Diary of a Wimpy Kid
by Jeff Kinney Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $10.15
Availability: In Stock
71 used & new from $7.46
The Cheese Touch, July 27, 2008
The Diary of a Wimpy Kid
By Jeff Kinney
Yes, this is a very funny book. Greg is the middle child and in middle school. He is also in the middle of everything. If there is a problem at home or at school, you can bet he has been there. What does it take to be popular with girls? It seems like the rules have changed. Even his dorky friend Rowley is more popular than Greg, and he's not even trying.
When Greg tries to be the class cartoonist, it backfires and all of his cartoons are edited by the teacher. When Rowley becomes the class cartoonist, he has taken the ideas that he worked on with Greg, and won't even give Greg any credit. When Greg decides to be the class clown, he knows he can pull it off on the day when they have a substitute. Wouldn't you know it; the substitute is none other than Greg's mom! Who turns out to be the class clown? Rowley, of course.
On the day he substitutes for Rowley on the safety patrol, he chases the kindergarteners with worms. Can Greg help it if Rowley gets kicked off the safety patrol, just because Greg was wearing Rowley's coat, and the neighbors thought it was Rowley who tormented the kindergarteners?
As the mother of a boy, I enjoyed the Diary of a Wimpy Kid. This book brings back memories of those awkward years of middle school. This book looks like a diary, with simple drawings on every page. It is easy to read. Middle school boys will want to read and laugh along with Greg's antics.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog
video trailer on YouTube and Metecafe
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Friday, July 25, 2008
The Monster's Ring (Magic Shop Book) (UNABRIDGED) (Magic Shop Book)
by Bruce CovilleEdition: Audio CD
Amazon.com
Availability: Currently unavailable
5 used & new from $9.45
The Ring is There, If You Dare!, July 25, 2008
The Monster Ring
By Bruce Coville
What boy wouldn't want to be a monster, and teach a bully a lesson?
Russell is being teased and tormented daily by Eddie. While running away from the bully, he steps into a magic shop. Russell is eying a ring with the picture of a monster. The shop owner asks, "What do you need?" Russell isn't sure what the shop owner means, but when Russell asks how much the ring will cost, the shop owner asks, "How much do you have?"
Russell buys the ring with his pocket change. He is told to pay careful attention to the directions. When Russell twists the ring and chants the verse on the directions, he begins to change. Russell sprouts hair and horns. "Twist it once, you're horned and haired. Twist it twice, and fangs are bared. Twist it thrice--no one has dared."
The monster ring has changed Russell so much, even his voice has changed. At last he can face the bully, without being afraid. Will Russell remember that all magic has rules, or will it be too late for him to turn the magic back?
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog video trailer
On YouTube
by Bruce CovilleEdition: Audio CD
Amazon.com
Availability: Currently unavailable
5 used & new from $9.45
The Ring is There, If You Dare!, July 25, 2008
The Monster Ring
By Bruce Coville
What boy wouldn't want to be a monster, and teach a bully a lesson?
Russell is being teased and tormented daily by Eddie. While running away from the bully, he steps into a magic shop. Russell is eying a ring with the picture of a monster. The shop owner asks, "What do you need?" Russell isn't sure what the shop owner means, but when Russell asks how much the ring will cost, the shop owner asks, "How much do you have?"
Russell buys the ring with his pocket change. He is told to pay careful attention to the directions. When Russell twists the ring and chants the verse on the directions, he begins to change. Russell sprouts hair and horns. "Twist it once, you're horned and haired. Twist it twice, and fangs are bared. Twist it thrice--no one has dared."
The monster ring has changed Russell so much, even his voice has changed. At last he can face the bully, without being afraid. Will Russell remember that all magic has rules, or will it be too late for him to turn the magic back?
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog video trailer
On YouTube
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Minerva Clark Gets A Clue
Ferretluver, July 24, 2008
By
Jill Vanderwood "throughtherug.com" (Utah) - See all my reviews
Amazon.com
Young Adult Fiction
Minerva Clark Gets a Clue
By Karen Karbo
Minerva Clark is an awkward teenage girl with fizzy hair. She hasn't quite grown into her large feet. She is being raised by three older brothers, since her mom left with a Yoga Instructor, and her dad is traveling as a high profile Lawyer.
On the worst day of her life, Minerva has made a fool of herself at the video arcade, playing Dance Dance Revolution. She falls into the shape of a twisted pretzel in front of the most popular girls in her class. Minerva runs out of the arcade, with her ferret Jupiter in the pocket of her sweatshirt.
Minerva hitches a ride with her Beauty Queen cousin, Jordan. Before going home, Jordan takes her to the Under the Covers book store, where Jordan needs to talk with the store clerk, Dwight. Minerva likes Dwight right away, when he tells her that he also owns a ferret.
Before going home, Jordan is pulled over by a police officer, for a broken tail light. Instead of just giving her a warning, Jordan is handcuffed and taken to the police station, leaving Minerva in the car, and waiting for a ride home. Jordan is later released, when they find it is a case of identity fraud.
When Minerva's oldest, older brother needs a volunteer for his science/art exhibit, Minerva says yes, without hearing the question. Her brother hooks her up to a machine that will "monitor the brain waves of a thirteen-year-old girl". Lightning strikes and goes down the wires of the machine, leaving Minerva unconscious. She is taken in for brain scans but the doctors can't find any irregularities.
Something strange is happening to Minerva. Instead of her usual self-coconscious self, she is now out going, outspoken, and likes herself just the way she is. She even starts liking boys.
While stuck in traffic, on the way home from the hospital, Minerva jumps from the car to investigate the crime tape and police activity at the Under the Covers book store. She sees the body of Dwight, the store clerk who loved ferrets.
Minerva finds herself asking questions and taking risks she never would imagined, before she was electrocuted. Is there a connection between Jordan's arrest and Dwight's murder? Will Minerva get caught sneaking out of the house? Could a homeless man with a lame hand really kill the store clerk? Is her cousin Jordan really as innocent as she seems?
Minerva Clark Gets A Clue is a modern day teen mystery.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Through the Rug
Through the Rug 2: Follow That Dog
Look for my video trailer for Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog
On YouTube.com
Your Tags: mystery, murder, identity theft, computer age, ferret, science, karen karbo, thirteen, young adult fiction
By
Jill Vanderwood "throughtherug.com" (Utah) - See all my reviews
Amazon.com
Young Adult Fiction
Minerva Clark Gets a Clue
By Karen Karbo
Minerva Clark is an awkward teenage girl with fizzy hair. She hasn't quite grown into her large feet. She is being raised by three older brothers, since her mom left with a Yoga Instructor, and her dad is traveling as a high profile Lawyer.
On the worst day of her life, Minerva has made a fool of herself at the video arcade, playing Dance Dance Revolution. She falls into the shape of a twisted pretzel in front of the most popular girls in her class. Minerva runs out of the arcade, with her ferret Jupiter in the pocket of her sweatshirt.
Minerva hitches a ride with her Beauty Queen cousin, Jordan. Before going home, Jordan takes her to the Under the Covers book store, where Jordan needs to talk with the store clerk, Dwight. Minerva likes Dwight right away, when he tells her that he also owns a ferret.
Before going home, Jordan is pulled over by a police officer, for a broken tail light. Instead of just giving her a warning, Jordan is handcuffed and taken to the police station, leaving Minerva in the car, and waiting for a ride home. Jordan is later released, when they find it is a case of identity fraud.
When Minerva's oldest, older brother needs a volunteer for his science/art exhibit, Minerva says yes, without hearing the question. Her brother hooks her up to a machine that will "monitor the brain waves of a thirteen-year-old girl". Lightning strikes and goes down the wires of the machine, leaving Minerva unconscious. She is taken in for brain scans but the doctors can't find any irregularities.
Something strange is happening to Minerva. Instead of her usual self-coconscious self, she is now out going, outspoken, and likes herself just the way she is. She even starts liking boys.
While stuck in traffic, on the way home from the hospital, Minerva jumps from the car to investigate the crime tape and police activity at the Under the Covers book store. She sees the body of Dwight, the store clerk who loved ferrets.
Minerva finds herself asking questions and taking risks she never would imagined, before she was electrocuted. Is there a connection between Jordan's arrest and Dwight's murder? Will Minerva get caught sneaking out of the house? Could a homeless man with a lame hand really kill the store clerk? Is her cousin Jordan really as innocent as she seems?
Minerva Clark Gets A Clue is a modern day teen mystery.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Through the Rug
Through the Rug 2: Follow That Dog
Look for my video trailer for Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog
On YouTube.com
Your Tags: mystery, murder, identity theft, computer age, ferret, science, karen karbo, thirteen, young adult fiction
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Dragon Rider
Dragon Rider
by Cornelia Funke Edition: Audio CD
Amazon.com
Price: $26.37
Availability: In Stock
37 used & new from $23.77
Great Imagery, July 22, 2008
I have never been a reader of high fantasy. I listened to this book on tape. The acting and voices of Brendan Frazier were more entertaining than any movie. I enjoyed the length of the story. It was just right.
The dragons are leaving their home after many years of safety. Man has come to their valley, and it is no longer safe. Firedrake, the silver dragon, sets out to find the Rim of Heaven. He has his trusty furry brownie on his back. When they land in a human town with high rises, they pick up a human boy, who has no home. They encounter danger from humans, and many creatures along the way. They are also shown great kindness in the form of a rat who has given them a map, a genie with 1000 eyes who will only speak to humans, and a professor, a dracologist, and a sea creature who gives them a ride. They have gone quite a way on their journey, before realizing they have a stowaway. Twigleg is a tiny man in human form, born in a test tube. He is also a spy for the golden dragon, Nettlebrand.
Nettlebrand, the golden dragon, has been formed by a human alchemist to be a dragon killer. Nettlebrand is following the dragon, in hopes that he will lead him to the Rim of Heaven so the golden dragon can eat the other dragons. Nettlebrand has already eaten all of Twigleg's brothers and his own maker. Nettlebrand is so large and so powerful that all other creatures and even dragons fear him. He is unable to fly, since his golden armor is so heavy. Nettlebrand has become king of the water.
Will the silver dragon ever reach the Rim of Heaven? Will the boy be safe among the creatures who are trying to destroy the dragon? Will the golden dragon destroy the last of the silver dragons?
I enjoyed this story of The Dragon Rider very much. It is a great imaginative tale, of courage and friendship. I will look for other books in this series.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood Author of the magical adventure series:
Through the Rug Through
The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Look for my Through The Rug 2: Follow that Dog
video trailer on YouTube
Your tags: audio book, brownies, dwarfs, elves, fairies, high fantasy, magical adventure, silver dragon
by Cornelia Funke Edition: Audio CD
Amazon.com
Price: $26.37
Availability: In Stock
37 used & new from $23.77
Great Imagery, July 22, 2008
I have never been a reader of high fantasy. I listened to this book on tape. The acting and voices of Brendan Frazier were more entertaining than any movie. I enjoyed the length of the story. It was just right.
