Just saying the letters DK in a discussion about books instantly brings to mind quality nonfiction books like no others. Those two letters command respect, and with a library of what I imagine numbers in the thousands, it's possible to find a book on any given topic. Specifically for my family, DK children's books are go-to resources, and my oldest son has a rotating collection from our public library on his shelf at home at all times. It's daunting to even begin to review their titles, because there's so much packed into these books! Among their fall releases, these three titles stand out to me for their immense volume of information, as well as the fun that can be had simply from browsing through their pages. The writers and editors of Open Me Up: Everything You Need ...
Category Archives: ages 9 – 12
Alienated — A Book for Tween Boys
I think it's safe to say that when children reach the older elementary school years, there begins to be a slight level of gender differences in what reading materials are most attractive. While I'm not saying that there aren't girls out there who could get swept up in the adventure and out-of-this-world absurdity of this book, Alienated by David O. Russell and Andrew Auseon definitely has preadolescent boy written all over it. At the center of the story are two eighth grade best friends who are as low as anyone can possibly be on the middle school social totem pole, and to make matters worse, they produce a weekly newsletter highlighting the presence of aliens living in their area. Of course, no one believes the tall tales of Crumble Bun and her ability to turn anything she touches into a ...
Sound of Music Collectibles
There are very few movies or musicals that I could watch repeatedly, but The Sound of Music is one that never grows old. Since childhood, I have enjoyed the story and music from this classic production. November 2009 marks the 50th anniversary of the original Broadway production of The Sound of Music. In honor of this milestone, Simon and Schuster released The Sound of Music: A Classic Collectible Pop-Up. The design of this book is so fun. Each opening includes a pop-up, but each opening also includes another mini-book filled with more pop-ups and lyrics to many of the songs. This book is a perfect way to introduce Maria and the Von Trapp family to a new generation or a great collectible for any Sound of Music fan.
The Usborne Book of Dinosaurs
Strange and mysterious creatures with TEETH! My little boy is in love! The Usborne Book of Dinosaurs (provided through Usborne Books & More) is a great beginner's picture encyclopedia of sorts for the young paleontologist wanna-be. The book does present an evolutionary view of the world which I don't happen to agree with, but this did not prevent us from loving to look at or learn about dinosaurs. The Usborne Book of Dinosaurs starts "Before the Dinosaurs" and proceeds through to "After the Dinosaurs." Along the way, the various page spreads offer full-color illustrations of different types and varieties of these mighty and mysterious creatures. The book points out various features and physical attributes that individual dinosaurs have. There is a helpful pronunciation guide for mothers trying to name all of these animals to their young children. There ...
Fairy Tales
Recently our family went to Disneyland for a vacation get-away and everywhere you looked there were princesses. Big girls, little girls, old girls and young, every girl seemed to want to be one. Some got to by nature of the fact that they were hired on as Disney cast members. Their JOB is to BE the princess. (Can you fathom the endless adoration?) If you or your little girl spends any period of time dreaming of what it would be like to live in a magical fairy land, wear a pointed hand, or make your face sparkle with glitter, then you might want to check out these two books, offered by Usborne Books & More. The Usborne Illustrated Fairy Tales book is a wonder, truly. It has a cushy hard back cover to it and, as you can see from ...
Eccentric Racing Network
Unfortunately, as boys get older, many of them lose interest in books. Right now, my second grade boy is an avid reader, and I hope he stays that way. Just thinking that he might be nearing a time when he doesn't ask to stay up and read one more chapter makes me sad! Eccentric Racing Network: RV the Racer Aardvark is a new book written for all kids in the 8-12 age range, but it is one that I believe will appeal especially to some of those difficult to reach boys. The story centers around RV the Racer Aardvark, a creature born without feet, who lives in outer space. RV rolls around on one wheel, and he is quite talented and fast. As the story unfolds, ...
Ocean-ology
Last year I reviewed the title Spyology which I absolutely loved and adored for young spy wannabes. This year I am proud and happy to introduce you to Oceanology which is Candlewick Press's latest addition to their -ology series. Oceanology follows the adventures of sixteen year old Zoticus de Lesseps on the "true voyage of the Nautilus." What would it have been like if there was a survivor to Captain Nemo's voyage? What if you could read that survivor's diary of the expedition? Well, now you can! This book is cool and ridiculously awesome! Just like Spyology had codes, letters for the readers and plenty of lift-the-flap explorations, so does Oceanology. We get a description of the ...
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Jennifer Donovan
Managing Editor -
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