"Find a Cow Now" By: Janet Stevens and Susan Crummel Review

Find A Cow Now

By: Janet Stevens & 

Susan Stevens Crummel

Synopsis

Ruff! Ruff! Yip! Yip! Dog is rounding up whatever he can find in his urban apartment, even chairs. He is also driving his bird companion crazy with the commotion. Bird sends him to the countryside to find something more appropriate to herd, such as a cow. But since dog has never seen a cow, he finds all the wrong animals. After being pecked by a chicken, spattered with mud by a pig, and walloped by a donkey, Dog needs a friend. By chance a mysterious and kindly animal helps lead him back to the city, only to cause chaos there, before revealing her identity--as a cow!

My Thoughts

     Incredibly cute, funny with earthy illustrations that add relevance to the story, Find a Cow Now is great for early learners. Dog is tired of living in the city, so Bird suggests he go to the country to find himself a cow to herd. As he travels to the country, Dog encounters lots of strange animals he tries to herd but neither the pig nor the chicken want anything to do with him. When he loses his way, he is helped by a large animal who coincidentally, as he learns out later, is a cow.

     Cute story that will appeal to kids who love animals, Find a Cow Now uses simple words and sounds to tell its tale. Perfect for early readers, I personally enjoyed the different animal sounds that organically appeared throughout. The illustrations are very well done and in such a way to give credence to the story. All in all a darn cute story great for librarian’s needing a farm story in story time or that mom needing her next nighttime tale.

2013 Missouri Building Block Nominee

Book Details

Publisher: Holiday House

Date of Publication: September 1, 2012

# of Pages: 32

ISBN: 9780823422180

Source: Library Checkout

Challenges

2014 New Author Challenge

"Who's Who" By: Ken Geist Review

Who’s Who

By: Ken Geist

Synopsis

Over in these pages where it's hard to tell who's who, live six pairs of twins who are the best at what they do.
"Laugh!" say the twins. "We laugh!" So will you.
And you'll giggle as you read while you try to tell who's who.

My Thoughts

     I’m not a children’s librarian, and although I do enjoy a good picture book, I sometimes don’t agree with what’s on the best of lists. I read them purely for enjoyment, and some more than others as with everything in life, are simply better. This is not one of those books. While the illustrations are incredibly cute and playful, the text and rhyming rhythm of the book seemed off to me.

     The story is comprised of small poems in the wildlife kingdom. From a farmyard to the jungle, the author describes two animals’ antics through rhyming. While it was a cute concept, it didn't work for me. The rhyming doesn’t seem well done in places and the story is disjointed.  In contrast, the illustrations are well done in pastel and earth tones. I enjoyed the subtle jokes within the illustrations, especially the twin bats with the “Batman” shirts. So I guess I would suggest this one for the pretty pictures, but definitely not a good one for read alouds or using to learn rhyming words.      

2013 Missouri Building Block Nominee

Book Details

Publisher: Feiwel & Friends

Date of Publication: August 7, 2012

# of Pages: 28

ISBN: 9780312644376

Source: Library Checkout

Challenges

2014 New Author Challenge

"Say Hello to Zorro!" By: Carter Goodrich Review

Say Hello to Zorro!

By: Carter Goodrich

Synopsis

Mister Bud is a dog of routine. He has wake up time, nap time, rest time, dinner time, etc. And everyone knows to follow his schedule.

Then disaster strikes.  A stranger comes home at "make a fuss time" and throws everything off! Zorro is little bit bossy and Mister Bud wants nothing to do with him. But when the dogs discover they like the same things (like chasing the cat and napping), everything becomes more fun. As long as everyone follows the schedule.

