Editorial Review

Llama Llama holidays.
Jingle music. Lights ablaze.
How long till that special date?
Llama Llama has to wait.

If there's one thing Llama Llama doesn't like, it's waiting. He and Mama Llama rush around, shopping for presents, baking cookies, decorating the tree . . . but how long is it until Christmas? Will it ever come? Finally, Llama Llama just can't wait any more! It takes a cuddle from Mama Llama to remind him that "Gifts are nice, but there's another: The true gift is, we have each other." ... Read more

Reviews

Dewdney is a master at books young kids love to have read to them, October 20, 2010
Llama Llama holiday delight.
The book is wonderful. I bought 3, one for each of our grandchild families. But Grandma wants to know where her copy is...oops...nana nana holiday trauma.

The book does NOT fail to bring smiles and squeals of delight from young children being read this drama of Llama Llama waiting through the last days prior to Christmas. Each rhyming page brings more pre-Christmas activity, all in preparation for the big event. But poor llama llama just can't wait. Every child will relate to all the steps that even llamas must go through to arrive at Christmas Day. Truth is...so can Papa's and Nana's, we all hate waiting, but so enjoy all the preliminaries, including now a frequent reading of "Llama Llama Holiday Drama" by Anna Dewdney. In the end, Llama Llama learns a lesson suited for all, from toddlers to elderly seniors.

The illustration art inside is the same great Llama quality as all of the Llama Llama books. The dustcover for this Christmas book has a wonderful snowy background that shimmers, just like real snow on a cold winter's day.

As grandparents, we will not be able to wait, like Llama Llama had to do. We'll give our book gifts early so the grand-kids can enjoy it many times prior to Christmas.

Loved it! Just as great as the others!, November 4, 2010
Just got this for my daughters; 2 & 5; I started reading the llama books to my oldest when she was 3 and she still loves them, my 2 year old loves shouting llama llama! I plan to give them this on ThanksGiving, but read thru it b/c I love reading these books too. At first I was kinda disappointed thinking all llama cares about is gifts (which lets face it, its all most kids care about) but when its momma's turn to talk, she quickly sums up the importance of this special holiday. I loved it and I really think my girls will to. How can you not have fun reading such a cute book. I love rhymes and these are quite clever.

We love all the llama books but I think Misses Momma is one of our favorites, great to read to a child going to school or day care for the first time. I highly recommend all the Llama books, esp this one for the holidays.

Not as good as the others, goes out of way to avoid Christmas controversy, November 26, 2010
I have enjoyed reading all of the previous Llama Llama books, so I preordered this one back in July without hesitation, but unfortunately it is not anywhere as good as the previous books. What really irks me about this book is how it goes WAY out of its way to avoid saying the word, "Christmas," and I don't know why the author felt she had to do so. The book tries to be inclusive of all "winter" holidays, showing a Menorah in the inside front cover, but little llama and his mama are obviously getting ready for the countdown to Christmas day, so why not just say it? Instead saying, "the big day" or special day. It's Christmas! You're writing a Christmas book! Why shy away from the word?! Are you just riding Christmas' coat tails to try and sell more books? Does the author really think putting a menorah in the front inside cover and not mentioning the word 'Christmas' will mean she'll sell more books to families that don't celebrate Christmas? I'm not a right-winger by any stretch of the imagination, but I believe in CHRISTMAS and things like this really bug me, so 2 stars from me. I hope the next one is better, but I will probably browse it at the book store before pre-ordering again.

We love Llama Llama!, December 3, 2010
My first Llama Llama book was actually Llama Llama Mad At Mama and we were hooked from that point on. My son loves the cadence and rhythm of the Llama Llama books and we awaited the arrival of Holiday Drama with much anticipation. It's a great book to add to your holiday kids collection that really focuses on the value of spending time with the people you love. The holiday season can be very busy and overwhelming for little ones and this book helps to bring the holiday season back around to what is important. We love it!

Adorable and Useful Addition to the Llama Llama series, November 19, 2010
Anna Dewdney's Llama books each tackle a common preschool trouble spot with funny and cute rhymes. My kids and I love them. More please! I find a lot of rhyming children's books to be awkward and sappy reads, but Dewdney's rhymes are charming and clever and this new addition to the series is no exception. Waiting for the Big Day is very hard for little ones as the holiday excitement shifts into high gear, I am glad to have such a cute book to relate to my kids on this subject. They love it and the story of Llama overloading and then being calmed by a hug from his mama will give me something to talk about and refer the kids to during the holiday season, in trying to calm frazzed nerves and stave off any Llama-esque meltdowns that are just getting started. Also the book offers a very good preview of all the fun-but-sometimes-stressful things that are likely to happen in a preschool kid's life over the coming weeks, which is another great preventative measure to keep the anxiety at a minimum... the kids are reminded by this book that shopping, baking, crafting, decorating, etc.etc. and especially WAITING will be happening, and they will be expecting it to some extent. This is especially important for us because my twins are on the autism spectrum, but I think it is a great book to share with any preschool age kid at this time of year.

Book is a delight for young ones, November 18, 2010
My grandsons, 4 1/2 and 2 1/2 years, love the Llama Llama books and this one is no exception. I read it to them as they laughed at Llama Llama dealing with anticipation. Young children relate so well to the little worries and emotions with which the character deals. The plan was to give this book at a Christmas gift, but I read the story first and Llama Llama's experiences are for right now.

You gotta love what you gotta read..., December 24, 2010
We love this series. (Also bought "Llama, llama, Red Pyjama" AND the similarly dressed stuffed toy.) The rhymes propel the reader along (and give you a chance to ham-it-up a little(. Also, the presence of a story line and the absence of nonsense words give the reader a lot of help. This reader appreciates that.

Great Find!!!!, December 23, 2010
This book is great! Much bigger than I had originally thought. Its a great book for kids & adults alike. I actually bought it for a girlfriend in her 30s! Great price and GREAT shipping! I ordered it with 2 days shipping, was estimated to be here Christmas eve and actually arrived the 23rd! COuldn't be happier with the product and fast delivery!!

Perfect Christmas Book for Children & Parents, December 22, 2010
LOVE this book, it perfectly describes the Christmas rush from a little Llama's perspective with the most important message emphasized - being together for Christmas! Highly recommend all the Llama, Llama books!

Love this book!, December 21, 2010
We have the rest of the Llama Llama books and my 18 month old daughter loves them. I bought several of these to give out as Christmas gifts and they were a big hit. I would recommend this book to preschool aged kids, they love the story and adults love to read them too! ... Read more

Editorial Review

A magical train ride on Christmas Eve takes a boy to the North Pole to receive a special gift from Santa. "As always, the forms are sculptured, the perspectives as dazzling as they are audacious, the colors rich and elegant, the use of light and shadow masterly." -- Horn BookALA Notable Book
Booklist Editors' Choice
Horn Book Fanfare Selection
New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books of theYear
Reading Rainbow Review Book ... Read more

Reviews

Is Santa Claus real?
This book opens the possibility that Santa Claus -- as presented to most of us -- may not physically exist. It does this in a way that will allow children and their parents to ease into that question, a graceful move from the belief in a living St. Nick, to a belief in the spirit of Christmas.

It begins like this: "On Christmas Eve, many years ago, I lay quietly in my bed. I did not rustle the sheets. I breathed slowly and silently. I was listening for a sound -- a sound a friend had told me I'd never hear -- the ringing of Santa's sleigh.

'There is no Santa,' my friend had insisted, but I knew he was wrong."

From here, we follow a beautifully illustrated story of this young boy's quiet night ride with other children, on the Polar Express train to the North Pole, a "huge city standing alone at the top of the world, filled with factories where every Christmas toy was made."

Our narrator is the fortunate child, picked by Santa, to receive the first gift of that Christmas. He knows exactly what he wants, a simple gift that will help him continue to believe in the magic of Christmas, a silver bell from a reindeer's harness.

He gets his wish, but loses it on the train ride home. However, there's a happy ending -- evidently Santa has found the bell, and put it under the tree. The boy and his little sister admire the beauty of the sound it makes, but their parents say, "Oh, that's too bad....It's broken."

Many years later, the boy's sister and all of his friends can no longer hear the bell.

"Though I've grown old, the bell still rings for me as it does for all who truly believe."

My youngest son at ages 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 has chosen to firmly believe with the narrator, but he's moved around in his reaction to the notion that Santa isn't real. From -- "that's ridiculous, isn't it?" to "Mom...it is ridiculous, isn't it?" This book will let him hold onto the Christmas spirit for as long as he wants, and to return to it whenever he needs it.

This version comes complete with CD's/tapes with readings. Buy the less expensive edition, add a silver bell, and (if you can), read it with the child yourself to give a really special gift.

A wonderful book for those who want to believe in the spirit of Christmas every day of every year.

Simply breath-taking...Christmas through the eyes of a child
"On Christmas Eve, many years ago, I lay quietly in my bed. I did not rustle the sheets. I breathed slowly and silently. I was listening for a sound -- a sound a friend had told me I'd never hear ...." And so begins one the of the most beautiful stories of all time. Although I am now a senior in college, The Polar Express has remained the most valued and cherished book in my ever-expanding library. A childhood Christmas gift, Chris Van Allsburg's timeless masterpiece has become a fixture at our family gatherings each and every holiday season. Every member of the family, from the youngest to the oldest, appreciates it's simple but elegant story-telling style illustrated by the soft and soothing silhouettes of Van Allsburg's full-color art. The Polar Express is the story of a young boy and his magical journey aboard a mythical train to the North Pole. The reader is taken along this incredible ride and rediscovers the true joy and pure spirit of a child at Christmas. Van Allsburg's beautiful illustrations become as important to the story as the words themselves. These life-like pictures encourage children of ALL ages to explore their own imaginations and to become active participants in the young boy's journey. In the end, the young boy has grown into an old man, but the spirit of Christmas still rings for him, "... as it does for all who truly believe." I hope you enjoy this book half as much as I do.

The Polar Express
I started reading this book to my children 15 years ago when they were toddlers. I would keep it with my Christmas decorations and bring it out every holiday season. Once they grew too old to be read to, I still brought it out every year and put it on the coffee table. Last year I started reading it to my two-year old son. I still cry with nostaligia each time I read The Polar Express, remembering the magic it held for my older children and how we read it over and over. Well, my second son loved it so much, it never go put away with the Christmas decorations. We read it together constantly, even during the summer! This is a book that never loses its magic -- for children and adults alike. I plan to give this book to my neices and nephews this Christmas.

Sophisticated Children's Christmas Book
My kids love the art and the story is enchanting.

A wonderful train ride full of children who want to believe churns its way to the North Pole and a meeting with Santa. Keeping with traditon, Santa selects one boy to present the first present of Christmas to before he mounts to the sky to visit all the homes of good boys and girls. Rather than ask for a bike, or Pokemon or any other "big" gift, the boy asks for one of Santa's sleigh bells, proof he can hold onto that yes, Santa does exist.

This tale of Christmas belief (in Santa, that is) works well on adults, too. It has a message about belief and wonderment that touch all who want to believe in the magic associated with the gift giving part of Christmas.

Warning, The Polar Express is best for children a little older than mine (5 1/2, 4). It introduces the concept that Santa may not exist. I get around this by not reading two paragraphs in the book, but you should be forwarned if that particular discussion in your household is several years away. (My kids also tell me everytime that the boy in the story should not get on the train at the invitation of a stranger.) At the right age, this is a magical and wonderful Christmas tale of belief.

Beautiful and Magical--A Timeless Classic
It is far too easy to express cynicism about Christmas. Likewise, it is far too easy to put down the Christmas season as too commercial. And it is far too easy to dismiss a seasonal gem such as The Polar Express as simplistic and sentimental. But this tale is one of belief, of keeping something which is childlike, not childish, and that just doesn't grow old.

The narrator, a boy, lies awake listening for the sound of the bells on Santa's sleigh, a sound a friend who doesn't believe in Santa Claus says that he won't hear. Indeed, he does not, but what he does hear is even more wonderful and remarkable. He hears the hiss of steam and the squeak of metal, and when he looks out the window, he sees a train outside his house. It is the Polar Express, heading for the North Pole.

Once aboard, he finds that it is full of children, all in their nightclothes. They sing Christmas carols, drink cocoa and eat candies as the train races northward. Finally, they arrive at the North Pole, and the narrator is selected to receive the first gift of Christmas. He asks for, and receives from Santa Claus himself, a silver bell from the sleigh.

Although the boy loses the bell on the way home, kindly Santa returns it to him, and the boy discovers that the bell has a remarkable quality. Only those who still believe in the wonder of Santa and the spirit of Christmas can hear the bell. His friends and his sister eventually cannot hear the bell, but even when he grows up "the bell still rings for [him] as it does for all who truly believe."

The story is accompanied by beautiful pictures that capture the nighttime journey. The author employs somber tones in most of his scenes, speckled with snow and highlighted with starlight and the glowing lights of the train. He captures the cold and mystery of the night, contrasting it with the warm interior scenes.

Every child should own this book. It is a magical story that they can appreciate for the rest of their lives.

Get the gift pack not just the book!
This is a lovely story. Both the writing and the illustrations are superior. This is one of those books that is definitely worth owning, and in a hardcover version, not a paperback that will wear and tear. Parents: it is a keeper, one that you will save for years and to read to your future grandchildren.

The story is of a boy's journey on a mysterious train, the Polar Express, that takes children (adorned in their pajamas) to the North Pole to Santa's village. I won't spoil the story by telling any more...

There are loads of Christmas themed children's books out there for this age range. Many are mediocre or just plain garbage. This book is in the superior category and a "must own".

