"The Christmas Candle"
by Richard Paul Evans, illustrated by Jacob Collins
Simon & Schuster; $16
One of my absolute favorite books this Christmas is "The Christmas Candle," an intriguing original fable about charity.
On a snowy Christmas Eve, a young man named Thomas on his way home for a family celebration realizes that the candle in his lantern is about to expire. He stops in a chandler's shop filled with fantastic wax creations, but instead of admiring them Thomas scorns the candle maker for wasting his time on sculptures that will only melt. The mysterious old chandler then sells him a special Christmas candle. Back on the bitterly cold street, the young man is stopped by an old beggar woman. When he lifts his lantern to get a better look, the candlelight reveals that she is his mother. He gives her his cloak and only then sees the truth: She is not his mother after all, but a stranger. The candle tricks him again before he reaches home, cold and penniless, but richer for his newfound realization that we are all part of one family.
This inspirational story is written by Richard Paul Evans, author of the acclaimed "The Christmas Box" series. Evans' beautiful words are complimented by the lavish, mood-filled oil paintings of artist Jacob Collins. Together, author and artist have created an exquisite holiday gift book that will be treasured by the entire family. Proceeds from the sales of this book have been earmarked for The Christmas Box Foundation and The Christmas Box House International, Inc., a non-profit organization devoted to building shelter-assessment facilities for abused children.
Fans of "The Tub People" will welcome their return in "The Tub People's Christmas." Arrayed before the fireplace, the little extended wooden family is scattered when "someone" comes down the chimney, bringing gifts and a small evergreen. Gathered up and placed in a deep pocket, the tiny figurines grow more and more anxious as they are removed one by one, to be reunited in the end as ornaments hung on a magnificent Christmas tree. Wrapping the tale with pleasant-looking angels, illustrator Egielski brings readers to a toy's-eye-view with skillful close-ups, then pulls back for full-page portraits of Santa and the entire tree. As ever, the Tub People's abbreviated gestures and subtle changes of expression are wonderfully affecting and Conrad's story is charming. This delightful book also includes punch-out ornaments of the Tub People to hang on your own Christmas tree.
Monica Mayper's poetic, joyous description of Jesus' birth bubbles with all the exuberance of a child opening gifts on Christmas morning. Shepherds hurry through the streets and wake a sleeping village to "Come see/ Come out and see" the baby who has "made the world new." Smiling children, families and respectful animals quietly gather in the stable to adore the newborn, then proclaim, "It's a time for joy and feasting!" Illustrator Schuett's creamy, textured paintings of humble people dancing in the starlight say it all.
Beloved children's author William H. Hooks invites his readers into the home of a humble family of shepherds in this unusual holiday/horticultural legend. When little Dorothy clandestinely follows her much-older brothers to Bethlehem to greet the Christ Child, she worries that she has no gift worthy of the babe. An angel calms Dorothy's anxiety, pointing her to a bed of beautiful white flowers growing miraculously nearby. Jesus' hand touches Dorothy's offering of blossoms, tinting them with a blush of pink, and the flowers are forever known as Christmas roses. Lyrical descriptions, reverent but always personable, and unusually warm, dynamic oil portraits make this a wonderful choice for family sharing.
This is not your typical "Twelve Days of Christmas." Oh, it may well take readers 12 days to fully appreciate Russian-born illustrator Vladimir Vagin's striking watercolor paintings of centuries-ago Christmas revelers making merry in a vibrant wintry setting. But they will appreciate them forever when they finish. Memorable scenes abound: nine lady skaters dancing on the ice, bedecked in lavishly beaded gowns, 10 lords leaping and roughhousing in playful animal masks, etc. And a regal-looking couple, cozy in richly colored fur-trimmed cloaks, appears throughout, adding a layer of elegance to the proceedings. An informative endnote and musical score make fine closing touches.