My Thoughts

     It’s always hard when your parents bring home a new sibling...or when your entire existence is upset with an addition that you clearly weren't’t expecting. That’s exactly the situation that poor Bud is in when his family brings home a new dog named Zorro!
      Used to his schedule, Bud is a very particular pup. He knows when he sleeps, he has specific times for his outside excursions, and he greets his humans in a certain way. One day his family brings home a new dog who upsets everything he ever has done. Zorro is a bit onery too, and likes his way too. Yet as the two dogs get to know one another, they both realize that sometimes two are better than one, even at dinnertime!
     A creative and cute story perfect for children who are getting new sibling or even for families who may be combining children, I found myself laughing out loud at poor Bud. He was completely over having a new dog in the house. Great illustrations and a perfect story for read alouds, I can easily see this being a favorite with kids. Short simple sentences make it a great choice for early readers and lets face it, its just plain funny. Heck, I’m almost 30 and I loved it! I’m gonna go beg for more books by Carter Goodrich now!

Book Details

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

# of Pages: 48

ISBN: 978-1416938934

Date of Publication: March 22, 2011

Source: Library Checkout

"Charlie the Ranch Dog" By: Ree Drummond Review

Charlie the Ranch Dog

By: Ree Drummond

Synopsis

Meet Charlie.
He's a ranch dog. Breakfast is his life, especially when bacon is involved. Charlie has dangly ears, floppy skin, and big fat paws. And he loves living in the country. That's because he works like a dog...fixing fences, gardening, and helping his family out on the range.
Yep, it's all work, all the time for Charlie the ranch dog. In fact, he's probably working right now...
Zzzzzzz....
A ranch dog's work is never done!
Come along as Ree Drummond, The Pioneer Woman, introduces us to her beloved short-legged pioneer dog named Charlie

My Thoughts

    Easy to read for young readers but still interesting enough for older ones, Charlie the Ranch Dog is a fun tale about the day in the life of Charlie, a dog on Ree Drummond’s farm. Charlie, Drummond’s real dog, tells of his friends, the animals on the farm and the hard work he does day in and day out. Including time for naps, breakfast, lunch, more naps, and occasionally running Susie the cow of the garden, Charlie does his part to make sure everything runs smoothly.
      Beyond being a fun read that made me giggle, both the author and illustrator worked hard to create an excellent book from beginning to end. Easy to read text with plenty of sight words, early readers won’t find it a struggle. Older readers will enjoy the excellent and interesting illustrations that fill the pages and find the humor in Charlie’s actions. The tone of the story is fun and warm, something everyone who reads it can enjoy. Easy to read aloud to a group of children or appreciate with a small group or even one, this story ranks up there high on MY list of favorite children’s books this year.
      An incredibly cute foray into the mind of a basset hound named Charlie, Charlie the Ranch Dog shows exactly how hard working this old Basset truly is. At exactly 40 pages, I was impressed with the amount of story that was included. Gorgeous drawings fill the pages with fun little surprises, which just increase the visual interest of the reader. An all around excellent story, I’m excited to see what other adventures Charlie will get into in the future.

2013 - 2014 Missouri Show Me Award Nominee

Book Details

Publisher: HarperCollins

# of Pages: 40

ISBN: 978-0061996559

Date of Publication: April 26, 2011

Source: Library Checkout

Challenges

2014 New Author Challenge

2014 Where Are You Reading Challenge - Oklahoma

"I Want My Hat Back" By: Jon Klassen Review

I Want My Hat Back

By: Jon Klassen

Synopsis

A bear almost gives up his search for his missing hat until he remembers something important.

My Thoughts
     Always a favorite of mine, I adore I Want My Hat Back. A simple story about a bear just looking for his hat and the rabbit who may, or may not have taken it. With easy, simple language and uncomplicated drawings, Klassen weaves an adorable tale for children and adults alike.

     Perfect for storytimes or one on one readings with children, I adore this story. This bear walks around the forest, asking about his red pointy hat. After asking a snake, a turtle, and other animals, he asks this rabbit where his hat might be. Coincidentally, the rabbit is wearing a red hat but has no idea where red hats come from. Children enjoy figuring out the mystery before the bear but ultimately, its just a sweet charming story that will make you smile.

