Review: Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vaderpool

Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool, YR, 2011, Ebook, 384p, My Rating=5
Source: borrowed from library through Overdrive
Newbery Award Winner 2011

Winner of the 2011 Newbery Award.
The movement of the train rocked me like a lullaby. I closed my eyes to the dusty countryside and imagined the sign I’d seen only in Gideon’s stories: Manifest—A Town with a rich past and a bright future.
Abilene Tucker feels abandoned. Her father has put her on a train, sending her off to live with an old friend for the summer while he works a railroad job. Armed only with a few possessions and her list of universals, Abilene jumps off the train in Manifest, Kansas, aiming to learn about the boy her father once was.
Having heard stories about Manifest, Abilene is disappointed to find that it’s just a dried-up, worn-out old town. But her disappointment quickly turns to excitement when she discovers a hidden cigar box full of mementos, including some old letters that mention a spy known as the Rattler. These mysterious letters send Abilene and her new friends, Lettie and Ruthanne, on an honest-to-goodness spy hunt, even though they are warned to “Leave Well Enough Alone.”
Abilene throws all caution aside when she heads down the mysterious Path to Perdition to pay a debt to the reclusive Miss Sadie, a diviner who only tells stories from the past. It seems that Manifest’s history is full of colorful and shadowy characters—and long-held secrets. The more Abilene hears, the more determined she is to learn just what role her father played in that history. And as Manifest’s secrets are laid bare one by one, Abilene begins to weave her own story into the fabric of the town.
Powerful in its simplicity and rich in historical detail, Clare Vanderpool’s debut is a gripping story of loss and redemption.

It took me over a week to read this because my kids had so much going on (practices, concerts, boy scouts, activity days, etc.) that I had very little time to read.  Usually late at night when everyone's asleep but by that time, I was so tired that I couldn't keep my eyes open.  Anyway, few pages here and there made for a very long read but I enjoyed the story so much that in reflection, it was like I was savoring it, so yay!  Indeed, this rich historical fiction kept my interest.  I like the small town history and its simple and fascinating culture.  The mysterious weaving of the plot certainly was what set this to high standards for me.  It had sassy characters and heart touching story of family ancestry, love, fellowship, and fitting in.  Speaking of characters.  I love the names of the characters in this novel, particularly, Jinx.  Can you guess why?  Hehehe, my close friends call me that.  Anyhow, well done, Ms Vanderpool! I'm one satisfied and happy bookworm.

Reviews: Pete the Cat: Wheels on the Bus; The Princess and the Pea

Pete the Cat: The Wheels On the Bus by James Dean, YR, 2013, Board Book, 32p, My Rating=3
SourceL library

The kitties on the bus say,
"Come on, Pete!
Come on, Pete!"

The kitties on the bus say,
"Come on, Pete!
Hop on board!"

Pete the Cat can't wait to drive the school bus all the way to school! Everyone's favorite cat is groovier than ever in this way- cool adaptation of the classic kids' song "The Wheels on the Bus"!

My nursery kids enjoyed this rendition of Wheels on the Bus. There's something about Pete the Cat illustrations that catches their eyes ..bold, colorful, and fun.


The Princess and the Pea by Paul Galdone, Hans Christian Andersen, YR, 1979, Paperback, 32p, My Rating=3
Source: library

This adaptation of The Princess and the Pea, the classic fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, is illustrated with the whimsical illustrations of Paul Galdone. It tells the tale of a prince who is searching for a real princess to marry, but has no luck searching his kingdom. One stormy evening a princess shows up at his castle and he thinks she may be what he has been searching for, but can she pass the test to prove she is a true princess?

Story is funny. Illustrations, just okay.

Reviews: Where Is Baby's Belly Button; My Little Teapot; This Little Piggy

Where Is Baby's Belly Button? by Karen Katz, YR, 2009, Anniversary Edition Board Book, 14p, My Rating=4
Source: library

Celebrate fifteen years of Where Is Baby’s Belly Button? with this oversize board book edition!