The King lives on for a new generation of admirers in this multi-media holiday offering. A CD containing Elvis Presley's tender 1971 recording of the beloved Christmas carol accompanies this picture book, which pairs the lyrics with Whatley's reverent paintings of the Nativity. The artist's skillful portraits often approach photo-realism; craggy wise men, awestruck shepherds and a portly innkeeper provide a supporting cast for the Holy Family. The tone is formal, from the calligraphic font to the dramatic backdrop of the midnight blue-black desert sky, but goes straight to the casual heart.
This charming story tells how a little rose grew and bloomed. Her beautiful petals caught the sun and pleased the Creator Himself. Yet soon the little rose would discover that true beauty lies not in the outer appearance, but in a heart of sacrifice and giving. This is an emotional, modern-day fable filled with compassionate love. The beautiful illustrations of Tim Jonke will make this a special book to share with your family.
READ OTHER REVIEWS OR BUY THIS BOOK:
Go To Amazon.com
From the creators of the popular TV series, "Touched By An Angel," comes a new line of chapter books based on favorite shows from the series. Written in easy, down-to-earth language young readers will understand, these stories tell of God's love and compassion through the words and actions of three special angels: Monica, Tess, and Andrew, guardian angels who watch over the wayward souls on earth. Parents and children alike will enjoy reading these precious stories. Look for more in the series to come out soon.
READ OTHER REVIEWS OR BUY THESE BOOKS:
A Delicate Balance
This collection of six enchanting tales was first created at the turn of the century as the series known as the "Little Colonel" stories. Author Julia Duin has taken the original tales and rewritten them for today's reader, retaining their beauty and worthwhile messages. The stories center around three girls who live in a small country village, and their pathways to happiness.
Purity before marriage, patience in adversity, faithfulness in times of trouble and courage in despair are just a few of the virtues displayed in these timeless classics. This book would be a wonderful gift for adolescent girls and boys, and would be enjoyed by both parent and child. The message is sound, and not preachy.
READ OTHER REVIEWS OR BUY THIS BOOK:
Go To Amazon.com
"Don't Be My Valentine: A Classroom Mystery" by Joan M. Lexau, illustrated by Syd Hoff. Somebody doesn't like Valentine's Day in the class. Help solve the mystery of who it is in this "I Can Read Book." Suitable for ages 4-8.
"A Valentine For Norman Noggs" by Valiska Gregory, illustrated by Marsha Winborn. In this delightful story, Norman Noggs, that sweet little kitty, is in love with Wilhemina. Will she be his Valentine? Suitable for ages 5-8.
"The Story of Valentine's Day" by Clyde Robert Bulla, illustrated by Susan Estelle Kwas. Packed with historical facts and customs, this book celebrates the two- thousand year history of Valentine's Day, with a delicious sugar cookie recipe as an added bonus. Suitable for ages 7-10.
"Four Valentines In A Rainstorm" by Felicia Bond. Cornelia Augusta catches hearts in a rainstorm and sends them to her friends. This sweet book comes in a gift bag, complete with 4 rubber stamps, an ink pad, and 25 cards to make your own Valentines. Suitable for all ages.
This enchanting new book is a rhyming story of a multicultural heroine, Taquandra Fu, who questions her self-declared status as the "wierdest girl in the class". A delightfully zany book whose illustrations remind me of Dr. Suess-ish characters, Tanquandra Fu takes her readers on a wild, exciting journey of self-discovery. WHAT'S UP WITH YOU, TAQUANDRA FU? is full of surprises, including a glow in the dark cover, a secret code for reader's to decipher, and an incredible recipe for pumpkin-raspberry souffle hidden in the covers.
This charming little find is available from a small, independent publisher, Zino Press, and may not be readily found in local bookstores. But it is worth the time and effort tracking it down! Zino Press can be contacted online at www.zinopress.com or by calling (608)836-6660.
Or Read more reviews or buy this book:
Go To Amazon.com
Boys and girls will delight in the "gigantic" household items the tiny George encounters. A hardbound, board book, little readers can drag this sturdy book all around with them. GEORGE SHRINKS has been honored by being named a Reading Rainbow Book. This book is suitable for ages 3 and up.
Read more reviews or buy this book:
Go To Amazon.com
The safety and love found in a grandmother's arms is one of the best feelings in the world. These very real emotions are found within the pages of "My Bubbe's Arms", a unique new poetic children's book.
Written and illustrated by Reudor, a seventh generation Israeli whose roots go deep into the ancient art colony of Safed, "My Bubbe's Arms" tells the story of the love between Bitsy and her grandmother, Bubbe. Recounted through the heartfelt observations of a tiny child, the charming verses will delight children and parents alike.
In "My Bubbe's Arms," Bitsy knows that whatever may happen, her Bubbe will watch over her. "I've always had a special place, a warm and cozy gentle space, where I can talk about my fears, where no one else can see my tears, a secret place so safe from harm, cuddled in my Bubbe's arms." Makes you want to call your grandma, don't it?
Reudor's vibrant illustrations make "My Bubbe's Arms" a visual treat, and his warm, humorous poem is imaginative and heartwarming. This is the first in a new series featuring Reudor's "The Doodle Family" characters.
"My Bubbe's Arms" can be ordered from Atara Publishing, (714) 373-0902 or by e-mailing the_doodles@earthlink.net
OR AT Amazon Books:
Go To Amazon.com
Ever since the olden days of "Dick and Jane", parents and teachers have sought to find interesting, engaging reading materials for young children and students. The bright illustrations and easy to read stories found in the I Can Read Books fill this need admirably.
The I Can Read Books are widely recognized as the premier line of beginning readers. Featuring the finest authors and illustrators, the series has introduced thousands of children to the joys of reading independently. Beginning with the classic title "Little Bear" by Else Minarik, the series has grown to over 200 titles, which includes mysteries, adventure stories, poetry, historical fiction and humor.
There is a level of I Can Read books to fit nearly any child's reading development; from beginners to the fully independent reader. My First I Can Read Books feature simple concepts and stories, told in familiar, easy to recognize words for the beginning reader.
The latest in the My First I Can Read Books is the new series featuring Biscuit the puppy. Biscuit is a mischevious little Spaniel that finds adventure in everything she encounters.
In "Biscuit Finds A Friend" by Alyssa Satin Capucilli, the frisky puppy makes friends with a little lost duck. Biscuit and her owner help the tiny duckling rejoin her parents and family, but not before Biscuit gets a dunking in the lake.
Who is to say if Biscuit will ever take the place of the beloved "Spot" of "Dick and Jane" fame? It can happen! Look for more Biscuit stories to be coming out soon in the My First I Can Read series.
READ OTHER REVIEWS OR BUY THIS BOOK:
Go To Amazon.com
Babe, move it on over, there is a new pig in town! The cutest little pig is the main character in the new book, "If You Give A Pig A Pancake", and she is a real corker.
If you give a pig a pancake, she’ll want some syrup to go with it. You’ll give her some of your favorite maple syrup. She’ll probably get all sticky, so she’ll want to take a bath. She’ll ask you for some bubbles. When you give her the bubbles...and on and on, until the sweet little swine has the entire house tore up.
From the authors of "If You Give A Mouse A Cookie" and "If You Give A Moose A Muffin", this long awaited companion book features a bossy little piglet and the young girl who tries to accommodate your every whim. Chaos reigns as the little hamhock’s silly requests lead to page after page of fun.
"If You Give A Mouse A Cookie", the first collaboration from Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond, has become such a well-known text in households across America that the book was quoted by Harrison Ford and Glenn Close in last summer’s blockbuster hit movie "Air Force One".
The charming illustrations of Felicia Bond and Laura Numeroff’s clever tale found in "If You Give A Pig A Pancake" brings this little piggie’s story to it’s racous life. Already chosen as a Children’s Book Of The Month Club selection, "If You Give A Pig A Pancake" is sure to be a huge success. And if by chance, a little pig comes calling just when you are sitting down to breakfast, do not offer it a pancake, because,...if you give a pig a pancake, she’ll want some syrup to go with it....
READ OTHER REVIEWS OR BUY THIS BOOK:
Go To Amazon.com
To keep a small child’s inquisitiveness in reading, "Picture books" must have bright, cheerful, interesting illustrations, and a lively text. "Home Sweet Home" by Jean Marzollo has all this and more.
Written in rhyme, the text is almost prayer-like in substance. Blessing upon the animals and plants of the world are bestowed in Jean Marzollo’s lilting verse. But the most outstanding feature of this volume has to be in it’s incredibly beautiful illustrations by Ashley Wolff.
Richly detailed paintings pull the young reader into each picture, encouraging them to search out all the tiniest critters that are to be found among the flowers and grasses. Children and parents alike will find themselves discovering something new each time the story is read.
Treat a small child with the gift of art and rhyme with "Home Sweet Home". Truly a perfect Picture Book.
READ OTHER REVIEWS OR BUY THIS BOOK:
Go To Amazon.com
Throughout time, there has existed a very human fascination with "little people", otherwise known as fairies. Whenever something happened that couldn't quite be explained, it was often attributed to "the fairies".
Williams is an exquisite anthology of tales from the fairy realm that brings together stories from all over the world. Fairy stories from China, France, England, and even Native American cultures are included in this beautifully illustrated volume. Artist Robin T. Barrett brings to life these wonderful stories in brilliant "fairy" colors.
Ms. William's fairy stories show the deep connection between fairies and nature. Fairies often appear as agents between the world of humans and the invisible powers of the natural world. The stories in THE BOOK OF FAIRIES explain how fairies help humans in many different ways.
Particularly interesting are the Native American fairy tales, as most fairy tales are widely believed to be originated in European and Asian traditions. "The Star Maiden" is the Ojibwan tale of a stary fairy trying to find an earthly home for herself, and how a handsome young brave helped her to find her way among the humans. "How The Fairies Came" is an Algonquin tale of how the first fairies in North America came to be.
Although THE BOOK OF FAIRIES is marketed as a children's book, anyone interested in the fairy realm will find this a fascinating volume Summon up a little fairy being of your own and enjoy the magic of the fairies!
READ OTHER REVIEWS OR BUY THIS BOOK:
Go To Amazon.com
"A home without a cat - and a well-fed, well-petted and properly revered cat - may be a perfect home, perhaps, but how can it prove its title?" - Mark Twain
With this quote, Joe Bonsall, tenor with the renown country music group The Oak Ridge Boys, begins his series of children books based on his beloved cats, particularly one little scamp of a kitten named Molly. And what a delightful series they are!
Molly the cat, the title character of the series, is an irrepressibly curious calico, who had been abandoned as a kitten. Rescued, Molly finds a life of love and warmth at "The Home" with fellow felines Pumpkin, Omaha, Gypsy, and their two humancats, Honey and Mother Mary (Bonsall and his wife, Mary). In the first book of the series, titled MOLLY, readers are told how Molly was rescued and came to live with Mother Mary. Two mean humancats had snatched Molly's brothers and sisters, leaving her by mistake. It was up to Molly's mother to get her to safety, so that she might know a life of love and happiness. It was Mother Mary's home which turned out to be a shelter of safety for the small kitten.
In THE HOME, Molly is an all-grown up kitty of 2 years. She has forgotten what life was like away from "The Home" and yearns to explore "Outside". Although the older cats try to tell her that it is not a good place to go, a door accidentally left open provides too big a temptation. Molly soon discovers that being "Inside" with her family and friends is a much better place to be.
Giving his kitty characters a language of their own, called "catspeak", Joe Bonsall adds a personal, narrative touch to his tales. The stories also incorporate a down-home sense of family, love and faith that shines clearly though in Bonsall's writing. A performer with the Oak Ridge Boys for more than 20 years, Bonsall was encouraged by his wife and two daughters to pursue his writing during his all too short vacations from the pressures of show business. The "Molly" books were the result.
A third book in the series, titled "OUTSIDE" is due out this summer, with several more in the offing. These are adorable books, with a strong moral story interwoven in the exquisite storytelling techinque Bonsall employs. Any cat lover, and lovers of good children's books will want to add these volumes to a special child's library.
