Best of
Childrens

2008

Little Blue Truck


Alice Schertle - 2008
    A muddy country road is no match for this little pick up--that is, until he gets stuck while pushing a dump truck out of the muck. Luckily, Blue has made a pack of farm animal friends along his route. And they're willing to whatever it takes to get their pal back on the road. Filled with truck sounds and animals noises, here is a rollicking homage to the power of friendship and the rewards of helping others.

One


Kathryn Otoshi - 2008
    Red’s a hothead who likes to pick on Blue. Yellow, Orange, Green, and Purple don’t like what they see, but what can they do? When no one speaks up, things get out of hand—until One comes along and shows all the colors how to stand up, stand together, and count. As budding young readers learn about numbers, counting, and primary and secondary colors, they also learn about accepting each other's differences and how it sometimes just takes one voice to make everyone count.

Eric


Shaun Tan - 2008
    We found it very difficult to pronounce his name correctly, but he didn’t mind. He told us to just call him ‘Eric’.”As charming as he is curious, by the end of his stay this intriguing house guest will capture your heart. This story is from Shaun Tan’s award-winning collection Tales from Outer Suburbia.

The Pigeon Wants a Puppy!


Mo Willems - 2008
    He'll take really good care of it! What's the matter--don't you want him to be happy?The latest book in the best-selling Pigeon series is the funniest one yet.

The Pout-Pout Fish


Deborah Diesen - 2008
    Fish swims aboutWith his fish face stuckIn a permanent pout.Can his pals cheer him up?Will his pout ever end?Is there something he can learnFrom an unexpected friend?Swim along with the pout-pout fish as he discovers that being glum and spreading "dreary wearies" isn't really his destiny. Bright ocean colors and playful rhyme come together in this fun fish story that's sure to turn even the poutiest of frowns upside down.The Pout-Pout Fish is a 2009 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.

A Visitor for Bear


Bonny Becker - 2008
    He even has a sign. So when a mouse taps on his door one day, Bear tells him to leave. But when Bear goes to the cupboard to get a bowl, there is the mouse -- small and gray and bright-eyed. In this slapstick tale that begs to be read aloud, all Bear wants is to eat his breakfast in peace, but the mouse -- who keeps popping up in the most unexpected places -- just won't go away!

Two Bobbies: A True Story of Hurricane Katrina, Friendship, and Survival


Kirby Larson - 2008
    In the tradition of Owen and Mzee, this beautiful picture book is a testament to the spirit that defined post-Katrina rescue missions. During Hurricane Katrina, evacuating New Orleans residents were forced to leave their pets behind. Bobbi the dog was initially chained to keep her safe, but after her owners failed to return, she had to break free. For months, Bobbi wandered the city's ravaged streets-dragging her chain behind her-followed by her feline companion, Bob Cat. After months of hunger and struggle, the Two Bobbies were finally rescued by a construction worker helping to rebuild the city. When he brought them to a shelter, volunteers made an amazing discovery about the devoted friends-Bob Cat was actually blind! He had survived the aftermath of the storm by following the sound Bobbi's chain made as she dragged it along the ground.At the shelter, the two bob-tailed friends refused to be parted, even for a moment. Could rescue workers find the Bobbies' owners? Or could they find a new home that would take them together?

Stick Man


Julia Donaldson - 2008
    Stick Man lives in the family tree With his Stick Lady Love and their stick children three ..."a cracker of a book" - Financial Times"You'll read this book again and again" - Daily Mail

Where's My Mom?


Julia Donaldson - 2008
    Little monkey says that his mother is big, so butterfly leads him to . . . an elephant. No, that's not right! Little monkey says his mom is furry, so butterfly leads him to . . . a bat. That's not right either. From then on, little monkey and butterfly meet many jungle animals, but they don't find Mom until little monkey comes up with just the right description.With Julia Donaldson's effortless rhyme and Axel Scheffler's vibrant illustrations, this circular tale combines funny miscommunication with a little bit of science for a charming feel-good adventure.

Tickle Monster


Josie Bissett - 2008
    Early reviews of the story and the tickle me concept are creating a very positive reaction from everyone that reviews the book. The story is about a loveable rascal that has just flown in from Planet Tickle. His mission is to tickle any child who happens to follow along in this book. Parents read aloud and do the tickling, while children squirm with delight. Written with love and loaded with humor, this delightful story when combined with the tickling experience creates a long lasting, positive memory for the child and the parent.

The Very Cranky Bear


Nick Bland - 2008
    But it is plain, boring Sheep who has the answer. Ages 3+.

Pete & Pickles


Berkeley Breathed - 2008
    At least, he was . . . before a runaway circus elephant named Pickles stampeded into his life, needing a friend. Pickles is larger than life and overflowing with imagination. She takes Pete swandiving off Niagara Falls. (Sort of.) And sledding down the Matterhorn. (Sort of.) Pete goes along for the wild ride and actually begins to enjoy himself . . . until Pickles goes too far. And Pete tells her she must leave. Yet sometimes the simple life isn?t all it?s cracked up to be.Pulitzer Prize?winning cartoonist Berkeley Breathed offers two new irresistible characters and a heartfelt, hilarious look at the rarity of true friendship.

Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes


Mem Fox - 2008
    . . . And here, from two of the most gifted picture-book creators of our time, is a celebration of baby fingers, baby toes, and the joy they—and the babies they belong to—bring to everyone, everywhere, all over the world! This is a gorgeously simple picture book for very young children, and once you finish the rhythmic, rhyming text, all you’ll want to do is go back to the beginning . . . and read it again! The luminous watercolor illustrations of these roly-poly little ones from a variety of backgrounds are adorable, quirky, and true to life, right down to the wrinkles, dimples, and pudges in their completely squishable arms, legs, and tummies.

Buddha at Bedtime: Tales of Love and Wisdom for You to Read with Your Child to Enchant, Enlighten and Inspire


Dharmachari Nagaraja - 2008
    These 20 thoroughly modern retellings of ancient Buddhist tales give parents a fun, low-pressure way to impart wisdom and moral guidance without preaching. Each story highlights a moral or ethical dilemma that echoes those that children face in their own lives, providing insight and enlightenment that they can use to defuse trying situations. At the conclusion of each story, applicable Buddhist principles are discussed. Featuring engaging characters, enthralling adventures, and modern language that speaks to today’s kids, these beautifully illustrated stories can help children relieve stress, attain greater academic and social achievement, and enjoy a more positive outlook on life.

The Prince's Poison Cup


R.C. Sproul - 2008
    R.C. Sproul continues his series of books designed to present deep biblical truths to children on their own level. In this work, he focuses in on the atonement to show that Jesus had to endure the curse of sin in order to redeem His people from their spiritual death.When Ella gets sick and has to take yucky medicine, she wonders why something that will help her get well has to taste so bad. When she puts the question to Grandpa, he tells her the story of a great King and His subjects who enjoyed wonderful times together—until the people rebelled against the King and drank from a forbidden well. To their horror, they found that the beautiful water in the well made their hearts turn to stone. To reclaim His people, the King asks His Son, the Prince, to drink from a well of horrid poison. The poison will surely kill the Prince—but He is willing to drink it to please His Father and help His people.Richly illustrated, The Prince’s Poison Cup will help children appreciate the great love of God for His people and the awful price Jesus had to pay because of sin. A “For Parents” section provides assistance in unfolding the biblical elements of the story.

Wave


Suzy Lee - 2008
    In this evocative wordless book, internationally acclaimed artist Suzy Lee tells the story of a little girl's day at the beach.New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book 2008

How Do I Love You?


Marion Dane Bauer - 2008
    . ."In this book, a parent declares her love...as the bees love a flower, a duck loves a shower, a bird loves to sing, a bear loves the spring.

If You Give a Cat a Cupcake


Laura Joffe Numeroff - 2008
    When you give him the sprinkles, he might spill some on the floor. Cleaning up will make him hot, so you'll give him a bathing suit . . .Written in the tradition of the bestselling If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond's If You Give a Cat a Cupcake will show everyone that Cat is where it's at! The If You Give... series is a perennial favorite among children. With its spare, rhythmic text and circular tale, these books are perfect for beginning readers and story time. Sure to inspire giggles and requests to "read it again!"Other favorites in Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond's bestselling series include:If You Give a Dog a DonutIf You Give a Moose a MuffinIf You Give a Mouse a CookieIf You Give a Pig a PancakeIf You Give a Pig a Party

Ivy and Bean Bundle Set 1


Annie Barrows - 2008
    This bundle contains the first three books in the series, including: Ivy and Bean, Ivy and Bean and The Ghost That Had to Go, and Ivy and Bean Break the Fossil Record. Ivy and Bean’s hilarious adventures hook readers from the first page and everyone is sure to fall in love with these two spunky characters who never meant to like each other.