Where are Baby’s hands?
Under the bubbles!
Where are Baby’s eyes?
Under her hat!

This bestselling lift-the-flap board book is back in an oversize board edition just in time for its fifteenth anniversary! Karen Katz’s adorable babies play peek-a-boo in this delightful interactive book. The playful text and vibrant, patterned illustrations are sure to keep little ones mesmerized as they search for Baby’s hands, eyes, feet, and much more! This sturdy format and large, easy-to-lift flaps are perfect for parents and children to share.

Another fun one for the nursery kids. Wonderful board book with lift-the-flap that the kids enjoyed flipping. I look at it as a book version of peek-a-boo that young and old love to play.


My Little Teapot! by Annie Kubler, YR, 2007, Board Book, 10p, My Rating=4

Presents the lyrics to the nursery rhyme along with illustrations featuring children acting out the motions indicated by the song.

Had a kick singing and doing the moves with my nursery kids on this one! Keeping this ol' lady young :)


This Little Piggy by Annie Kubler, YR, 2007, Board Book, 10p, My Rating=4
Source: library

This award winning series has been specifically designed for babies. A great introduction to books through well-known nursery rhymes and interactive text. Singing songs and rhymes is the perfect way to bond with your baby and share quality time. It also aids language development by introducing them to the natural sounds and patterns of speech. Combining these with actions also stimulates the brain and helps muscle development.

Luckily my toes were ready (trimmed and painted nails) when I read this to my nursery kids. Such a fun rhythmic tale. Cute illustrations too.

Review: Pete the Cat and His Magic Sunglasses by Kimberly Dean

Pete the Cat and His Magic Sunglasses by Kimberly Dean, James Dean (Illustrator), YR, 2013, 40p, Hardcover, My Rating=4
Source: own

Pete the Cat is back in New York Times bestselling artist James Dean's picture book Pete the Cat and His Magic Sunglasses, written by Kimberly Dean. Pete the Cat wakes up feeling grumpy—nothing seems to be going his way. But with the help of some magic sunglasses, Pete learns that a good mood has been inside him all along. Fans of Pete the Cat will love watching him take his positive outlook and transform a grumpy day into an awesome day!

My nursery kids (18mos-3yo) that I teach at church enjoyed this when I read it to them. They like the illustrations, especially the turtle on its back. But they're attention span is usually low (particularly with the 18mos) so we don't seem to get to the very end, a bit too long for them. I caught on so I split the story when we meet. However, they always get a kick out of taking turns wearing the blue magic paper sunglasses that came with the book! :)

Review: Madame Pamplemousse and Her Incredible Edibles by Rupert Kingfisher

Madame Pamplemousse and Her Incredible Edibles by Rupert Kingfisher, Sue Hellard (Illustrations), YR, 2008, 144p, Hardcover, My Rating=4
Source: library

Madeleine must work in her horrible Uncle Lard's restaurant, The Squealing Pig, every summer. Though a fairly good cook herself, Madeleine is only allowed to wash dishes and stay out of the way. But one evening while on an errand for the chef, her luck changes. As she wanders through the streets of Paris, she happens upon a tiny shop. Not just any shop, but Edibles owned by Madame Pamplemousse.

When Uncle Lard learns of the extraordinary and delicious ingredients brewing in Madame Pamplemousse's kitchen, he decides to steal her recipes and he'll use his niece to do it. Lucky for Madeleine, Madame Pamplemousse may not be the only chef capable of culinary magic….

A charming little book that I read in one sitting. The intriguing and mysterious characters made this a quick and delightful read. It was the ending that disappointed me, though it had a happy ending. Can't get my finger on exactly why.

Review: When Bob Met Woody: The Story of Young Bob Dylan by Gary Golio

When Bob Met Woody: The Story of Young Bob Dylan by Gary Golio, Marc Burckhardt (Illustrator), YR, 2011, 40p, Hardcover, My Rating=5
Source: own

"Hey hey, Woody Guthrie, I wrote you a song..." When Bob finished, Woody's face lit up like the sun. Bob Dylan is a musical icon, an American legend, and, quite simply, a poet. But before he became Bob Dylan, he was Bob Zimmerman, a kid from rural Minnesota. This lyrical and gorgeously illustrated picture book biography follows Bob as he renames himself after his favorite poet, Dylan Thomas, and leaves his mining town to pursue his love of music in New York City. There, he meets his folk music hero and future mentor, Woody Guthrie, changing his life forever.