Knowing nothing about this story, both my son and I were drawn to it because of his love of trains. If you don't know the story, just be aware it introduces the idea that not all people believe in Santa Claus. This was the first time my (then) three-year-old learned that not everyone believes, whether they are adults or children. It also explains that as some people grow older they change from a believer to a non-believer. Just know that before reading the story to your child. For us it introduced the idea of non-believing. Another family I know read the book after an older child told this young child there is no Santa Claus, and the book helped deal with the issue of when some believe and some don't believe.

The gift pack we purchased had the audio version on CD. Narrator-actor William Hurt's voice is wonderful, slow and flowing...just right to evoke the mood of the story! There is also a CD-ROM for the computer (sold separately), which is a read-aloud story with images that my children watch a handful of times per Christmas season.

The gift pack also comes with a Christmas tree ornament. My children are thrilled to have a Polar Express related ornament to adorn our Christmas tree because they love trains and they love this story.

Absolutely Enchanting!
This book is one of the most magical children's books I have ever come across! As soon as you open the front cover, you enter an exquisite world that has an almost dream-like quality to it. It is told in the first person point of view of an adult recounting his most memorable Christmas experience. And what an experience! The boy in the story is awakened one Christmas Eve by a train whistle and discovers the Polar Express waiting to take him to the North Pole to see Santa. Once there, the boy is chosen to receive the first gift of Christmas. The boy has a touchingly simple request --to have one of the bells from the harness of Santa's reindeer. It is given to him, and he is filled with joy! Yet, on the way home, the boy discovers that there is a hole in the pocket of his bathrobe, and he has lost the treasured bell.He is heart broken. The next morning he finds the bell in a box under the tree, and he rejoices in the new-found bell and its marvelous sound! The catch? Only those who truly believe in the magic of Santa can hear the sound of the bell.
I read this story every year to my children, and every year there is absolute silence as they listen, entranced, to this deceptively simple story. Afterward, they always beg to hear it again and again! They are fascinated by the beautiful illustrations and the language of this very moving story. I have a CD with my version and Liam Neeson does a beautiful job of reading the book, along with superb background sounds and effects that will make you feel as if you had taken the journey yourself. You will not for a minute regret buying this book--I guarantee it will become a treasured favorite with your children!As an adult it will fill you with a wistful yearning to go back to your childhood and experience once again the magic of being a child.

Fortunate Read-aloud parent
I volunteered for my daughters KDG class to be a read-aloud parent. The book was chosen for me. When I brought the book home to preview what I was going to be reading to the class, I vowed I would read it at least a dozen times at home first. Otherwise I would have ended the story in my daughter's class with tears streaming down my face as I had the first time I read it, and several times again. This is such a wonderful story and so beautifully illustrated. I decided that the whole class should have a jingle bell from Santa's sleigh. Luckily I found just what I needed at the craft store! I would like to thank the person who chose the book for me to read, for giving me the opportunity to experience this story in such a way that I was passing it along to not only my own children, but to 25 others. I would also like to thank the author for sharing with me a truly special gift. I will continue to recommend this book to everyone I know, and hope that they appreciate it the way I do. P.S. It is also going to be Christmas gifts for a few of my neices and nephews!

The Ability to Believe Again
This is the best christmas book ever written. I could simply stop there and enough would be said.

I discovered this book in 1985 before the world told me that Santa was only for children. I fell in love with the book the first time it was read to me. However, I did not aquire a copy of my own until I was about 16. By this time I no longer believed in Santa and had not read the book in years. I was wandering through my local book store and saw the familiar cover. I instantly smiled and something happened. I bought the book and took it home. I read the book and cried. I remembered Santa. I remembered how to believe.

It has been 5 years since I "discovered" this book again and I read is all the time now; in the summer and winter. I share the magic of The Polar Express with all of my friends. I even give sleigh bells to friends at Christmas who I think need a boost in their faith.

I highly recommend this book for all ages.

The Polar Express Review
This is a book about a Christmas memory. A little boy gets woken up on Christmas Eve by a trains whistle blowing. He finds a train waiting outside his house to take him to the North Pole. When he gets to the North Pole he sees Santa and he finds out that he has been chosen to receive the first Christmas gift. All he wants is one of Santas bells off his sleigh. He is the happiest boy until on the way home from the North Pole he realizes that there was a hole in his pocket and he has lost his bell. This really makes him upset but he wakes up on Christmas morning to find the bell as one of his presents. The thing is only people that truly believe in Santa Clause can hear the bell when it is rung.
This is a great book. It is beautifully illustrated and it really pulls in the reader. I loved it when I was little and I still love it today. I read it every year around Christmas and love it just as much every time I read it. The pictures really draw the reader in also, and they follow the story greatly. I think through this book, the author was trying to show that you have to have faith sometime. Only the ones that truly believe can hear the bell and I think that goes for a lot of things in life. I think it is a great story for children and adults of all ages. ... Read more

Editorial Review

What could be fancier than Christmas?

Presents with elegant wrapping paper, festive decorations, Christmas cookies with sprinkles—and who could forget the tree? After all, there is no such thing as too much tinsel. Ooh la la! This year, Nancy is especially excited about decorating the Christmas tree. She bought a brand-new sparkly tree topper with her own money and has been waiting for Christmas to come. But when things don't turn out the way Nancy planned, will Christmas still be splendiferous?

In this merriest of stories from bestselling duo Jane O'Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser, Nancy proves once again that a little fancying up can go a long, festive way!

Reviews

Christmas Fancy Nancy Style - perfect!
What an adorable book! I've been waiting for a Christmas related story of our favorite fancy girl, and this did not disappoint at all. Yet again, Nancy is perfectly fancy, perfectly eloquent, and and perfectly heartwarming. We are huge fans of both Fancy Nancy and Christmas in our house, and this book is a perfect addition to our holiday collection. A must for all Fancy girls out there!

Fancy Nancy - Christmas Fancy Style!
Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas


Fancy Nancy, what an adorable "fancy girl" she is, and wait until you read about her Christmas! Presents with elegant wrapping paper, fancy cookies, and wait until you see the tree topper Nancy purchased with her own money. But me things go awry, can Nancy still have a "splendiferous Christmas"?

MY THOUGHTS - This book is so very adorable. Targeted for the (4-8) age group, the book is beautifully illustrated by: Robin Preiss Glasser. There are some great new words for the little readers as well:

* aroma - nancy says: "a fancy word for smell"
* heirlooms - nancy says: "fancy for thinks that are old and valuable".
* delectable - nancy says: "fancy for yummy".
* pleading - nancy says: "like begging only fancier" AND........
* splendiferous - nancy says " only one word describes how magnificent, joyous and sparkly Christmas morning is"

Truly a delightful holiday read for children (and adults too)!

Reading Fancy Nancy Will Make You Smarter!
I bought my granddaughter, Mary Mace, her first Fancy Nancy book when she was just 3 years old in 2007. She fell head over high heels in love with the witty, sparkly Nancy and her over-the-top ways. Since January of 2007, I have bought her every Fancy Nancy book and she devoured them, memorizing the story as her mother read them to her.

When she got this book last week, she immediately called me. She's now almost 6 years old and in kindergarten. She said, "Grammy, I love, love, love the new Fancy Nancy book. It's utterly splendiferous!" I laughed and asked her about the story and she told me all about it. Then my daughter got on the phone and told me that Mary Mace was recently tested and promoted to a first grade reader because she's so far ahead of the other children. Her teacher was amazed by how many 'big' words Mary Mace knew. My daughter and I both agreed that Fancy Nancy played a huge part in expanding Mary Mace's vocabulary. Each book is full of exciting, fun words and synonyms and the artwork is fabulous and glittering.

If you're looking for a book to make a little girl extremely happy this year for Christmas, I highly recommend this book and all of the Fancy Nancy books. They're not only fun, but also educational!

Fancy Nancy does Christmas
Tada another great Fancy Nancy story. Fancy Nancy takes on Christmas where the more decorations the merrier. From decorating the house, to buying the tree at Bruces Spruces, to the elegantly wrapped presents, Christmas is done up Fancy Nancy style--splendiferously. If you are familiar with the Fancy Nancy series then you can see the appeal she holds for young and old alike. This book is just a Joyeux Noel of Christmas.

A Christmas Classic
What little girl does not love bling, glitter and Fancy Nancy? The illustrations are "splendiferous" and the story line endearing. It will definitely become a Christmas Classic.

Delightful... that's fancy for great!
Jane O'Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser have delivered again, and just in time for Christmas. Splendiferous Christmas follows Nancy Clancy through her holiday preparations. As usual, she wants to make everything as fancy as possible, and, with only a few hitches, she succeeds. Now, if only Grandpa would arrive so she could decorate the tree... The story is just as adorable as the other books, and the illustrations are absolutely enchanting. As an artist, I have fairly high standards for illustrators, and Ms. Glasser more than meets them.

All in all, Fancy Nancy: Splendiferous Christmas is a delightful book. It's the perfect present for all the fancy little girls in my life, and I hope it is for all of them in yours.

Fun with Great Vocabulary Words
I purchased this book after hearing about Fancy Nancy from a friend of mine who is a second grade teacher. This is our first Fancy Nancy book and it was a hit with my three year old daughter.

I know some reviewers of Fancy Nancy find her to be pretentious and materialistic because they say she looks down on others who are not as creative and fancy as she is, and they don't want to expose their daughters to that way of thinking. My daughter is by no means fancy or much of a girly-girl, but this book got her excited to prepare for Christmas and two months since we have read it, she still uses some of the words she learned from the book, like "aroma," "heirloom," and "delectable."

Creativity has not been my daughter's forte. She has never been interested in really any arts and crafts (even coloring), but rather working puzzles and building. Since we have read this (and some other Fancy Nancy books), she's been much more interested in making fancy cards for people, decorating for events and festivities, and being creative in general. It all started with Fancy Nancy.

I love that this book has helped expand her vocabulary and creativity. I'll be buying more Fancy Nancy books.

No words to describe this book!

This is one of the most adorable books I have seen in a long time. I bought it for my 4 year old granddaughter. She & I had a private moment on Christmas Day when I read it to her & that made my Christmas, "Splendiferous"!

Another Wonderful Book
My little niece loves the Fancy Nancy series and this was a big hit. Nancy learns from her grandfather what makes Christmas really special.

We couldn't wait for Santa!
We couldn't wait for Santa for this one and decided to give it to our Fancy Nancy fan early. We'll now but reading this "slendiferous" story along with Frosty the Snowman and Twas the Night Before Christmas. This book is another Fancy Nancy Smash Hit at our house! Author of Mommy's High Heel Shoes and Mom to 3. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Trixie and her family are off on a fantastic trip to visit her grandparents—all the way in Holland! But does Knuffle Bunny have different travel plans?

An emotional tour de force, Knuffle Bunny Free concludes one of the most beloved picture-book series in recent memory, with pitchperfect text and art, photos from around the world, and a stunning foldout spread, culminating in a hilarious and moving surprise that no child or parent will be able to resist.

Bestselling, award-winning author Mo Willems has created an epic love story as only he can, filled with the joys and sadness of growing up —and the unconditional love that binds a father, mother, daughter, and a stuffed bunny.

Reviews

Not one that our 6 year old enjoyed
This was as beautifully illustrated and as compelling as the previous Knuffle Bunnies. We eagerly awaited publication, and the book arrived from Amazon today. But neither my six year old nor I was ready for the ending. Developmentally she cannot imagine saying goodbye to such a beloved toy yet, and was so sad that Trixie did. She thought about it quietly for a while and then over dinner announced that she did not like the book because it is sad. I imagine we'll come back to it a few developmental stages hence (for both of us. I am not ready to "be in the bleachers" as Mo Willems mentioned in an interview) and enjoy it. In the meantime the 2nd book is exactly where she wants to be and will continue to be in the regular book rotation.

Saving the Best for Last

I wasn't aware, before picking up my copy of Knuffle Bunny Free today, that author/illustrator Mo Willems had announced that this will be Knuffle Bunny's last adventure with Trixie. While I can't say I'm thrilled will his decision (it's like a favorite TV show getting cancelled!), I have to admit the man sends Knuffle Bunny out in style. In fact, Willems could not have crafted a more perfect - or perfectly wonderful - final chapter. Hands down, Knuffle Bunny Free is my favorite of the three books.

Willems has once again taken a situation countless families have experienced - a beloved toy accidentally left behind (this time on a plane) - and around that situation has built a touching and delightful look at a child growing up. Trixie's happiness as she is able to come to grips with missing Knuffle Bunny by thinking about all the kids he is meeting as he travels without her and about how happy he is making those kids is my very favorite moment in a book full of great moments. I felt all warm and happy and satisfied when I closed the cover (don't you LOVE that feeling?), and I knew Knuffle Bunny Free was going to be a permanent part of my collection.

The signature Knuffle Bunny style of incorporating Willems' drawings into photo backgrounds works particularly well in this book as Trixie and Knuffle Bunny travel to exotic locales and enjoy the local sites. A number of Willems' other characters make non-speaking cameo appearances - kids familiar with his work will enjoy spotting them.

Without giving any spoilers, my guess is that some people will be unhappy with this final book in the series. My feelings, though, are that the three books create a complete whole and wonderfully - and very successfully - portray various emotional stages of a growing child. (Note: If you haven't read Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale and Knuffle Bunny Too: A Case of Mistaken Identity, I strongly suggest reading them before reading Knuffle Bunny Free. IMHO, doing so will greatly enhance your enjoyment of this last entry in an already classic series.) When I feel the time is appropriate, I look forward to sharing this book with each of my grandchildren in turn. Along with me, they've thoroughly enjoyed the previous adventures of Knuffle Bunny and I'm confidant they'll understand and love Knuffle Bunny Free as well.