Book Details

Publisher: Candlewick Press

Date of Publication: September 27, 2011

# of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978-0763655983

Source: Library Checkout

Children's Book Saturday "I Like Old Clothes" By: Mary Ann Hoberman

"I Like Old Clothes"

By: Mary Ann Hoberman

Synopsis:

I like old clothes, / Hand-me-down clothes, / Worn outgrown clothes, / Not-my-own clothes. . . . Originally published by Knopf in 1976 (with illustrations by Jacqueline Chwast), this poem-an exuberant celebration of hand-me-down clothes-is just as relevant and accessible today as it was over 30 years ago. Children's Poet Laureate Mary Ann Hoberman offers a bouncy, fun-to-read-aloud text and a refreshingly agreeable, resourceful protagonist who likes old clothes for their "history" and "mystery." Illustrator Patrice Barton brings new, contemporary life to the poem, with an adorable little girl and her younger brother playing dress-up, making crafts, and happily treasuring their hand-me-downs.

My Thoughts: 

        An incredibly cute, whimsical story about a little girl loving clothing and the adventures they've had, "I Like Old Clothes" is a great story that I simply loved. With a simple verse that is easy to read, the reader takes an adventure entirely through clothes. Interesting and imaginative, you actually smile as you read about where the used clothes have been and what they've been doing.
      When I finished the story, I immediately thought of the book as an adventure book - you never knew where you would end up. Through the book she's a soldier, a fancy lady, and even a wild child with a dress and a party hat. Each trip is entirely told through imagination, which makes the story a little more magical. "When I wear them, Then I say, "Clothes, I wonder who wore you before you were mine? Was she light-haired or dark-haired, seven or nine? Did you make her look awful or make her look fine?" (I Like Old Clothes)
       The illustrations are done by Patrice Barton, who also has illustrated titles such as "Mine" by Shutta Crum, "The Looking Book" by P.K. Hallinan, and "Sweet Moon Baby" By: Karen H. Clark . Most of the colors are muted and calming. A sense of whimsy and fun are infused within each illustration. Time and care was taken in these paintings, you can feel the love in each brush stroke.
      "I Like Old Clothes" is a wonderful read aloud book for children. Groups or one-on-one, it doesn't matter. The story and the illustrations work wonderfully together to leave one feeling happy when finished. Probably not best for the pre-school crowd, I think I would share this one with Kindergarten and up. A wonderful combination of a great story and wonderful pictures, "I Like Old Clothes" is sure to be a favorite with many children.

Book Details

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers

Date of Publication: August 14, 2012

# of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978-0375869518

Children's Book Saturday "Dog Loves Drawing" By: Louise Yates

"Dog Loves Drawing"

By: Louise Yates

Synopsis from Amazon:

Dog loves books, but one day he receives a strange one in the mail—it's blank! Soon, Dog realizes that this book is not for reading, but for drawing. Before long, Dog is doodling and drawing himself into a new world, full of friends and surprises.

My Thoughts:

      Who doesn't love a book about a dog who loves books? This adorable book shares the story of a dog who owns a book store. He's so surprised to find in the mail one day, a book...with no words! A whole book just filled with blank pages. Well, turns out this blank book is a drawing book just ready for Dog's imagination.

      The story and the drawings from this book are impressive. The story is cute, complete with drawing a ship to take you to an island where you meet a monster, but you quickly draw a door with a chain to keep that mean old monster out. The drawings are exquisite, honestly looking like the scribblings of a child, only done really well. They appeal to me as an adult and will easily appeal to children who love to draw. 

      All in all, "Dog Loves Drawing" is a really cute story. For Librarians, this book probably wouldn't be the best read aloud with a large group. I think much of the story relies on the pictures. This book will be great for parents reading with little ones who have the time to digest the illustrations. Great story that makes you look forward to seeing what else Louise Yates will come out with!

For more information or see what upcoming books she has up her sleeve, check out her website! 

I received this e-book in exchange for an honest opinion from Edelweiss.