Beautiful illustrated story of Bob Dylan's youth ...beginnings of his climb to fame. I foresee many children who come across this book would be inspired to live their dream. Dylan fans would certainly treasure this and share with their children.

Review (Spoiler Alert): Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Wonder by R.J. Palacio, YR, 2012, 320p, Hardcover, My Rating=5
Source: library
**SPOILER ALERT**

August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a facial deformity that prevented him from going to a mainstream school—until now. He's about to start 5th grade at Beecher Prep, and if you've ever been the new kid then you know how hard that can be. The thing is Auggie's just an ordinary kid, with an extraordinary face. But can he convince his new classmates that he's just like them, despite appearances?

R. J. Palacio has written a spare, warm, uplifting story that will have readers laughing one minute and wiping away tears the next. With wonderfully realistic family interactions (flawed, but loving), lively school scenes, and short chapters, Wonder is accessible to readers of all levels.

I came into this book with anxiety so the read felt drawn-out. See, the only thing I had to go on about this book was the word, "bully", from a friend's book review while browsing my Goodreads friends' updates. I didn't read his review but that word caught my eye and the next thing I knew I was checking out the book from the library. I was anticipating a very harsh roughhousing (prior to a happy ending) and that made for a tense read. How crazy am I? Anyway, I'm glad Julian or others didn't beat August to a pulp like my crazy head was fearful of. Instead Ms Palacio truly humanized and embraced the wonderment of perspective. Through the point-of-views of several characters, I, the reader got the whole story. I learned most because I was in everyone's thoughts and I had all the lessons to take away. By book's end I was in tears ..both from relief of my anxiety and the powerful lesson of the beauty of kindness. Never fails, stories about good people being good to other people gets me all the time!

My Quote-ables:
"But really believe, and Daddy really believes, that there are more good people on this earth than bad people, and the good people watch out for each other and take care of each other." pg. 279

"And if you do this, if you act just a little kinder than is necessary, someone else, somewhere, someday, may recognize in you, in every single one of you, the face of God." pg 301

Review + $25 Giveaway: Fetch by Adam Glendon Sidwell

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Fetch by Adam Glendon Sidwell, YR, 2014, My Rating=4
Source: pdf copy provided by tour host in exchange for an honest review

A story for anyone who’s ever been loved by a dog or given one a home.

At least nine sunsets away, there’s a place where dogs can do what they want. But they aren’t all the same, and when a special one has the courage to fly, he finds something unexpected beyond the tenth horizon.

This picture book was minimal in text but paired with the high quality illustrations, it spoke volumes of teachings. Like, love, loyalty of pets (particularly dogs), daring to venture to the unknown, and enjoying your young life. Great happy lessons that’s perfect for the toddler in your life. So if you want a bit of sunshine in your bedtime reading, pick up this book and enjoy!

Before I go, here's what my family has to say about the book:
*6yo son, "I like it."
*7yo daughter, "I like the part that dogs have a place where they can do anything they want."
*11yo, "It's imaginative."
*Husband, "Cool!"

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Review: The Dreamosphere by Laura Stoddard

The Dreamosphere by Laura Stoddard, YR, 2014, Softcover, 201p, My Rating: 4
Source: provided by publicist in exchange for an honest review

What if dreams don’t disappear when we wake up? Haunted by her younger sister’s death, and her unwitting role in the incident, 11-year-old Gwenevere Stoker takes solace in the Dreamosphere—a dimension where all dreams still exist. But when someone begins destroying her dreams, Gwen must find the culprit—or risk losing all her happiness forever. Bask in the mystery and imagination of dreams in this touching, funny, mind-bending children’s tale that encompasses themes of grief, friendship, family, healing, and grand adventure!

