Review: Gregor the Overlander

By: Suzanne Collins

Scholastic Books; 2003; 320 Pages

Juvenile Fiction; Fantasy

Grades: 3-6

ISBN: 9-780-4394-3536-9

The story of Gregor and his two year old sister, Boots, who fall through a grate in their laundry room. The pair become wrapped up in a war and a quest in the Underland, a world populated by giant bats, rats, spiders, and a race of humans.

My Thoughts:
I thought that Collins did a great job of creating realistic and believable characters, especially since they were thrust into such extraordinary and fantastic situations and settings. The main characters: Gregor, Boots, and Luxa all have their own skills that make them valuable, but they are all flawed in some way. I think that children will be able to identify with the fact that they do their best and try, even though they are not perfect. I also appreciated how Collins was able to take things that are far from appealing, and make them endearing. I cried when (spoiler alert) one of the cockroaches sacrificed himself for the good of the group. (Not that I am going to stop killing the little boogers when they invade my home...)

The book will especially appeal to boys. It has a male protagonist, is populated by creepy crawlies, and has action and violence. It is very fast paced, with chapters that are on the short side. It also doesn't pussy foot around violence and the consequences of war. People and things get hurt, and sometimes die. Sometimes the deaths/injuries are shown as being just and deserved, other times they are honorable and for the greater good, and sometimes they are pointless and sad. On the surface it has "boy book" written all over it. At the same time, Gregor is a caring and warm individual. The love and concern he shows for his little sister is a great example for growing kids. It proves you can be brave, and tough, and adventurous while still being loving, kind, and gentle. The balance of virtue and strength is great!

The Thoughts of Others:

Publisher's Weekly's 2003 review of the book admired Collins' technique and skill. They said that "Collins does a grand job of world-building, with a fine economy of words-no unnecessary details bog down either the setting or the invigorating story." They felt that the relationships were real, the pacing appropriate, and the characters believable.

Steven Engelfried reviewed the novel in 2003 for School Library Journal. He thought that it was a good book to introduce new readers to the fantasy genre. He also noted that the "Plot threads unwind smoothly [with] exciting scenes and cliff-hanger chapters ...balanced by decisions and interactions that drive the action."

Review: Tale of Despereaux

By: Kate DiCamillo

Candlewick Press; 2003; 267 Pages

Juvenile Fiction; Newbery Award Winner

Grades: 3-6

ISBN: 9780763617226

The story of a very little mouse with enormous ears. When Despereaux falls in love with a human princess, the castle culture is rocked to the core. Despereaux is forced into many exciting and dangerous adventures as he rushes to save the girl he loves.

My Thoughts:

I enjoyed this book immensely. I thought that the style was great, reminiscent of early novels from the 1800's, with the narrator often addressing comments directly to the Dear Reader. At the same time the plot moved along at a rapid pace, there were twists and turns through out, and the language was not mired in prohibitive vocabulary. (Although, the young reader will quickly learn the meaning of "perfidy.") I also thought that the plot itself was highly original. Although there have been other stories of princesses, mice, rats, and dungeons, DiCamillo somehow manages to avoid being derivative.

There are several aspects that I truly liked. The first is that soup is central to the storyline. I like soup. The second is that Despereaux is an underdog, and I think that kids will be able to identify with him. No one seems to expect much out of him, and they are easily frustrated when he doesn't fit into thier mold. By maintaining his integrity, he is actually able to do what those who are larger and better qualified cannot. I also loved that the story is not set in a specific era. Though it takes place in a castle, the king is depicted as singing the sixties hit "Deep Purple." Also, no one seems surprised that the animals can talk and interact with the people. Finally, I appreciated that the story teaches certain morals,but is never preachy. It teaches the importance of forgiveness, acceptance, and hope. It also teaches that love, though ridiculous, is powerful.

The Thoughts of Others:

Miriam Lang Budin wrote a review for School Library Journal in which she likened DiCamillo's writing to both Henry Fielding and George Orwell. She summed the work up as "entertaining, heartening, and, above all, great fun."