Book Details

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers

Date of Publication: August 14, 2012

# of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978-0375870675

Children's Book Saturday "Day By Day" By: Susan Gal

"Day By Day"

By: Susan Gal

Synopsis:

Susan Gal offers a heartwarming tale of old-fashioned goodness. The industrious pigs of Day by Day build a home, plant a garden, help their neighbors, and then gather in a harvest grown with hard work and kindness.  The language is sweet and simple: Day by day, the seasons turn. Shoulder to shoulder, pigs gather the harvest. Hand in hand, pigs give thanks, then cheek to cheek, they dance. The artwork is bright and full of the merry antics of a happy family and a tight-knit community.  And these pigs are flat out adorable! This delightful story celebrates family and community, caring and sharing.

My Thoughts:
     As you probably know by now, I'm a librarian of a small library in the middle of Missouri. I'm not a children's librarian, I'm actually the Teen/Adult Librarian, but I absolutely love to read the picture books as they come in. As with everything, some are better than others...but "Day by Day" is an amazing example of what is best in the genre of children's books.
     This lovely story revolves around a tale about pigs. It has a very 1920's feel to it, From the way the art is created and even in what the pigs are wearing. The text is very basic yet conveys a cute, folksy tale of pigs spending time together...dancing, partying, and then going home to sleep. Great for a read aloud, I think this book would be excellent for one on one readings as well. There is such detail in the illustrations, its truly amazing. I can't say enough nice things about this simple, lovely story that makes you think of summer days and lazy afternoons with friends. 

Check out Susan Gal's other books 

Book Details

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers

Date of Publication: July 10, 2012

# of Pages: 40

ISBN: 978-0375869594

"Day by Day" was sent to me for the purpose of an honest review from Edelweiss.

Children's Book Saturday: "A Song for My Sister" By: Lesley Simpson

"A Song for My Sister"

By: Lesley Simpson

Illustrated by: Tatjana Mai-Wyss

Synopsis from Amazon:

WAAAAA!  When Mira's wish for a sister at long last comes true, she's thrilled—but the new baby isn't exactly what she expected. Who knew someone so little could make so much noise! No matter what Mira or her parents do to soothe or amuse her, the baby's reaction is . . . WAAAAA!

On the day of her simchat bat, her Jewish naming ceremony, the baby cries--as usual! That is, until Mira steps close to offer her own special gift and the inspiration for her parents' choice of the perfect name. 

My Thoughts:
      As I read this book, I enjoyed it. By the end, I had a tear in my eye, it's that sweet. So be prepared when you pick it up, it's a cute, lovely picture book that may make you shed a tear.
     Mira wishes for a little sister at the beginning of "A Song for My Sister," yet when the wish comes true, it doesn't seem to be everything she hoped for. All the little baby does is cry, cry, cry. Finally it comes time to name the baby and Mira's parents have no idea what to call her. It isn't until Mira begins to sing to the baby that she actually stops crying and so, they name the new baby Shira or "song."
     Isn't that the sweetest idea ever for a book? I loved this book on so many levels. First, the family in the story is Jewish. Very few picture books focus on Jewish families and so this is a nice addition. Lots of families add babies and there is always that hard adjustment period and this book highlights that adjustment. Great for new siblings and dealing with pesky new sisters. Even with all that going for it, its an adorable story with wonderful illustrations. Well done all around, I think this will appeal to a wide range of young readers over a wide range of cultures. Well done! 

Book Details

Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers

Date of Publication: June 26, 2012

# of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978-1582464275

For more information on titles by Lesley Simpson, check out her website at http://www.lesleysimpson.ca/

I received this picture book from Edelweiss and am making an honest review of the title from my own perspective.

Children's Book Saturday "Small Bunny's Blue Blanket" By: Tatyana Feeney

"Small Bunny's Blue Blanket"

By: Tatyana Feeney

Synopsis from Amazon:

Small Bunny does everything with Blue Blanket. Blue Blanket helps him paint the best pictures, go the highest on the swings, and read the hardest words. They need each other. But one day, Small Bunny's mother insists Blue Blanket needs to be washed.She says Blue Blanket will be as good as new after. But Bunny isn't sure he likes new. Will his friend ever be the same?