Now here’s a fantasy novel that parents wouldn’t mind their middle schoolers reading. It was imaginative, fascinating, and substantial. There was a feel of originality to the story that made for an exciting read. The mystery it presented in the beginning had me hooked, the plot had me lined, and the sinker came at the end. Although, I was able to guess who the “bad” guy was and the potential hero at the end, I was surprised at why; so that was a delightful discovery.

This was a fun quick read.  I was immersed in Gwen's story because I liked that the dream world tied well with the real world.  There was a lot of heart in the evolution of the tale and that provided room for lessons that the readers can take.  Well done, Ms Stoddard!  This was a charming debut.

By the way, the cover is very pretty.  So fetching that it's too pretty for my son to be seen with (he's going to middle school for the first time this fall). But attractive in my 7 year old daughter's eyes. In fact, the day I received the book in the mail, she said, “Oooh, so pretty! Can I read this, Mom?” And she did start reading it that day. :)

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Review: Illustrated Stories from the Book of Mormon by Clinton F. Larson

Illustrated Stories from the Book of Mormon (Book One: 1Nephi 1:1 - 1Nephi 3:29) by Clinton F. Larson, YR, 2012, eBook with audio option, 65p, My Rating=5
Source: purchased

Originally published in sixteen hardbound volumes, the original Illustrated Stories from the Book of Mormon was produced through monumental efforts by many prominent LDS scholars, artists, writers, researchers and assistants. This enhanced eBook edition brings their work to a new generation, complete with digitized and enhanced artwork, audio and text, and new designs and interactivity.

Book One original content &copy 1967 Promised Land Publications, Inc. Licensed to Grandin Press, LLC. First eBook edition 2012. New content added &copy 2012 Grandin Press, LLC.

SIMPLY AMAZING!! I got this and book #17 for free at iTunes/iBook. Score!

This ebook had the option to "read to me" and wow! The audio with orchestra score quality was phenomenal. The artwork was gorgeous too. Its original hardcover series is now current with the 21st century digital age ...sweet perks to modern technology. :)

My kids and I absolutely love it. We'll be reading/listening to this often and will slowly purchase the collection. It'll be worth the pretty penny for them.

Review: God Got A Dog by Cynthia Rylant

God Got A Dog by Cynthia Rylant, Illustrated by Marla Frazee, YR, 2013, 48p, My Rating=2
Source: library

A sublime book for all ages, God Got a Dog celebrates the simple things in our world while taking a long, close look at what it means to be human. The soft, reflective, and often humorous words and pictures create a glimpse into everyday life through wide and wondering eyes that blends the familiar with the profoundly spiritual.

Stumbled upon this book at the library. The title stuck out to me so I read it.

Interesting concept but I didn't really see the spiritual perspective it promised, "It's hard to be God. You have to well, be GOD. But you also get to be God. Which means you have quite a perspective on things-- a perspective that no one else has. No one. So there you are, looking out at the world and everything in it, and one day you just might want to see what it's like to be a part of it all, and since you're God, you can do that. And so ...you do." (front cover flap)

I think it would have worked for me if all the "God" words were replaced by the word "Michael Jackson" (or your choice of a famous person). Then, it would be perspective!

Review: Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe

Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe, Illustrated by N.C. Wyeth, YR, 2003, Abridged picture book edition, 53p, My Rating=4
Source: library

Robinson Crusoe, once a brave sailor out to seek his fortune, is now a captive -- a captive of a lonely desert island on which he is marooned. With only his wits and the few supplies he is able to carry from his sinking ship to sustain him, he is forced to create a new life for himself, out of virtually nothing. As the years go by, Crusoe slowly becomes accustomed to a life of solitude. He has only Pol -- the parrot he has tamed -- a few cats, and some wild goats to keep him company and gradually, his island becomes more of a paradise than a prison. But this tranquility is unexpectedly shattered when one day, he sees a footprint...soon to be followed by a group of savages who have invaded his island. Crusoe finds himself fiercely defending an island that has become his own, and fighting for the chance to return home.