Very highly recommended.

Love it! Made me cry and that is hard to do.
SPOILER ALERT:

I do not understand why so many people do not like the ending of this book. First of all, my daughter was not sad that Trixie gave Knuffle Bunny away--she thought that was a very nice thing to do. The story teaches a value in giving that I hope my daughter learns! I also do not think it is far fetched that Trixie gave up the bunny. She had already had a dream about Knuffle Bunny helping other people. I think people would be surprised--there ARE giving children out there.

The ending of Trixie growing up and having her own child receive a Knuffle Bunny from her Grandpa had me bawling. What a great ending to a wonderful little series!

Another great book by Mo Willems!
My son and I are great fans of Mo Willems for good reason. His books never fail to impress. This third and grand finale to his "Knuffle Bunny" books is better than ever. We get to see Trixie grow up up (as a mom, I got a little teary-eyed). I highly recommend this book to anyone with a young child (or anyone young-at-heart in general). We had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Willems at a book-signing and I have to say, the man is just as entertaining and wonderful as his books are. His books will remain a part of our collection permanently.

Sweet, but heartwrenching...
I couldn't wait for this book to come out. I finally just got it from the library. I couldn't even wait to get home to read it to my daughter. We read it sitting in the car in the parking lot of the library. BIG MISTAKE. I cried through about 2/3 of the book. My daughter loved it and thought it was nice (she's 3, so that's her developmental reference). I loved it, too, but it's hard to think about getting to that point in our lives.

great lesson
This book was a wonderful surprise. With bright vibrant illustrations of people instead of photos, the pictures just pop out of the page. The style is different and wonderful. Mo Willems has written this book as the third and final Knuffle Bunny book. It was the first that we had encountered. As a family we are very glad that we did. This is the story of Trixi's trip to Holland to visit Oma and Opa, but she forgets her Knuffle Bunny on the airplane. But maybe she will grow up a little though this experience. The story is wonderful and the illustrations are amazing. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Jack and Annie are ready for their next fantasy adventure in the bestselling middle-grade series—the Magic Tree House!

Jack and Annie’s mission from Merlin the Magician? To help the famous writer Charles Dickens! In a magical whirl, the brother and sister are whisked back in time to Victorian England and the foggy streets of London.

There, Jack and Annie discover that Charles Dickens has everything he could possibly want. How can they help him? It is not until Mr. Dickens rescues them from being thrown in jail that they discover his secret past and the sad memories that haunt him. They will need all their magic—and help from three ghosts—to keep the great writer from ruining his life!

Mary Pope Osborne mixes magic, humor, history, a little spookiness, and a lot of heart to create this tale, which celebrates the joys of writing—something she knows a lot about, thanks to millions of readers all over the world!

This is the perfect book for boys and girls about to see the classic play A Christmas Carol.

Visit the Magic Tree House Web site!
www.magictreehouse.com ... Read more

Reviews

Inviting! Liked the whole thing
My nine year old daughter's review...

'This book called me in the book store! "Come read me, come read me!". I thought that it described how the ghosts came out really well. I also thought that it was a really good way to teach a lesson to kids by telling them that they shouldn't be greedy or selfish and should help others more; they should be kind and hospitable. My favorite part was when Charles Dickens was chatting with his fans in the restaurant at the end.'

I'll just add that she read it in one sitting, so I know she enjoyed it.

Adventure, magic and ghostly encounters
Another Magic Tree House title - #44 - by Mary Pope Osborne provides a satisfying holiday title in A GHOST TALE FOR CHRISTMAS TIME. Here Jack and Annie find their next task is to help famous writer Charles Dickens, and they are taken back in time to Victorian England London where they discover Dickens doesn't really need their help. Their discovery of his hidden sadness leads to adventure, magic and ghostly encounters in this latest fine addition to the popular series.

Magic Tree House books
I bought the remaining Magic Tree House books for my Grandkids. They enjoy reading these books. They have all of them and have on order the 45th book in the series. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

Love David

My daughter loves this!
My 2 year old has learned lots of new christmas words like "decorations" and "ornaments" etc from reading this book and discussing what is happening on each of the pages. She loves David. ... Read more

Editorial Review

In her first brand new adventure in three years, Olivia takes her discerning eye for style to beautiful Venice on a family vacation that involves dodging pigeons in the Piazza San Marco, gorging on gelato, and barely staying afloat in a gondola. ... Read more

Reviews

Disappointed, September 30, 2010
I want to start by saying that we LOVE Olivia around here. We have and love all five previous books; we have read them and shared them countless times. I've even defended the books by commenting on reviews here that complained that "Olivia is a bad role model" etc..

We pre-ordered the book and I could not wait to get it. We have great memories of European travel and can't wait to share that with our son. He has shared his first experiences with the beach, the museum, helping around the house, etc., with Olivia. And my son is just discovering the world map and the concept of other languages and so I thought the timing was perfect.

Nope. This book is different from the others.

First, the illustrations. The art is fascinating, and I give it credit. Very different from the three (or rarely 4) colors in the previous books. The Venice streetscape shots populated with the pigs are vivid and interesting. Venice is breathtaking wherever it is. But the simplicity that made the book so accessible to little ones - and so distinctive - is lost.

More disappointing and less forgiveable - because I can understand wanting to experiment with illustration style - is the diction, attitude, and "feel" of the books. "Low blood-sugar?" "near hysteria?" "search for weapons?" "typical tourists" Really? The simple but true language of the earlier books was perfect.

Being run out of Venice? Destroying San Marco Square? A "fat joke"?

Gelato is great but surely could be better introduced and used. Never before has an Olivia book so beat anything to (cliche-filled) death.

Look, this might be a good book for a third grader who is a reluctant reader. I see from the description above that this may have been geared to such a person. But I have known Olivia as one beloved by much, much younger kids (1-3 years). By the time these kids are in third grade I think they will have left Olivia type books behind. I'm guessing the new Olivia is inspired from the same original that inspired the earlier ones, and that real-life Oliva may have the vocabulary and attitude this one has (although it is strange that while Olivia has made developmental leaps, poor William is evidently still an infant in diapers).

But in this case she left the audience behind. (At least our bit of that audience.) And the place she's gone is not that appealing. Olivia's attitude was always tempered with a bit of self-deprecation and tenderness, but that - the charm - is all but absent here.


Might be great for certain older kids, but this one has been shoved under the bed until it makes it to the library donation pile. Arrivederci.

Two stars, just because I had such high hopes, and do love Olivia! But not this one.

I see that others like it and I really am glad. But I want to share our experience so that others who are coming from the same place we are with the books can be warned to keep this one on the shelf, at least for a while.

Olivia goes astray, November 19, 2010
My family loves the Olivia books until now, but this one really goes astray. It lacks the imaginative and harmless fun of the other Olivia books. It's as though the Olivia we've come to know is lost in this book. We hope Falconer rediscovers that Olivia voice in the next book. We can't recommend this one.

olivia continues to capture young hearts, November 8, 2010



While it's always difficult to resist that perky little porker, Olivia, it's impossible now that she's visiting one of the most beautiful cities in the world - Venice. Yes, sporting a gondolier's hat with its ribbons flying she's about to take that storied spot by storm. (almost literally).

As most know by now Ian Falconer has created one of the most appealing children's book characters to be found. Olivia,along with her brother, Ian, and their mother and father have shared many adventures - from forming a band to visiting a circus to preparing for Christmas. Now, they're off to Italy.

It's spring vacation and Olivia wants to take along her snorkel, flippers and water skis lest the city is under water - mother prevails. Happy to hear that she'll find pizza and ice cream everywhere Olivia enjoys their overseas flight.

Upon seeing the beautiful Grand Canal lined with incredible palazzos Olivia begs to live in one of the palazzos. Of course, she was disappointed when this couldn't happen but a gelato or three cheered her. They're all overwhelmed by how much there is to see - Piazza San Marco, the bevy of pigeons, the gondolas, the Rialto Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs.

Everything about Venice is grandly overwhelming to Olivia and she decides she must find the perfect souvenir of their trip. Young readers will laugh and be surprised at exactly what that is.......as well as its effects upon the city.

The Olivia stores simply become more delightful with each telling.

- Gail Cooke

Ugly Americans in a picture book, November 20, 2010
I suppose this will sound like I have no sense of humor, but this book is not that amusing. It seems rushed and "too cool" for little kids who love Olivia. No doubt it will continue to sell because of the branding, but if you have to pick one Olivia book or even three or four, leave this one out of the pack. Destroying a fragile city is not funny and that is the result of Olivia's souvenir hunt. A few generations back they talked about "Ugly Americans" who had no respect for other countries and for traditions. This book is like the textbook. I hope that this is NOT the beginning of a series or a book that is made into a television adaptation. Let it die out. If this is the end of the series, so be it.

yep, disappointing, November 5, 2010
My son is a huge Olivia fan and I was looking to get him another book. I wanted an Ian Falconer book not one of the other authors. The whole family's endearing qualities were replaced by annoying stereotypical American tourists. Olivia, the adventurous, friendly and precocious girl we love is lost in this whinny book. A few threads hold on so I'm giving this book 2 stars instead of 1.

Olivia Goes To Venice, October 27, 2010
I first discovered Ian Falconer's Olivia when I was covering for the librarian at my first school and was faced with entertaining a large group of Kindergarten students. We had already finished the lesson the librarian had left and there was still what seemed to me at the time a massive amount of time remaining before the teacher was scheduled to pick up the class. (It was probably only five minutes or so.) So I grabbed a book off the table. It was the original Olivia and I've been in love with this little pig ever since.
In this latest adventure, Olivia and her family spend their vacation in Venice. They tour the city, crossing the canals, feeding the pigeons, taking gondola rides, and eating numerous gelatos - so many gelatos they almost sink the gondola. As the time for returning home nears, Olivia wants to find just the perfect souvenir from the trip. Her choice is pure Olivia and one that will not surprise her fans. As always Falconer's mixture of charcoal and gouache illustrations are a delightful background for the story. This is the original Olivia, not the Saturday morning cartoon spinoff. I love Falconer's stories and illustrations. I am quite disappointed to discover a number of Olivia books being released that are based on the TV series. The illustrations in those books are not Falconer's, but unfortunately a cheap imitation. Olivia Goes to Venice, however, is pure Falconer and a must have for true Olivia fans.

Recommended for ages Preschool - 3rd Grade.

Mrs. Archer's rating: 5 of 5

My Favorite Little Girl Pig! In Venice!, September 28, 2010
I love everything about Olivia, from her little-girl tendencies to her little-pig habits! She is remarkable for so many things: suggesting a trip to Venice, of all places; getting the family to follow her lead; her knowledge of "gelato"; how does she know so much? Why is she so endearing? I think maybe it is due to the stunning illustrations, the background images of Venice, her comical self super-imposed on them, and her astonishing persona super-imposed on all of it! So glad Olivia is back, and is becoming a a world traveler!!! ... Read more

Editorial Review

Why do we have eyebrows? What's a black hole and what happens if you fall into one? What's the fastest a human is capable of running? Why do wet fingers stick to metal in the freezer? Where is the deepest point on Earth? Divided by subject area - humans, animals, environment/nature, technology, and space - and written in an upbeat manner, each answer is accompanied by either a photo or an illustration to show the reasons why. Of course, "Time for Kids" goes beyond answering the question by dipping into the science or history to further explain the answer in an easy-to-follow, straightforward manner. This is a must -have book to satisfy the most curious of kids and provokes a great way to encourage interest and knowledge about a wide range of subjects, as well as to stimulate reading. Kids will be desperate to share what they've learned with their parents, teachers, and friends...and anyone else who will listen. ... Read more

Reviews

Love it!
Love this book! Bought it for my daughter for Christmas this year. She is always curious how things work and I know she will love it. I thoroughly enjoyed looking through it myself.

why mom
the big book of why - helps the busy mom for some of answers that get us when we are not thinking on why mom - the little facts are fun for all ... Read more

Editorial Review

Science has never been so easy - or so much fun!With The Everything Kids' Science Experiments Book, all you need to do is gather a few household items and you can recreate dozens of mind-blowing, kid-tested science experiments.High school science teach Tom Robinson shows you how to expand your scientific horizons - from biology to chemistry to physics to outer space.

You'll discover answers to questions like:
Is it possible to blow up a balloon without actually blowing into it?
What is inside coins?
Can a magnet ever be "turned off"?
Do toilets always flush in the same direction?
Can a swimming pool be cleaned with just the breath of one person?

Get ready to enter the laboratory and learn how to conduct cool experiments, understand scientific terms like "photosynthesis," and know fun facts like how many latex balloons per day can be made from a rubber tree.Each section has a great science fair project, complete with all the details you need to wow your teachers and friends.

You won't want to wait for a rainy day or your school's science fair to test these cool experiments for yourself! ... Read more

Reviews

Everything you need to have fun...(and learn, too)
This is a great book, chock-a-block w/ very accessible experiments. One of the best features is the way the experiments are grouped together: a 'theme' (say, Acids, in the Chemistry section) will have a group of experiments of varying degrees of complexity that together add up to a pretty good understanding of the concept. Also, most of the materials are readily at hand- for many of them we really did already have everything in the house. This is esp. gratifying for the kids, who of course want to do the experiment *right now*. I would imagine that home-schooling families would enjoy this, but our school-going kids enjoy doing these experiments after school & on weekends.

p.s., one of the easiest experiments is also a real showstopper, though it takes a couple of days to complete: dissolving the eggshell of an egg, leaving the egg inside intact!

