book review

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December 2, 2017

How Martha Saved Her Parents from Green Beans Review: A Funny Children’s Book About Vegetables

Let me just start off by saying it this way. My son doesn't typically ask to keep library books. But the other night, after reading How Martha Saved Her Parents from Green Beans by writer David Larochelle and artist Mark Fearing, two times mind you, he quite legitimately asked if we could keep it.

Now, I don't care who you are, it begs a question. What is there to this children's book that would cause him to say such an unexpected thing? My wife and I have read thousands of books to him and, while he may not want to return a book to the library right away, he rarely asks to keep them.

August 31, 2017

Why The Terrible PLOP Is Such an Effective Children’s Book

The Terrible PLOP by Ursula Dubosarsky, illustrated by Andrew Joyner, is one of those children's books that proves first impressions can be misleading. At first glance, I wasn't sure what to expect. The title felt odd, the cover didn't immediately grab my attention, and I assumed the story would be fairly forgettable. I was wrong. Beneath the unusual title is a clever picture book that combines humor, suspense, rhyme, and an important lesson about fear and group behavior.

August 28, 2017

Why Sam and Dave Dig a Hole Is Such a Brilliant Children’s Book

Some children’s books entertain for a few minutes and are quickly forgotten. Others stay with both children and adults long after the final page. Sam and Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen, is one of those rare picture books. Beneath its simple premise is a surprisingly clever lesson in suspense, storytelling, illustration, curiosity, and perseverance.