Carefully abridged for younger readers, this second addition to the Scribner Storybook Classic line, with striking illustrations by N. C. Wyeth, revitalizes Daniel Defoe's acclaimed tale of survival, self-reliance, adventure, and faith.

This is an abridgment edition geared to young readers. An over sized picture book of 53 pages with full page texts so it wouldn't be a one night bedtime story, unless you have an hour and half to spare.

I haven't read the full version so I haven't a clue what was left off but I certainly enjoyed this short form. I feel content that I have a solid feel for the author's writing which was very calming to the eye. I especially liked the accounts of Robinson Crusoe's growing spiritual faith. I marveled at his resourcefulness and tenacity. I certainly wouldn't have survive 28 years!

The illustrator did a great job with the pictorial depictions as well. The paintings were mood revealing and added visual depth.

Overall, I think it's a sound introduction to the classic book.

Review: Discover America: From Sea to Shining Sea by Katharine Lee Bates, Julie Olson

Discover America: From Sea to Shining Sea, Illustrated by Julie Olson, Lyrics by Katharine Lee Bates, YR -Picture Book, 2014, Hardcover, 32p, My Rating=4
Source: provided by publicist in exchange for an honest review

Follow the patriotic journey of a little red balloon as it makes its way from the West Coast to the East Coast of the United States. Accompanied by the words of one of Americas most beloved anthems America the Beautiful, From Sea to Shining Sea shows the diversity and beauty of our great country through the eyes of our nations children. To add an interactive experience, kids all across the United States will be able to go online to send their own balloons on their own journey

The title tells it all. This book is an invitation to discover America, from sea to shining sea. So when you open the book, you will find illustrations of a few of its beautiful landmarks. The showcasing of America was told through a balloon’s fictional journey from California to New York. The text was directly taken from the first verse of “America the Beautiful”, a beloved national anthem. Those familiar with this song/poem will then be set on a patriotic note. If you love America, then you will likely love this book. Those who are not familiar with America, well then this charmingly illustrated depiction of some of the picturesque tourist spots will likely lure you to love America and thus love this book. Genius! A toddler’s version of a tourist map.

This picture book takes you another step. You are also invited to discover America through the book’s website. There you will find many activities such as fun facts about each state, take quizzes, print out color pages, watch videos, and even launch your own virtual balloon and track its voyage. Pretty cool but doesn’t suit me at the moment. I’m content with just the book. But I’m glad it’s there should I desire to venture further.

No doubt that Ms Olson is a talented illustrator. The beautiful artwork in this book complimented the text well. In fact, I think it’s one of the most gorgeous illustrations I’ve seen in a picture book. It was bright, vivid, and lively.  However, I didn't feel that the book as a whole was original in concept.

Review: The Sacrament by John Bytheway

The Sacrament by John Bytheway, Illustrated by Nathan Pinnock, 2014, YR, Hardback, 32p. Rating=5
Source: provided by publicist in exchange for an honest review.

It's understandable that some children appear bored or distracted during sacrament meeting. Many young Latter-day Saints are probably unsure about the true meaning of the sacrament and why we attend. With this in mind, bestselling author John Bytheway has composed a delightful poem (inspired by a short poem by Walter H. Horne) to help Latter-day Saints young and old appreciate the ordinance of the sacrament. In particular, children will learn what they should be thinking about (and not be thinking about) during this sacred time as well as what the sacrament can do for all of us.

Beautifully illustrated by Nathan Pinnock, this thought-provoking story about a young boy and his grandpa is a gentle reminder about the importance of remembering the Lord Jesus Christ, especially during this special meeting meant for Him

This is an excellent teaching tool for children on the sacred meaning of the sacrament. It's easy to get distracted during sacrament meeting, children and adults alike, as this book pointed out. Such wondering of thoughts makes one forget the reason for the ordinance.  This book through verse did the trick for getting across the understanding of who the focus should be on.  It reminds the reader that the reason for reverence is Jesus.

