reminded to be sharing, giving people who go the extra mile! (Funny truth: Eric Litwin says he has joined the annals of Jewish authors who have created Christmas offerings. Yippee for all of us!)
A book about encouragement
Rat has been having a hard time pulling it together until he receives an uplifting note. When Rat checks in with his friends he realizes that it is friendships which keep him going. He passes the note on to the next animal who needs a boost.