The dragons are leaving their home after many years of safety. Man has come to their valley, and it is no longer safe. Firedrake, the silver dragon, sets out to find the Rim of Heaven. He has his trusty furry brownie on his back. When they land in a human town with high rises, they pick up a human boy, who has no home. They encounter danger from humans, and many creatures along the way. They are also shown great kindness in the form of a rat who has given them a map, a genie with 1000 eyes who will only speak to humans, and a professor, a dracologist, and a sea creature who gives them a ride. They have gone quite a way on their journey, before realizing they have a stowaway. Twigleg is a tiny man in human form, born in a test tube. He is also a spy for the golden dragon, Nettlebrand.
Nettlebrand, the golden dragon, has been formed by a human alchemist to be a dragon killer. Nettlebrand is following the dragon, in hopes that he will lead him to the Rim of Heaven so the golden dragon can eat the other dragons. Nettlebrand has already eaten all of Twigleg's brothers and his own maker. Nettlebrand is so large and so powerful that all other creatures and even dragons fear him. He is unable to fly, since his golden armor is so heavy. Nettlebrand has become king of the water.
Will the silver dragon ever reach the Rim of Heaven? Will the boy be safe among the creatures who are trying to destroy the dragon? Will the golden dragon destroy the last of the silver dragons?
I enjoyed this story of The Dragon Rider very much. It is a great imaginative tale, of courage and friendship. I will look for other books in this series.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood Author of the magical adventure series:
Through the Rug Through
The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Look for my Through The Rug 2: Follow that Dog
video trailer on YouTube
Your tags: audio book, brownies, dwarfs, elves, fairies, high fantasy, magical adventure, silver dragon
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Arnie Carver and the Plague of Demeberde
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
An Enjoyable Reading Experience, August 4, 2007
By
Jill Vanderwood (S.L.C., UT USA) -
Arnie Carver and The Plague of Demeverde combines mystery, suspense, and imagination to create an enjoyable reading experience. Hang on, as you travel to the future. Thayne Davidson Miller III is about to learn about the world as he travels to the Island of Demeverde.
He changes his name to Arnie Carver, so he won't be recognized as the 'world's wealthiest kid.' In his former life, his only friends were his butler, Jacques Marquet, and his dog. Arnie is admitted into a school which accepts the most brilliant students with either aptitude, physical, telepathic, or empathic abilities. He is accepted because of his photographic memory. Arnie may be one of the brightest kids, but he is lacking in social skills. His new friends help him adapt to his new environment.
Can the plaque, which is affecting children in other parts of the world, have anything to do with Demeverde? The people of Demeverde don't think so, until one of Arnie's companions and fellow students comes down with the same symptoms.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a page turner from beginning to end. I loved the illustrations, which draw you right into the story. This book sells for a very reasonable price, for a hardcover book. The author is clever with his creation of Demeverde. He has futuristic inventions, a new game and people using mind over matter to balance on one finger.
You will enjoy Arnie Carver and wish to return to Demeverde for more adventures in the future.
Reviewed by Jill Vanderwood
author of Through the Rug
Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog
Available on Amazon.com
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog video,
on YouTube
An Enjoyable Reading Experience, August 4, 2007
By
Jill Vanderwood (S.L.C., UT USA) -
Arnie Carver and The Plague of Demeverde combines mystery, suspense, and imagination to create an enjoyable reading experience. Hang on, as you travel to the future. Thayne Davidson Miller III is about to learn about the world as he travels to the Island of Demeverde.
He changes his name to Arnie Carver, so he won't be recognized as the 'world's wealthiest kid.' In his former life, his only friends were his butler, Jacques Marquet, and his dog. Arnie is admitted into a school which accepts the most brilliant students with either aptitude, physical, telepathic, or empathic abilities. He is accepted because of his photographic memory. Arnie may be one of the brightest kids, but he is lacking in social skills. His new friends help him adapt to his new environment.
Can the plaque, which is affecting children in other parts of the world, have anything to do with Demeverde? The people of Demeverde don't think so, until one of Arnie's companions and fellow students comes down with the same symptoms.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a page turner from beginning to end. I loved the illustrations, which draw you right into the story. This book sells for a very reasonable price, for a hardcover book. The author is clever with his creation of Demeverde. He has futuristic inventions, a new game and people using mind over matter to balance on one finger.
You will enjoy Arnie Carver and wish to return to Demeverde for more adventures in the future.
Reviewed by Jill Vanderwood
author of Through the Rug
Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog
Available on Amazon.com
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog video,
on YouTube
The Sunflower
The Sunflower
by Richard Paul Evans Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $10.40
Availability: In Stock
115 used & new from $0.01
Healing Broken Hearts, September 29, 2007
I am never disappointed when I read a book by Richard Paul Evans. I try to read all of his books.
The Sunflower is the story of a young doctor, working in a major US hospital, who inspite of all his best efforts can not save the life of a young boy. The doctor leaves his practice and travels to the jungles of South America. When the Doctor arrives at an orphanage in Peru, he finally finds his calling. The ophanage is very run down and simple, yet it fulfils the purpose of taking the young children off the streets and giving them an education. After the breakup of a six year realationship, Christine, a fussy girl who has to have everything just right and even owns a carpet rake, finds herself on a two week, working trip to Peru.
Christine and Paul,(the doctor) hit it off and begin an unlikely romance. They know that such romances will never work, and Christine needs to return to her life in America. Somehow, in two weeks, she has fallen in love with a man, a country and the orpan children.
Will Chritine leave her comfortable life in the US behind, to live with poisous creatures and dirty conditions? Will the doctor who has found himself in a jungle village, leave behind the life he has forged and the orphan children he loves, for a woman he has only known for two weeks?
You will love the tale of the Sunflower, woven into a love story, by master storyteller, Richard Paul Evans.
Jill Vanderwood
Children's Author:
Through the Rug &
Through the Rug 2: Follow That Dog
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog video
On YouTube
by Richard Paul Evans Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $10.40
Availability: In Stock
115 used & new from $0.01
Healing Broken Hearts, September 29, 2007
I am never disappointed when I read a book by Richard Paul Evans. I try to read all of his books.
The Sunflower is the story of a young doctor, working in a major US hospital, who inspite of all his best efforts can not save the life of a young boy. The doctor leaves his practice and travels to the jungles of South America. When the Doctor arrives at an orphanage in Peru, he finally finds his calling. The ophanage is very run down and simple, yet it fulfils the purpose of taking the young children off the streets and giving them an education. After the breakup of a six year realationship, Christine, a fussy girl who has to have everything just right and even owns a carpet rake, finds herself on a two week, working trip to Peru.
Christine and Paul,(the doctor) hit it off and begin an unlikely romance. They know that such romances will never work, and Christine needs to return to her life in America. Somehow, in two weeks, she has fallen in love with a man, a country and the orpan children.
Will Chritine leave her comfortable life in the US behind, to live with poisous creatures and dirty conditions? Will the doctor who has found himself in a jungle village, leave behind the life he has forged and the orphan children he loves, for a woman he has only known for two weeks?
You will love the tale of the Sunflower, woven into a love story, by master storyteller, Richard Paul Evans.
Jill Vanderwood
Children's Author:
Through the Rug &
Through the Rug 2: Follow That Dog
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog video
On YouTube
The Invention of Hugo Cabret
The Invention of Hugo Cabret
by Brian Selznick Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $15.63
Availability: In Stock
104 used & new from $12.49
A Masterpiece!, March 28, 2008
The Inventions of Hugo
Cabret By Brian Selznick
A Masterpiece! This book is a masterpiece of art and words. It has been a long time since a book has touched me like this one. I usually read until I fall asleep. This book kept me awake, until I finished.
Hugo Cabret is a twelve-years-old boy, with the whole world on his shoulders. He has no parents, no school, no money, no friends but he does have huge dreams. He works hard to keep all the clocks running in the Paris train station. This is a big and important job, for a boy. The clocks keep the whole city of Paris running as it should.
This story is woven with the loss of Hugo's father, and the lives of a toy maker, and his goddaughter. It also tells of Hugo's determination to save a magical machine that may contain a secret message from his father.
If you pick up a book with 540 pages, it can seem a little overwhelming. When you see that half of the pages are filled with cleaver, detailed drawings, the book becomes much more fascinating. The details in Brian Selznick's book are so clever. The pictures make the story run as it should; telling Hugo Cabret's story in a way that mere words could not achieve.
I am even more fascinated with Hugo and his clocks, because my father and grandfather were watchmakers. I used to watch my father take apart a watch or clock, fix and clean it and put it back together with his intricate parts and small tools.
Adults and children of all ages will love this book.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: captivating, facinating, masterpiece, work of art
by Brian Selznick Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $15.63
Availability: In Stock
104 used & new from $12.49
A Masterpiece!, March 28, 2008
The Inventions of Hugo
Cabret By Brian Selznick
A Masterpiece! This book is a masterpiece of art and words. It has been a long time since a book has touched me like this one. I usually read until I fall asleep. This book kept me awake, until I finished.
Hugo Cabret is a twelve-years-old boy, with the whole world on his shoulders. He has no parents, no school, no money, no friends but he does have huge dreams. He works hard to keep all the clocks running in the Paris train station. This is a big and important job, for a boy. The clocks keep the whole city of Paris running as it should.
This story is woven with the loss of Hugo's father, and the lives of a toy maker, and his goddaughter. It also tells of Hugo's determination to save a magical machine that may contain a secret message from his father.
If you pick up a book with 540 pages, it can seem a little overwhelming. When you see that half of the pages are filled with cleaver, detailed drawings, the book becomes much more fascinating. The details in Brian Selznick's book are so clever. The pictures make the story run as it should; telling Hugo Cabret's story in a way that mere words could not achieve.
I am even more fascinated with Hugo and his clocks, because my father and grandfather were watchmakers. I used to watch my father take apart a watch or clock, fix and clean it and put it back together with his intricate parts and small tools.
Adults and children of all ages will love this book.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: captivating, facinating, masterpiece, work of art
Thanks To Nicki (American Girl Today)
Thanks to Nicki (American Girl Today)
by Ann Howard CreelEdition: Paperback
Price: $6.95
Availability: In Stock
36 used & new from $2.70
A Young Girl's Gift, April 10, 2008
Thanks To Nicki
By Ann Howard Creel
Illustrated by Doren Ben-Ami
Nicki is doing such a good job training Sprocket, the service dog, that her worst fears may be coming true. Nicki may soon loose the dog she has come to love. It doesn't seem to matter that Sprocket will go to help another child who needs him. Nicki's broken heart can't handle that thought.
Nicki's mother is expecting twins and Nicki needs to help more around the house. Meanwhile, her two best friends are competing for her attention. Will her two friends ever get along? Will Nicki's dog Sprocket fail his advanced training and return to her? Will the twins be boys or girls? Or will they have one of each?
The last part of the book gives real life stories of children with their assistance dogs. You will also learn about raising canines and CCI Basic Commands.
Thanks to Nicki is a beautifully illustrated, heart warming story of a young girl's gift.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog video
on YouTube
Your tags: best friends, dog training, heart warming, helping others
by Ann Howard CreelEdition: Paperback
Price: $6.95
Availability: In Stock
36 used & new from $2.70
A Young Girl's Gift, April 10, 2008
Thanks To Nicki
By Ann Howard Creel
Illustrated by Doren Ben-Ami
Nicki is doing such a good job training Sprocket, the service dog, that her worst fears may be coming true. Nicki may soon loose the dog she has come to love. It doesn't seem to matter that Sprocket will go to help another child who needs him. Nicki's broken heart can't handle that thought.