My Thoughts:
     With simple drawings, a simple story, and simple colors, Tatyana Feeney will bring a smile to your face as you read "Small Bunny's Blue Blanket." The entire book is done in blue and black tones, which is strangely appealing. The drawings are simple, yet there is a wealth of meaning in the simple lined drawings. I can't say enough nice things about this book, but the true gem is in the writing.
      The Bunny from the story is cute, sweet, and appeals to toddlers and younger children. Easy to read for a read-aloud, I loved the idea of having a favorite blanket. The bunny drags the blanket through life, taking it everywhere. You can't help but smile when Mom takes the blanket away from bunny to wash - he is definitely disgruntled. This is one of the cutest stories I've read in a long time; a great picture book for story times! 

To see examples of Tatyana Feeney's artwork and to find out more about the author,

 check out her website at www.tatyanafeeney.com

I received this as e-book in exchange for an honest review from Edelweiss.

Book Details

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers

Date of Publication: June 12, 2012

# of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978-0375870873

Children's Book Saturday - "Do Super Heroes Have Teddy Bears?"

"Do Super Heroes Have Teddy Bears?"

By: Carmela LaVigna Coyle

Illustrated by: Mike Gordon

Synopsis from Amazon:

Follow along as two ragtag, everyday super heroes don capes to play in the mud, save their stuffed animals from certain peril, conquer the vegetables at dinner, and overcome darkness at night.Are super heroes always brave and daring?We’re brave and bold and kind and caring.After five successful books in the “Princesses” series, Carmela LaVigna Coyle now turns her attention to an all new childhood fantasy in this wonderful new story about imagination and play. Every little boy and girl has a super hero somewhere inside just waiting to come out. Tie on your cape (blankies recommended) and join the adventure.P.S. Do super heroes have teddy bears? Why, yes, they do!

My Thoughts:

     This is one of the most fabulous, be who you are because you are awesome, books I have ever read! That's a mouthful, but you know what I mean. This book encapsulates the meaning of being true to yourself, because yourself is pretty cool. The illustrations and the text are incredibly funny and I can see this book easily becoming a cult classic.
      The book follows two children throughout their day and asks the reader, what does a true hero do? From brushing their teeth to eating vegetables, true super heroes have no problems with these tasks because that's what brave kids do! The very last page is perhaps my favorite, because it tells the reader to Be Your Own Hero...an idea which I absolutely love.
       The illustrations are whimsical and fit the story well. The colors are bold and really appeal to the reader. I loved this book more than I can express and can see all sorts of children loving it. It will appeal to all age ranges but probably would be best for Kindergarten-2nd Grade, but that's just my opinion. I can also see this book being good for a read aloud as the pictures add to the story, but the words and the sentiments are the basis. Great book you should order immediately! You're going to love it!

Book Details

Publisher: Taylor Trade Publishing

Date of Publication: May 16, 2012

# of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978-1589796935

Check out other titles by Carmela L. Coyle

Children's Book Saturday "Mine" By: Shutta Crum

"Mine"

Story By: Shutta Crum

Illustrated by: Patrice Barton

Synopsis from Amazon:

Have you ever had a toy you really really liked?  Have you ever had a lot of toys you really really liked?

Have you ever said "MINE!"?

If so, this book is for you!

Enjoy this adorable, playful, picture-based book about two very young children and an adorable dog navigating the troubles and triumphs of sharing.

My Thoughts:
     For a book that only has two words, "Mine" is a delightful telling of two siblings, their dog, and an argument over their toys. Of the two words, I bet you can't figure out which one plays an important role in the story! (Insert grin here!)
      It's a tale as old as time. Sharing. It isn't easy, it isn't fun, but we all must do it. In this tale by Shutta Crum, two siblings have to learn this lesson the hard way. When the baby reaches for a toy, the toddler grabs it away and tells him, "Mine!" The scene is repeated throughout the story until, as all good stories do, the story ends with a happy ending...the knowledge that sometimes sharing can be fun.
       A simple story, yet stunningly crafted, "Mine" is a great story for toddlers. It relates to children in an easy to understand, truly elemental way. One of my favorite illustrators out there, Patrice Barton, who is an amazing artist, brings the story to life. I thought it was adorable and can't wait to share it with the kids this summer at my library.