Booklist's Ilene Cooper appreciated the hidden lessons, writing that, "as with the best stories, there are important messages tucked in here and there, so subtly that children who are carried away by the words won't realize they have been uplifted until much later." She also appreciated the way that DiCamillo seamlessly wove four storylines together.

Review: Kids' Stuff

Artist: King's Singers and Judi Dench

Primarily A Capella; 1987; 14 tracks

CD; Children's Music

Ages: Birth-Adult

A world-renowned a capella vocal group teams up with the incomparable Dame Judi Dench on this delightful compilation of traditional songs, stories, and nursery rhymes.

My Thoughts:
This album is amazing. Not only is it rife with British accents and witticisms (I am an Anglophile), but it is full of the unexpected. The King's Singers are known for their vocal acrobatics and sound effects. They bring these into full swing on this CD. For example, on "Old King Cole" they imitate an orchestra warming up before a performance. Dench is also in rare form. She begins by introducing herself, ("Hello, my name is Judi. What's yours?) and with that invites children to wander through imaginary lands with her. Her recitation of poems and stories are enchanting, and blend perfectly into and out of the music that the King's Singers offer. Rather than distinctive tracks, the whole album melds together into a fun journey.

I truly appreciated the fact that the songs were, for the most part, truly children's songs. They are traditional standards. Yet, the sophistication that the King's Singers and Dench bring to them makes for an album that adults would enjoy listening to even without the kids along. Unlike a lot of children's albums offered by adult singers, this CD does not feel forced. It caters to the kids without losing any of the group's adult appeal. (I especially love the version of Yellow Submarine. It is not something one would look for on a children's album, and yet it is so appropriate!)

Thoughts of Others:
I was unable to find any critical reviews of this album. Since it was originally released in the 80's, that was when it would have been reviewed. However, several websites had user reviews. One of which I really agreed with. He said:
" I enjoy the album because here is a chance for children to hear music that is attractive to them being sung by the group many consider to be the finest vocal ensemble in the world." Doug Anderson

FYI Track Listing (My Top 5 in Bold):

1. Teddy Bears' Picnic - The King's Singers, Kennedy, Jimmy

2. Humpty Dumpty/Old King Cole/The Grand Old Duke of York/Intro: ...

3. This Old Man

4. Over the Hills and Far Away/Intro: Wind on the Hill

5. King John's Christmas/Intro: The Snowman - The King's Singers, Milne

6. The Riddle Song/Intro: Cottleston Pie

7. Walking in the Air - The King's Singers, Blake, Howard

8. Yellow Submarine/Intro: Baby Sardine - The King's Singers, Lennon, John

9. The Owl and the Pussycat/Intro: The Island - The King's Singers, Lear, Edward

10. Here We Go Down the Line/Into: The Land of the Bunbley Boo

11. Lavender's Blue/Intro: There Once Was a King

12. Wendell the Worm/Intro: At the Zoo/Little Worm - The King's Singers, Parker

13. I Know an Old Woman - The King's Singers, Bonne

14. Frog Went A-Courtin'/We All Stand Together/Intro: The Frog

Review: Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus

By: Barbara Park

Random House; 1992; 69 pages

Juvenile Fiction; Series

Grades: Kindergarten - 3rd grade

ISBN: 9-78-0679-92642-9

Junie B. Jones is excited to start kindergarten and to meet new people, but she is NOT excited about riding the school bus. In fact, at the end of the school day, she decides not to ride it home again!

My Thoughts:
I thought that this book was perfect for kids who are ready to transition from easy readers to regular juvenile fiction. I had heard from some friends that they didn't care for these books because of the poor grammar. I felt, however, that the text was suited to the narrator. When read aloud, it sounds like a 5 year old is actually talking. (I especially liked how she described her classmates when she didn't know their names: that boy I can beat up, etc.) The plot moved along quickly to hold interest. The chapters were brief to give a sense of accomplishment. Most importantly, the book felt real. Junie B. is not the nicest little girl, but that makes her seem more true to life, and easier for kids to relate to. I believe that kids will be able to identify with Junie B. even if they are already out of kindergarten.