Nicki's mother is expecting twins and Nicki needs to help more around the house. Meanwhile, her two best friends are competing for her attention. Will her two friends ever get along? Will Nicki's dog Sprocket fail his advanced training and return to her? Will the twins be boys or girls? Or will they have one of each?
The last part of the book gives real life stories of children with their assistance dogs. You will also learn about raising canines and CCI Basic Commands.
Thanks to Nicki is a beautifully illustrated, heart warming story of a young girl's gift.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog video
on YouTube
Your tags: best friends, dog training, heart warming, helping others
Gift of Yucatan: Maria's Rebellion
Gift of Yucatan: Maria's Rebellion
by Trudy SauriEdition: Paperback
Price: $24.00
Availability: In Stock
A Gift To The Reader, July 14, 2008
Gift of the Yucatan: Maria's Rebellion
By Trudy Sauri
Ten-year-old Maria is growing up in the tropical climate of the Yucatan, in 1935. Her father is so busy with his business that he doesn't pay much attention to Maria or her family. She rebel's against school and takes money from the family store, blaming her best friend when she gets caught.
Maria is sure that her antics will soon get her father's attention; even if it causes her to get a whipping. Maria manages to lose her best friend, and gets her brother hurt in her selfish rebellion. Will Maria be able to get her best friend back? Will she regain her mother's trust, and her father's love?
I enjoyed this historical novel of the Yucatan and a young girl's rebellion during the troubled times of the 1930's. This author captured the essence of the culture, and the time period. Her characters will capture your heart.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog video
On YouTube
Your tags: amends, historical fiction, mexico, realistic fiction, rebellion, trudy sauri, yucatan
by Trudy SauriEdition: Paperback
Price: $24.00
Availability: In Stock
A Gift To The Reader, July 14, 2008
Gift of the Yucatan: Maria's Rebellion
By Trudy Sauri
Ten-year-old Maria is growing up in the tropical climate of the Yucatan, in 1935. Her father is so busy with his business that he doesn't pay much attention to Maria or her family. She rebel's against school and takes money from the family store, blaming her best friend when she gets caught.
Maria is sure that her antics will soon get her father's attention; even if it causes her to get a whipping. Maria manages to lose her best friend, and gets her brother hurt in her selfish rebellion. Will Maria be able to get her best friend back? Will she regain her mother's trust, and her father's love?
I enjoyed this historical novel of the Yucatan and a young girl's rebellion during the troubled times of the 1930's. This author captured the essence of the culture, and the time period. Her characters will capture your heart.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog video
On YouTube
Your tags: amends, historical fiction, mexico, realistic fiction, rebellion, trudy sauri, yucatan
Half Magic
Half Magic
by Edward Eager Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $6.00
Availability: In Stock
196 used & new from $0.01
More Than Half The Fun, July 14, 2008
Half Magic
By Edward Eager
Re-reading this book has reminded me why Half Magic was always one of my favorite magical adventures. This time I listened to the book on tape.
Half magic begins with the children wondering why they can't ever have a magical adventure like the children in their library books. Their adventure begins with a shiny 'nickel' found in a crack of the sidewalk. Jane, the oldest thinks that nothing exciting ever happens and wishes for a fire. She only gets a small fire, in a playhouse. Next, their average, un-magical mother picks up the coin to use as bus fare. When she wishes to be home from a boring visit with relatives, she finds herself half-way home.
After the children realize they have a half-magic coin, their adventures become very fun and their planning is much more thought out. Occasionally Jane, Katherine, Mark and Martha make mistakes in their wishes, which will change history. They also appear and disappear so quickly, their poor mother believes she is losing her mind.
Children and adults will enjoy the magical summer adventures in Half Magic. You may even find yourself re-reading Edward Eager's books many times, as I have.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author of magical adventures:
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog Video on
YouTube
Your tags: childrens books, family fantasy, magic, magical adventure, multigenerational, read together book, wishes, wishes come true
by Edward Eager Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $6.00
Availability: In Stock
196 used & new from $0.01
More Than Half The Fun, July 14, 2008
Half Magic
By Edward Eager
Re-reading this book has reminded me why Half Magic was always one of my favorite magical adventures. This time I listened to the book on tape.
Half magic begins with the children wondering why they can't ever have a magical adventure like the children in their library books. Their adventure begins with a shiny 'nickel' found in a crack of the sidewalk. Jane, the oldest thinks that nothing exciting ever happens and wishes for a fire. She only gets a small fire, in a playhouse. Next, their average, un-magical mother picks up the coin to use as bus fare. When she wishes to be home from a boring visit with relatives, she finds herself half-way home.
After the children realize they have a half-magic coin, their adventures become very fun and their planning is much more thought out. Occasionally Jane, Katherine, Mark and Martha make mistakes in their wishes, which will change history. They also appear and disappear so quickly, their poor mother believes she is losing her mind.
Children and adults will enjoy the magical summer adventures in Half Magic. You may even find yourself re-reading Edward Eager's books many times, as I have.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author of magical adventures:
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Look for my Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog Video on
YouTube
Your tags: childrens books, family fantasy, magic, magical adventure, multigenerational, read together book, wishes, wishes come true
Monday, July 14, 2008
Harriet the Spy
Harriet the Spy
by Louise Fitzhugh Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $6.50
Availability: In Stock
110 used & new from $0.24
One of My Favorites, July 4, 2008
Harriet the Spy
By Louise Fitzhugh
I have read Harriet the Spy, watched the movie and listened to the book on tape. I don't seem to tire of this story.
My daughter was a writer from an early age, and has been known to carry around a journal, to record events and ideas. We were both devastated when Harriet's classmates got their hands on her notebook and read about her impressions of them.
If you have a tendency to spy or are curious about the world, you will not be disappointed by Hariet the Spy.
What would you do if someone discovered your secrets? Would you get even? Hide in your room, and never come out? Would you apologize and write good things about people in the school paper? There was a hard lesson to be learned, but Hariet learned that being so honest about her feelings toward others doesn't always pay. How about the golden rule?
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: curious, friendship, growing up, hard lesson, people, spy, writer
by Louise Fitzhugh Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $6.50
Availability: In Stock
110 used & new from $0.24
One of My Favorites, July 4, 2008
Harriet the Spy
By Louise Fitzhugh
I have read Harriet the Spy, watched the movie and listened to the book on tape. I don't seem to tire of this story.
My daughter was a writer from an early age, and has been known to carry around a journal, to record events and ideas. We were both devastated when Harriet's classmates got their hands on her notebook and read about her impressions of them.
If you have a tendency to spy or are curious about the world, you will not be disappointed by Hariet the Spy.
What would you do if someone discovered your secrets? Would you get even? Hide in your room, and never come out? Would you apologize and write good things about people in the school paper? There was a hard lesson to be learned, but Hariet learned that being so honest about her feelings toward others doesn't always pay. How about the golden rule?
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: curious, friendship, growing up, hard lesson, people, spy, writer
Magic by the Book
Magic by the Book
by Nina BernsteinEdition: Hardcover
Price: $13.60
Availability: In Stock
52 used & new from $0.12
Magical Adventure, July 4, 2008
Magic By the Book
By Nina Bernstein
Illustrated by Bosis Kulikov
Ann, Emily and Will have a whole pile of books to read during the summer vacation. There is one book that is left in the bottom of the basket. When they discover the book, and begin to read, it says that, "Ann and Emily had one book in the bottom of the basket that they just now discovered." Everything they do is written into the pages of the book.
The children go on magical adventures into stories that they have read and loved. Ann and Emily go into the pages of Robin Hood. When they come back, they cannot turn the pages of the book and they are upset, wishing to go on another adventure.
The next adventure, it turns out, will be for their younger brother, Will alone. All three children share an adventure into the book, War and Peace. Ann began reading the book, which was a little too grown-up for her. She didn't read the ending, so they aren't sure how their adventure will turn out. If you are a fan of Edward Eager, you will enjoy this fun story. If you enjoy reading books about children going on magical adventures this book is for you.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author of magical adventures
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Search for Through the Rug 2: Follow That Dog on YouTube
Your tags: action, children, fantasy, historical fiction, magic book, magical adventure
by Nina BernsteinEdition: Hardcover
Price: $13.60
Availability: In Stock
52 used & new from $0.12
Magical Adventure, July 4, 2008
Magic By the Book
By Nina Bernstein
Illustrated by Bosis Kulikov
Ann, Emily and Will have a whole pile of books to read during the summer vacation. There is one book that is left in the bottom of the basket. When they discover the book, and begin to read, it says that, "Ann and Emily had one book in the bottom of the basket that they just now discovered." Everything they do is written into the pages of the book.
The children go on magical adventures into stories that they have read and loved. Ann and Emily go into the pages of Robin Hood. When they come back, they cannot turn the pages of the book and they are upset, wishing to go on another adventure.
The next adventure, it turns out, will be for their younger brother, Will alone. All three children share an adventure into the book, War and Peace. Ann began reading the book, which was a little too grown-up for her. She didn't read the ending, so they aren't sure how their adventure will turn out. If you are a fan of Edward Eager, you will enjoy this fun story. If you enjoy reading books about children going on magical adventures this book is for you.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author of magical adventures
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Search for Through the Rug 2: Follow That Dog on YouTube
Your tags: action, children, fantasy, historical fiction, magic book, magical adventure
DOGS: Heart-Warming, Soul-Stirring Stories of Our Canine Companions
DOGS: Heart-Warming, Soul-Stirring Stories of Our Canine Companions
by John Cali Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $13.77
Availability: In Stock
9 used & new from $13.77
Touch Your Heart, July 4, 2008
Dogs Heart-Warming, Soul-Stiring Stories of Our Canine Companions
By John Cali
It is easy to see that the author and those who have contributed stories to this short story collection are passionate about their canine companions.
There's a story about a miniature schnauzer who moved furniture in order to get up to the table and eat a whole plate of brownies.
There is a story about a dog that looked into the writer's eyes and connected with an unearthly bond. Could this dog really be an angel?
There are stories about bonds between dogs and their owners that cannot be ended by death. Dogs have saved their owners in life changing ways. This book brings to mind the bond between my husband, a 300 lb Santa Claus, and our 10 lb Chihuahua, named Bonita. Anyone who has ever been owned by a dog will enjoy the stories contained in this small book, called Dogs, by John Cali.
The stories are short, and can be read while catching a train to town, or just before falling asleep at night. I think it would be fun to read one story each evening with your family, around the dinner table. Read the stories ahead, there are a few stories that may not be suitable for young children.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: animal stories, dog book, dogs, fun read, thought provoking
by John Cali Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $13.77
Availability: In Stock
9 used & new from $13.77
Touch Your Heart, July 4, 2008
Dogs Heart-Warming, Soul-Stiring Stories of Our Canine Companions
By John Cali
It is easy to see that the author and those who have contributed stories to this short story collection are passionate about their canine companions.
There's a story about a miniature schnauzer who moved furniture in order to get up to the table and eat a whole plate of brownies.
There is a story about a dog that looked into the writer's eyes and connected with an unearthly bond. Could this dog really be an angel?
There are stories about bonds between dogs and their owners that cannot be ended by death. Dogs have saved their owners in life changing ways. This book brings to mind the bond between my husband, a 300 lb Santa Claus, and our 10 lb Chihuahua, named Bonita. Anyone who has ever been owned by a dog will enjoy the stories contained in this small book, called Dogs, by John Cali.
The stories are short, and can be read while catching a train to town, or just before falling asleep at night. I think it would be fun to read one story each evening with your family, around the dinner table. Read the stories ahead, there are a few stories that may not be suitable for young children.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: animal stories, dog book, dogs, fun read, thought provoking
Wacky Wednesday
Wacky Wednesday (Beginner Books(R))
by Dr Seuss Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $8.99
Availability: In Stock
80 used & new from $0.01
All Time Favorite, June 29, 2008
Wacky Wednesday
By Dr. Seuss
This book has been one of my family's all time favorites. When my children were young, they asked me to read it over and over, while they tried to spot all the wacky things. When they learned to read, they read this book again and again.
Whenever anything out of the ordinary happens in our family, we still say, "It must be Wacky Wednesday". When my son became a father, this is the first book he bought for his son.
Children will love solving the mystery that is called "Wacky Wednesday".
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
search Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog on YouTube
Your tags: classic dr seuss, enjoyable, fun pictures, solving
by Dr Seuss Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $8.99
Availability: In Stock
80 used & new from $0.01
All Time Favorite, June 29, 2008
Wacky Wednesday
By Dr. Seuss
This book has been one of my family's all time favorites. When my children were young, they asked me to read it over and over, while they tried to spot all the wacky things. When they learned to read, they read this book again and again.
Whenever anything out of the ordinary happens in our family, we still say, "It must be Wacky Wednesday". When my son became a father, this is the first book he bought for his son.
Children will love solving the mystery that is called "Wacky Wednesday".
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
search Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog on YouTube
Your tags: classic dr seuss, enjoyable, fun pictures, solving
Hop On Pop
Hop on Pop (Beginner Books(R))
by Dr. Seuss Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $8.99
Availability: In Stock
568 used & new from $0.01
Valuable Reading Tool, June 29, 2008
Hop On Pop
By Dr. Seuss
I found this book to be a valuable reading tool for the beginning reader. When I helped my first grader with summer reading, not only did she pick up the words, but my kindergartener was reading this book as well.
Generations of readers have enjoyed the rhyming words of Hop On Pop. Make sure you pick up a copy for your family.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: classic dr seuss, early reader, fun learning, rhyming words
by Dr. Seuss Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $8.99
Availability: In Stock
568 used & new from $0.01
Valuable Reading Tool, June 29, 2008
Hop On Pop
By Dr. Seuss
I found this book to be a valuable reading tool for the beginning reader. When I helped my first grader with summer reading, not only did she pick up the words, but my kindergartener was reading this book as well.
Generations of readers have enjoyed the rhyming words of Hop On Pop. Make sure you pick up a copy for your family.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: classic dr seuss, early reader, fun learning, rhyming words
And To Think That I Saw It On Mulberry Street
And To Think That I Saw It On Mulberry Street (Classic Seuss)
by Dr. Seuss Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $10.17
Availability: In Stock
101 used & new from $0.01
Beginning of a Child's Imagination!, June 29, 2008
And To Think That I Saw It On Mulberry Street
By Dr. Seuss
This book is the beginning of a child's imagination. I have one copy of this book that has a copyright of 1937. A well loved classic that has survived the generations, and is still in bookstores. The boy sees a plain horse and wagon on his way home from school, and by the time he gets home, he has turned it into "a story that No One could beat! And to think that I saw it on Mulberry Street!"
You and your children will love Mulberry Street.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood,
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: classic dr seuss, elephants, humorous, imagination, invention, parade, storytelling
by Dr. Seuss Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $10.17
Availability: In Stock
101 used & new from $0.01
Beginning of a Child's Imagination!, June 29, 2008
And To Think That I Saw It On Mulberry Street
By Dr. Seuss
This book is the beginning of a child's imagination. I have one copy of this book that has a copyright of 1937. A well loved classic that has survived the generations, and is still in bookstores. The boy sees a plain horse and wagon on his way home from school, and by the time he gets home, he has turned it into "a story that No One could beat! And to think that I saw it on Mulberry Street!"
You and your children will love Mulberry Street.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood,
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: classic dr seuss, elephants, humorous, imagination, invention, parade, storytelling
Green Eggs and Ham
Green Eggs and Ham
by Dr SeussEdition: Hardcover
Availability: Currently unavailable
42 used & new from $0.01
I Will Eat Them ANYWHERE!, June 29, 2008
Green Eggs and Ham
By Dr. Seuss
"I will not eat green eggs and ham, I will not eat them, Sam-I-am". I remember my younger sister learning to read, with Green Eggs and Ham.
My four children have learned to read with Green Eggs and Ham. And now, my grandchildren are reading Green Eggs and Ham. It has been a family tradition, when a child can read this book on their own; we celebrate by making green eggs and ham for dinner. We have eaten them in a box, we have eaten them with a fox, (well maybe not a fox). We only make the scrambled eggs green, not the ham.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
http://youtube.com/results?search_query=Through+the+Rug+2+Follow+that+Dog&search_type=&aq=f
Your tags: classic, early reader, family fun, head start, new readers, rhyming
by Dr SeussEdition: Hardcover
Availability: Currently unavailable
42 used & new from $0.01
I Will Eat Them ANYWHERE!, June 29, 2008
Green Eggs and Ham
By Dr. Seuss
"I will not eat green eggs and ham, I will not eat them, Sam-I-am". I remember my younger sister learning to read, with Green Eggs and Ham.
My four children have learned to read with Green Eggs and Ham. And now, my grandchildren are reading Green Eggs and Ham. It has been a family tradition, when a child can read this book on their own; we celebrate by making green eggs and ham for dinner. We have eaten them in a box, we have eaten them with a fox, (well maybe not a fox). We only make the scrambled eggs green, not the ham.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
http://youtube.com/results?search_query=Through+the+Rug+2+Follow+that+Dog&search_type=&aq=f
Your tags: classic, early reader, family fun, head start, new readers, rhyming
The Mysterious Benedict Society
The Mysterious Benedict Society
by Trenton Lee Stewart Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $6.99
Availability: Usually ships in 7 to 9 weeks
28 used & new from $4.89
A Page Turner, June 29, 2008
The Mysterious Benedict Society
By Trenton Lee Stewart
Mr. Benedict is a genius who is trying to stop a very serious crime ring. With no way to get into the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, he devises a plan to find the most intelligent children. Children come from all over to take Mr. Benedict's test. They are tested in obedience, following directions, honesty etc. Although hundreds of children take the test, there are only four children who can pass it. All of these children are either homeless, or orphans.
They will infiltrate the school on an island in the middle of the sea. They will communicate with Mr. Benedict, through a secret code. If they choose to take on this mission, their very lives may be in peril.
These children learn to depend on each other. They learn to be brave, while learning just how smart and needed they are.
Children and adults alike will be entranced by The Mysterious Benedict Society. I highly recommend this unusual tale of responsibility and never letting your friends down.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood Author:
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: brave, dependable, intellegent, mystery, orphans, spys
by Trenton Lee Stewart Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $6.99
Availability: Usually ships in 7 to 9 weeks
28 used & new from $4.89
A Page Turner, June 29, 2008
The Mysterious Benedict Society
By Trenton Lee Stewart
Mr. Benedict is a genius who is trying to stop a very serious crime ring. With no way to get into the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, he devises a plan to find the most intelligent children. Children come from all over to take Mr. Benedict's test. They are tested in obedience, following directions, honesty etc. Although hundreds of children take the test, there are only four children who can pass it. All of these children are either homeless, or orphans.
They will infiltrate the school on an island in the middle of the sea. They will communicate with Mr. Benedict, through a secret code. If they choose to take on this mission, their very lives may be in peril.
These children learn to depend on each other. They learn to be brave, while learning just how smart and needed they are.
Children and adults alike will be entranced by The Mysterious Benedict Society. I highly recommend this unusual tale of responsibility and never letting your friends down.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood Author:
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: brave, dependable, intellegent, mystery, orphans, spys
Life's Golden Ticket
Life's Golden Ticket: An Inspirational Novel
by Brendon Burchard Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $17.21
Availability: In Stock
79 used & new from $1.99
Getting Back On Track, June 29, 2008
Life's Golden Ticket
By Brendon Burchard
Adult Inspirational Fiction
Life's Golden Ticket, is a book about Love and second chances. The main character, I will call John, is challenged to find out what happened to his fiancé who is found at the side of the highway, after being hit by a truck. Mary had been missing for 40 days, and now she lay dying in a hospital.
To find the answers to Mary's disappearance, John is sent by Mary, in her dying wish, to an amusement park in town. The problem is, the amusement park is nothing but a run-down skeleton of the park that once sat in this site. The only ride that remains is the broken down Ferris wheel.
When John steps through the gate, the park comes alive with a bustle of thrill seekers, blinking lights and noise. The character spends his day riding rides and having his fortune told. He visits with people from his past, as he seeks the answers to life mysteries and Mary's disappearance.
You will learn, along with John, that it is not too late to make changes and to receive "Life's Golden Ticket".
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, author
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: forgiveness, lost love, second chances
by Brendon Burchard Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $17.21
Availability: In Stock
79 used & new from $1.99
Getting Back On Track, June 29, 2008
Life's Golden Ticket
By Brendon Burchard
Adult Inspirational Fiction
Life's Golden Ticket, is a book about Love and second chances. The main character, I will call John, is challenged to find out what happened to his fiancé who is found at the side of the highway, after being hit by a truck. Mary had been missing for 40 days, and now she lay dying in a hospital.
To find the answers to Mary's disappearance, John is sent by Mary, in her dying wish, to an amusement park in town. The problem is, the amusement park is nothing but a run-down skeleton of the park that once sat in this site. The only ride that remains is the broken down Ferris wheel.
When John steps through the gate, the park comes alive with a bustle of thrill seekers, blinking lights and noise. The character spends his day riding rides and having his fortune told. He visits with people from his past, as he seeks the answers to life mysteries and Mary's disappearance.
You will learn, along with John, that it is not too late to make changes and to receive "Life's Golden Ticket".
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, author
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: forgiveness, lost love, second chances
The Well Wishers
The Well-Wishers
by Edward Eager Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $6.95
Availability: In Stock
87 used & new from $0.01
Kid's On A Mission, June 29, 2008
The Well Wishers
By Edward Eager
This is the second book in the series. We have been introduced to James, Laura, Deborah, Lydia, Kip and Gordy in the book, Magic or Not. This book is written in the point of view of the children. Each child takes his or her turn telling the events of the story, in their own words.
James admits that he might be too old to believe in magic. Laura thinks that the magic of the well rightfully belongs to her, since she discovered it. She is very upset to think that Gordy has started the magic again, by tossing a threatening note into the well. She is also upset that Gordy got the first wish and the first magical adventure, leaving the rest of the group out in the cold.
When Lydia is faced with a bully from her past, she makes a wish that is not in harmony with the well. This starts the ball rolling with dire consequences. Now the kids from Silvermine Road really know they are on an adventure and there is no doubt that the well really is magical.
I enjoyed this story. I also thought it picked up the pace a little, from the first book.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood,
author of two magical adventure books:
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Comment Permalink
Your tags: classic, family fun, friendship, good deeds, kids point of view, magical adventure, makes you happy, read together book
by Edward Eager Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $6.95
Availability: In Stock
87 used & new from $0.01
Kid's On A Mission, June 29, 2008
The Well Wishers
By Edward Eager
This is the second book in the series. We have been introduced to James, Laura, Deborah, Lydia, Kip and Gordy in the book, Magic or Not. This book is written in the point of view of the children. Each child takes his or her turn telling the events of the story, in their own words.
James admits that he might be too old to believe in magic. Laura thinks that the magic of the well rightfully belongs to her, since she discovered it. She is very upset to think that Gordy has started the magic again, by tossing a threatening note into the well. She is also upset that Gordy got the first wish and the first magical adventure, leaving the rest of the group out in the cold.
When Lydia is faced with a bully from her past, she makes a wish that is not in harmony with the well. This starts the ball rolling with dire consequences. Now the kids from Silvermine Road really know they are on an adventure and there is no doubt that the well really is magical.
I enjoyed this story. I also thought it picked up the pace a little, from the first book.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood,
author of two magical adventure books:
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Comment Permalink
Your tags: classic, family fun, friendship, good deeds, kids point of view, magical adventure, makes you happy, read together book
The Cat In The Hat
The Cat in the Hat
by Dr. SeussEdition: Hardcover
Price: $8.99
Availability: In Stock
767 used & new from $0.01
My First Book, June 28, 2008
The Cat in the Hat
By Dr. Seuss
The Cat In the Hat was my first book. I remember reading it to my mom in the kitchen while she cooked dinner. Two generations later, my grandchildren are reading The Cat In The Hat. Your children's book collection would not be complete without Dr. Seusses magical adventures.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, author
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: fish in a pot, thing one and thing two
by Dr. SeussEdition: Hardcover
Price: $8.99
Availability: In Stock
767 used & new from $0.01
My First Book, June 28, 2008
The Cat in the Hat
By Dr. Seuss
The Cat In the Hat was my first book. I remember reading it to my mom in the kitchen while she cooked dinner. Two generations later, my grandchildren are reading The Cat In The Hat. Your children's book collection would not be complete without Dr. Seusses magical adventures.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, author
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: fish in a pot, thing one and thing two
Mr. Brown Can Moo! Can You?
Mr. Brown Can Moo! Can You? (Bright and Early Books for Beginning Beginners)
by Dr. SeussEdition: Hardcover
Price: $8.99
Availability: In Stock
266 used & new from $0.01
So Can You!, June 28, 2008
Mr. Brown Can Moo! Can You?
Dr. Seuss
This is a book of sounds. It helps beginning readers learn to sound out words. When I was working on words with my oldest daughter, I soon found that my second daughter was also reading the words. Before you know it the children have learned all the sounds along with Mr. Brown.
I highly recommend this book for young readers.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, author
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: dibble dibble dibble dop, grum, pip, slurp
by Dr. SeussEdition: Hardcover
Price: $8.99
Availability: In Stock
266 used & new from $0.01
So Can You!, June 28, 2008
Mr. Brown Can Moo! Can You?
Dr. Seuss
This is a book of sounds. It helps beginning readers learn to sound out words. When I was working on words with my oldest daughter, I soon found that my second daughter was also reading the words. Before you know it the children have learned all the sounds along with Mr. Brown.
I highly recommend this book for young readers.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, author
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: dibble dibble dibble dop, grum, pip, slurp
Love You Forever
Love You Forever
by Robert Munsch Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $4.95
Availability: In Stock
245 used & new from $0.01
Endearing, June 28, 2008
Love You Forever
Written By Robert Munsch
Illustrated by Sheila McGraw
I loved this story from the first time I heard it. The tender love of a mother and her child. When I gave this book to my mother for Mother's Day, she said, "You were never that much touble."
I suppose if you took it literally you might think it strange, but I take this book as a symbol of un-ending love.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: motherhood, mothers day gift, recommend, unending love
by Robert Munsch Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $4.95
Availability: In Stock
245 used & new from $0.01
Endearing, June 28, 2008
Love You Forever
Written By Robert Munsch
Illustrated by Sheila McGraw
I loved this story from the first time I heard it. The tender love of a mother and her child. When I gave this book to my mother for Mother's Day, she said, "You were never that much touble."
I suppose if you took it literally you might think it strange, but I take this book as a symbol of un-ending love.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: motherhood, mothers day gift, recommend, unending love
Tikki Tikki Tembo
by Arlene MoselEdition: Paperback
Price: $6.95
Availability: In Stock
44 used & new from $3.26
What's His Name?, June 28, 2008
Tiki Tiki Tembo
Arlene Mosel
The oldest son was named Tikki tikki tembo-no sa rembo-chari bari ruche-pip peri pembo, which means "the most wonderful thing in the whole wide world!"
The second son was named Chang.
When Tiki tiki tembo fell into the well, his poor brother had to run and get help. It took so long to run and get help, and even longer to say his brother's name.
This is a re-telling of a Chinese fable. My daughter brought this book home from a book sale when she was in elementary school; she read it so many times the book wore out. We got another copy of this book so I could read it to my grandchildren. Children love to say this boy's name. Every time we come to the name, a different child wants to say it. Soon, I find that the children can read the book to me.
Pick up a copy of Tikki Tikki Tembo, and watch the excitement on the children's faces.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Comment Permalink
Your tags: chinese, enjoyment, favorite, memorize, nonsense, read together book
by Arlene MoselEdition: Paperback
Price: $6.95
Availability: In Stock
44 used & new from $3.26
What's His Name?, June 28, 2008
Tiki Tiki Tembo
Arlene Mosel
The oldest son was named Tikki tikki tembo-no sa rembo-chari bari ruche-pip peri pembo, which means "the most wonderful thing in the whole wide world!"
The second son was named Chang.
When Tiki tiki tembo fell into the well, his poor brother had to run and get help. It took so long to run and get help, and even longer to say his brother's name.
This is a re-telling of a Chinese fable. My daughter brought this book home from a book sale when she was in elementary school; she read it so many times the book wore out. We got another copy of this book so I could read it to my grandchildren. Children love to say this boy's name. Every time we come to the name, a different child wants to say it. Soon, I find that the children can read the book to me.
Pick up a copy of Tikki Tikki Tembo, and watch the excitement on the children's faces.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Comment Permalink
Your tags: chinese, enjoyment, favorite, memorize, nonsense, read together book
Magic Or Not
Magic or Not?
by Edward EagerEdition: Paperback
Price: $7.00
Availability: In Stock
77 used & new from $0.01
If Only You Had A Wishing Well, June 16, 2008
Magic or Not
By Edward Eager
When James, Laura and Deborah move into their new house on Silvermine Road, there are rumors that the well on the property is a dried up wishing-well. Along with new friends Kip, Lydia and Gordy, they secretly begin leaving notes in the well, hoping that their wishes will be granted. They soon find that if, in fact, the well is working, (and they aren't at all sure) it will only work for un-selfish wishes.
Can it be a coincidence that they find the long lost heir, or that they stop the school from being torn down? At times, it seems that the very thing they wish for is exactly what they get. Will the magic work when they need it, or will they have to find their own solutions to their problems?
Magic or Not is an adventure of children making friendships and helping others. It's real fun, whether it's Magic or Not!
Jill Ammon Vanderwood,
Children's Magical Adventure Author:
Through the Rug and
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: classic, edward eager, magical adventure, read over book, timeless
by Edward EagerEdition: Paperback
Price: $7.00
Availability: In Stock
77 used & new from $0.01
If Only You Had A Wishing Well, June 16, 2008
Magic or Not
By Edward Eager
When James, Laura and Deborah move into their new house on Silvermine Road, there are rumors that the well on the property is a dried up wishing-well. Along with new friends Kip, Lydia and Gordy, they secretly begin leaving notes in the well, hoping that their wishes will be granted. They soon find that if, in fact, the well is working, (and they aren't at all sure) it will only work for un-selfish wishes.
Can it be a coincidence that they find the long lost heir, or that they stop the school from being torn down? At times, it seems that the very thing they wish for is exactly what they get. Will the magic work when they need it, or will they have to find their own solutions to their problems?
Magic or Not is an adventure of children making friendships and helping others. It's real fun, whether it's Magic or Not!
Jill Ammon Vanderwood,
Children's Magical Adventure Author:
Through the Rug and
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: classic, edward eager, magical adventure, read over book, timeless
The Goose Girl
The Goose Girl
by Shannon Hale Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $8.95
Availability: In Stock
57 used & new from $3.99
The Real Princess, May 3, 2008
Goose Girl
By Shannon Hale
Young Adult Fiction
I loved the Goose Girl for the well planned out characters, vivid imagery, smooth flow, and the continued suspense. This book had me hooked from the very beginning.
Ani was born a princess and was taught by her aunt to speak to swans. Her mother, the queen, found her to be a strange girl, who was awkward and uncomfortable with people. Her mother kept Ani inside the castle, so she could not talk to the birds and swans. Ani was not even allowed to associate with her own brother and sisters. She found solace in riding her horse, Falada, with whom she could communicate. She also enjoyed her best friend and lady in waiting, Selia. Selia had the gift of `people speaking', where Ani was best understood by the creatures.
The Queen Mother prepared Ani's brother for the throne. When confronted, she told Ani that she had prearranged her marriage to the prince of a far away kingdom.
Ani's lady in waiting schemed to take away the throne, marry the prince and kill Ani, along with all of her gurards. Ani, who had never before left the castle grounds, escaped with her life. She was exiled to live as a goose girl, taking care of the kings geese, while her lady in waiting lived as royalty. Ani needed to disguise herself, and find allies to help regain her royal heritage and over throw the imposter, Selia.
There are bloody scenes, so the story would not be appropriate for younger children. This book will be delightful for the 6th to 9th grade level. I highly recommend the Goose Girl and look forward to reading other books by Shannon Hale.
Your tags: communicate, fantasy, golden hair, horse whisperer, prince, princess, royalty
by Shannon Hale Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $8.95
Availability: In Stock
57 used & new from $3.99
The Real Princess, May 3, 2008
Goose Girl
By Shannon Hale
Young Adult Fiction
I loved the Goose Girl for the well planned out characters, vivid imagery, smooth flow, and the continued suspense. This book had me hooked from the very beginning.
Ani was born a princess and was taught by her aunt to speak to swans. Her mother, the queen, found her to be a strange girl, who was awkward and uncomfortable with people. Her mother kept Ani inside the castle, so she could not talk to the birds and swans. Ani was not even allowed to associate with her own brother and sisters. She found solace in riding her horse, Falada, with whom she could communicate. She also enjoyed her best friend and lady in waiting, Selia. Selia had the gift of `people speaking', where Ani was best understood by the creatures.
The Queen Mother prepared Ani's brother for the throne. When confronted, she told Ani that she had prearranged her marriage to the prince of a far away kingdom.
Ani's lady in waiting schemed to take away the throne, marry the prince and kill Ani, along with all of her gurards. Ani, who had never before left the castle grounds, escaped with her life. She was exiled to live as a goose girl, taking care of the kings geese, while her lady in waiting lived as royalty. Ani needed to disguise herself, and find allies to help regain her royal heritage and over throw the imposter, Selia.
There are bloody scenes, so the story would not be appropriate for younger children. This book will be delightful for the 6th to 9th grade level. I highly recommend the Goose Girl and look forward to reading other books by Shannon Hale.
Your tags: communicate, fantasy, golden hair, horse whisperer, prince, princess, royalty
The Elf and The Princess
The Elf and The Princess: The Silent Warrior Trilogy - Book One (The Silent Warrior Trilogy)
by Anna del C. DyeEdition: Paperback
Price: $15.26
Availability: In Stock
17 used & new from $13.75
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
Spellbound and Wishing for More, April 16, 2008
The Elf and the Princess
By Anna Del C. Dye
Cover by Lois Moore
Illustrations by Carlos Cruz
Young Adult Fiction
In her debut title, The Elf and The Princess, Anna Del C. Dye weaves a tale of secrets, mystery, love, war and high fantasy. Her characters are endearing, as the reader becomes entwined with their lives and their tales of joy and woe.
My favorite part was the love story of the elf and the princess. Princess Adren is so close to her one love, the elf Dellin. But yet so far. He is unaware that the silent warrior is really his beloved princess. She cannot let her secret out. She fears that the rest of the warriors would not take her seriously, as a woman warrior.
Adren has lost her mother and her kingdom to the hated, troll-like beasts called orks. Now Adren does not have a home, a family or a life worth living. Will she ever be able to trust her new found father? Will the elf world accept her? Will she also loose her true love Dellin?
The Elf and The Princess will have you spell bound, and wishing for more. Thankfully, there will be two more high-fantasy novels in the Silent Warrior series.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author
Through the Rug and Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: elves, heros, long-lost father, royalty, true love, woman warrior
by Anna del C. DyeEdition: Paperback
Price: $15.26
Availability: In Stock
17 used & new from $13.75
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
Spellbound and Wishing for More, April 16, 2008
The Elf and the Princess
By Anna Del C. Dye
Cover by Lois Moore
Illustrations by Carlos Cruz
Young Adult Fiction
In her debut title, The Elf and The Princess, Anna Del C. Dye weaves a tale of secrets, mystery, love, war and high fantasy. Her characters are endearing, as the reader becomes entwined with their lives and their tales of joy and woe.
My favorite part was the love story of the elf and the princess. Princess Adren is so close to her one love, the elf Dellin. But yet so far. He is unaware that the silent warrior is really his beloved princess. She cannot let her secret out. She fears that the rest of the warriors would not take her seriously, as a woman warrior.
Adren has lost her mother and her kingdom to the hated, troll-like beasts called orks. Now Adren does not have a home, a family or a life worth living. Will she ever be able to trust her new found father? Will the elf world accept her? Will she also loose her true love Dellin?
The Elf and The Princess will have you spell bound, and wishing for more. Thankfully, there will be two more high-fantasy novels in the Silent Warrior series.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author
Through the Rug and Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: elves, heros, long-lost father, royalty, true love, woman warrior
Library Lion
Library Lion
by Michelle KnudsenEdition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $11.55
Availability: In Stock
57 used & new from $7.34
Quiet In The Library, April 15, 2008
Library Lion
When a lion wanders into the library, Mr. McBee frowns on the idea, but Miss Meriwhether, the librarian, decides that he isn't breaking any rules. However, when story time is over, he roars. Miss Merriweather tells the lion he won't be allowed in the library if he ever roars again.
Miss Merriweather and the children look forward to seeing the lion each day for story time. The lion also helps out by licking envelopes, dusting with his tail and helping children reach books on high shelves.
One day the lion breaks the rules, once again. He leaves the library, knowing that he has broken the rules. Story time just isn't the same without the lion. Mr. McBee decides that sometimes there is a good reason to break rules.
How would you feel about having a lion visit for story time? Do you think lions can be quiet? This is an entertaining book for children. It will help them develope a love for books, and an excitement for visiting the library.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: children, lions, quiet, rules, story time
by Michelle KnudsenEdition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $11.55
Availability: In Stock
57 used & new from $7.34
Quiet In The Library, April 15, 2008
Library Lion
When a lion wanders into the library, Mr. McBee frowns on the idea, but Miss Meriwhether, the librarian, decides that he isn't breaking any rules. However, when story time is over, he roars. Miss Merriweather tells the lion he won't be allowed in the library if he ever roars again.
Miss Merriweather and the children look forward to seeing the lion each day for story time. The lion also helps out by licking envelopes, dusting with his tail and helping children reach books on high shelves.
One day the lion breaks the rules, once again. He leaves the library, knowing that he has broken the rules. Story time just isn't the same without the lion. Mr. McBee decides that sometimes there is a good reason to break rules.
How would you feel about having a lion visit for story time? Do you think lions can be quiet? This is an entertaining book for children. It will help them develope a love for books, and an excitement for visiting the library.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: children, lions, quiet, rules, story time
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Space Station Mars
Space Station Mars (Clubhouse Book)
by Daniel San Souci Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Availability: Currently unavailable
5 used & new from $3.52
Aliens Have Arrived!, March 25, 2008
Space Station Mars By Daniel San Souci
Danny tells the story about the 'Clubhouse' boys. A scary movie ignites the imagination of the six boys. Suddenly, they see signs of space invaders, and aliens all around them. They see a UFO, a meteor and hear strange messages in secret alien codes.
Doning their homemade, protective gear, they head to the clubhouse to test for radiation. Will the boys be safe from invading forces? Will they unravel the codes in time to save the planet?
Kids and adults, alike will enjoy "Space Station Mars," and having fun with the clubhouse boys.
Jill Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) These are great read-together books for this age!
Your tags: aliens, clubhouse, pals, radiation, secret code, space ships
by Daniel San Souci Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Availability: Currently unavailable
5 used & new from $3.52
Aliens Have Arrived!, March 25, 2008
Space Station Mars By Daniel San Souci
Danny tells the story about the 'Clubhouse' boys. A scary movie ignites the imagination of the six boys. Suddenly, they see signs of space invaders, and aliens all around them. They see a UFO, a meteor and hear strange messages in secret alien codes.
Doning their homemade, protective gear, they head to the clubhouse to test for radiation. Will the boys be safe from invading forces? Will they unravel the codes in time to save the planet?
Kids and adults, alike will enjoy "Space Station Mars," and having fun with the clubhouse boys.
Jill Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) These are great read-together books for this age!
Your tags: aliens, clubhouse, pals, radiation, secret code, space ships
Rooftop Rescue: The High Adventures of Sara the Pineapple Cat
Rooftop Rescue: The High Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat
by Anne Louise PembertonEdition: Paperback
Price: $14.95
Availability: In Stock
This Cat Is Going Places, March 25, 2008
Roof Top Rescue The High Adventures of Sara The Pineapple Cat By Anne Louise Pemberton Illustrated By Katherine Sandalls
Sara is called the Pineapple Cat because of her yellow fur the color of pineapple. Sara lives with David and Susan and enjoys her stuffed pink elephant named pinky.
Sara the Pineapple Cat follows Susan into the yard. She feels the warm sun on her fur, looks around at the flowers and bees. Soon she tires of the garden and sets out on an adventure. She climbs the trellis, as cats are famous for, she can climb up but not down. For a while, Sara the Pineapple Cat enjoys her "Roof Top Adventure," until she can't find a way to get down.
Will Sara have to live on the roof, only watching her family from a distance? Will Susan hear her desparate 'Mews' for help? Will they have to call the fire department?
Children and adults will enjoy reading "Roof Top Rescue, The High Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat." This is the first in a series, and I hear the second book has just arrived. This is a book your children will want to read again and again.
Note: there are now 3 books in this series. Look for Stowaway: The San Francisco Adventures of Sara the Pineapple Cat, by Jill Ammon Vanderwood. Available soon!
Jill Ammon Vanderwood: Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) My books are great read-together books for all ages
Your tags: adventure, cat books, great illustrations, high adventure, rescue
by Anne Louise PembertonEdition: Paperback
Price: $14.95
Availability: In Stock
This Cat Is Going Places, March 25, 2008
Roof Top Rescue The High Adventures of Sara The Pineapple Cat By Anne Louise Pemberton Illustrated By Katherine Sandalls
Sara is called the Pineapple Cat because of her yellow fur the color of pineapple. Sara lives with David and Susan and enjoys her stuffed pink elephant named pinky.
Sara the Pineapple Cat follows Susan into the yard. She feels the warm sun on her fur, looks around at the flowers and bees. Soon she tires of the garden and sets out on an adventure. She climbs the trellis, as cats are famous for, she can climb up but not down. For a while, Sara the Pineapple Cat enjoys her "Roof Top Adventure," until she can't find a way to get down.
Will Sara have to live on the roof, only watching her family from a distance? Will Susan hear her desparate 'Mews' for help? Will they have to call the fire department?
Children and adults will enjoy reading "Roof Top Rescue, The High Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat." This is the first in a series, and I hear the second book has just arrived. This is a book your children will want to read again and again.
Note: there are now 3 books in this series. Look for Stowaway: The San Francisco Adventures of Sara the Pineapple Cat, by Jill Ammon Vanderwood. Available soon!
Jill Ammon Vanderwood: Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) My books are great read-together books for all ages
Your tags: adventure, cat books, great illustrations, high adventure, rescue
Rufus and Magic Run Amok
Rufus and Magic Run Amok
by Marilyn LevinsonEdition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $5.95
Availability: In Stock
19 used & new from $2.39
A Must Read For Those Who Love Magic, March 24, 2008
Rufus and Magic Run Amok By Marilyn Levinson
I love to read books about children and magic. This is a must read and must own book for any collector of magical books.
Rufus comes from a long line of witches, including his mother, grandmother and aunt. He never even thought he would have magical powers. That was until the day when Big Douggie was chasing him on roller skates. Rufus told him to do a double somersault and land on his butt. That is just what happened. Could it be a coincidence?
Rufus began asking questions like, "How does someone know that they are a witch or Empowered one? What are the three basic spells, and at what age did you discover you were a witch?" Rufus tries out his powers and finds that he can perform nearly any spell he tries. But his parents pick up clues of his magic and warn him not to use magic without training.
How can a boy keep magic to himself? He begins to read minds, and uses magic at school. When Big Douggie, the bully, figures out that Rufus is magic, he promises to stop bullying if Rufus will help him out. I can't give away the secrets, so you will have to read this book to find out what happens when Magic Run(s) Amok. I can't wait to read a sequel, there are so many more adventures waiting for Rufus to explore.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) Magical Adventure Series
Your tags: fantasy, fun story, good witches, magical, wizard
by Marilyn LevinsonEdition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $5.95
Availability: In Stock
19 used & new from $2.39
A Must Read For Those Who Love Magic, March 24, 2008
Rufus and Magic Run Amok By Marilyn Levinson
I love to read books about children and magic. This is a must read and must own book for any collector of magical books.