Images Copyrighted by the wise, wonderful, and talented Illustrator: Patrice Barton

Book Details

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers

Date of Publication: June 14, 2011

# of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978-0375867118

Children's Book Saturday "A Color Game for Chester Raccoon" By: Audrey Penn

"A Color Game for Chester Raccoon"

By: Audrey Penn

Synopsis from Amazon:

In this new Kissing Hand board book, Audrey Penn brings us more maternal wisdom to solve another of early childhood’s little issues. Whether on a trip, in a restaurant or a store, children can become bored and fussy. Chester’s Favorite Game provides an activity that will entertain young children anywhere -- finding things in many colors: White, blue, yellow, red, orange, brown, and black.

My Thoughts:
     Definitely geared towards a very young age group, "A Color Game for Chester Raccoon" is a delightful story about Chester learning his colors. Written in verse, Chester goes throughout his world pointing out animals who have certain colors. It's a really sweet story that teaches colors through real world situations. 
     I enjoyed the verse, but I simply did not care for the illustrations. They didn't seem finished to me and I kept feeling like the pencil markings should have been smoothed out. I'm sure that was the intention, yet I didn't like it at all. The story is great for teaching though, so don't let the illustrations throw you off too much. This would be a great read aloud and I can see children having fun interacting with the book.
      Audrey Penn is a prolific children's author who has many titles under her belt. For more information on other titles and upcoming books, check out her website at http://www.audreypenn.com/

The book "A Color Game for Chester Raccoon" was sent to me in return for an honest review from Netgalley. 

Book Details

Publisher: Tanglewood Press

Date of Publication: March 20, 2012

# of Pages: 14

ISBN: 978-1933718583

Children's Book Saturday: "Chicken, Pig, Cow's First Fight" By: Ruth Ohi Review

"Chicken, Pig, Cow's First Fight"

By: Ruth Ohi

Synopsis from Amazon:

Even best friends can have a fight.

My Thoughts:
     This is the tale of a little chicken, a small cow, and a teeny pig and their great big fight. This is a most peculiar little story and its hard not to like it. The premise of the story is that these three animals have a fight when Pig knocks over the blocks during playtime. He goes off to pout and eventually returns apologetic and everyone is happy once more.
     While the story is simple and easy to follow, I was still confused. I wasn't sure if the animals were truly animals or were supposed to be toys come to life. The presence of the blocks and their size kind of confused me. But, I think I may just be overthinking it! 
     The illustrations are sweet and the colors are comforting. The animals are drawn in such a way that you just want to cuddle with them, which I adored. I'm not sure this book would be a great read aloud in a library setting, but I think this would be ideal for a family reading.   Great for children who have conflicts and need a good conflict resolution strategy.

Illustration by Ruth Ohi from "Chicken, Pig, Cow's First Fight"

Book Details

Publisher: Annick Press

Date of Publication: January 19, 2012

# of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978-1554513703

Children's Book Saturday - "For Just One Day"

"For Just One Day"

By: Laura Leuck

Synopsis from Amazon:

What child hasn't pretended to be a monkey, a bear, or a bumblebee? Each page of this enchanting book encourages young readers to let their imaginations run wild, while gently reminding them that in the end, the best person to be is themselves. This charming combination of endearing images and memorable and humourous rhymes will keep children entranced, again and again. Laura Leuck is the author of several popular books, including "Jeepers Creepers: A Monstrous ABC", "Santa Claws", and "My Monster Mama Loves Me So". She lives in Florida. Marc Boutavant is an illustrator, graphic artist, and author of many popular titles including "Around the World with Mouk". He lives in Paris.

My Thoughts:

     I love stories about children becoming  their dreams, so when I first heard about this book, I was excited. I love that children believe they can just become anything they want to be, even if it is a bumble bee or a lion. "For Just One Day" is a sweet book great for children uncertain about their places in the world or with wild imaginations.
     The book follows several different children who imagine, what if? I think my favorite child is a short little guy with big ol' glasses. His poem goes: "For just one day, if I could dare, I'd be a growling grizzly...bear! I'd give my brother quite a scare, if I could be a grizzly bear."
      A great story about becoming what you want to be, I know it gave me confidence to get through my day. A cute and excellently executed book, I'd recommend it to anyone! Check it out at your local library, it's a good one! 

If I was a...porcupine!
Illustrated by: Marc Boutavant

Product Details

Publisher: Tate Gallery Publishing

Date of Publication: February 1, 2010

# of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978-1854379269

Children's Book Saturday - "The Terrible Plop"

"The Terrible Plop"

By: Ursula Dubosarsky

Synopsis from Amazon:

     In this uproarious update of a favorite story, an unexplained noise leads to pandemonium among the animals. The fox, the elephant, even the big brown bear prove no match for the Terrible Plop. Only the littlest bunny learns not to panic when the sky—or something else up there—is falling.     Bright, energetic illustrations and a lively rhyming text combine to make this a perfect read-aloud story for little ones needing assurance that plops in the day or bumps in the night aren’t as scary as they might seem.

My Thoughts: 
    Another Saturday morning, another children's book for me! I am pretty guilty of being a cover lover and this book is no exception. How can you not pick it up with that grumpy old bear on the cover? Seriously! 
     "The Terrible Plop" tells the story of some forest animals and a terrible noise that seems to be worrying everyone. They try to drink and suddenly a huge scary monster makes all kinds of noise and scares everyone. In the end its not a scary monster at all, but apples falling in the pond but its an awfully cute premise of a book with adorable pictures.

Page from "The Terrible Plop"
Illustrated by: Andrew Joyner

          I really enjoyed this book and thought it was cleverly created. The pictures are relate-able and funny while the story is engaging. I'm hoping to use this book this summer with some of my summer school activities at the library I work at. Very cute and an awesome read for everyone!

The last page of "The Terrible Plop" I love that rabbit!
Illustrated by: Andrew Joyner

Product Details

Publisher: Farror, Straus, and Giroux

Date of Publication: August 18, 2009

# of Pages: 40

ISBN: 978-0374374280

Children's Book Saturday - "I Didn't Do It" By: Patricia MacLachlan

"I Didn't Do It"

By: Patricia MacLachlan and Emily Charest

Synopsis from Amazon:

What makes a puppy's day complete?Swimming and then shaking water all over you. Catching "presents" for you and then bringing them inside the house. Rolling in your nice wool sweater. Snuggling in your lap.In their second ode to canine companions, Patricia MacLachlan, Emily MacLachlan Charest, and Katy Schneider once again offer an irresistible glimpse into the mischievous canine mind. Captured here are adorable confessions and spirited accounts of the things that puppies do—and don't do—while in search of love, adventure, and treats from the table.

My Thoughts:

     I was running through the Children's room this week and this book caught my eye. As I'm sure everyone knows by now, I have a weenie dog named Daisy Jane...and the picture on the front of this book looks EXACTLY like her!

Yep...that's yogurt on her head. Yogurt!

Oh I'm just hanging out on the bed...I know I shouldn't be up here but it's cool cause I'm cute.

      This is a wonderful children's book. The illustrations are magical, you can tell from the cover they are gonna be cute. The poems though are simply ingenious. They are easy enough for a child to understand...while also being that right kind of magic to make an adult smile. Each page is a different poem about being a puppy. Slobbering, playing, chewing and food are just a few of the topics; really things all puppies are interested in. 

     My favorite quote is a small poem that occurs in the very middle of the book.

"I didn't do it. 

I didn't eat your food.

It was the cat

Who jumped up on the table and dragged your pork shop off.

I watched.

But it wasn't me."

    I also really love this poem:

"Every night you pat my head.

Every night I climb under your quilt 

And crawl

Down

Down

Down

By your warm feet.

And close my eyes.

And sleep.

Every night."

       A great companion book would be "Once I Ate a Pie" by the same authors. I read the book a few years ago and still remember how cute it was. Two great books by your favorite pet, the dog!

Book Details

Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books

Date of Publication: October 5, 2010

# of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978-0061358333