The other thing that I loved about this book, was that it allowed me to connect with my six year old cousin who is in kindergarten. She loves these books, and loves to read them with my aunt. The repetitive nature of the series has enabled her to recite parts of each book, because the introductions are always the same. This empowers her and makes her feel like she is actually reading. (She also was very thrilled that I had to read it for homework in college...it made her feel very grown up to be reading the same books as college students!)

The Thoughts of Others:
School Library Journal's review in 1992 raved about Park's humor. They felt like this book was a great addition to a library because Junie B.'s ignorance will let "even the most insecure readers... feel superior because they know so much more than she does."

Publisher's Weekly also reviewed the book in 1992. They picked up on the realism of Junie B.'s narration, but also pointed out the book "is peppered with reader-involving questions." This would allow teachers and parents to pause and allow their students/child to interact and engage with the text.

Review: Kidults

Artist: Mandy Patinkin

Nonesuch; 2001; 16 Tracks

CD; Children's Music

Ages: 2 to Adult

ISBN: 0-755-9795-3428

A collection of music that blends traditional children's songs with more adult offerings.

My Thoughts:

I was a little puzzled at first when I saw that Mandy Patinkin had a children's music album out. I was only familiar with him from television and The Princess Bride. When I listened to it, I was pleasantly surprised. His versions of several traditional kid's songs were innovative and delightful. I appreciated the fact that, as an actor, on some of the songs he did character voices and sang multiple parts (i.e. Singing in the Bathtub, A-Tisket A-Tasket). Also, as a fan of Kristen Chenoweth, I enjoyed the duets that he included.

There were a few tracks that I thought were more than a little odd. I suppose he included the Japanese Sandman/Cat in the Cradle medley as part of the -ults portion of the album. However, I find that Japanese Sandman is no longer p.c., and Cat in the Cradle is a depressingly weird choice for a children's album. Another strange medley, but one which really worked, was the Time in a Bottle/School Days/Inch worm combo. The nostalgia might be hard for kids to relate to, but it was a thouroughly charming arrangement. Overall, though admittedly strange, this is an album that both kids and adults will enjoy. Parents and caretakers won't get the kid song headache.

The Thoughts of Others:

Entertainment Weekly's Melissa Rose Barnado reviewed the album in 2008. While she gave a generally positive review, she did describe Patinkin as "over-the-top," and warned that not everyone would enjoy his "histrionics."

Amazon.com's review of the album commented on its attempt to blend two generations of listeners. They don't seem to be sure as to the success of the hybridization. They sum it up as "either an especially lively grownups' record or a sophisticated and glamorous-sounding kids' disc."

FYI Track Listing (my top 5 are in bold):

1. If I Only Had a Brain

2. Holiday for Strings

3. Minute Waltz

4. Singin' in the Bathtub

5. The Ugly Duckling

6. Soon It's Gonna Rain (with Kristin Chenoweth)

7. School Days Melody (with Kristin Chenoweth)

8. A-Tisket, A-Tasket

9. The Japanese Sandman / Cat's in the Cradle

10. Not While I'm Around

11. Rhode Island Is Famous for You

12. April in Fairbanks

13. How Could You Believe Me?

14. Everybody Says Don't / The King's New Clothes

15. New Words

16. "A" You're Adorable / Getting to Know You

Review: Golem

By: David Wisniewski

Clarion Books; 1996; 32 pages

Picture Book; Caldecott Winner

Grades: 1-4

ISBN: 978-0618894246

A re-telling of the story of Rabbi Loew and how the Golem he created saved the Jews of medieval Prague from persecution and annihilation.