FOR THE LATEST NEWS/INFO ABOUT THIS SERIES OF BOOKS, GO TO THE OAKRIDGE BOY'S SITE HERE
ELLA ENCHANTED
By Gail Carson Levine
ELLA ENCHANTED is the spirited re-telling of the Cinderella story. Ella of Frey was given a gift at birth from the fairy Lucinda that she would always be obedient. Now as a teenager, Ella wants desperately to be rid of this "gift", which has turned out to be a curse. Because of the "gift", she has to obey anyone who gives her an order, even if it is an order to betray her own kingdom. She sets out on a search for the fairy Lucinda to get rid of this curse, and to find out who she truly is inside herself. True love, in the end, conquers all, freeing Ella from her curse. Of course she lives happily ever after with her prince.
Author Gail Carson Levine manages to maintain the intergrity of the original fairy tale of Cinderella, but adds humorous twists to make this an even more charming version. This is Levine's first novel for "young adults", and has won numerous awards for its presentation. Older girls will enjoy the comparison between this book, and the original story; younger boys and girls will love all the fairies, trolls, giants, and magic.
I loved this book! It was a joy to step back in time where magic and dragons and dreams are true and good. Add a little fairy magic to your life, and check out ELLA ENCHANTED.
READ OTHER REVIEWS OR BUY THIS BOOK:
Go To Amazon.com
Chicken Soup For Little Souls
The authors of the "Chicken Soup For The Soul" collections have dished up a new serving of stories, just for little souls. Bringing the magic and wonder of the "Chicken Soup" stories to children, three volumes of "Chicken Soup For The Little Soul" have been created.
Author Liz McCourt has adapted three stories that will touch the hearts of children and their parents. Beautiful illustrations by renowned artists makes these books keepsakes that will be treasured for years to come.
My favorite book of the series is The Never-Forgotten Doll. This is an intergenerational tale of love and sacrifice that crosses all ages. Miss Maggie, the best baby-sitter ever, tells Ellie about the beautiful china doll that she had loved and lost on her eighth birthday. Ellie sets out to replace Miss Maggie's doll, just in time for Miss Maggie's 80th birthday. How better to show her precious friend just how much she is loved than to find a way to get the precious never-forgotten doll back into Miss Maggie's arms. Little souls will be able to see how the power of love enables any goal to be reached.
Other books in the Little Souls series are The Goodness Gorillas and The Best Night Out With Dad. They are wonderful, inspiring books.
READ OTHER REVIEWS OR BUY THESE BOOKS:
NEVER-FORGOTTEN DOLL
For younger readers, The Gardener tells the story of Lydia Grace Finch and her determination to bring a little sunshine into the lives of the people around her. She has a passion for gardening, and with that passion, she transforms her world into a world of love.
Set during the Depression, Lydia has been sent to live with her grouchy Uncle Jim until her parents get back on their feet. Moving to the big city, Lydia discovers that a garden can grow anywhere there is love and attention. Working on her "impossible" garden in secret with the help of her new friends, Lydia hopes that her masterpiece will finally bring a smile to the face of her benefactor, Uncle Jim.
A feverent gardener herself, author Sarah Stewart joined with her husband David Small, an award-winning illustrator, to introduce readers to the determined young heroine whose generosity will reward all who meet her. The Gardener is a wonderful book to share with children, who will become the next generation of gardeners.
READ OTHER REVIEWS OR BUY THIS BOOK:
Go To Amazon.com
My name is Sharon Galligar Chance, and I am a freelance reporter / book critic for the Wichita Falls Times Record News in Wichita Falls, Texas. I have been writing book reviews for a little over a year now for the TRN. I also have a bi-monthly book column in the Wichita Falls Parent magazine, as well as a gardening book column in The Green Thumb Gazette.
I am happily married to Don Chance, and we have 4 sons; Coleman, Clayton, Calen and Cassidy. So you can see, I have a lot of experience with children's books right there!