Science fun for kids of all ages!
Wow, what a great book! My kids love it. It is set up as a series of activities that begin with a question followed by an experiment that answers the question. Questions such as "How do you peel a raw egg?", "Does air take up space?" and "Why can't I taste medicine when I plug my nose?" are all examples of questions posed in the book. The fun is in the experiment that answers the question. I think I counted something like 30 different experiments from 5 main science areas (biology, chemistry, physics, planet earth, and the human body). Following each area is a "science fair project" for the kids to use at the next science fair at school! What a great resource it will be for our family in the years to come. All in all a great book at a great price.

Great Resource for Parents!
I wish I had this book 15 years ago as we spent time at home playing "Mad Scientist" with our young children. Our kids are now all teenagers and have enjoyed exploring Robinson's book.
Children LOVE to experiment with their world. "The Everything Kids' Science Experiments Book" offers parents and kids alike a wide array of adventures in science including: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science, and the Human Body. This book is oriented to kids ages 7-12 but offers information and exploration for budding scientists of all ages. I appreciate this book's easy entrance into the world of science and the three levels of experiments for each area of science: 1)Simple Home Experiments; 2)More Detailed "Kid's Lab Lessons"; 3)Science Fair Projects. The art layout (including multi-color printing, fun-graphics, puzzles, and side-bars), the splashy presentation of information (including fun facts, words to know, dumb-jokes, online science websites and cool quotes) and a complete index make this book an excellent resource for parents, homeschoolers and science teachers. For two other parenting resources, look into "The Family Cloister" and "The Christian Family Toolbox", both by David Robinson (...)

Fun, fun, fun!!!
I have a just turned 5 year old that LOVES science and experiments. Although this book I believe was recommended for older children, there are plenty of experiments that I can do with him at his age and get immediate results. Since there are experiments that are targeted for older children, this is one of the rare books that we'll be able to use for several years down the road. I love it so much it's going to be one of my staples in gift giving - it's easy & fun enough for those even not interested in 'science'.

UPDATE:
It's now been 2 years later and we STILL love this book and now his younger brother (4) enjoys this as well. It's always been a big hit with kids and parents alike when we give it as a gift...GREAT combined with a kids beginning science kit or plastic test tubes.

Kidz Love Science
I bought this book for my son, and liked it so much that I bought 10 copies to give to each child at my son's birthday party. He wanted a science party so this was the perfect take-home gift for the kids. Beats a goody bag full of candy and plastic toys... but I don't want to digress on how I hate goody bags at birthday parties! The experiments here are interesting and easy to set up. And, the puzzles and games on the side make it something the kids can pick up and read on their own.

GREAT!!!!!
2 things - 1) you have to do the dissolving egg experiment... it's fabulous!! 2) pay attention to the age range - my nephew (the intended recipient) loves science (okay, exploding things...) just turned seven and he is definitely too young for the detailed explanations. He didn't like the delayed gratification but he did get a kick out of the results the following week... for the younger kids you might want to do the experiments yourself and then once you have results let them get excited about it... the bouncing egg... after accepting that it didn't happen just then!! ... was a huge hit the next week. This really is just an AWESOME book...

Down to Earth Science
This book provides down-to-earth science using common everyday items that you have in your home to conduct experiments with. My grandchildren were able to have fun during the experiment itself and to come up with simple answers when we reviewed afterwards what occurred during the experiments. And yet, for all the simplicity, it was very exciting for them. And it was fun for me to see that they made the connection and looked forward to conducting yet more experiments. I highly recommend this book to all parents and their youngsters.

great book for young minds
My 6 year old son absolutely loves this book. He was so excited about the experiments that everyone we knew was told about the new experiment. He understanding what he is doing with the experiments. I would recommend this book and I have to his teacher at school.

Great Book For Young Scientists
This book was a great hit with my 8 year old son. It has a lot of great experiments and east to read instuctions. ... Read more

Editorial Review

“I think I understand!” Little Star cried out. “The baby Jesus is a king! He’s just little!”
 
A king is about to be born! The stars in the heavens are competing to shine the brightest to celebrate his birth. But when they see the poor family, the donkey, the shabby stable, the stars all think, That can’t possibly be a king. We’ve been fooled.

All except one. The smallest, loneliest star in the sky, Little Star, is the only one to understand what the king was about to bring to the world. But what can Little Star do for him? 

Certain to become a Christmas classic, this delightful tale connects the star atop our Christmas trees to the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of Jesus, in the hearts and minds of young children. ... Read more

Reviews

Sweet Children's Christmas Story, November 10, 2010
I was recently presented with the opportunity to review Anthony DeStefano's Little Star. Little Star is a Christmas story for young children. It is beautifully illustrated by Mark Elliot. The illustrations remind me a bit of The Polar Express. I found myself gazing at many of the illustrations for several minutes. My five year old spent a good twenty minutes flipping though the book to just look at the pictures after I had read the book to her. She was equally captivated by the illustrations.

I was impressed by the sweet story of Little Star. The focus of Little Star's is the birth of Jesus. Without giving away the story, Little Star gives his best to recognize the birth of the little king who was born in the most humble circumstances. Children learn about the real Christmas story as Little Star experienced it.

I like this story because it's not one of those Christmas stories that's focused on the secular aspects of the holiday, instead, the story's focus is precisely where it belongs, on Christ. The story's meaning is very easily conveyed to young children. I'm sure this book will be well received by children between the ages of three to eight.

I was provided with a review copy of this book, by the author in exchange for my honest review.

Great Book For Christmas!, November 1, 2010
The book is about a King that is about to be born. The stars in heaven are competing as to who will shine the brightest to celebrate his birth. But when they see the poor family, the donkey, the stable, the stars don't believe he is the king. One little star does.

This book is beautifully illustrated on every page, and definitely a great book to read to your kids or give as a gift!

Last night my husband read the book to our kids in bed and they got into the story, was happy for the star, and then sad until they saw how it ended and rejoiced. They completely got into and loved all the pictures. It was a hit with our little group! What a great present to get for your child, little family member or friend for Christmas!

Fresh Perspective on the Christmas Story, October 30, 2010
I'm always looking for Biblically based Christmas stories for my children. I am thrilled with Little Star, as it gives a fresh and creative perspective on the birth of Jesus. Tears came to my eyes when I came to the part of the story where the star gets it. "... Little Star was the only one to understand the king's message. His message was love." What a wonderful way to capture the purpose behind this once ever event. Anthony Destano has hit the bulls-eye once again.

A Shining Little Star in the World of Children's Books, November 12, 2010

When my children were small, we used to pile on the couch, me in the middle with my daughter on my lap, and the boys on either side, sometimes sitting on the top of the couch so they could get a better view of the pictures, and we would spend hours each evening reading stories. Those were wonderful moments for my family and I do miss those storied evenings now that my children are so much older and read on their own.

So, when Anthony DeStefano asked me to take a look at his newest book for children, Little Star, and told me that it was about his effort to encapsulate the whole Christ story in the message of the incarnation, I was not only intrigued to see how he made that effort work, but I was also overcome with a sense of nostalgia for reading childrens books, and so I gladly accepted his offer. I am very glad that I did!

When the book arrived in the mail, I quickly glanced through it and decided I would wait to read it until I could invite my two youngest children, Jack-11, and Mary-9, to read it with me. I wanted their viewpoints on the book as well, since it is intended for children. The three of us shared a relaxing evening as we enjoyed the artwork of Mark Elliott (we especially loved Little Star's cowlick of hair!) and the enchantingly uplifting story of Little Star. When we finished reading the book, I asked my children if they understood what the story was about, and without missing a beat, Mary answered, "It's about the death and resurrection of Jesus." Her response made it obvious that the object of the story came through loud and clear.

Through the viewpoint of the stars in heaven, one little loner star rose to a lofty position as the only one who recognized the importance of a king born in a cold and humble stable. He roused himself to shine brightly for the baby, offering warmth and light as his gift, and burned so brightly that he burned himself out for the Lord. Through Little Star, we learn that when we lay our lives down for others, giving our best and our all, we will never die, but like Jesus, we will live forever in the memories and hearts of those who follow us.

Little Star is a wonderful story with a wonderful message. It's sure to become a family classic enjoyed not only at Christmas time, but throughout the year as well.

One Star - Many Stories, December 5, 2010
I was looking for a good Christmas story for my 4-year old daughter and was excited to receive this book for review in exchange for an honest opinion.

As taken from the back cover of the book, "A king is about to be born! The stars in the heavens are competing to shine the brightest to celebrate his birth. But when they see the poor family, the donkey, the shabby stable, the stars all think, That can't possibly be a king. We've been fooled." Well, all the stars but one think that and this is the story of that one little star. Little Star is a bit different from the other stars and is ignored by them as a result. He alone recognizes the importance of the event he's witnessed and in an effort to love and warm the baby Jesus, he winds up "burning himself out".

The illustrations, by Mark Elliott, (especially the nativity scenes) are beautiful. The illustrations depicting the story of Little Star and the other stars and seem a little out of place. They are done in a different style - almost cartoonish compared to the more realistic scenes of the father/son storyline and the nativity.

The story is passed along from father to son and tries to make a connection as to why many people put a star on top of their trees at Christmas time. The story is cute and there was a nice lesson to be learned from it. However, I felt like there were 3 different stories going on in this children's book and it could be confusing for younger children. I somewhat liked the tie to our traditions of using stars on top of our Christmas trees, but that almost seemed like a fourth story idea. I was a little bothered by the ending that every Christmas, people put stars on top of their trees to remember Little Star. Overall, it was a cute book, but I would give it a 3 out of 5 stars due to the disjointed illustrations and numerous story lines going on.

Great Story - Great Illustrations!, November 9, 2010
Got this book about a week ago & read it to the kiddos right away. Even my 8 yr old loved it! Great illustrations as well.

What someone little can do for love, November 23, 2010
I was excited to receive a review copy of Anthony DeStefano's new hardcover children's book, Little Star, from Waterbrook Press. This nativity story for children, just in time for Advent, is unequivocally pro-life. I am happy to recommend a book for children that celebrates the precious gift of life. My own reaction to the book is one of delight. Mark Elliott's enchanting illustrations will captivate young readers as they learn about the tiniest star in the sky, Little Star, and his desire to show his love for the newborn Baby Jesus.

"I think I understand," Little Star cried out. "The baby Jesus IS a king!"

This pro-life message is very apparent as young readers understand that looks can be deceiving: Being physically little has nothing to do with greatness or worth. A little star and Jesus, the Baby King-- both very little but full of so much love. Indeed, as Little Star realized his love and devotion for the newborn King, he could not contain it any longer, and proved to the rest of the other, bigger stars just what someone little can do for love. The sacrifice that Little Star made for his adoration of the newborn King in Bethlehem mirrors the supreme Act of Love that Jesus made for each one of us.

In fact, the sweet character of Little Star reminds me of St. Therese, the Little Flower, who loved her littleness and had such devotion to her Savior, doing all she could for Him in spite of--and because of--her littleness.

I highly recommend Little Star this Advent season for children and the adults who love them.

So Amazing that I cried!!!, August 12, 2010
This is a truly remarkable book for those of any age. In a way, it reminds me of the Giving Tree. Not only will children love it for Christmas but grown ups will enjoy reading it with them. This amazing author really finds a way to touch our hearts every time.

The Parable of Little Star, December 3, 2010
Since I am a big fan of Anthony DeStefano's "Ten Prayers God Always Says Yes To," I was thrilled to receive a review copy of his latest project, "Little Star." As a devout Catholic and mother, I am always looking for good books that teach faith principles without being "preachy" and "Little Star" is just that.

After reading this beautifully illustrated book, I gave it to my 11 year-old daughter. She flipped through the pages, enthralled, and handed it back to me, declaring, "I just love this book!" Even older children appreciate the simple lesson that Little Star teaches us.

If you read the book carefully, you will realize that Little Star is a Christ figure. Little Star is humble and self-sacrificing, rejected by his peers, willingly gives his life for others but is resurrected in light and glory. God rewards Little Star for giving his life by ensuring that he is remembered forever and ever. Sound familiar?

"Little Star" offers the perfect opportunity to teach our children to be Christ-like through this little parable which gently reminds us that Jesus is "the reason for the season." Highly recommended.

A Nice Story, December 1, 2010
There are so many seasonal books available, but so few really live up to expectations. This one almost hits the mark.

Little Star is ignored by all the other stars, but when he sees the new king born in a humble stable, he alone of the all stars understands that Jesus chose to be "born little to show all the people of the world that he loved them, no matter how small or poor they were." Inspired by this love, Little Star burns brightly to warm the newborn baby, in the end burning himself out. But he isn't really gone, because every Christmas we put a star on the top of our tree to remember him by.

The illustrations in the story are lovely for the most part - the manger scenes are truly gorgeous. The images of Little Star and his fellow stars, on the other hand, are very cartoony and feel disjointed compared to the more lavish earthly images. The story itself is sweet and has a nice moral, but I found the "tell me a story, daddy" narrative device to be unnecessary and contrived. And while I liked the tie-in to our tradition of star tree-toppers, the idea that our memory keeps Little Star alive bothered me. Still, it's a nice little story to add to the genre. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

Loved it!, January 18, 2007
My six year old daughter asked for a coloring book for Christmas and is really into horses. She was so excited to receive this book. The pages are thick and of nice quality. The brown pen she used slightly bled through onto the backside but not enough to ruin the picture. She uses colored pencils or crayons on most of the pictures.

Magnificent Horses, September 16, 2007
Page after page of beautifully drawn horses in various poses, many of them are action poses.

A few of the pictures feature riders but most are just of the horses--which was my preference.

The drawings are large and easy to color, and there is also lots of background with mountains, trees, rocks and even rivers/streams.

I am an adult colorer, but I think anyone from about the age of six would enjoy coloring in this book.

I highly recommend it.

Great coloring book!, April 9, 2007
I bought this as a gift for my step daughter (age 5), along with several other coloring books; Dragons Coloring Book & Gargoyles and Medieval Monsters Coloring Book. Of the three she has taken most to horses. It is a fairly easy book to color out of, but not annoyingly easy. We have spent a lot of time coloring together, and having good books like these make that time an enjoyable way to bond with your children, while teaching them the value of prime colors and staying in the lines. :)

If you like horses You'll love this book, October 22, 2007
This is a very good coloring book. John Green is an excellent artist and with a little colored pencil or crayons the pictures come alive. I bought this book for myself, and I love it.

Great for older kids, December 20, 2007
This is a beautiful book that an older kid could really appreciate. I bought it for my 3 year old because she's very into horses right now but she will not do it any justice. An older child with artistist ability would love turning these black & white images into stunning pictures. Would work great with colored pencils as the pages are much nicer than the usual "crayon" type pages of kids coloring books.

Great coloring book!, July 10, 2007
My daughter, a seven year old horse lover, thinks this book is the greatest. It went missing for a couple of days and she was distraught! It has beautiful horse pictures.

Great Coloring Book, August 16, 2009
I shopped around for a coloring book about horses that was not "cutesy", to no avail. This coloring book has interesting pictures of beautifully drawn horses on each page. The cover and pages are of high quality materials. I was very pleased to give this coloring book as a gift.

coloring book, January 19, 2009
Very nice book of beautiful horses and backgrounds to color, good quality paper. I'm very pleased with my choice...you will be too.

Perfect for horse "happy" children., July 4, 2009
The Wonderful World of Horses coloring book is perfect for children who adore horses. The drawings are large enough that even our youngest grandchild (3)can do well with the detail. All of the kids love this coloring book and bringing the pages to life.

Wonderful idea!, March 27, 2009
I am so glad I ordered this book! As I was packing for a visit in another state I turned to Amazon for a quick gift for my granddaughter-a surprise.
The order came very quickly and was just what I needed. There is beautiful detail in the pages to be colored. She was excited to receive a book which clearly required more skill. She is eight years old and this was perfect for her as she is a meticulous coloring fan. It also was in stark contrast to the easier one her little sister got, so she felt her talents had been recognized. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Provides a complete, comprehensive overview of the Prequel movies (Episodes I-III) and the Trilogy (Episodes IV-VI), this is the definitive photographic guide to the entire Star Wars saga. ... Read more

Reviews

Wow!, September 27, 2006
What an amazing, thorough, comphrensive guide to everything Star Wars. NOTHING is left out. You get not only in depth profiles of every major character, but every OTHER character in the universe. It's so detailed that they break down each PART of each weapon, ship, etc. For someone like myself who isn't the biggest Star Wars geek (but wanting to learn more), this is a godsend. There are many, many, hardcore fans out there that can reference almost anything and anyone to do with Star Wars. Well, now you can too, and you don't have to see the films 3245 times to do it.

It's a great companion to the "Ultimate Visual Guide" as well. It is a combination of the Visual Dictionaries for the the other films, so all Episodes 1-6 are covered.

Buy it, NOW!

Nice 4 in 1, November 10, 2006
I bought this for my 9 year old son, who already owns the visual dictionaries from episodes 1 and 3. When this came out and it had all 4 visual dictionaries plus extra goodies thrown in at a fraction of the price to buy all 4 I jumped on it. My son loves it and has noticed many of the illustrations and info not included in the visual dictionaries he already had before. The one gripe I have is that it seems to not have the same quality of photos as the other visual dictionaries, but it might just be me. I don't think he has noticed.

THE ULTIMATE STAR WARS REFERENCE BOOK, January 31, 2007
I'm a Star Wars fan but I am not a fanatic. I can't name each character, droid, or vehicle the way die-hard fans can. So for guys like me, the Star Wars Complete Visual Dictionary makes the perfect and complete reference sourcebook. This oversized hardcover books is packed with 270 pages full of information on the Star Wars universes and backed up by hundreds of full-color photos direct from the films.

The book covers all six Star Wars films beginning with Episode I, The Phantom Menace. We meet Darth Sidious on the very first page and learn about the founding of the Republic. From there we meet characters such as Mace Windu, Yoda, Qui-Gon Jinn, and Obi-Wan Kenobi. But this isn't just a book that shows a picture of the character and their name, all sorts of interesting details are included. On the Obi-Wan two-page spread we'll see typical Jedi gear including their lightsaber. Each character, creature, druid, weapon, or vehicle entry includes a text entry about the subject.

Next, the book covers Episodes II and III in the same detail and with the same brilliant color photography. I never realized just how many different blasters were used in the films until I read this book. There's the Naboo Blaster, the KYD-21 used by Zam Wesell, The DC-15 Blaster carried by Clone Troopers, and the Westar-34 blaster of Jango Fett, and many, many more.

Finally the first three original Star Wars films are covered all as one section and if I do have one complaint about the book it's that these films only get 70 pages of coverage while the first three films get 200 pages. I think you can chalk that up to the newer films being broader in scope and having a much larger cast of characters and gadgets. Still, it was the original three films that I was most interested in reading about and I suspect that many share my feelings.

No matter how big a Star Wars fan you are, you'll still want to own this book!

Reviewed by Tim Janson

The ultimate visual guide to the characters and creatures of the "Star Wars" saga, October 18, 2006
To tell you the truth, I think this volume is entitled "Star Wars: The Complete Visual Dictionary" because if they said it was a visual encyclopedia they would be leaving room for complaint. But DK is marketing this as a dictionary that provides "The ultimate guide to characters and creatures from the entire 'Star Wars' saga," and on that basis they certainly deliver. This volume brings together the four "'Star Wars' Visual Dictionaries," with new material including an more detailed look at Utapau, Mustafar, Order 66, and clone battle tanks from "Revenge of the Sith." At the same time coverage of the original trilogy has been expanded with overviews of the Rebel Alliance, Imperial personnel, the Sarlacc, R2-D2, and the unusual crowd down at the Cantina. So if you have the original four Visual Dictionaries you will find more here, but chiefly the appeal will be to newcomers who need help explaining to the next generation of "Star War" fans the names of all of the members of the Jedi High Council, exactly who makes up the Separatists, and how a Wookie bowcaster works.

I am one of those persons who went to the first showing of each of the films in the original trilogy. I went back repeatedly to see all three films, spending one afternoon watching "Star Wars" twice in a row just so I could pay attention to a different quadrant of the screen each time. This book is fully cognizant of the fact that nearly every scene in the "Star Wars" movies are filled with a wealth of visual information, from the instrument-laden starships and the uniquely crafted weapons to the architecture and culture of dozens of alien worlds. Over the years there have been "Star War" novels, reference books, comics, toys, and games that have provided names and back-stories to many of the backgro8und characters, devices, vehicles and structures George Lucas and the folks at ILM crammed into hundreds of frames. But this visual dictionary goes beyond that, as amply proven by the look at the INSIDE of a Stormtrooper helmet, that explains the four layer construction of outer plastoid composite armor, inner insulation, anti-laser mesh, and magnetic shielding, in addition to the Comtech Series IV speaker that uses three-phase sonic filtering for clear sound, the atmospheric cyclic unit, power cell, and other features all crammed inside the iconic white helmet. In other words, there are enough details here to keep die-hard "Star Wars" fans quite happy indeed and even those with an encyclopedic knowledge of the films will find new information,

"Star Wars: The Complete Visual Dictionary" is written by Dr. David West Reynolds ("'Star Wars' Episode I: The Visual Dictionary"), James Luceno ("Dark Lord: The Rise of Darth Vader"), and Ryder Windham ("'Revenge of the Sith' Scrapbook"), so collectively they have bona fides to spare. The book is divided into four sections representing Episode I, Episode II, Episode III, and Episodes IV-VI, so this visual dictionary follows the numerical chronology (not to be confused with the actual order in which these movies came out). The approach of the book, quite familiar to those who read DK's publications, is to provide a two-page spread on everything from the Phantom Menace to an expanded look at R2-D2. One of the nice things about working so closely with Lucasfilm and Industrial Light and Magic is that this book is able to incorporate hundreds of photographs that are not simply lifted from the films but taken for publicity, costume checks, and the like. The back of the book includes a brief Glossary of terms such as "carbonite" and "Tibanna gas," and an Index of several dozen key places, people and things (not a comprehensive index, but enough to help you track down all references to Coruscant, Padawans, and Luke Skywalker. Consequently I am convinced that my brother, who has all of the original "Star Wars" movie posters framed on the wall of his family room, will really enjoy this book as his Christmas present this year.

A Must for Star Wars Fans, November 10, 2006
These visual dictionaries are wonderful-- clean layouts, stunning photos and inventive descriptions. My son holds this one in high regard!

Star Wars Visual Directory, November 9, 2006
This rendition depicts full color pictures of a host of Star Wars characters. The utility tools of Star Wars are shown. i.e. pouch,
light saber, the druids photo receptor, the Senate Guard blue robe and the
tool demagnetizer. The Revenge of Lith is shown, as well as Order 66.
Phantom robots are depicted as well. The acquisition is perfect for
children and young teens. Star Wars enthusiasts will enjoy the rich color
presentation of the characters and the exotic machinery/tools depicted.
This would be a good holiday gift for young audiences.

don't bother if you already own all the visual dictionaries, December 26, 2006
I already own the visual dictionaries for I-VI. I thought there was going to be a lot of extra material in this book. I was disappointed. Most of the material is a carbon copy of what's in the individual visual dictionaries. So don't buy this book if you already own the visual dictionaries.

Good if you don't own the others, January 7, 2007
This is basically a compilation of all the previous Star Wars Visual Dictionaries. I use it mostly for prop reference and there's no reason to keep the other 4 Visual Dictionaries if you buy this one, plus there's a few pages of previously unpublished material added in to spice it up a bit.

A Great Read!, January 18, 2007
I gave this book to my 10 year old son for Christmas. He likes the book because when he watched the Star Wars movies he had many unanswered questions. This book not only points out the amazing features in this series, but it also answers some of those questions. He has spent MANY hours reading the information and looking at the wonderful images. That is why we think any Star Wars fan should read this book!

The Complete Visual Dictionary of Star Wars, March 16, 2007
I love it! All four visual dictionaries in on book and with extra pages. I think it is a great book for any Star Wars fan of any age. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Christmas is almost here! Little Bear can smell it—and so can you! The air is filled with the aroma of gingerbread cookies, minty candy canes, the piney Christmas tree,and yummy hot apple pie. Celebrate the holiday season with this classic Golden storybook which includes six scratch-and-sniff scents. ... Read more

Reviews

One Sniff & Suddlenly I'm 6 Years Old Again ..., October 4, 2005
As a kid, this book was my absolute favorite and I read and re-read it year after year until the scratch n' sniffs were all out of smell. This book embodies all of the wonder of the Holiday Season, as seen through the eyes of a child. What could be more wonderful than the smell of apple pie baking on Christmas Eve or of the juicy orange nestled in the top of your stocking? When this fabulous book was reissued last year, I immediately bought a copy, so that I could share it with my son, who was a little over two at the time. Reading this book brought back all of the great memories of my own childhood Christmases and my son was delighted, as well. This is truly a classic to be handed down from generation to generation.

The Sweet Smell Of Christmas, November 26, 1999
This was my all time favorite Christmas book as a youngster. I can vividly recount the smell of little bears hot chocolat and candy cane and the Christmas Tree. The wonderful sense of anticipation that any child will share as little bear waits for Christmas morning. If only this book were in print I would definitely buy a copy for all of my children and neices and nephews to treasure as a family heirloom. My childhood copy has since been lost and I would dearly love to share this story with my children. Golden Books - Please send this wonderful story to print again.

Classic Christmas scratch & sniff book back in print!, January 6, 2005
I remember reading this book to my baby sister when she was young; ( she turns 30 this year). About at this time the scratch & sniff stickers where all the rage as well as those smelly food markers! Any way.... I am very pleased that the book has been brought back in print and I love the story. The peppermint, hot coco and orange smell so good. My only complaint is when they redid this classic why they didn't make the scratch and sniff areas larger! They are the original size that they where back when ( the size of a quarter ) and I remember we scratched the sniff right off our book. In todays world where DK publishing in my opinion RULES the Scratch & Sniff books... like Food and the Garden book, why they didn't take the time to make the scratch and sniff areas BIGGER! They have the technology and I am sure none of us who originally owned the books would have complained because they made the smelly areas bigger! That is the only reason that I gave this book a 4 star rating rather than a 5 star. I have a fondness for Patricia Scary and her husband Richard... just make the scratch and sniff areas bigger! It's a cute story about baby bear and his mama and Papa Bear, I just love Papa bear's hat on Christmas morning!

Sweet Smell of Christmas, August 11, 2000
This was my favorite book as a child. Now that I have a daughter, I thought for sure that it was still at my parent's home. I was disappointed to not find it. I went to order it and it is out of print. Please publish this wonderful classic again. I would surely buy several copies for my daughter, all young relatives and one for myself. I can still smell the hot chocolate, candy canes and pine tree. This is the greatest book and deserves to be in print again to be enjoyed from generation to generation.

Great Book - Found Replacement Stickers!, September 30, 2010
I don't remember this book as a kid, but my mom swears I had it. Now I'm 33 and I have a daughter of my own and this was given to us Christmas of 2008. It was during Christmas 2009 when she really found this book and fell in love with it, as did I reading it to her. We just love it. As other reviewers have said, this book just evokes great memories of the Christmas season. And who can not love the scratch and sniff smells.

Now here is lies the rub about this book. Only the very potent aromatic smells last at all. Pine and peppermint were still going a year later, but the rest (apple pie, gingerbread, hot chocolate, and orange) were pretty much dead. And after just one season even the pine and peppermint started to go. So what is one to do when your one of your daughter's favorite books loses its prominent scratch and sniff feature. Well you go on a sticker hunt and as of Sept 2010, I've now found them all.

Since it was so hard to find these stickers I wanted to post a review of the book and a location that other parents like me could find replacement stickers. I started my search in June 2010 and found almost all of them at the website EverythingSmells.com. The only scent that seemed non-existent was gingerbread (unless you wanted to buy 2500 stickers from a custom company or cut your own out of Target greeting cards). So I emailed the company and asked if they knew of anywhere to get gingerbread. They didn't know, but kept my email and just wrote me today to tell me that they now have a gingerbread sticker for sale! So now you can get all the stickers in one place! Mind you, they will not look like the original stickers, but at least the children don't care. It's the act of scratching and sniffing that matters to them.

So to the parents out there that bemoan the fact that the book has lost its smell--go get some stickers (with plenty of spares), paste them in, and re-enjoy the book with your children or grandchildren for all it's Christmas charm. I know we did and still do today.

My Favorite Book As A Kid & Now A Gift For My Son!, November 7, 2005
This book is amazing. I cannot remember a Christmas that did not involve this book, the smell of the apple pie, the pine tree, the hot cocoa, the orange, the gingerbread...I even tried to lick the stickers when I was little and had to replace them with regular scratch and sniff stickers that had the same smell! I still have mine but just as I got Angelo his own copy of Little Bunny Follows His Nose (also awesome!), I am getting him his own copy of this book for Christmas this year. I will write a note under the front cover and hope that he has this book until he can read it to his own kids someday and maybe even get them a copy of their own. I love this book and it has made fond memories for both my mother and I and I hope it will make some nice memories for my son as well! If you are looking for a book to buy for a grandchild or for someone who is expecting their first baby, this is perfect (I might even get one for my niece too!) and is a book that will start a tradition of years and years of holiday reading...and scratch and sniffing. Enjoy!

Not as great as it used to be..., August 18, 2007
The integrity of this book is seriously compromised by the new, non-descript, circular stickers. They actually obscure the illustrations that they cover. It makes me sad that what used to be a childhood favorite is now seems so cheaply made. Also, the scents are faint. If you're buying the book for the story and illustrations it is still fun. But if the scratch-n-sniff aspect is an important component(why wouldn't it be?), you'll probably be disappointed.

What Wonderful Memories!, December 11, 2006
As a child, I knew it was Christmas when my mother brought out this wonderful book. I scratched and I sniffed, year after year, until all the scent was gone. Or so I thought... Last year, while unpacking a box of childhood books and toys, I ran across my copy. The fragrance is faint, but the memories are strong. What a magical feeling this book evokes, combining a charming story with scents that have lingered in my mind all these years. I just bought a copy for my own 6-year-old, and I can't wait to give it to him for Christmas!

Please bring Little Bear back, December 12, 1999
My children went through two copies of this wonderful book. We still have one copy but it is tattered and the smells are but a memory. My daughter is trying to find as many of her childhood favorites as possible for her daughter and was very disappointed that this is now out of print. Traditions are important in our fragmented society. Please bring this book back.

A holiday classic that deserves to be reprinted., November 24, 1998
Some kind soul gave my 30-year-old "little" brother a copy when he was a toddler and, luckily, I happened upon a it five years ago to give to my own son. Now my brother's son is ready for his own copy! The story is simple: a young bear delights in anticipating Christmas. But the scratch-and-sniff illustrations tell the story so viscerally that many years later, I can still smell the orange in the little bear's stocking (and the gingerbread, pine bough, hot chocolate, apple pie and candy cane). This book proves that smell is our keenest memory sense. In both of our family's copies, the scent patches have all been scratched nearly through to the page. This year, my wish is that Golden Books would reprint thousands of new copies to put under next year's Christmas trees. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Turn girls into terrific teachers! Using the tools in this kit, girls will be able to give their dolls an "A+" education. Activities range from planning lessons and grading tests to tracking attendance and rewarding students. Includes a chalkboard, world map, report cards, library books, flashcards, hall passes, and lots more doll-sized supplies for the classroom. ... Read more

Reviews

Wonderful toy, but you will need storage for all the little pieces., December 28, 2009
I wish they would have included little file boxes to put together to store all the little pieces of papers in. Other reviewers suggest a shoe box, but I needed a tiny box to hold the tiny file folders upright so their contents won't fall out. I have spent a lot of time today just organizing the pieces of this product and looking for tiny boxes, etc. to store stuff in. My 7 year old daughter loves it all, but still needs my help with it. She has 4 doll "students" and has set up report cards for all of them, graded some tests (actually added up scores for correct answers), filled in the "Teacher's Attendance and Grade Book" with their attendance and their test scores, and then said that teachers' jobs are not as easy as she had thought. Good insight. I helped her average the 2 math test scores she had for each student so she could fill in the first grading period on their report cards, so was glad to introduce her to "averaging" and division. The alphabet banner is in cursive, so she is excited about starting to learn that, as she is only in first grade. She enjoys the multiplication flash cards, so I'm thinking of getting a whole deck that she can work with.

Suggestion--All the little pieces to this school set come on sheets of heavy weight paper and you punch out the pieces, like the flash cards, tiny library cards, tests, file folers, award certificates, etc. I highly recommend that BEFORE you punch out any of the pieces, you SCAN THE PAGES INTO YOUR COMPUTER SO YOU CAN PRINT OUT DUPLICATES AS NEEDED. The set is supposed to have enough school supplies for 4 dolls. In the book it often says if you have more than 4 "students" you will need to make photocopies of the items to have enough for each student.

Well, I don't know about the other reviewers, but my book only had one writing journal, even though the book specifically states, "If you have more than 4 students, photocopy the cover and pages." Another disparity between the book and the items in the kit is the school "locker" door. The book says it's a "sticker" but mine is just a piece of paper printed to look like a locker door. The idea is to stick the "locker door" picture onto a shoebox lid, tape the lid to the box on one side and make a locker out of the shoe box. I only had one "locker door" in my book, so I'd have to make photocopies of if I wanted lockers for all 4 of my daughter's students.

I'd like to see some online component to this book, where buying the book gives you a code to go online and find more things to do like this.

Overall, great idea. Brings me back to my own childhood playing school and making little items for my dolls. I too have had to set up a "doll school" in a corner. Once school starts back, I plan to make up little spelling tests for the dolls with my daughter's weekly spelling words from school. Same with math and other subjects.

Would love to hear more suggestions from other purchasers.

An 11-year-old's review, October 2, 2009
The Doll School set by American Girl grabbed my attention the second I saw it. It's filled with miniature items such as hall passes, lunch tickets, library cards, and even school pictures! Any girl can be an organized and prepared teacher when they purchase this item. I love it. I have a corner in the playroom where my dolls can learn what I learn from my teacher every day! This set is worth every penny you pay, and I gaurantee you that it will NOT be a disspointment!

-Marion O'Sullivan age 11

Many days worth of fun!, October 12, 2009
This kit has so many ideas and pieces that it is perfect for many days worth of fun. I recommend giving it to your little girl with a shoe box to store all the little pieces in, such as the mini doll class photos.

Cute!, April 2, 2010
I love this book because it encourages my daughter to actually play with her American Girl dolls rather than just using them as room deoorations.

priced right - nothing fancy, March 23, 2010
Good for an "extra" Christmas present or a birthday present for an American Girl doll fan, but don't expect too much. My daughter played with it for a week and then put it away not to come out again. Possibly she was too old at 11. I would recommend for the 7-10 year old who doesn't quite know what to do with her dolls

So Fun!, February 5, 2010
My 9 year old daughter loves playing school, loves American Girl, loves making things, and loves little "stuff". This was the perfect gift for her and she enjoyed it for hours.

Doll School: For Girls Who love to Teach, December 27, 2009
Santa brought this to my daughter for X-mas and it was her favorite present! She is in second grade and loves
to play school. Now she can play with her doll. The math is a bit hard for her but now she wants to learn
multiplication. It is very well done. Lots of little pieces so you need a box or bag to keep everything together.
Highly recommend.

A+++++ for children 7 and older, April 10, 2010
I was very impressed with this craft kit, and bought two, one for me and one for my grandaughter, who is seven. As the other reviewers have mentioned, it is gloriously detailed and just the thing for little girls who love to play school. There are definitely HOURS of activities. My grandaughter loves it too, but I believe she is at the minimal age for it. The reviewer who gave it only 3 stars acknowledges she gave this craft book to her children who are 4 and 6 years old and I think that is too young. The child who goes to school is going to be more enchanted with the miniature tests and all the little knick knacks. Being able to read is the absolute minimum requirement! Also, this craft requires manual dexterity to cut carefully. I fold it delightful to do WITH my grandaughter. Too much fun to just have one book...

Perfect!, January 10, 2010
My grandaughter is home schooled and loves her American girl dolls, so this was the prefect gift for her and she did love it.

Buy for you 6-9 yr old girl, July 15, 2010
I got this for my grand daughters who are 6 and 9 and they loved playing school with it. They used it alot and didn't get tired of it. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Illus. in full color. Encourages children to find out about themselves, while having fun writing and drawing their own biographies. ... Read more

Reviews

Gotta get a second one!, November 8, 2000
My older son got this book as a gift several years ago, and my youngest son was reading it this morning and wants one of his own. I'm so glad I found it! It's sort of like a baby book the kids can fill out for themselves. Some of the things the kids fill in are "my hair is ________" and I live in a (city, suburb, town, etc.) And it's all in the wonderful prose of Dr. Seuss. Then they can draw pictures on some pages and color already-drawn pictures on others. I've enjoyed looking back at some of the things my now-eleven-year-old said when he was five! I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to give their young children the opportunity to create a memory book for themselves for their growing up years. It's great!

Great interactive book & keepsake, November 13, 2006
What better way to involve your children in reading books than to have them fill out a book of short funny questions about themselves? I bought this for my niece when she was able to write her alphabet & check boxes. All her relatives had fun asking her questions & helping her fill it out. Her grandpa drove her around his small town to get signatures from a neighbor, a relative, a postman, a man over 6 feet tall, a man with a moustache, etc. I found out what her favorite friends, colors, foods & pets are. She answered how she acted when she got mad & how bad she felt afterwards (she added several exclamation points after checking that box). : ) She drew a picture of a bird & named it after her little sister.
It helps to give this book to a child when he or she will shortly be returning home because the book asks you to count windows, doors, forks, & faucets in the house. (It helps practice counting, too.) It's not really a rhyming book in the expected Dr. Seuss sense, but it has a nice mixture of questions, boxes to check, & pages to draw. As a hardbound book it makes a great keepsake. I'd unequivocally recommend it to anyone.

It is a family tradition, June 7, 2004
I found a copy of this book that was given and done by my hubby when he was a little boy. It is so cute to look back on. I loved it so much, I had to look it up for my 2 children. I found it and now my 9 year old son has one, my 7 year old daughter has one and I have ordered one for my little baby on the way. It is a family tradition with us. We love it and it is fun to run around the house and to talk with your child to fill out the pages of this memory book!!

WONDERFUL MEMORY BOOK, December 19, 2002
I recieved this book just after I learned to read (25 years ago)! I loved completing all the tasks (I still remember counting every fork in the house). Being allowed to write in a hardcover book was the greatest for a 6 year old! I look back on the book and know it will be a wonderful memory for me to share with my son about his mommy's childhood! And I'm sure he'll enjoy filling out his own copy too! I'd HIGHLY recommned this book for ANY and EVERY child! But make sure they keep it forever to share with thier children! It should never end up at a used book sale!

Awesome, Awesome, Awesome, December 8, 2004
I had this book as a little girl...and 30 years later, I still have it. I bought this for my son from the "toothfairy". He's 5 and can write basic ABC's, numbers and count. Very fun to fill out, keeps a high energy child very interested. This book provides many fun activites in order to be able to answer the questions in the book. His favorite part is fnding people to put their autographs in one particular section.

A must have for anyone with a child who can do some basic writing and counting.

GREAT book!, June 18, 2004
My six yr old just rec'd this book for her birthday. She is thrilled and eager to complete the book. We will treasure this book always. I'm going to purchase several myself to give as gifts.

Memory Lane, November 7, 2000
My six year old daughter found my copy of this book that I filled in in 1969. She loves reading about how tall Mommy was at her age, what my favorite color was at her age, and she can even see just how big my hands and feet were. This book has "bridged" an age gap for us and provided lots of giggles. Now she will have her own book to fill in and share with her child someday!

A FOREVER CHERISHED TREASURE, September 17, 1996
My daughter received this book as a gift for her 5th Birthday. One year later it is chocked full of information about her. Each page requires the child to write or draw things about their house, school, friends, family, clothes, food, toys, etc. I am surprised by the LOW cost of this treasure. It is a great activity book for any age child and once it's completed, it provides on-going entertainment. I wish I had this book when I was a child! It makes a great gift for any occasion!

This book is fun for kids and great for a keepsake!, August 25, 2006
My husband had this book as a child in the late 70's, and my sister found the same book in the store and bought it for my oldest son about 5 years ago. It has been so fun for my son to fill out the book. We still have Daddy's book to look at from when he was little, so that is fun! I would highly recommend this book to anyone wanting their child to have an enjoyable and interactive activity. It also serves as a wonderful keepsake for later on. They have fun things in it, such as "How many steps is it to the mailbox?" and "How many windows are in your house", as well as questions about what you want to do when you grow up and your interests. Love this book!