My Thoughts:
My first impression of this book was one of awe. I have made snowflakes before, I know how difficult paper cutting is. The detail and impact of the illustrations is awe-inspiring. I kept looking at the pictures and thinking about how much Wisniewski had to plan out each page...and wondering how many mistakes he had to discard. On the merits of its illustrations, I agree wholeheartedly with this book receiving the Caldecott Medal. But, then I turned to the text.

The Golem legend is a difficult one for children. The reason for the Golem's creation is disturbing, how the Golem goes about protecting the Prague Jews is violent, and the destruction of the Golem at the end is unsettling. Joseph is shown to be very child-like in his wonder and view of the surrounding world. I would have a hard time explaining to kids why he is not rewarded for his help, but rather is destroyed. (His pleadings to live are heart-wrenching.) Because of this, I do not recommend this book for a younger audience. I can think of a few situations where it would work though: introducing older kids to the topics of persecution (before discussing the Inquisition or even the Holocaust...especially with the historical note at the end, it is a good way to discuss the historical oppression of Jews.), or in an older student unit on legend, or religion, or Prague.

The Thoughts of Others:

Publisher's Weekly emphasized the beauty and the intricacy of the illustrations, justifying its Caldecott. However, they also point out, albeit positively that Wisniewski "emphasizes the Golem's humanity and the problems with his existence [and] allows for its historical and emotional complexity." They also appreciated the historical endnote.

Common Sense Media, a group who reviews books for families, was impressed by the illustrations, but felt that Wisniewski's book might be frightening or distressing to younger readers. In the end, they pointed out that readers who could handle the story matter would actually be better served byBashevis Singer's version of the tale, also entitled The Golem.

Review: Book Crush

By: Nancy Pearl

Sasquatch Books; 2007; 288

Paperback; Children and Teen Reader's Advisory

Age: Adult Reader; Baby through 12th Grade Advisory

ISBN: 978-157061-500-9

A Seattle public librarian's recommendations for good reading, broken down by age and arbitrary category.

My Thoughts:

This is a great resource for children and young adult librarians, and is a fun read to boot. Not only will readers feel validated if they discover that the inimitable Nancy Pearl has chosen one of their favorites, but they will find their own reading wish list growing with every page. Pearl has divided readers into three groups: youngest readers (birth to eight), middle-grade readers (ages 8-12), and teen readers (ages 13-18). Within the recommendations for each group, Pearl will point out if a book is more suited to one end of the spectrum or the other.

Part of what makes Pearl's book so helpful is that her categories are unusual, and not at all what you would find in a catalog search or in a database. Examples include Noodlehead Stories, Not a Dry Eye in the House, and Ghosts I Have Loved. She tries to include at least one section for every group of children: boys, girls, jocks, nerds, girlie girls, and outcasts. Her suggestions also cover a wide range of genres and publication eras. There are older books, many of which are out of print but still available in libraries, as well as titles that have come out in the past two years. It is a great jumping off point for book talks as well. The book is a lot smaller than most RA texts, fitting into a purse or backpack, which is handy for trips to the library, book fair, or book store. It is also reasonably priced and would make a wonderful addition to a children and teen reference collection.

In other words...I think that EVERYONE interested in working with children or teens should either own this book or have access to it at their workplace. (And check out her adult titles: Book Lust and More Book Lust.)

The Thoughts of Others:

School Library Journal did not like this book NEARLY as much as I did in their 2006 review. They felt that its arbitrary nature, since it is only one person's opinions, would lead to arguments. They did not see its usefulness for professionals, since the well-read will not need it. They did, however, note that "those new to the field or who have a hard time thinking in readers' advisory categories [could find it] useful to get the juices flowing." (They apparantly did not take my stance on it as a good recreational read that starts conversations...what killjoys!)

Stephanie Dunnewind, in a Seattle Times review, gave her hometown librarian a big thumbs up. She admired the chatty prose style, lauded the extensive non-fiction section, and compared Nancy Pearl to Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler!