Reviewing Children's Books

Despite my asking because I work with a lot of kids with varying abilities, I am just not sent children's books for review. Some publishers blame the fact that I am not affiliated with a children's review site and others state they don't send them out to anyone but certified permanent teachers or school librarians. It is a shame but that is the way it seems to be despite my efforts. Below are two very good ones that just might work for the children in your life.



Cha-Cha & Zee Explore San Antonio
By Indigo Tyler
http://www.chachazee.com/
TK Publishing
http://www.tkpublishing.com/
ISBN# 978-0-9765100-3-1
Hardcover
32 Pages
$16.95




Second in a series from TK Publishing, this book released last April finds the traveling penguins in San Antonio, Texas. They team up with their cousin Frobby and explore various sites across the city including the Alamo. At 32 pages with full color photographs this is a charming children's guidebook for the Alamo city. The penguins look life like in the photos as they travel the city which is captured in beautiful color photos as well as text. The way it is done makes it look like they are really there and really exploring the various landmarks. Advertised as being appropriate for 3-8 year olds; it does appear that the text is beyond the capabilities of most in the younger age range. Despite that, with parental assistance, this can be a wonderful book that serves to educate and encourages natural curiosity.



Don't Eat the Bluebonnets
By Ellen Leventhal and Ellen Rothberg
Bluebonnets, Boots & Books
http://bluebonnetsbootsandbooks.com/
ISBN# 978-0-9645493-3-3
Hardcover
36 Pages
$17.95



Aimed at 3 to 8 year olds, this children's book tells the tale of a strong willed cow, Sue Ellen. She just won't listen when others tell her not to eat the delicious bluebonnets. Each spring, Max, a longhorn steer puts up a sign saying not to eat the Bluebonnets. Despite the sign and being told by Lisa Jean not to eat the bluebonnets, Sue Ellen does anyway. When the following spring arrives, Sue Ellen learns it isn't so easy to bring the bluebonnets back. Filled with charming color illustrations by Bill Megenhardt and a gentle message about following the rules for a reason, this book is due to delight kids of all ages especially in Texas where the book is set.


Kevin R. Tipple © 2007