Jill Pickle's Reviews

The Castle In the Attic

2008-10-16T20:34:00.000-07:00

The Castle in the Attic
by Elizabeth Winthrop
Edition: Audio CD

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Great Fantasy, October 15, 2008

I enjoyed this book so much, I have read it twice.

William is ten-years-old when he finds out that his house-keeper/nanny is going to leave him. Mrs. Phillips says,"He is old enough to take care of himself now." William is afraid that with busy parents he will be left alone.
Before she parts for England, Mrs. Phillips gives William a very special gift. She takes him up to the attic and shows him a very large, fully functional castle. He has to be brave, in order to have the castle, which has been in Mrs. Phillips family for many many years. There is only one knight that comes with the castle, the silver knight. Mrs. Phillips tells William that there is a story passed down through her family, that the silver knight is under a spell, and that one day he will come back to life.
There is magic, spells and trickery within the walls of the castle. Not only will William need to be brave and stand on his own, but he will need to help end an evil curse.

You will enjoy reading about the life and times of the silver knight, as you join William on an adventure, back to the times of knights and ladies.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway: The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

The Ghost of Fossil Glen

2008-10-16T20:21:00.000-07:00

The Ghost of Fossil Glen
by Cynthia Defelice
Edition: Paperback

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Young Adult Mystery, October 15, 2008

Living in Fossil Glen, nothing exciting ever happens. Allie Nicols is a seventh grader who has always used her imagination to make life more interesting. She loves to invent stories about her lunch lady and her teachers.

When she is rock climbing in Fossil Glen, Allie has climbed up too far, in order to retrieve a fossil. Not knowing what to do or how to get down, she hears a voice. The voice guides her gently down from the ledge, saving her life. Allie wants to tell others what she heard, but her 'friends' are claiming that Allie is a liar, because of her imagined stories. No one would believe she has heard a ghost, not even her parents.

Allie has many experiences with the ghost of a young girl, who has died in Fossil Glen. While searching out the truth, Allie is led into the dangerous path of a mad-man. Although frightened, with no one to help or believe her, Allie is determined to help the young girl's ghost to solve the mystery and expose the truth.

This is a fast moving, young adult mystery. I really enjoyed the story telling and suspense in The Ghost of Fossil Glen. The only thing I didn't like, was to read about the death of a young girl, who is the ghost of Fossil Glenn.

This book is more suitable for young adults, than for children.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway: The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

The Care & Keeping of You: The Body Book for Girls (American Girl Library

2008-10-14T21:41:00.000-07:00

The Care & Keeping of You: The Body Book for Girls (American Girl Library)
by Valorie Schaefer
Edition: Paperback
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

Where Was This Book When I Was Growing Up?, October 7, 2008

The Care & Keeping of You:
The Body Book for Girls

Where was this book when I was growing up? What a great book for girls. As a mother of three girls and a grandmother of four girls, I give thumbs up to The Care & Keeping of You.

I began reading this book with my nine-year-old granddaughter, Autumn. She enjoyed learning about how to brush her hair, and her teeth. She loved the illustrations and the advice. We each took a turn reading. When it came to the chapter about her period, she said, "Please don't make me read that part, right now. I want to read the rest of the book, but I want to wait until I'm around 12 to read that part."

I told her, "Sure, we can wait. But at least you know the book is here, if you need to know about it." She is growing up in a home with a mom and two older sisters, and her mom as already had "the talk" with her.

The chapter about developing is great. All girls don't develop at the same rate. Some are uncomfortable because they aren't developing, while others are unhappily, developing too fast. It tells the girls that they are all different and that they have many other great things about them. They should focus on their smiles, or their talents, not what others think about them. Above all, hold their heads up and keep good posture.

I think a book that answers all the questions a girl will have, growing up, is a great idea. This book also encourages the girls to talk to their mothers or an adult they can trust.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway: The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

The Collard Patch

2008-10-13T20:47:00.000-07:00

The Collard Patch
by Mary Lou Cheatham
Edition: Paperback

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
A New Cooking Adventure, October 6, 2008

The Collard Patch
By Mary Lou Cheatham
Paul Elliott

What a great idea for a cookbook, with stories and recipes. This is a beautifully written book, with details on growing, and preparing collard greens.

I live in Utah. I didn't even know collard greens from spinach, kale or turnip greens. I looked for frozen collards, with no luck. Next, I looked for the fresh variety, still no luck. I did find some at the Whole Foods store. I later saw collard greens at Walmart, as well. They looked fairly sturdy, compared to other limp varieties of greens.

I have been reading the stories in the cookbook each night. Finally, on Saturday I began my chopping and freezing. It is very simple to remove the inner tough stem, and twist like a cigar. Then you slice at an angle and chop each section. Quick and easy.

Did you know there are two ways to soften the collard greens? One is by freezing, and the other is by adding a pinch of baking soda.

On Saturday, I picked out four recipes: Cherry Chocolate Cake, Apple Collard Raisin Pie, French Onion Collard Soup, and Collard Corn. The cake, although you need to note the missing ingredient, cherry pie filling, is a supper tasty and moist cake. Beware, it would be a very good idea to have company over. As a family of three, now, we ate and ate on the cake. Now it's time for some exercise. I walked the dog all over town, trying to fit back into my clothes.

The Collards Corn went very well with the Lasagna, I made for dinner tonight. I admit that I cut the garlic in half. My husband isn't a big fan of garlic. I thought this dish was great and very tasty, as a side dish.

The French Onion Collard soup is great. I embellished it, a little, by adding two packs of onion soup mix to the four cups of water. I also added two whole onions, to get the real onion texture. I added the chopped collard greens on top of each cup of hot soup, browned the French bread rounds with a little butter, and added cheese, mine was mozzarella. It tasted just like Mimi's. Do they have Mimi's in the south?

Tomorrow, I will make the Apple Raisin Collard Pie, with the remaining 5 cups of collards, in my freezer. It sounds good, as well. I don't know why I picked two deserts. I guess I was just curious. If I like the desserts, I will surely like the collards. I remember the time my mom made cookies out of mashed potatoes. They were good, with a strange texture. Now that I have tried collard greens, I will try to keep some in the freezer, for any future taste treats.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway: The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

Five Children and It

2008-10-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

Five Children and It (Puffin Classics - the Essential Collection)
by E. Nesbit
Edition: Paperback

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
A Fan Of Magical Adventures, September 20, 2008

Five Children and It

While their mother is away, caring for their ailing grandmother, Cyril, Anthea, Robert and Jane find a sand fairy, called a Psamead. He hadn't been uncovered since the days of the dionsours, and had no idea about modern children, and their wishes. The sand fairy, the childern call `It', says he will grant the children's wishes. The already peculiar looking fairy, puffs himself up, before granting wishes. He reluctantly agrees to grant one wish, per day, for one week.

When wishes aren't planned out, they don't tend to go so well. With a wish for gold, a pile of gold appears, so large, it fills the sand pit. Although the children have pockets full of gold, they have to use their own pocket change, to make their purchases.

An off-handed wish for everyone to like their baby brother, who they call the Lamb, results in a near kidnapping of the baby. A wish for a castle comes with guards carrying swords. Other wishes include Indians, who want to scalp the children, and jewels that are really stolen property. Lucky, or not, all wishes disappear at sunset.

Five Children and It will both entertain you, and have you making your own wishes, that you are sure won't be revoked at sunset.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
children's author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway: The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

The Bungalow Mystery (Nancy Drew, Book 3)

2008-10-13T20:24:00.000-07:00

The Bungalow Mystery (Nancy Drew, Book 3)
by Carolyn Keene
Edition: Hardcover

A Creepy Feeling, September 8, 2008

The Bungalow Mystery
Book 3 Nancy Drew

I have read this book several times in my lifetime. My first time was as an eighth-grader. Next, I read Nancy Drew while raising my girls. I'm now on the third-go-around. This time, I listened to the book on CD, and found it as exciting as ever.

Nancy and her friend, Helen Corning, are on vacation at a resort. When they take a boat out on the water, a storm capsizes their boat. Nancy and Helen's calls for help, bring a sixteen-year-old girl, Laura, to their rescue.

Helen and Nancy are concerned for Laura, who has lost her mother and is planning to meet up with her new guardians. When Nancy is called home, to care for her housekeeper, Hannah, who has a broken leg, she makes a mental note to check on Laura.

Laura finds out that her guardians are trying to steal her mother's jewels. She runs away, to Riverheights, where Nancy lives. Nancy Drew sets out alone to investigate Laura's guardians.

Nancy stumbles upon a securities theft, and a stolen identity, when she sets out to solve the Bungalow Mystery.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway: The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

Fairy Haven and the Quest for the Wand

2008-10-13T20:09:00.000-07:00

Fairy Haven and the Quest for the Wand
by Gail Carson Levine
Edition: Hardcover
Amazon.com

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Wand Madness, September 8, 2008

Fairy Haven and
the Quest for the Wand
By Gail Carson Levine

Soop is a mermaid in Neverland. She is threatening to flood Neverland, unless the fairies get her a wand. Tinkerbelle, and the other fairies are sent on a quest to get a wand from the Great Wandies. The wandies are willing to give up the wand to help save Fairy Haven. The wandies decide it would be best if they put the wand to sleep.

Each fairy is allowed to have one wish, on the way back to Fairy Haven. One fairy wishes to have wings, so she can fly, and then turns around and wishes for Soop to be her friend. Tinkerbelle wishes for Peter Pan to fall in love with a clam shell. The fairies get carried away with wishes and they all get `wand madness'. This means, they can't stop using the wand. The magic of fairy dust has always been enough for the fairies, until the wand takes over.

The mermaid, Soop, turns one fairy into a bat, by singing her song, before she can warn the mermaid that wand wishes are permanent. Soop makes it so her mermaid friend cannot speak, or read, the friend wishes that Soop can't be heard. When the fairies sneak in and take the wand from the mermaids, the wand is in a dream state. The wand makes the fairies grow and shrink, grow and shrink.

Tinkerbell tries to tame the wand. Will she be able to control the wand, without getting wand madness, again? Will the fairies be able to return to their normal size? How can the fairies return the wand and return to their calm, peaceful kingdom?

Although, this book is very fast paced and exciting, at first, it was a little hard to follow. It took awhile before I realized I was reading about Tinkerbelle and Neverland. I think it would be best to read Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg, first.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway: The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

The Master Quilter (Elm Creek Quilts Series #6)

2008-10-13T19:50:00.000-07:00

The Master Quilter (Elm Creek Quilts Series #6)
by Jennifer Chiaverini
Amazon.com
Edition: Paperback

A Cozy Quilt On A Cold Winters Night, September 8, 2008

The Master Quilter

I'm sure I skipped ahead with this book, since Sylvia is now married and I didn't see it coming. I still enjoyed jumping into this story. Quilt Camp has been established at Elm Creek Manor. Each of the quilters, from the Tangled Web Quilters, takes part in teaching classes on different aspects of quilting. Sylvia Compson, the owner of the manor, is able to share her vast knowledge of quilting, with both new and experienced quilters.

Sarah and Matt McClure live year-round at the manor. Sarah is the bookkeeper, while Matt is the groundskeeper. This story is woven in with the lives of the quilters. Sylvia got married to Andrew, and the Elm Creek Quilters want to make her and her husband a wedding quilt. Sarah sends out letters to Sylvia's friends and those who have attended quilt camp at the Elm Creek Manor, so they can make a special square for the quilt. Each camper writes a story along with the square, to tell what Sylvia means to them.

In this story, Gwen Sulluvan, the hippie mom, is passed over for a position at the college, where she works, for a younger colleague. Her daughter, Summer, has moved in with her boyfriend, Jeremy, without even telling her mother. Judy, who is from Viet Nam, and also a professor, is given an opportunity to teach at a larger college, but she is hesitant to let anyone in on her secret.

Diane, who is sometimes mouthy, and her neighbor, Mary Beth, who is the head of the Quilter's Guild, are feuding, but their boys are best friends. The feud has gone too far, and now the boys are involved.

Bonnie's quilt shop, Grandma's Attic, is losing money. Bonnie is trying to keep the business going, when her husband, Craig, secretly meets with a realtor to sell the business. Bonnie is ashamed to let her friends know her business is in trouble, not to mention her marriage.

Agnes and Sylvia, who are sisters-in-law, have been estranged for many years. They are able to pick up the thread of friendship and become better friends than ever before.

Will the Elm Creek Quilt Camp survive the changes in the lives of these friends? Will Bonnie ever be able to recoup her losses from Grandma's Attic and get her life back on track? Will Sarah be able to get enough squares to finish Sylvia's wedding quilt? Will the ladies be able to remain friends, with Judy moving away?

Reading about the love and friendships of the Elm Creek Quilters is as cozy as a warm quilt, on a cold winters night.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway: The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

The Quilter's Apprentice (Elm Creek Quilts Series #1)

2008-10-13T19:27:00.000-07:00

The Quilter's Apprentice (Elm Creek Quilts Series #1)
by Jennifer Chiaverini
Amazon.com
Edition: Hardcover
Price: $12.24

Coming Home, September 8, 2008

The Quilter's Apprentice

Sarah and Matt McClure are a cute, young couple, who have just moved to a small college town in PA. Matt has a new job working as a Landscape Architect on an old estate. The owner, Sylvia Compson is planning to fix up Elm Creek estate, in order to sell it. She has been away for many years and can't stand to see her childhood home is disrepair.

The first day, Matt takes Sarah along for the ride, since she is still unemployed. Sarah asks for a glass of water, and Sylvia tells her to get it herself. She finds Mrs. Compson very abrasive. While Sylvia Compson is showing Matt around the estate, Sarah finds herself snooping around the house. She discovers a beautiful handmade quilt in the sitting room. When Sylvia finds her snooping she is even more distasteful to Sarah.

Since Sarah doesn't have a job, Sylvia asks her to work for her. She needs help cleaning out the rooms upstairs. Sarah, who is a CPA, reluctantly takes the job, but, instead of pay, she asks for quilting lessons. As Sarah and Sylvia quilt, Sylvia tells Sarah the tales of her youth. The women, although they got off to a rocky start, become fast friends.

Sarah makes friends with other quilters at Grandma's Attic, fabric shop, and helps to re-unite Sylvia with her old friends, with whom she has had a falling out, in years past.

I loved the friendships formed in this book. I also loved the history of Sylvia's family, and the quilt history woven in.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway, The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

The Report Card

2008-10-13T19:18:00.000-07:00

The Report Card
by Andrew Clements
Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com

Being A Kid, September 8, 2008

The Report Card

Nora had a report card she was proud of. In fact, she worked hard to get all D's, but didn't quite succeed; she got one C. She knew that her friend Stephen tried really hard to get good grades, but when he didn't, he felt dumb. If Nora could get a bad report card, she thought Stephen would feel better.

Nora knew before she was old enough to go to school, that she was a genius. At a very young age, she could read better than her older brother, but she didn't want to hurt his feelings. While in kindergarten, Nora began to mimic the other children. If one child was struggling with 2+2, she would struggle with 2+2. When she mimicked a child who couldn't read `cat', she would pretend that she couldn't only read `cat'.

Her favorite person to mimic was Stephen. Nora and Stephen became friends and she never told him that she was a genius. In fact, even her parents didn't know of her extreme reading and learning abilities. That was, until the report card. Nora's parents went straight to the school. They held conferences with the teachers and principal. They were going to find out how Nora could get a bad report card without, anyone notifying them, that there was a problem. What Nora hadn't counted on was the IQ test.

I liked Nora for not wanting to be the center of attention. She had extreme abilities, but she was just a kid and enjoyed sports and learning, just on her own terms.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood,
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway, The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

The Janitor's Boy

2008-10-13T19:09:00.000-07:00

by Andrew Clements
Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $5.99
Availability: In Stock
110 used & new from $0.01

Bublicious, September 8, 2008

The Janitor's Boy
By Andrew Clements

Jack is going through growing pains, as any fifth grader might experience. He found out, at an early age, it isn't cool to grow up to be a janitor, like his father.

When he begins the fifth grade, Jack finds that his middle school is temporarily housed in the old high school building. The building janitor is Jacks dad. Jack tries hard to avoid his dad, until the day a classmate throws up. The janitor is called to clean up the mess. Before leaving the class room, Jack's dad says, "Hi, son."

The mean kids, at Jack's school, make fun of him, for having a dad who is a janitor. Jack is so embarrassed that he comes up with a plan to get back at his dad. He chews 13 pieces of watermelon, Bubblicious, bubble gum. Bubblicious is, by far, the stickiest gum and watermelon is the gum with the worst smell. He sneaks into the back of the music classroom and makes the smelliest, stickiest mess, on a desk, knowing that his dad will be the one to clean it up.

Even with the best planning, Jack gets caught and his punishment: he has to clean up the desk himself. He is also assigned gum duty, for the whole building. Jack and his father learn to understand each other, and Jack gains a new respect for his father and his important job.

This is a fast moving story, in a realistic setting. You and your children will enjoy, The Janitor's Boy.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway, The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

Changes for Molly: A Winter Story (American Girls Collection)

2008-09-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

Changes for Molly: A Winter Story (American Girls Collection)

by Valerie TrippEdition: Hardcover
Price: $11.01
Availability: In Stock
32 used & new from $0.26

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

A Wonderful Change
August 30, 2008

Changes for Molly

Molly McIntire and her friends, Linda and Susan, are trying out to be Miss Victory, in their big dance program. Molly practices every day, and thinks she has a pretty good chance for the most important part. She is worried that she won't look pretty with her hair "as straight as sticks". Linda and Susan have an idea to help Molly. They put their money together to buy a home permanent. The girls hide out in Molly's garage to begin the perm. Molly finds out at the last minute, her friend Susan doesn't really know how to roll a perm. She has seen someone with a perm before, but it couldn't be that hard.

Molly's family gets news that her father will be coming home from the war. This makes Molly even more determined to get the part of Miss Victory, and to show her father how grown-up she has become, while he was away.

My daughter Karen saved her own money to buy her 18 inch, Molly, American Girl doll. She enjoyed endless hours reading the American Girl books, and playing with her two cousins who had Kirsten and Samantha dolls.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway, The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

Molly Saves the Day: A Summer Story (American Girls Collection)

2008-09-20T21:22:00.000-07:00

Molly Saves the Day: A Summer Story (American Girls Collection)
by Valerie Tripp
Amazon.com
Edition: Hardcover
Price: $12.95

An American Story
August 30, 2008

In 1944, during World War 2, loved ones were away fighting the war, gas was rationed and families couldn't travel far. They saved their gas for necessary trips. Families couldn't even see their relatives during the holidays.

In 1944-1945 it was common for parents to send their children to summer camp. The children could get away from the stress of everyday life, and enjoy the outdoors.

Molly and her friends Linda and Susan are very excited to go to camp Go-on-Again. They have many challenges to learn at camp. Molly finds that she is very afraid of swimming underwater. Susan is having difficulty paddling a canoe, and Linda is afraid of bugs. When the camp girls are divided into teams and challenged to capture the flag, Susan and Molly are placed in a canoe together. Susan has difficulty rowing and she loses her ore, when both girls reach for the ore, the canoe tips over, causing the girls to dunk under water.

Molly and Susan reach shore, only to find that their whole team has been captured by the other team, and the jailer is their own best friend, Linda.

Will Molly and Susan get away? Will Linda capture her own best friends? How can Molly and Susan rescue their whole team? Will the girls ever be able to resume their friendship?

My daughter Karen enjoyed dressing her Molly doll in her camp Go-on-Again outfit, with a white blouse, red shorts and a blue neck scarf.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway, the San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

The Pirateology Handbook: A Course in Pirate Hunting

2008-09-20T21:14:00.000-07:00

The Pirateology Handbook: A Course in Pirate Hunting
(Ologies)
by William Captain LubberEdition: Hardcover
Price: $9.45
Availability: In Stock
41 used & new from $5.99

A Pirate's Life For Me!
August 26, 2008

The Pirateology Handbook

This is a complete handbook, for a boy who wants to be a pirate hunter. The book is setup like a ships log or diary, with a hard cover and a wire binding.

Captain William Lubber gives details on his mate's jobs aboard a ship, from cabin boy all the way up to captain.

Captain Lubber tells the boy everything he needs to know, from memorizing the flags of different pirate ships, to how to recognize the ship bells. He tells the cabin boy: four bells is six o'clock in the morning, and time for a cabin boy to report to duty.

At the end of every chapter, the captain gives an assignment: copy the map and learn the main islands, or, learn the knots needed on board a pirate ship. A cabin boy will also learn the parts of the ship.

The office of Cabin Boy, Able Seaman, The office of Bo'sun, and the rank of Captain are all outlined. Until a boy reaches the office of Able Seaman, he is not entitled to any of the treasure, taken by a pirate ship. Captain Lubbor outlines the pay scale on a pirate ship and lets a boy know that there are no slackers.

This is great book for any boy who is interested in pirates. He will learn about notorious pirates along the way, and how they met their fate. He will also learn about famous pirate ships, and where they sailed.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)
Stowaway, The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

Happy Birthday, Molly-- American Girl's Collection

2008-09-20T21:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Molly
American Girls Collection)
by Valerie Tripp
Edition: Hardcover
Price: $12.95
Amazon.com

A Birthday To Remember,
August 26, 2008

Happy Birthday, Molly

Molly McIntire is having a birthday. Birthdays were very special during World War 2, since sugar was rationed, and it was rare to have sweets. Molly finds out that an English girl will be staying with their family for awhile, and she is very excited. When Emily, the English girl, arrives, Molly and her friends, Susan and Linda, try to impress her with the bomb shelter they built in the basement. Emily, is not impressed.

One evening, during a drill, the power goes out in the house. Molly's family gather, in their dining room, to wait it out. Emily is scared. She tells Molly that, in her country, they are not drills; they have real bombing raids. When the raids are over, homes are gone, and sometimes people are injured or killed. She doen't want to play in a bomb shelter, like Molly and her friends, because it brings back bad memories.

Molly finds out that Emily has not had a real birthday party, in years. She decides to share her birthday with Emily. Molly allows Emily to plan an English tea party. When Emily says they can't have a cake at a real tea party and they have to drink tea, instead of punch, Molly is mad at the stuborn little English girl.

Will Emily ruin everything? Will Molly have a birthday cake? Will the girls ever be friends again?

My daughter and her two cousins planned a birthday party for their American Girl Dolls. They followed the recipes in the American Girl Cookbook and made food from the time period, for each doll. Karen dressed up her Molly doll, in her birthday dress, and the girls had a grand time.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood,
author: Through the Rug, Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog,
and Stowaway, the San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

The Beloved Dearly

2008-09-11T19:51:00.000-07:00

The Beloved Dearly
by Doug Cooney Edition: Paperback
Price: $5.99
Amazon.com
Availability: In Stock
123 used & new from $0.01

For Crying Out Loud, August 26, 2008

Twelve-year-old Ernie had a brilliant idea, he was going to sell MacDonald's hamburgers, to the students, in his lunch room. It was working well, until the principal got ahold of him and called his father. Ernie's father told him if he ever started another business, he would be grounded.

While talking to his father about the cost of his mother's funeral, an idea popped into Ernie's head, he would go into the funeral business. Kids were always losing pets.

Ernie hired an artistic kid, named Dusty, to make the pet-size caskets. He hired Tony, the boy with the shovel, to dig the graves. Something was missing. He needed some emotion to get the mourners going. Dusty suggested a tomboy named Swimming Pool.

Ernie interviewed Swimming Pool, trying to find a soft spot. "Have you ever lost a pet?"
"No".
"Had a bad report card?"
"No."
"Had someone leave and not know if you'd ever see them again?"

Finally, a tear threatened, as Swimming Pool thought of her older brother leaving home. The day of the first funeral, Swimming Pool, wearing her red sneakers, and an awful purple dress, tried everything to bring about tears. She pinched herself, punched herself in the eye and still no tears. But, finally the tears came.

Ernie ran funerals for pets including rabbits, turtles, and an iguana, but he drew the line when it came to an earth worm. He was a hard boss, who would rather lose his business, than to give his crew a raise.

Will his dad stumble upon his funeral business? If Ernie is grounded, who will run the business? Will he be able to make his partners happy? Will the pets keep dying?
This is a fun book about friendship and smart business sense.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

Molly's Surprise: A Christmas Story

2008-08-27T22:24:00.000-07:00

Molly's Surprise: A Christmas Story (Book 3) (American Girls Collection)
by Valerie Tripp
Edition: Hardcover
Price: $12.95
Amazon.com

A Girl's World, August 20, 2008

Molly's Surprise
By Valerie Tripp

Molly is trying hard to be excited about Christmas. With her dad gone to war it doesn't seem like Christmas will ever be the same in the McIntire household. Molly wonders if her dad will send a Christmas package, and if he does, will it get there on time? It isn't as important for Molly to have her father's gifts as it is to know that her dad is alright.

Molly, her sister Jill and her brother Ricky put their money together to buy the family a Christmas tree. Molly discovers the first snow and can't wait to make snow angels, but she is still anxiously waiting to see if her father will send a package.

My daughter Karen enjoyed her Molly doll so much, that I enjoyed giving her Molly gifts for Christmas and Birthdays. Imagine her surprise on Christmas morning when she had her very own Molly package under the tree with Molly's Christmas surprise. It came in a box addressed to Molly McIntire from Molly's dad. This item can be ordered in the American Girl section on Amazon, under Molly's accessories.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

Running Out of Time

2008-08-27T22:16:00.000-07:00

Running Out of Time
by Margaret Peterson Haddix
Edition: Paperback
Price: $5.99
Amazon.com

Little House On the Prairie Meets the Truman Show, August 20, 2008

Running Out of Time
By Margaret Peterson Haddix

Thirteen-year-old Jessie Keyser is growing up in 1844, or so she believed, until an epidemic of diphtheria broke out in her community. Jessie's mother makes a confession that their village set in the 1800's is, in reality an experiment, set up in a modern world.

The villagers were asked to live in Clifton Village. They were told they could leave at any time. They were also told that their families would always be provided with modern medicine. Now things have changed and Clifton has become a prison; without medication people will die of diphtheria. Jessie is needed to help her village and save the lives of her sister and many other children. Jessie's mother gives her a set of clothing, including jeans and a tee shirt and helps her escape into the night.

After spending the night in a brightly lit bathroom, she joins a school group who are actually watching her village perform their usual duties. She sees her father working in his blacksmith shop, and watches her classmates recite. It is all Jessie can do to keep the shock out of her voice as she asks, "Why are there so many empty seats in the classroom?"

Jessie faces a scary world of automobiles, traffic lights, telephones, radios and televisions, as she escapes into the unknown world of 1996. Her mission is to find a payphone and call a man who can help the village. Her mother told her that this man will call a press conference and contact the health department.
Will Jessie get caught escaping from what has become her family's prison? Can she survive in an unknown world? Can she get help for her village? Will anyone believe her story?

At first I thought this story was like so many other stories, but I was wrong. Running Out of Time is a fast paced story with mystery and danger at every turn.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author:Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

Molly Learns a Lesson--American Girls Collection

2008-08-27T22:10:00.000-07:00

Molly Learns a Lesson: A School Story (American Girls Collection)
by Valerie Tripp
Edition: Hardcover
Price: $11.01
Amazon.com

Eager Reader, August 17, 2008

A Lesson For Molly
American Girl Collection
By Valerie Tripp

At Molly's school, in 1944, the children are going to have a contest to see which class can do the most for the war effort. The boys in Molly's class decide to collect aluminum foil and make a big ball to help with metal needed for the war. The girls in Molly's class decide to knit socks. Molly knows that it is hard to knit socks, and decides to make up her own project.

Although her two friends are helping, Molly finds that her new project isn't as easy as it seems. Can the girls in Molly's class win the competition without the help of Molly and her friends Susan and Linda? Will Molly and her friends give in and knit socks?

Great things can happen when people learn to work together.

School in 1944 was much stricter than it is today. The desks were orderly and often bolted to the floor. During this time, children had to go without many things, such as a new lunch box or rubber boots. Both metal and rubber were needed for the war. Parents who were normally home with their children were called to war or worked in factories. The children needed to adjust to the changes.

I am the mother of three American girls. My youngest daughter, Karen saved her own money to buy her Molly doll. One of her cousins had Kirsten, and another had Samantha. The girls played endlessly with their dolls. With American Girl books, I watched my daughter go from a reluctant reader, to an eager reader.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

The Trolls

2008-08-27T22:04:00.000-07:00

The Trolls
by Polly Horvath
Paperback
Available on Amazon.com

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Please, May We Have More Beans?, August 13, 2008

Trolls

Aunt Sally came to stay with Melissa, Amanda and Pee Wee while their parents went to Paris. From the beginning, I wondered why she was the last resort, and Dad did not want to call his sister. Was their dad upset with the way Aunt Sally taught the children to eat their green beans, using them as nose pickers, or walrus tusks? Was it because she told them stories of their dad's past, growing up in Canada?

Each night, the children would beg for green beans. Pee Wee built them into log cabins before eating them. And each night she would tell of the family history. Aunt Sally told them about Uncle Lewis who came for two weeks and stayed to six years. There was also a tale of Great Aunt Hatty and the mysterious man.

Along with Amanda, Melissa and Pee Wee, I loved Aunt Sally's storytelling, building a tree house, and teaching the children how to eat meatloaf by adding surprises. The children continued to wonder why their dad did not want her around. Aunt Sally hinted that maybe their dad wasn't happy about the trolls.

Uncle Lewis told Aunt Sally's family that the reverend had gone through six wives. When he was finished with one, he would take her to the beach and leave her for the trolls. "That," said Aunt Sally, "is what happened to all six wives." Uncle Lewis also told about the neighbor's dog, which fell off the front porch. She was also taken to the beach and left for the trolls. "Once the trolls get ahold of someone they will never come back."

Trolls by Polly Harvath became more and more interesting, as it built up to the conclusion.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

Meet Molly An American Girl

2008-08-27T21:58:00.000-07:00

Meet Molly, an American Girl (American Girls Collection)
by Valerie Tripp
Edition: Hardcover
Price: $12.95
Amazon.com

A Girl's Favorite, August 13, 2008

Meet Molly, an American Girl
American Girl Collection
By Valerie Tripp

I am the mother of three American girls. My youngest daughter, Karen saved her own money to buy her Molly doll. One of her cousins had Kirsten, and another had Samantha. The girls played endlessly with their dolls. For Christmas, Molly and Karen each received a new matching outfit.

Karen, a reluctant reader, enjoyed reading her Molly books. Then she went on to read many other American Girl books.

Meet Molly is the first book in the series of stories about Molly McIntire. Molly's dad is a doctor in the Army. While he is away in England, her mother is working for the Red Cross. America was a much different place to live during World War 2. People had to sacrifice for the war effort. Molly and her friends put together costumes for Halloween, out of things they had around the house. As many girls find out, it is sometimes hard to live with an older brother.

Will Molly survive the 'war' started by her older brother?

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

The Princess Test: Princess Tales

2008-08-27T19:12:00.000-07:00

The Princess Test (Princess Tales) (Princess Tales)
by Gail Carson Levine Edition: Hardcover
Available on Amazon.com

A Real Princess? August 8, 2008

The Princess Test By Gail Carson Levine

Lorelei is very spoiled by her parents. She is allergic to nearly everything so her diet is very plain. Her mother dies and her father continues to spoil his daughter. In order to work as a blacksmith, he hires a housekeeper to look after Lorelei. Whenever Trudy, the housekeeper tries to get Lorelei to do anything for herself, she gets hurt, breaks out in rash or makes a mess of things. The only thing Lorelei is good at is embroidery.

One day while embroidering, Lorelei meets a prince who is wandering in the woods. He is nice, but not terribly handsome. Lorelei isn't terribly beautiful, but other than a nose that is nearly too big, she looks okay. When the prince is told he must marry, he thinks of Lorelei. She won't do, however, because she is not a princess.

The king and queen devise a princess test. In order to marry the prince, a princess must pass this test. In a salad, the princess must detect a tiny piece of noodle. In a bouquet, she must notice a sprig of parsley, and in a piece of cloth, she must spot a missing thread. The king and queen thought up many more tests, the final test being the familiar pea in the mattress test.

Trudy, the housekeeper is resentful of Lorelei. She plots to kill the daughter of the blacksmith. Finally, she decides that Lorelei will do herself in. She leaves her with the spinning wheel, knowing that she will get hurt, but instead of pricking herself and bleeding to death, she makes a tangled mess. Trudy decides to take Lorelei into the woods for a picnic. When Lorelei is eating her lunch, Trudy takes the mule and leaves Lorelei alone.

While wandering the woods, Lorelei finds the castle in the middle of the night. She is cold, dirty and wet, and has no idea about the princess test. After testing around eighty prospective brides for Prince Nicholas, the king and queen think that Lorelei is a princess who has come to take the test. Prince Nicholas is so pleased to see Lorelei; he wants to give her clues to help her win his hand.

Children and adults will love the princess test. This is a small pink book with black and white illustrations. The princess test is a quick read and a fun fairy tale, by the author of Ella Enchanted.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood author:Through the Rug Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

The Hidden Staircase: Nancy Drew Book 2

2008-08-27T19:03:00.000-07:00

The Hidden Staircase (Nancy Drew, Book 2)
by Carolyn KeeneEdition: Hardcover
Available on Amazon.com

Always A Good Adventure, August 8, 2008

Nancy Drew Book Two The Hidden Staircase

Nancy Drew is on the case of the hidden staircase. The eighteen-year-old sleuth is busy with two mysteries to solve. Her friend, Helen Corning has asked her to come to her family's ancestral home to help solve a mystery, involving a ghost. Just before Nancy leaves, she is visited by a man who tells her that her father is in danger and she had better not let him out of her sight.

Nancy's dad is working on a case for the railroad. Men are protesting the railroad going through their property and a crooked lawyer has told them to hold out for more money. After Nancy's dad assures her that he can take care of himself, Nancy reluctantly goes to help her friend.

Missing jewelry, strange noises, shadows, a moving chandelier, and footsteps at night, all plague the women at the Twin Elms Manor. But when the same strange lawyer comes to the door to the manor, trying to buy the property out from under Helen's great grandmother, Nancy is very suspicious. On top of that, Nancy's dad was last seen by a taxi driver who was taking him to meet his daughter, but he never arrived.

Can the crooked lawyer have something to do with the ghost? Can he also be involved in the disappearance of Carson Drew? How does the ghost get into the manor? And how does the spook always know when the coast is clear?

The suspense will keep you reading from beginning to end, in Nancy Drew's second mystery, The Hidden Staircase.

No Flying In the House

2008-08-05T22:50:00.000-07:00

No Flying in the House (Harper Trophy Books)
by Betty Brock
Amazon.com
Edition: Paperback
Price: $5.99
Availability: In Stock
65 used & new from $0.46

A Special Secret
August 5, 2008

No Flying in the House
By Betty Brock

Young Annabel is being raised by Gloria, a three-inch tall dog who can talk and do three hundred and sixty seven tricks.

Gloria teaches Annabel manners, she teaches her to brush her teeth and even listens to her prayers. Annabel grows up to be a very well trained little girl. Although Annabel loves Gloria, she begins to wonder why she doesn't have parents like everyone else. Gloria always tells her that someday her parents will return.

Gloria, the three-inch dog is very protective of Annabel and won't let her out of her sight, until the day Annabel starts school.

Annabel is visited by a golden cat, named Belinda. Belinda is rude and calls her stupid, but she also tells her a secret. Annabel is a fairy and she can fly. Annabel is not to tell anyone her secret. She tries to fly and only manages to break her ankle.

One day, much to her surprise, Annabel begins to fly around the house. Although she is overjoyed to be a fairy, she is forced to choose between being a human child or a fairy. Her choice can make all the difference for her future happiness.

You will enjoy this unusual fairy tale and want to share it with your friends.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

If You Give A Pig A Pancake

2008-08-05T22:44:00.000-07:00

If You Give a Pig a Pancake (If You Give...)
by Laura Joffe Numeroff
Edition: Hardcover
Price: $11.55
Availability: In Stock
111 used & new from $0.01

A Sticky Situation
August 5, 2008

If You Give A Pig A Pancake
By Laura Numeroff
Illustrated by Felicia Bond

"If you give a pig a pancake, she'll want some syrup to go with it."

One thing leads to another in this silly children's picture book. When the pig gets through with your house, you will think you'd been visited by the "Cat in the Hat." Then the pig will want another pancake and more syrup.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

If You Give A Mouse A Cookie

2008-08-05T22:40:00.000-07:00

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie (If You Give...)
by Laura Joffe Numeroff
Amazon.com
Edition: Hardcover
Price: $10.87
Availability: In Stock
105 used & new from $0.09

A Friend For Life
August 5, 2008

If You Give A Mouse A Cookie
By Laura Joffe Numeroff
Illustrated by Felicia Bond

"If you give a mouse a cookie, he's going to ask for a glass of milk."

One thing leads to another in this cute picture book. When you get finished with all of the mouse's requests, he may just want another glass of milk. And we all know what goes well with milk.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)]]
Comment Permalink

Fancy Nancy

2008-08-05T22:35:00.000-07:00

Fancy Nancy
by Jane O'ConnorEdition: Hardcover
Price: $11.55
Amazon.com
Availability: In Stock
62 used & new from $9.65

Accessorize
August 5, 2008

Fancy Nancy
By Jane O'connor
Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser

Fancy Nancy loves to be fancy, but her family is very plain. Nancy gets an idea. She will teach her family to be fancy. They all dress up in fancy clothes and go out to eat at a restaurant.
Everyone turns to look at them as they enter. "Maybe they think we are movie stars," thought Nancy.

Nancy uses fancy words like: fuchsia, plume, stupendous, and accessories.

Any little girl who likes to play dress-up will enjoy Fancy Nancy.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler

2008-08-03T11:06:00.000-07:00

From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
by E.L. Konigsburg
Edition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $9.99
Availability: In Stock
40 used & new from $4.00

Mysterious Statue
July 31, 2008

From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
By E.L. Konigsburg

This is a delightful story for children of all ages. I'm wondering why I never discovered this book when I was a kid?

Claudia is planning to run away. She wants a different life, than that of the oldest child with so many responsibilities. Her brother Jamie doesn't know it yet, but she has chosen him to be her companion. One reason she has chosen Jamie, is because he is good with money. Claudia usually spends her money on hot fudge sundaes, but Jamie has saved over twenty dollars. Claudia plans for them to take a train to New York City, and stay in the Metropolitan Museum of Fine Arts.

Hiding out, being hungry most of the time, and walking in order to save money, the two children experience the adventure of a lifetime. They also get involved in the mystery of an angel statue which was sold to the museum by Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. Could the angel statue be a real Michelangelo? Only Mrs. Frankweiler knows for sure.

Will Claudia and Jamie get caught in the museum? Will they run out of money and need to go home before solving the mystery? Does their family really miss them? Can they find Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler? Will she be willing to help them, if they do find her?

I recently spent the night in The Museum of Ancient History, in Draper Utah, with two of my granddaughters. They call it Dino-snores. We slept right under the tail of a huge dinosaur. There is definitely something intriguing about sleeping in a museum, especially when the lights go out.

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.com and Metecafe.com
Comment Permalink

The Secrets of Droon The Journey to the Volcano Palace

2008-08-03T10:50:00.000-07:00

The Secrets of Droon
Journey to the Volcano Palace
Droon, No 2)
by Tony AbbottEdition: Mass Market Paperback
Price: $4.99
Availability: In Stock
357 used & new from $0.01

Heart of a Volcano
August 2, 2008

The Secrets of Droon Journey to the Volcano Palace

Eric, Julie and Neal have returned safely to their homes. Princess Keeah told them they would have a dream when it was time to return to Droon. All three children have had a dream and know they will soon return. This time they are after the villian, Spar. He lives in the heart of a volcano. They have never heard of anyone who would climb into a volcano. The children must find the missing jewel. If they don't find the jewel, it will give Spar the power to enter their world. What danger could come to their world with Spar on the loose?

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

The Secrets of Droon #1 The Hidden Stairs and the Magic Carpet

2008-08-03T10:40:00.000-07:00

Secrets Of Droon #01: The Hidden Stairs And The Magic Carpet (Secrets Of Droon)
by Tony Abbott Edition: Mass Market Paperback
Price: $4.99
Availability: In Stock
471 used & new from $0.01

Action And Adventure for Younger Kids,
August 2, 2008

The Secrets of Droon Book 1
The Hidden Stairs and the Magic Carpet

This is a younger kids version of an action and adventure series. This series began after the first Harry Potter books came out. I noticed that the covers of "The Secret of Droon," "The Magic Tree House", and "The Series of Unfortunate Events" all had a character with dark hair and glasses on their covers. Did they really think we would be fooled?

This is a fast moving story. The children go into the basement to help Eric clean. The ball rolls into a dark corner. When they go to get the ball, a hidden staircase appears. The children follow the staircase into the world of Droon. They meet up with a princess who needs their help. They meet up with creatures who look like pillows and others who look like rocks and breathe fire. They also meet a dangerous villian. Will they be able to find their way back home? Will their parents be frantic?

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2 : Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

The Wish

2008-08-03T10:28:00.000-07:00

The Wish (rack)
by Gail Carson LevineEdition: Paperback
Amazon.com
Price: $6.50
Availability: In Stock
58 used & new from $0.01

Fairy Godmother
August 2, 2008

The Wish
By Gail Carson Levine

Who ever had a name like Wilma? The only other Wilma she could think of was a Flintstone.

Wilma loved animals, especially dogs. She always felt loved by her dog Reggie. At school she didn't fit in with the popular kids, and somehow it didn't make sense to hang out with the unpopular kids. Mostly, everyone ignored the eighth-grade girl. When she gave up her seat on the train for an old woman, the woman thanked her and told her that in order to repay her kindness, she would grant one wish. The woman looked old, but didn't sound like an old woman. Wilma, not believing the woman, said she wanted to be the most popular girl at her middle school.

The wish was granted. Wilma's phone never stopped ringing. She had more than 25 invitations to the Grad night dance, and many were from the boyfriends of her new friends. But, the worries of her new popularity began early on. Do the new friends really like her? Will her popularity end when she graduates from middle school?

Wilma didn't ever act like a popular girl. She included other unpopular kids in her new circle. She helped others with homework, and out of all the possible dates she could have for the dance, she chose an unpopular boy who also loved animals and had a crush on her even before the wish. Wilma handled things so well, I found myself rooting for her to be able to keep her new friends and boyfriend, if her wish ended.

This is a young adult book and may not be suitable for younger children. The story explores kissing, and teenage friendship issues. I look forward to reading other books by Gail Carson Levine.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood
Author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

2008-07-27T22:42:00.000-07:00

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

2008-07-25T18:18:00.000-07:00

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

Minerva Clark Gets A Clue

2008-07-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

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

Dragon Rider

2008-07-22T22:27:00.000-07:00

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

Arnie Carver and the Plague of Demeberde

2008-07-15T19:24:00.000-07:00

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

The Sunflower

2008-07-15T19:12:00.000-07:00

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

The Invention of Hugo Cabret

2008-07-15T16:13:00.000-07:00

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

Thanks To Nicki (American Girl Today)

2008-07-15T16:07:00.000-07:00

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

Gift of Yucatan: Maria's Rebellion

2008-07-15T15:57:00.000-07:00

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

Half Magic

2008-07-15T15:48:00.000-07:00

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

Harriet the Spy

2008-07-14T20:59:00.001-07:00

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

Magic by the Book

2008-07-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

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

DOGS: Heart-Warming, Soul-Stirring Stories of Our Canine Companions

2008-07-14T20:27:00.000-07:00

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

Wacky Wednesday

2008-07-14T20:21:00.000-07:00

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

Hop On Pop

2008-07-14T20:17:00.000-07:00

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

And To Think That I Saw It On Mulberry Street

2008-07-14T20:08:00.000-07:00

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

Green Eggs and Ham

2008-07-14T20:01:00.000-07:00

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

The Mysterious Benedict Society

2008-07-14T17:49:00.000-07:00

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

Life's Golden Ticket

2008-07-14T17:43:00.003-07:00

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

Life's

2008-07-14T17:43:00.001-07:00

The Well Wishers

2008-07-14T17:37:00.000-07:00

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

The Cat In The Hat

2008-07-14T17:32:00.000-07:00

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

Mr. Brown Can Moo! Can You?

2008-07-14T17:26:00.000-07:00

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

Love You Forever

2008-07-14T17:21:00.000-07:00

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

2008-07-14T17:08:00.000-07:00

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

Magic Or Not

2008-07-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

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

The Goose Girl

2008-07-14T16:41:00.000-07:00

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

The Elf and The Princess

2008-07-14T16:31:00.000-07:00

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

Library Lion

2008-07-14T16:23:00.000-07:00

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

Space Station Mars

2008-07-13T21:08:00.000-07:00

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

Rooftop Rescue: The High Adventures of Sara the Pineapple Cat

2008-07-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

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

Rufus and Magic Run Amok

2008-07-13T20:53:00.000-07:00

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

2008-07-13T20:48:00.000-07:00

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

Albert, by Donna Jo Napoli

2008-07-13T20:44:00.000-07:00

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

Fancy Nancy: Bonjour Butterfly

2008-07-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

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

Invisible Inc. #3: The Snack Attack Mytery

2008-07-13T20:32:00.000-07:00

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

Invisible Inc, #4: The Creepy Computer Mystery

2008-07-13T20:26:00.000-07:00

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

Juana Meets Gabriel, the Small Business Angel (Business Angel Books)

2008-07-13T20:18:00.000-07:00

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)

The Gift of Jazzy

2008-07-13T20:07:00.000-07:00

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)]]

The Glass Cage: The Adventures of Princess Isabella

2008-07-13T19:58:00.000-07:00

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 }

Three Little Robbers

2008-07-13T19:54:00.000-07:00

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

Invisible Inc. #02 The Mystery of the Missing Dog (level 4) (Hello Reader, Invisible Inc.)

2008-07-13T19:44:00.000-07:00

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

Don't Know Where, Don't Know When (The Snipesville Chronicles, Book 1)

2008-07-13T19:35:00.000-07:00

Don't Know Where, Don't Know When (The Snipesville Chronicles, Book 1)
by Annette LaingEdition: Perfect Paperback
Price: $10.19
Availability: In Stock
22 used & new from $6.99

Travel Into The Past Brings Back Lessons For The Future, December 19, 2007

I am a children's author who likes to read books by other children's authors. I really enjoyed "Don't Know Where, Don't Know When". Hannah and Alex Diaz and Brandon Clark arrive in England during World War 2, with a mystery to solve. They are unprepared for the world of war torn England. They are faced with air raids, evacuations, and miserable foods that stink. The children also eat dry bread and cakes, and wear hand-me-down clothing that should have been discarded long ago. They are faced with strict rules of behavior and firm punishments.

Brandon, who is black, faces prejudice and is disliked by some who have never before encountered a person of his race. Brandon is separated from his friends, not only by being in a different home, but a different time in history. Alex takes his new environment as a challenge and an adventure. Hannah often opens her mouth and says inappropriate things.

I recomend "Don't Know Where, Don't Know When", for children and adults. It would be a great book to read to an elementary class for 3rd through 6th graders. This book would also be a good read-together book for a family. Join in the adventure of Hannah, Alex and Brandon, as they travel into the past and bring back lessons they can use in the future.
Jill Ammon Vanderwood is the author of two children's magical adventure stories:
Through the Rug and Through the Rug 2: Follow that Dog

Make A Joyful Noise! Music, Movement, and Creative Play to Teach Bible Stories

2008-07-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

Make a Joyful Noise! Music, Movement, and Creative Play to Teach Bible Stories
by Kathryn Nider Wolf and Heather P. RobbinEdition: Paperback
Price: $17.59
Availability: In Stock
14 used & new from $14.04

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Clap Your Hands and Tap Your Feet, September 20, 2007

Make a Joyful Noise is a workbook/song book for preschool through first grade. In the front of the book it gives examples of age groups and their abilities, interests and attention spans.

The book is divided into Bible stories. Each story has songs, creative movements or creative dramatics. In the back of the work book are patterns for pictures which the children can color along with their lessons. There are also instructions for making simple musical instruments.

A selected number of songs have been arranged on an accompanying CD. The tunes are very catchy and familiar, such as the tune to The Wheels on the Bus, Did You Ever See A Lassie, and Ten Little Indians. The words writen to these tunes are very cute. You can follow along with the songs in the workbook. Adults and children, alike will soon be singing these songs around the house. The voices of the mother and daughter team on the CD are very sweet and enjoyable. All of the work has been done for you; all you have to do is implement the lessons and begin the learning process. I feel this workbook and CD will be very helpful for teaching Bible stores to my Sunday school class, as well as teaching stories and songs to my grandchildren.

This book need not be limited to preschool through first grade. My grandchild will love falling to sleep listening to the calming voices on the CD.

Jill Vanderwood, Children's Author: Through The Rug & Through The Rug 2: Follow That Dog