The best book my parents ever bought me!, January 11, 2005
I am so happy that this book is still being printed! I still like to flip through mine and see what I wrote as my favorite song was when I was 6, how many freckles I had, etc... I urge any parent to buy this book for their children-- It creates the greatest memories and it is also fun for the kids. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Girls will discover dozens of fun ways to be creative with this book packed with projects! With special punch-out pages, girls can make a cootie catcher, bingo boards, a gift box, a secret note dispenser, a micro mobile, and so much more. This book also offers lots of games, crafts, journal-writing activities, and sticker fun for girls to share with friends and family, or to do on their own. ... Read more

Reviews

Kid At Heart, September 25, 2007
Yes, I'm a kid at heart. I am 32 and bought this book for myself and love it. Still love to color, cut & paste, draw, and this book has a little bit of everything.
Keri Smith also wrote, "Wreck This Jornal" which is a blast.

Fun - for a while, May 24, 2009
The idea behind this is great. There are some new activities that young girls wouldn't think to do on their own and those are fun. However, some of the activities are just slight variations of things that girls know how to do anyway, such as "cootie-catchers."

When I ordered this book, I thought it would be good for a young teen but after seeing it, it would be better for ages 8 through 11. It would be fun for a road-trip for this age group, but probably won't be a book that someone would refer back to for ideas over a long time period.

Great gift!, June 3, 2008
Thank you, American Girl for coming up with a zillion forms of creative and funny entertainment to enjoy for many hours. Doodles, crafts, stencils and more are here, and you will adore it!

The parents of the recipient of Tear Up This Book will love it even more for keeping the kids (creatively) happy!

THE PERFECT BOOK!!, November 7, 2005
I loved this book because you could tear out the games and puzzles.Two thumbs up!!! -kristen

Not what I expected., January 8, 2009
Whoever thought this book is for 9 to 12 year olds is sorely mistaken. I bought this book for my niece, who was 12 at the time I purchased it, and didn't even bother giving to her. After flipping through it, I deemed most of the project suitable for a much younger group. I honestly don't think any girl over 9 would enjoy this book. Many of the project are babyish; What 12 year old wants a punch out mobile in her room? Is any girl that interested in learning how to draw a plate of eggs and toast? Maybe my niece is mature for her age, but I am really glad I didn't give her this book. I know she would have been as disappointed as I was.

My Daughter Loved this Book, October 15, 2009
I got my daughter (age 7) this book for her birthday and she is still playing with it months later. She can do it by herself and likes discovering each new project. A very cute idea.

It's a Hit!!, July 5, 2009
Gave this to my daughter for her 10th birthday...it was a hit with her and her friends at the party. I just happened to see this and thought she might like it...it wasn't something on her list! It was the first thing she picked up when we got home from her party and she had already cut out a bunch of the projects before I realized it! American Girl does it again!!

"Awesome", May 23, 2008
This is what my 7-year-old granddaughter said. I've been told she's been taking it to bed each night although I hope she's not cutting and pasting in bed!

Fun, Fun, Fun, March 17, 2009
Tear Up This Book!: The Sticker, Stencil, Stationery, Games, Crafts, Doodle, And Journal Book For Girls! (American Girl Library) (Spiral-bound)
by Keri Smith (Author)

My two seven year old granddaughters loved this book and they spent hours playing the games, doing the activities, etc. I gave it to one of them for Valentines Day but it was a hit with both of them and they willingly shared the fun! My daughter was impressed with the book too and the way the girls enjoyed it.


... Read more

Editorial Review

The Daring Book for Girls is the manual for everything that girls need to know—and that doesn't mean sewing buttonholes! Whether it's female heroes in history, secret note-passing skills, science projects, friendship bracelets, double dutch, cats cradle, the perfect cartwheel or the eternal mystery of what boys are thinking, this book has it all. But it's not just a guide to giggling at sleepovers—although that's included, of course! Whether readers consider themselves tomboys, girly-girls, or a little bit of both, this book is every girl's invitation to adventure.

Reviews

A wonderful book for young girls (or boys) - you'll love it as much as your kid!, November 9, 2007
This is the perfect book to share with your daughter/ granddaughter/that special girl you know who is a tween or young teen. It has just the right mix of articles - informative, fun, and stimulating! When the "Dangerous Book for Boys" came out I wished for a version for girls and this book is as good as the one for boys if not better.

When you first flip through its pages it will remind you of the time you were her age. You probably read a book almost like this but not quite. I say not quite as this book does a perfect balancing act between skills and general knowledge, between techniques we learned from our grandmothers and the ones that became popular later. It tells you "how to press flowers" but also "five karate moves". "Make your own quill pen" is preceded by "how to change a tire". I remember reading a book almost like this in my childhood. I dearly treasured that book till its pages were yellow and stiff into my college days. I spent many afternoons after school experimenting with the projects. I remember the bitter candy apples I made from a recipe in that book, or the quill pen with which I wrote my "secret language" notes for my friends and this book brought back those memories. With more words than illustrations, the Daring book for Girls will encourage the girl who reads it to use her imagination.

This book will appeal to the "girly-girl" in every girl with the sections like "Palm reading", "Hopscotch", "Princesses today" or "Boys"; to her sense of adventure with articles like "Going to Africa" (short section on each country), "Hiking", "Reading tide charts"; and to the "builder" in her with sections like "Building a campfire", "Tree swings", "Every girl's toolbox". There is a ton of useful information and facts in this book too for those rainy or quiet days - "from French terms of endearment" to "Queens of Ancient world" to "Women Inventors". Sports are covered too - basketball, softball, netball, bowling, playing cards and more.

My daughter was thrilled to get this book. I wasn't sure she'd like it as much as I liked my childhood book. But she began her next project "how to tie a sari" in minutes and over dinner started telling me about the women inventors in the book. We have now designated this book the "mother-daughter time" book. Each weekend, we pick up the book and try something new! What a great antidote to the "Mom, I'm bored" refrain!

Some are activities she can attempt on her own and for others like building the ultimate scooter she will need help as it requires some sawing and drilling. It is a challenge for me too as I've not really attempted to build anything from scratch before. I'm ready with my saw and drill and as excited as her to begin that project!

This book gives just the right kind of stimulation for a younger girl's (or boy's) curious mind and their thirst for new knowledge and skills. This book will also grow with the reader as it gives practical advice and even contains chapters like "Stocks and shares" and "Negotiating salaries." This book is therefore highly recommended and will make a great gift for a 7-14 year old.

Sparking Imagination, November 12, 2007
There are certain things that every girl should learn in her young life, like how to press flowers, what games to play at a slumber party, and how to put her hair up with a pencil. You know, girly things. But they also need to know things like salary negotiation, self defense with karate, and how to change a tire.

She'll get that and more in The Daring Book For Girls, by authors Andrea Buchanan and Miriam Peskowitz. This wonderful collection of projects, primers, and practical advice is so compelling and fun to read that I found myself browsing through it for hours after my daughter went to bed.

The letters of Abigail Adams, the history of women in the Olympics, making a lemon-powered clock... The book is packed with stimulating knowledge and activities. It's sure to stir my daughter's imagination for years to come. The authors have wisely designed the book to appeal to a wide range of ages, from 8 to 18. I'm well beyond those years, and NOT a girl, and even I'm envious of the new worlds of information that will be introduced to my daughter through these pages.

If you're the parent, or grandparent, of a girl, think twice before you spend your holiday money on some new toy or electronic gadget. The Daring Book For Girls will be the gift that gets the most attention this year.

If you have a daughter, buy this book!, November 8, 2007
I don't know what I like better -- The Daring Book for Girls or the fact that it's written by two women I greatly admire, Andrea Buchanan and Miriam Peskowitz.

Written as a sequel, of sorts, to last year's The Dangerous Book for Boys, The Daring Book for Girls is a compendium of activities and information to help today's girls rediscover that there are ways to have fun besides shopping at the mall, watching Hannah Montana or IM'ing their friends.

As the mother of a seven-year-old daughter, I was thrilled when I learned that the founders of MotherTalk would be writing this book and couldn't wait to see what it would have in store.

When it arrived, my daughter and I were both very excited because it's just got so much STUFF! Where to begin? There was so much to take in after I was done ooh-ing and aah-ing over the beautiful teal cover with the sparkly silver letters (yes, that did appeal to the "girl" in me!)

How to make a lemon-powered clock (really!)? Reading the chapters on women who were pirates and spies? How to make a tree swing or check out the list of books "that will change your life?"

Aimed at the "tween" girl market, it is perfect for that age group, billing itself as the book "for every girl with an independent spirit and a nose for trouble."

If you're the parent of a daughter who could use a little nudging to take off the headphones and get a little fresh air, then this book is just what the doctor (or Santa) ordered. There are so many great craft ideas and topics to spark the imagination of a girl it's hard to know where to start.

Since the book's release, some commenters have questioned whether this type of book can really have an impact on the way our daughters are socialized today -- can we really hope that a book that is an homage to our childhoods in the 1970s will be the tonic that will drag our girls out from behind the laptops and forsake the sassy outfits?

Can it really get our girls away from the world of Libby Lu parties, Bratz Dolls, and questionable Halloween outfits?

Is it too much to take the feminist optimism we had as girls of the MS. generation and help our daughters discover that they can do "boy" things, too? I think it's imperative. At seven, my daughter is already succumbing to the phenomenon of boys having too much sway on her budding self-esteem. If a few of the activities in this book can help boost her already waning self-confidence, then I'm going to go for it.

Perhaps it is too much to expect that one book can start a new feminist wave for our daughters of the 21st Century. But if we don't start somewhere, who will?

As a parent, I can't be responsible for reclaiming the girlhoods of all the "tweens" in America by making them turn off the Disney Channel and sit down to make a quill pen or learn about Queens of the Ancient World. But I can start with one excited second-grader and I'm planning on doing just that.

What I can do is take one second-grade girl, who is chomping at the bit to dig into the activities in The Daring Book for Girls, and help her discover things she never thought she could do. And I can make sure other moms know about it, too.

fantastic book for all kinds of kids, November 13, 2007
I am a fifth grade school teacher, so I see a lot of books meant for kids who are growing up. many of these books, especially the books geared for girls tend to be very dramatic, social survival guides that delve into the social ins and outs of growing up at younger and younger ages.

This book rises above all of that in the same way that the Dangerous book for boys (also a staple in my classroom) did. It tells kids that it is OK to be kids, it is OK to have a lot of interests, from sports to science to history to literature, to enjoy life by doing.

when I discovered this book on amazon I looked at the table of contents and was delighted at what I saw; the rules of basketball, how to tie a sari, campfire songs and many more topics. I called the girls in my class over, some who are jocks, some who are girly-girls, some who are science minded, and our social butterflies. accross the board each and every girl found something to love about this book, to the extent that there was a fight over it when it arrived in our classroom.

I am convinced that if there were more books like these telling kids to be kids and live life rather than play video games or watch TV all day, the world would be a better place.

The Daring Book for Girls, January 2, 2008
I picked up this book in the store and realized it is representative of what I learned as a girl scout brownie (friendship songs, how to make bracelets, etc.). Maybe this is what girls wanted to know in the fifties, but it seems terribly silly for girls of this era. The boy version, amusing and easy to read, included intelligent and interesting information: how things work, mechanics, astronomy, herbology, entomology, how to make a treehouse, etc. I bought the boy book instead.

My recommendation: Scratch out "Boy" on the title, write "Girl" instead, and give the "Dangerous Book for Boys" to your little girl - she will get much more out it, actually learn something meaningful/useful, and enjoy herself in the process.

I know I did.

A Wonderful Book, November 5, 2007
This is not a girly book. It's not sexist or anti-male. It's a book full of fun, wonderful, clean adventures and lots of useful information for girls of all ages. And don't girls need all the help they can get? I sure wish this had been around when I was a girl.

The book begins with all the essential gear girls just have to have. Included are a swiss army knife described as a key tool for survival, a bandana to keep your head cool, rope and twine to help learn about knots, a journal (that's a big one), a hair band for girls with long hair-- duct tape, to fix almost everything, and patience--which is described in the book as a quality and not a thing.

The book tells girls to not try and be perfect. (Good for all of us.) In the face of frustration, your best tools are a few deep breaths, and remembering that you can do anything once you've practiced it two hundred times. Isn't that wonderful advice? Girls especially are sort of perfectionists. As girls, we tend to think we have to be better and never make a mistake. This books helps girls to discover they don't need to be perfect BUT that if they keep trying, they'll be great!

Highly recommended.

Highest Compliments Department, October 28, 2007
One of the highest compliments the author of a book for younger readers can get is from a parent who says, "I wish there had been a book like this when I was a kid."

My guess is that authors Buchanan and Peskowitz will hear this a fair amount from older readers who fall prey to their daughters' nightstands. Despite its sidekick status as the companion volume for the extraordinarily successful The Dangerous Book for Boys, The Daring Book for Girls more than holds its own. Like the boys' volume, this one has a great, retro design, and handsome interior layout.

But content is where the Daring Book really shines. It has terrific pacing, as the chapters alternate between activities and interesting information about history and culture. The underlying emphasis is on being active and (dare I write it?) daring. There's a can-do tone that informs Daring Book that I found really admirable... and my guess is that boys who voyage beyond its front cover will as well. Terrific work! See also The Big Book of Girl Stuff, the best book for this readership that I've ever written. :)

"Daring Girls" Lives Up To It's Title., December 1, 2007
This book celebrates the fact that you can change a tire,be good at math,play softball & still be a girl,which I think is great.So I bought it out of both curosity & admiration,(although I figured there'd be one eventually)that there is now a female equivalant of "Dangerous Book For Boys" Also,the hand-clapping songs,daisy chains & the infamous "Bloody Mary" legend brought back many fond memories for me. I just wish the book had more art projects,but perhaps in the the next book(?),they're will be. Also,the book has a slightly slapdash feel to it,one topic follows another without rhyme or reason. For example: how to make a book cover follows an article on Cleopatra,follows an article about how to deal with boys(which btw,is both sensible & age-appropriate).I feel the book should have catergories,but that's an adult P.O.V., not one of a tween girl(whom this book is definately aimed at) Also,I spotted a few typos,though my spelling isn't the greatest at times (as you can see here) OK, but I'm nit-picking. The over-all spirit of the book wins you over & definately would make a cool gift for a "daring" girl(or mother/aunt/ big sister of one:-)!

Equal to or better than the Boys' book...., November 3, 2007
... depending on whether you prefer hunting and tanning (boys) or jump-rope and karate (girls). Much of the content in the Daring Book for Girls is very like the content in the Dangerous Book for Boys, with slight variations which are nice if you happen to have both. If you are a parent wondering whether to buy this for your daughter or go with the boys' book because you think it might be better, rest assured, this one is every bit as fun, adventuresome and fascinating as the boys' book. I have a young daughter and bought the boys' book before I knew there would be a girls' one; now I have them both and side-by-side I can say this one at the very least lives up to its predecessor, and in my opinion surpasses it, although both are excellent.

There are things in this book I'd completely forgotten that I did as a girl. Remember four-square? Elastics? Daisy-chains? Friendship bracelets and hand-clap games? And there are some fascinating tidbits in here, too; did you know Julia Child was a spy before she became a famous TV chef? Who would have thought it? There's a neat section on "Vedic math" tricks, which are something I've always thought amazingly cool and useful. And another neat thing is the international flavor of the book; living in the U.S. but having grown up in New Zealand, it's a real treat to see netball included here among the ball/court games, right between basketball and korfball!!

Really, moms and dads, do your girls a favor and buy this book, it's worth every penny (for the nostalgia factor alone, hehe).

A wonderful treasury of fun knowledge and women's history., November 16, 2007
I have a daughter who considers herself to be at least two things: an intellectual and a tomboy. This book satisfied both!

Fun, useful 'how to' information such as how to build a lemon clock, how to play tetherball and how to press flowers, written in a concise, very readable way. Information about women in history is also in the book, along with the periodic table of elements and information on how to build the perfect scooter.

I think this book would appeal to anyone; boy, girl, man, woman...of any age, who just likes to learn and do new things. It's a book you can read cover to cover as an adult and both become a bit nostalgic and enlightened at the same time.

Wonderful! ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

Destined to become a classic, November 22, 2009
I purchased several books hoping to better explain Christmas to my 2 year old. The other books were all classics but this one was the best of the lot. The book had a message that applied to both my 2 year old daughter and my 29 year old daughter. It was beautiful and I found myself tearing up at the end of the book. My daughter loved the pictures and has had me read the book to her quite a few times.

The Spirit of Christmas, December 7, 2009
Every year I give my children, who are all over 21 now, a Christmas book. When I read "The Spirit of Christmas" I knew it was the one for this year. It is rhyming, which I love, and told in first person by a mother, or grandmother,or a favorite aunt, or simply the giver of the book. The spirit of Christmas comes to her and tries to help her feel the spirit of Christmas. He names several things the spirit of Christmas brings: "Bells, he said, Jingle bells! Bells right away! Bells on a one horse galloping sleigh" and "Snow that lies silent, As quiet as a mouse, And roads that all lead to your grandmother's house."
Near the end he reminds her that the season was started by a child and that's when it dawns on her, "That's when I got it! That's when I knew! The thing that was missing from Christmas was you!" My daughter-in-law read it and I ask her what she thought of it and she said, "I think you love us." That is true.

The most beautiful children's Christmas book ever!, December 2, 2009
Nancy Tillman has created the most beautiful Christmas book ever! I purchased one for my little niece and I look forward to reading it to her at Christmastime.

This book is an absolute MUST for everyone's library! I would suggest that you buy one for someone you love AND buy one for the gift giving that is available in all of our cities for the underprivileged children.

The Spirit of Christmas has messages that will warm your heart. Sure, the children definitely "win" by having this book read to them, or by reading it themselves, but as an adult, you will find your spirit deeply touched by these words. Heck, you may even want to buy a copy for an adult who still has that "child-like" spirit -- I'm sure they'll love it too.

Peggy McColl, [...]

Beautiful!, December 9, 2009
I just read this book to my 5 yr old....it was beautiful! I had tears rolling down my eyes!!! ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

12 months later... and he's still reading it, November 16, 2009
I bought this book for my son during Christmas of 2008. He had checked out a couple similar books from the library, and seemed to generally enjoy them. In my opinion this book, although shorter than the others, is probably the best. The facts and activities inside are interesting, the layout is clean and easy to read, and the text is targeted to its audience (young adolescent boys - perhaps ages 7 and up). Even almost a fully year later, I still see my son reading the book in bed sometimes before going to sleep. It was probably the most lasting of any of the Christmas gifts I got him last year. And in my personal opinion, anything that will get young boys excited about reading are worthwhile.

Please be kind enough to indicate if reviews are helpful.

Almost-10-yr-old LOVES this book!, May 9, 2008
My nearly 10-yr-old son begged me to buy this book for him, and he has been transfixed ever since it arrived! He brings it in the car with him to read! He is in the advanced reading section in school, but I think this book would appeal to a wide age range. I wish I'd thought to keep it to give him during our summer vacation, but the way it's going, he'll be completely through it by then! And to parents -- the content isn't really "bad" -- it's just the right kind of intriguing to keep a young boy's attention -- i.e., breaking codes, spy secrets, obscure trivia, etc.

Hands-down the best of the "boy" books!, February 5, 2008
How to make fake blood, how to make a bow and arrow (gulp), and clever card tricks are a few of the things my 8-year-old son has brought up at the dinner table since receiving this as a holiday gift. Some of his friends got it too, and it's fun to overhear them discussing it. In addition to the fun stuff, there's good, meaty info, like US presidents and state capitals, etc. There are a ton of "boy" books out there, but this one has the best content for kids. And the very cool design will appeal to boys of all ages. Highly recommended.

Great book for boys!, April 5, 2009
For Boys Only: The Biggest, Baddest Book Ever
My 8 year old loves to read this book because it states it is for boys only and it actually contains cool stuff that interests him like how to fight a shark, video games, buried treasure and monsters. Perfect for a boy! I bought this to try to find something to capture his interest so he would enjoy reading and it worked!

My son loves the book, January 6, 2008
I bought this book as a Christmas gift for my 9 year old son. It's funny how he's taken right to it. He'll be looking thru the book like he's scheming to find something to pull on his sisters! I think he's enjoying the book more than I expected.

So much fun I stole it for myself, April 17, 2009
My son and I were fighting over this book as we each endeavored to crack the code hidden on the pages. In addition to all the fun information contained within the covers, there is a puzzle to be solved. Not just a little, spend five minutes on it puzzle, but a long, you must solve this part to get to the next part puzzle - thoroughly entertaining. We had to look up looking up Morse Code and ASCII to solve it which made it fun and educational. It is a truly enjoyable little book.

Awesome Fun, December 28, 2008
I purchased this book for my 9 year old son, who is a reluctant reader. He is now asking me if he can go to his room and read. I am only slightly scared of the ideas the book is putting into his head, but he's got a huge smile on his face, and wants to read, so what more can the parent of a pre-teen boy ask for?!?!

great for ADHD attention spans, July 21, 2008
My son doesn't stay focused on reading for long periods. He likes this one very much. It can be enjoyed in short readings and in any order you choose. If you remember Boy Scout Manuals and how much fun they made learning, buy this for your son, he'll like it.

Great Book!!!, June 25, 2008
I gave this to my son for his 12th birthday and he loves it. He read it in a matter of days but I still see him re-reading it all the time. I think even a child who dislikes reading would enjoy this very much.

AWESOME BOOK FOR BOYS!, December 12, 2007
This is THE book for every boy! Safe enough for the family crowd, with just enough edge for the boy in everyone. We need more books from these guys. They understand us . . . and the boys inside. AWESOME BOOK FOR BOYS! (P.S. Can you guys write one for our daughters???) ... Read more

Editorial Review

As Little Cub and her family prepare to celebrate the most special day of the year, the curious young polar bear begins to wonder…
“Who invented Christmas?”
Mama’s answer only leads to more questions like “Is God more important than Santa?” So she and Little Cub head off on a polar expedition to find God and to see how he gave them Christmas. Along the way, they find signs that God is at work all around them. Through Mama’s gentle guidance, Little Cub learns about the very first Christmas and discovers that…
Jesus is the best present of all.
This enchanting tale provides the perfect opportunity to help young children celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and to discover how very much God loves them. ... Read more

Reviews

Excellent Read!, August 15, 2007
This is one of my new favorite reads for the Christmas season (or anytime, really)! IT has a sweet, warm message. I love finding books with a true Christian theme. Santa Clause and Frosty are great, and have a place in our traditions, but it's also very important to keep a focus on the reason we celebrate Christmas in the first place. I have read this book to 4 and 5-year-olds, who enjoyed it very much. We read it two or three times in one week! They loved it each time, and I loved reinforcing the wonderful spirit of the book. I HIGHLY recommend this for children ages 3-12 (and the adults who love them)!

Wonderful Christmas Gift, November 29, 2006
"Who 'vented Christmas? Was it Santa?" This book answers a child's questions with tenderness as a mother bear and her cub go looking for the giver of Christmas--not Santa, but God. There is no Santa bashing, however, when Mama says, "Santa Claus reminds us about many good things..." The mother and child find God in the natural world and in the hearts of people. Illustrated beautifully, this book is sure to become a Christmas classic.

Great for little ones about the true meaning of X-mas without spoiling "santa", December 22, 2006
Great book about the true meaning of Christmas. Lots of books do that, however, this one actual gives a good reason for Santa - other than "he's not real". Regardless of whether Santa is part your Christmas celebration, kids always hear about it. Illustrations are beautifully done. My 3 year-old loves this "bear book".

"God Gave Us Christmas" by Lisa Bergren, December 7, 2009
Lisa Bergren, author of "God Gave Us Love," has continued her insightful, much needed series with the bears in her new book, "God Gave Us Christmas," A beautiful compilation of the teaching of the Savior's birth, the importance of showing your children that God can be found in all things around them and a great book to answer the question of the importance of Santa Claus. This book teaches children how to find God everywhere they look, in all of His creation, and to have faith in Him without seeing Him.

Another very important aspect addressed in this wonderful book is the power of the Lord, in which He commands the water to freeze and glaciers to melt.

Many books do not question the importance of Santa Claus during the holiday season, however, "God Gave Us Christmas," does just that. By showing children that Santa is just an aspect of Christmas, helping to show generosity, the child is able to learn that the Savior Jesus Christ is the true meaning of Christmas. As a Christian parent that worries about my children confusing the commercialism of Christmas as the true meaning of the holiday, this important aspect of the story is welcoming.

In this book, the little cub is grateful for her mother's teaching of God. Every parent should be willing and happy to share the love of God and teach their children about the gift of salvation. Now their is this great book that allows us to do that. I encourage parents of young children, especially while in the midst of the Christmas season, to pick up this book, read it to your children and remind them of its many lessons.

This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multanomah Publishing Group.

I cannot say enough good things about this book..., April 18, 2007
While no book is ever perfect, this one is pretty good. It brings the idea of why we celebrate Christmas into a story that is different and fresh, and when combined with a biblical account helps kids keep the facts in perspective. I particularly liked the fact that Christmas is tied to the coming of Christ in a way that reminds us of the value of the stories of "Santa" or "St. Nick" yet also emphasizes that the true gift is from God. We talk a lot about the coming of Christ, but many forget that He was sent by the Father. In her own way Bergren reminds us that God has given us an amazing gift in Jesus, and this is the perfect introduction to the idea of Jesus as our gift, not just because He came, but because He died and rose again.

Share Jesus with Your Kids, November 11, 2006
This is a wonderful story about how Mama Bear helps Little Cub find God and learn how He gave Christmas to the world. Beautiful illustrations and charming dialogue! Share this book with your children to show them how God gave Christmas and Jesus to them!

Keeping the Christ in Christmas, January 12, 2007
This is a wonderful book for helping young children understand where Santa fits in and what Christmas is about. I read it to my pre-K and Kindergarten Sunday School classes as well as my own children and the little ones loved it. My older son (8) wasn't so into it. It's really for small ones.

God Gave Us Christmas by Lisa T. Bergen, January 11, 2007
I bought 3 of this book, for my niece and nephews and one for my own children too. It is a great book for kids who are stuck on the only important thing at Christmastime being Santa. It has a wonderful story to teach kids about the real meaning of Christmas and the pictures are beautiful.

Wonderful story!!!, January 10, 2007
I gave this to my son who is 2.5 years old and he LOVES it! He has the book memorized now because he wants to read it every night. It is good to have a story book that takes the focus off of the commerial Christmas.

Meaning of Christmas: Jesus or Santa?, December 4, 2008
This book does a really great job of acknowledging the true reason we celebrate Christmas - Jesus' birth - while not downplaying any of the other holiday traditions our culture has become accustomed to. It does not say that Santa does not exist (for those fearful parents whose children still "believe") but suggests that Santa is a reminder of attributes that God cares about and wants us all to possess. The author goes further than saying "Christmas is about Jesus being born"; she also talks about who Jesus is and why God sent him to earth. I have a feeling this will become a Christmas Classic at our house - even if only because "mom" likes it! ... Read more