Rufus comes from a long line of witches, including his mother, grandmother and aunt. He never even thought he would have magical powers. That was until the day when Big Douggie was chasing him on roller skates. Rufus told him to do a double somersault and land on his butt. That is just what happened. Could it be a coincidence?
Rufus began asking questions like, "How does someone know that they are a witch or Empowered one? What are the three basic spells, and at what age did you discover you were a witch?" Rufus tries out his powers and finds that he can perform nearly any spell he tries. But his parents pick up clues of his magic and warn him not to use magic without training.
How can a boy keep magic to himself? He begins to read minds, and uses magic at school. When Big Douggie, the bully, figures out that Rufus is magic, he promises to stop bullying if Rufus will help him out. I can't give away the secrets, so you will have to read this book to find out what happens when Magic Run(s) Amok. I can't wait to read a sequel, there are so many more adventures waiting for Rufus to explore.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) Magical Adventure Series
Your tags: fantasy, fun story, good witches, magical, wizard
Say What? (Ready-for-Chapters)
by Margaret Peterson HaddixEdition: Paperback
Price: $3.99
Availability: In Stock
51 used & new from $0.11
Are My Parents Robots?, March 24, 2008
Say What? By Margaret Peterson Haddix
Sukie Rose Robinson ran through the house with tubs of glitter in both hands, when she ran into her father. She waited for him to scold her for running in the house, and spilling glitter. Instead, her father told her to stop picking her nose and asked, "If all of your friends jumped off a bridge, would you jump too?"
When Sukie ate peas with her hands, instead of saying "Don't eat with your fingers," Mom said, "You'll put an eye out with that thing!" Suki and her brothers called an emergency kid meeting to discuss their weird parents. They decided to test their parents. Reed put hand prints all over the walls, and his dad said, "Eat your vegetables." When Brian bounced the basketball in the family room, his dad said, "Use your words." When Brian spilled orange juice all over the kitchen floor, instead of saying, "Clean it up!" Mom said, "Shut the door. You think we can afford to air-condition the whole outdoors?"
Have their parents been replaced by aliens? Are they really robots? The thought had Suki worried. She really wanted her parents back, she would even be glad to be scolded.
I really enjoyed this cleaver book. It made me anxious to see what their parents were going to say, next. And would the kids run amok? Would the house ever be the same? I reccomend "Say What", it's fun for kids and parents.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) These are fun read-together books.
Your tags: correcting, kids, parenting, teaching
by Margaret Peterson HaddixEdition: Paperback
Price: $3.99
Availability: In Stock
51 used & new from $0.11
Are My Parents Robots?, March 24, 2008
Say What? By Margaret Peterson Haddix
Sukie Rose Robinson ran through the house with tubs of glitter in both hands, when she ran into her father. She waited for him to scold her for running in the house, and spilling glitter. Instead, her father told her to stop picking her nose and asked, "If all of your friends jumped off a bridge, would you jump too?"
When Sukie ate peas with her hands, instead of saying "Don't eat with your fingers," Mom said, "You'll put an eye out with that thing!" Suki and her brothers called an emergency kid meeting to discuss their weird parents. They decided to test their parents. Reed put hand prints all over the walls, and his dad said, "Eat your vegetables." When Brian bounced the basketball in the family room, his dad said, "Use your words." When Brian spilled orange juice all over the kitchen floor, instead of saying, "Clean it up!" Mom said, "Shut the door. You think we can afford to air-condition the whole outdoors?"
Have their parents been replaced by aliens? Are they really robots? The thought had Suki worried. She really wanted her parents back, she would even be glad to be scolded.
I really enjoyed this cleaver book. It made me anxious to see what their parents were going to say, next. And would the kids run amok? Would the house ever be the same? I reccomend "Say What", it's fun for kids and parents.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) These are fun read-together books.
Your tags: correcting, kids, parenting, teaching
Albert, by Donna Jo Napoli
Albert
by Donna Jo Napoli Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $7.00
Availability: In Stock
37 used & new from $0.27
Peculiar, Yet Endearing, March 24, 2008
Albert By Donna Jo Napoli Illustrated by Jim LaMarche
Albert doesn't have the courage to venture out into the world, so he sits all alone. One day while he investigates the world outside his window, his arm is mistaken, by a bird, for a tree branch. Albert allows the bird to make a nest in his hand and he doesn't want to disturb the nest. Albert becomes a part of the bird family. He chirps and is fed by the father bird, he keeps the eggs warm and encourages young birds to fly. Being part of the world, Albert finds the courage he needs to enter the world around him. This is a modern fairy tale about belonging and courage. I recommend this book for children and adults. I was first attracted to this book by the beautiful illustrations.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) Great read-together books.
Your tags: belonging, courage
by Donna Jo Napoli Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $7.00
Availability: In Stock
37 used & new from $0.27
Peculiar, Yet Endearing, March 24, 2008
Albert By Donna Jo Napoli Illustrated by Jim LaMarche
Albert doesn't have the courage to venture out into the world, so he sits all alone. One day while he investigates the world outside his window, his arm is mistaken, by a bird, for a tree branch. Albert allows the bird to make a nest in his hand and he doesn't want to disturb the nest. Albert becomes a part of the bird family. He chirps and is fed by the father bird, he keeps the eggs warm and encourages young birds to fly. Being part of the world, Albert finds the courage he needs to enter the world around him. This is a modern fairy tale about belonging and courage. I recommend this book for children and adults. I was first attracted to this book by the beautiful illustrations.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) Great read-together books.
Your tags: belonging, courage
Fancy Nancy: Bonjour Butterfly
Fancy Nancy: Bonjour, Butterfly (Fancy Nancy)
by Jane O'connorEdition: Hardcover
Price: $11.55
Availability: In Stock
50 used & new from $8.00
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
A Girl's World, March 24, 2008
Fancy Nancy Bonjour, Butterfly By Jane O'Connor Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
Nancy's best friend Bree is having a butterfly birthday party, They make invitations and try on butterfly costumes. When Nancy's mom tells her she can't go, because it is on the same day as her grandparents anniversary party, Nancy is heartbroken.
When she sees her grandparents, she perks up, a little. Nancy has so much fun at the party, she forgets to be furious.
I read the book, then had my second grade granddaughter read it to me. She had some trouble with the `Fancy' words. My granddaughter especially liked Nancy's doll Marabelle, who was with her even when she couldn't be with her friend, Bree. And she liked the words: Bonjour, heartbroken, scowl, sulk, glamorous, and gorgeous. I loved the illustrations, the use of French words and Nancy's fancy costumes, hats and hair decorations. We both enjoyed this book and would recommend it especially for little girls who love to dress-up.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug). Great read-together books for this age group.
Your tags: butterflies, dresses, family, fancy hats, girls
by Jane O'connorEdition: Hardcover
Price: $11.55
Availability: In Stock
50 used & new from $8.00
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
A Girl's World, March 24, 2008
Fancy Nancy Bonjour, Butterfly By Jane O'Connor Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
Nancy's best friend Bree is having a butterfly birthday party, They make invitations and try on butterfly costumes. When Nancy's mom tells her she can't go, because it is on the same day as her grandparents anniversary party, Nancy is heartbroken.
When she sees her grandparents, she perks up, a little. Nancy has so much fun at the party, she forgets to be furious.
I read the book, then had my second grade granddaughter read it to me. She had some trouble with the `Fancy' words. My granddaughter especially liked Nancy's doll Marabelle, who was with her even when she couldn't be with her friend, Bree. And she liked the words: Bonjour, heartbroken, scowl, sulk, glamorous, and gorgeous. I loved the illustrations, the use of French words and Nancy's fancy costumes, hats and hair decorations. We both enjoyed this book and would recommend it especially for little girls who love to dress-up.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug). Great read-together books for this age group.
Your tags: butterflies, dresses, family, fancy hats, girls
Invisible Inc. #3: The Snack Attack Mytery
Invisible Inc. #03: The Snack Attack Mystery (level 4) (Hello Reader, Invisible Inc.)
by Elizabeth LevyEdition: Paperback
Price: $3.99
Availability: In Stock
65 used & new from $0.01
A Very Hungry Theif, March 24, 2008
Invisible Inc #3 The Snack Attack Mystery
Invisible Inc. consists of three children. Chip fell into a strange pool of water and came out invisible. Charlene is brave, but sometimes bossy and Justin who is hard of hearing and can read lips.
There is a new girl at their school, named Dawn. She is afraid of Chip, and she cries when she is nevous. Is Dawn stealing the snacks from their classroom? Is it Charlene's Brother Stanley, or their teacher, Mr. Gonshak, who is on a diet? Will they find the thief? Leave it up to Invisible Inc. to solve the Snack Attack Mystery.
I reccomend this book for readers of early chapter books, who want an exciting mystery.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) These are great read-together-books for this age group.
Your tags: hungry, invisible, mystery, theif, tricks
by Elizabeth LevyEdition: Paperback
Price: $3.99
Availability: In Stock
65 used & new from $0.01
A Very Hungry Theif, March 24, 2008
Invisible Inc #3 The Snack Attack Mystery
Invisible Inc. consists of three children. Chip fell into a strange pool of water and came out invisible. Charlene is brave, but sometimes bossy and Justin who is hard of hearing and can read lips.
There is a new girl at their school, named Dawn. She is afraid of Chip, and she cries when she is nevous. Is Dawn stealing the snacks from their classroom? Is it Charlene's Brother Stanley, or their teacher, Mr. Gonshak, who is on a diet? Will they find the thief? Leave it up to Invisible Inc. to solve the Snack Attack Mystery.
I reccomend this book for readers of early chapter books, who want an exciting mystery.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) These are great read-together-books for this age group.
Your tags: hungry, invisible, mystery, theif, tricks
Invisible Inc, #4: The Creepy Computer Mystery
Invisible Inc. #04: The Creepy Computer Mystery (level 4) (Hello Reader, Invisible Inc.)
by Elizabeth LevyEdition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Availability: Currently unavailable
32 used & new from $0.01
Being Invisible Has Advantages, March 24, 2008
Scholastic Reader Invisible Inc. Level 4 The Creepy Computer Mystery.
The mystery solving team of Invisible Inc. consists of three children. Chip, who fell into a strange pool of water and became invisible. Charlene is brave and sometimes bossy and Justin who is hard of hearing and can read lips. Their school is invited to an author chat with U.B. Spooks. They can see the messages from other schools, but their messages aren't getting through.
Since they missed out on a chance to visit with an author, the children of Invisible Inc. decide to earn money to bring an author to their school, by selling computer made greeting cards and invitations.
Someone is sending strange messages and invitations of doom are replacing invitations to parties. Who is responsible for the scary messages? How will the team of Invisible Inc. earn enough money to bring an author to their school? Will they solve The Creepy Computer Mystery? I recommend Invisible Inc., The Creepy Computer Mystery for children who are reading chapter books and ready to learn harder words.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug andThrough The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) These are good read-together-books for parents, grandparents, or teachers of this age group.