I take my three children to church with me each Sunday and at times I get a heck of a time wrangling them to sit still during sacrament meeting particularly during the actual passing of the bread and water (thanks to those people from time-to-time over the years that extended their helping hands!).  They're a bit older now (11, 7, 5) so they're pretty good about being quiet but I want them to truly grasp the reason for the reverence.  This book powerfully did that.  It did so my accounting a simple story of a young boy on vacation having the time of his life at his grandfather's homestead.  It didn't occur to him that he would have to go to church even on vacation.  So comes church day and bored as can be.  Grandpa noticing his weariness whispered a story to him of an observation he had when he was about the same age.  Grandpa had noticed many people then were distracted as well and lost focus that the hour was a time for worship.  Grandpa recalled wondering, "Yes, I couldn't help but wonder what the Lord Himself would say should He walk into the chapel while His Saints behaved this way; Would His loving eyes be saddened; would His countenance be grim while He there observed and listened to a service meant for Him?" (p14).  Wow, what a wake up call!  Surely inspired the boy to remember Jesus from then on during sacrament ...and me too! ...and my kids! ...and those who read this book!

This book is now on my list of outstanding books for gifting.  I also foresee utilizing this for sharing time when a call for a lesson on sacrament arise.  Absolutely fabulous picture book!

Review + $25 Blog Tour Giveaway: Luminescence by Braden Bell

Luminescence (Middle School Magic #3), YR, 2014, 320p, Rating=5
Source: provided by publisher/author in exchange for an honest review

Determined to rescue their favorite teacher, Conner, Lexa, and Melanie confront their worst fears and use their powers in unexpected ways to defeat Lady Nightwing, the treacherous Darkhand leader. But when the trio makes a terrible choice to save Dr. Timberi, their powers may not be enough to keep everyone alive. A thrilling conclusion to the Middle School Magic series!

The cliffhanger to book two was so good that I couldn't wait to put my nose into this finale.  It did not disappoint!  The trio and my fav, Pilaf, were back for new adventures that would test their powers and friendship even more. Their growth proved considerably in this conclusion, well, mainly to two of them.

Oh, Mr. Bell kept me on my toes!  Was Dr. Timberi really alive or has Lexa gone bonkers?  The supposed loss of Dr. Timberi seemed to put a strain on the trio, will their friendship endure?  Lexa was racked with so much guilt that I was sure it'd change her, to what degree?  Melanie's dad, he was hiding something!  Then Timothy, I can sense that something big was going to happen at the tribunal.  Of course, my dear Pilaf, I was rooting for his test to be positive.  What ended up being the answers to these questions?  You'll have to read it to find out but suffice to say that I was treated to a twisty, poignant ending.  Bittersweet and fantastic windup to the series!  Which leads me to ask, "Is there such a thing as 'Oops, that wasn't the final installment!' book?", because I want one of those for this series. ;)

The fondness for this book (the series for that matter) for me was the heartfelt message of love.  It rang crystal clear in the experiences of these young characters, the sweet inclusion of music, the examination of good vs evil, and the dynamics of human relationships.  It's the message that I think young readers need more of and I'm glad to say they'll get it in this series and be entertained in the process.  So make a 3-inch room in your bookcase for these books, filed with your "great reads" collection.  I did.

About the Author
Find him: Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Website

During his middle school years, Braden Bell was the least-stable, lowest-achieving student in the history of the world. He shocked every former teacher by graduating from high school and college, and then going on to earn both a Master’s degree as well as a Ph.D. A teacher by day and a parent by night, he is around teenagers 24/7. He teaches music and directs plays at a private school, much like Marion Academy in The Middle School Magic series. Whether he fights evil after hours is something he cannot disclose.
Braden Bell holds degrees in theatre from Brigham Young University and a Ph.D. from NYU. A committed educator, he has been directing plays and teaching school now for over twenty years. Braden lives with his family on a quiet, tree-lined lot outside of Nashville, TN, where he teaches theatre and choir at a middle school. The author of The Road Show, The Kindling, and Penumbras.

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