Your tags: creep, early chapter, fun read, invisible, mystery
by Elizabeth LevyEdition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Availability: Currently unavailable
32 used & new from $0.01
Being Invisible Has Advantages, March 24, 2008
Scholastic Reader Invisible Inc. Level 4 The Creepy Computer Mystery.
The mystery solving team of Invisible Inc. consists of three children. Chip, who fell into a strange pool of water and became invisible. Charlene is brave and sometimes bossy and Justin who is hard of hearing and can read lips. Their school is invited to an author chat with U.B. Spooks. They can see the messages from other schools, but their messages aren't getting through.
Since they missed out on a chance to visit with an author, the children of Invisible Inc. decide to earn money to bring an author to their school, by selling computer made greeting cards and invitations.
Someone is sending strange messages and invitations of doom are replacing invitations to parties. Who is responsible for the scary messages? How will the team of Invisible Inc. earn enough money to bring an author to their school? Will they solve The Creepy Computer Mystery? I recommend Invisible Inc., The Creepy Computer Mystery for children who are reading chapter books and ready to learn harder words.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Author Through the Rug andThrough The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug) These are good read-together-books for parents, grandparents, or teachers of this age group.
Your tags: creep, early chapter, fun read, invisible, mystery
Juana Meets Gabriel, the Small Business Angel (Business Angel Books)
Juana Meets Gabriel, the Small Business Angel (Business Angel Books)
by Daphne A. Nowell Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $14.54
Availability: In Stock
15 used & new from $8.22
Encouraging Young Girls, February 25, 2008
In her book, Juana Meets Gabriel, the Small-Business Angel, Daphne Nowell encourages young girls to think toward their own futures. When they decide what they are interested in, they can read, study the internet, find investors and start their own businesses.
I know grown women today who still think they can't make it without a prince coming to rescue them. This book encourages girls to find their own way, then perhaps their prince will come.
In the first place, many girls are waiting until they are older to get married and start their families. And second, families have a hard time surviving without two incomes. As a mother and grandmother of girls, I say, hurray for Daphne Nowell and the message in and her new book, Juana Meets Gabriel, the Small-Business Angel. You have a winner here!
Jill Ammon Vanderwood-Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
by Daphne A. Nowell Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com
Price: $14.54
Availability: In Stock
15 used & new from $8.22
Encouraging Young Girls, February 25, 2008
In her book, Juana Meets Gabriel, the Small-Business Angel, Daphne Nowell encourages young girls to think toward their own futures. When they decide what they are interested in, they can read, study the internet, find investors and start their own businesses.
I know grown women today who still think they can't make it without a prince coming to rescue them. This book encourages girls to find their own way, then perhaps their prince will come.
In the first place, many girls are waiting until they are older to get married and start their families. And second, families have a hard time surviving without two incomes. As a mother and grandmother of girls, I say, hurray for Daphne Nowell and the message in and her new book, Juana Meets Gabriel, the Small-Business Angel. You have a winner here!
Jill Ammon Vanderwood-Author Through the Rug and Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
The Gift of Jazzy
The Gift of Jazzy
by Cindy Heller Adams
A Dog Book Worth Fetching, January 8, 2008
Cindy Adams has a hit here. She is very good at writing a memoir, while incorporating the story of her dog. Cindy is the writer of a gossip column for the New York Post. Hobnobbing with celebrities and their quirks is nothing compared to the quirky dog that has come into her life and stollen her heart.
Because of the dog, Cindy, dressed in her nightgown and Amilda Marcos, dressed to the nines, spent Christmas locked out of her apartment, sitting on the floor eating McDonald's hamburgers and fries.
Taking her dog to a dinner party ended in disaster, with Cindy drenched in wine and worried that the white carpet would be permanently ruined.
While on vaccation, Cindy had to sneak into the hotel room of a stanger, to excavate Jazzy from the suitcase of a Japanese tourist, before he hitched a ride back to Japan.
Jazzy and Cindy took a trip to the counry. She found that Jazzy was a New York dog, who was "more accustomed to the sound of the garbage truck, then the sound of crickets with insomnia."
I found The Gift of Jazzy to be both heart warming and entertaining. I really enjoyed Cindy Adams sense of humor and finding out that many celebrities prefer their dogs over any other relationship.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood Author of two fictional dog books Through the Rug and Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)]]
by Cindy Heller Adams
A Dog Book Worth Fetching, January 8, 2008
Cindy Adams has a hit here. She is very good at writing a memoir, while incorporating the story of her dog. Cindy is the writer of a gossip column for the New York Post. Hobnobbing with celebrities and their quirks is nothing compared to the quirky dog that has come into her life and stollen her heart.
Because of the dog, Cindy, dressed in her nightgown and Amilda Marcos, dressed to the nines, spent Christmas locked out of her apartment, sitting on the floor eating McDonald's hamburgers and fries.
Taking her dog to a dinner party ended in disaster, with Cindy drenched in wine and worried that the white carpet would be permanently ruined.
While on vaccation, Cindy had to sneak into the hotel room of a stanger, to excavate Jazzy from the suitcase of a Japanese tourist, before he hitched a ride back to Japan.
Jazzy and Cindy took a trip to the counry. She found that Jazzy was a New York dog, who was "more accustomed to the sound of the garbage truck, then the sound of crickets with insomnia."
I found The Gift of Jazzy to be both heart warming and entertaining. I really enjoyed Cindy Adams sense of humor and finding out that many celebrities prefer their dogs over any other relationship.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood Author of two fictional dog books Through the Rug and Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)]]
The Glass Cage: The Adventures of Princess Isabella
The Glass Cage: The Adventures of Princess Isabella
by Judy Levering-DuffEdition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $9.95
Availability: Not in stock; order now and we'll deliver when available
2 used & new from $8.96
A Fairy Tale, December 30, 2007
The Glass Cage: The Adventures of Princess Isabella is an exciting read for children 9-12. Princess Isabella had the gift of beauty. It was the least her royal parents could do, to share her beauty with the Kingdom of Grom. They had a special glass cage built around her throne. Isabella sat in the cage and looked pretty, while her subjects passed by, admiring her.
One day, the princess was kidnapped from the castle, through a diversion. The princess was put into another cage, to be admired by an ugly troll. One day he forgot to latch the cage,which allowed her to escape. Princess Isabella wandered through the lonely world, meeting both helpful and harmful creatures. She learned bravery, learned to read and how to take care of herself.
How will Princess Isabella find her way back to her castle home? Will she have to live with her new friends? Will she be harmed by the creatures of the forest? If she goes home, will she have to live in a glass cage?
The Glass Cage is the first in a series of adventures for Princess Isabella. The series continues with the Medallion of Tiben. I really enjoyed the first in the series of fairy tales, written by Judy Levering Duff and hope to read the other book soon.
The Glass Cage: The Adventures of Princess Isabella will be a good book to read to a class. It will also be a great read-together book for young children. I feel it will help children conquer their fears. I have promised my book to my niece, Isabella, an advanced third-grade reader.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood (author) Through the Rug Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: fairy tales }
by Judy Levering-DuffEdition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $9.95
Availability: Not in stock; order now and we'll deliver when available
2 used & new from $8.96
A Fairy Tale, December 30, 2007
The Glass Cage: The Adventures of Princess Isabella is an exciting read for children 9-12. Princess Isabella had the gift of beauty. It was the least her royal parents could do, to share her beauty with the Kingdom of Grom. They had a special glass cage built around her throne. Isabella sat in the cage and looked pretty, while her subjects passed by, admiring her.
One day, the princess was kidnapped from the castle, through a diversion. The princess was put into another cage, to be admired by an ugly troll. One day he forgot to latch the cage,which allowed her to escape. Princess Isabella wandered through the lonely world, meeting both helpful and harmful creatures. She learned bravery, learned to read and how to take care of herself.
How will Princess Isabella find her way back to her castle home? Will she have to live with her new friends? Will she be harmed by the creatures of the forest? If she goes home, will she have to live in a glass cage?
The Glass Cage is the first in a series of adventures for Princess Isabella. The series continues with the Medallion of Tiben. I really enjoyed the first in the series of fairy tales, written by Judy Levering Duff and hope to read the other book soon.
The Glass Cage: The Adventures of Princess Isabella will be a good book to read to a class. It will also be a great read-together book for young children. I feel it will help children conquer their fears. I have promised my book to my niece, Isabella, an advanced third-grade reader.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood (author) Through the Rug Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Your tags: fairy tales }
Three Little Robbers
Three Little Robbers
by Christine Graham Edition: Hardcover
Available on Amazon.com
Price: $13.73
Availability: In Stock
34 used & new from $6.77
Three Little Robbers Discover Their Talents, December 30, 2007
Three little robbers share their talents. They also learn to share all they have with a small, lonely woman who sits in the dark with only one apple to eat and a cat to keep her warm. It is fun to see my second-grade granddaughter reading a chapter book all by herself. She enjoyed this story and wanted to read it again for me, then for her older sister and her uncle. We enjoyed the lessons taught by Christine Graham and the illustrations by Susan Boase.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood Through the Rug Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug). My books are fun read-together-books for this age group and great to read to a class.
Your tags: change of heart, charity, giving, helping, using talents
by Christine Graham Edition: Hardcover
Available on Amazon.com
Price: $13.73
Availability: In Stock
34 used & new from $6.77
Three Little Robbers Discover Their Talents, December 30, 2007
Three little robbers share their talents. They also learn to share all they have with a small, lonely woman who sits in the dark with only one apple to eat and a cat to keep her warm. It is fun to see my second-grade granddaughter reading a chapter book all by herself. She enjoyed this story and wanted to read it again for me, then for her older sister and her uncle. We enjoyed the lessons taught by Christine Graham and the illustrations by Susan Boase.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood Through the Rug Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug). My books are fun read-together-books for this age group and great to read to a class.
Your tags: change of heart, charity, giving, helping, using talents
Invisible Inc. #02 The Mystery of the Missing Dog (level 4) (Hello Reader, Invisible Inc.)
Invisible Inc. #02: The Mystery Of The Missing Dog (level 4) (Hello Reader, Invisible Inc.)
by Elizabeth LevyEdition: Paperback
Price: $3.99
Availability: In Stock
100 used & new from $0.01
How Do You Find An Invisible Dog?, December 30, 2007
Except for his tail, Chip's dog Max is invisible. Chip is also invisible, except for his clothes. The fact that Chip owns invisable clothing comes in handy when he wants to sneak up on a suspect.
Chip, along with his crime solving team, Charlene, who writes with invisable ink and Justin, who is hearing impaired and can read lips, are busy unraveling the mystery of the missng dog. They have several suspects. Amazing Grace, who has wild red hair and a dog named Merlin, does magic tricks for Birthday Parties. William, the owner of a Doberman pinscher, is jealous that Max can do tricks his dog can't do. And Mary, who bought dog food, when they know she doesn't own a dog. How will the mytery solving team of Invisable Inc. find an invisable dog? Invisible Inc. The Mystery of the Missing Dog, is a 48 page, early chapter book. It is an excellent way to introduce new words to a readers vocabulary.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood Author:Through the Rug Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug). My books would be good read together books for this age.
Your tags: chapter books, dog show, dog story, invisible, missing pet, mystery
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