It's Time to Sleep, My Love


Eric Metaxas - 2008
    Animals who live in the jungle, the forest, the sea--all whisper to their babies a soft refrain: It's time to sleep, my love.As comforting as a soft blanket and warm as a goodnight hug, Eric Metaxas's lullaby is lovingly brought to life by bestselling artist Nancy Tillman (On the Night You Were Born), whose illustrations celebrate the wonders of the natural world, and the bonds of family.It's Time to Sleep, My Love is a 2009 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.

Bad Kitty Gets a Bath


Nick Bruel - 2008
    The following are some items you will need for Kitty's bath: one bathtub, plenty of water, dry towels, a suit of armor, a letter to your loved ones, clean underwear (because stressful situations can cause "accidents"), an ambulance in your driveway with the engine running, and, oh, yeah, you'll also need Kitty…but good luck with that! Since its publication in 2005, BAD KITTY has captured the hearts of cat lovers and haters alike. This time Kitty is at her worst in this riotous how-to guide filled with bad smells, cautionary tales of horror, and hopefully by the end…some soap. The funniest of any of Kitty's adventures, though don't tell her that.

Bear Feels Scared


Karma Wilson - 2008
    When Bear’s friends discover that he is not at home in his lair, they march out into the cold to find their pal. Friends don’t let friends stay lost! Wren, Owl, and Raven take to the skies while Badger, Mole, and Mouse search on the ground. Pretty soon Bear is found, and once he’s back in his cave, he feels quite safe with his friends all around.

If Animals Kissed Good Night


Ann Whitford Paul - 2008
    Would Wolf and his pup “kiss and then HOWL”? Would Bear and her cub “kiss and then GROWL”? But what about Sloth and her baby? They move soooo slooowwwww . . . they’re sure to be kissing from early evening until long after everyone else is fast asleep!With its whimsical art and playful rhymed verse, this affectionate picture book is bound to become a bedtime favorite.

Hansel and Gretel


Cynthia Rylant - 2008
    But the witch whose delicious house lured Hansel and his sister, Gretel had forgotten two things about lost children: they can be very clever and very brave.

In the Town All Year 'Round


Rotraut Susanne Berner - 2008
    Playing, chasing pets, running errands, going to work: following what happens and looking for the many small surprises in the pictures will absorb and amuse children and parents alike.

ABC3D


Marion Bataille - 2008
    Beyond clever."—The Washington PostPrepare to be amazed. From the lenticular cover that changes with the angle of your hands all the way to the Z, ABC3D is as much a work of art as it is a pop-up book. Each of the 26 three-dimensional letters move and change before your eyes. C turns into D with a snap. M stands at attention. X becomes Y with a flick of the wrist. And then there's U...Boldly conceived and brilliantly executed with a striking black, red, and white palette, this is a book that readers and art lovers of all ages will treasure for years to come.ABC3D is a 2009 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.

Waggit's Tale


Peter Howe - 2008
    . . by a team of mutts who shelter him and teach him how to survive the wilds of the city park.And so he becomes Waggit, the best hunter and tracker in the pack, and the dog with the most powerfully wagging tail. Waggit grows to love his team, especially its leader, Tazar, and his best friend, an old dog named Lowdown.But life in the park is dangerous and uncertain. In winter, food and warmth are scarce. Another team of wild dogs is a constant menace. And always, there is the fear of capture by park rangers. Waggit can't help feeling that something is missing . . . something warm and cozy and . . . human. Then one day everything changes and Waggit must face a new threat and a new choice.Peter Howe's tale of an abandoned puppy's search for a home is an exciting mix of humor, adventure, and suspense. Most of all, it is a story of how love can turn strangers into family.

There Are Cats in This Book


Viviane Schwarz - 2008
    There they are, purring under a blanket. But not for long! Three sprightly cats named Tiny, Moonpie, and Andre are eager to involve you in their games, whether it's tossing a ball of yarn (oof!), lifting flaps to find them in boxes (comfy), or getting caught in a pillow fight (biff!). As their antics get wilder still, they'll need a kind soul to blow on the page to dry them off! With an irresistible story that directly engages the reader, this book's clever design and bright, gestural illustrations make for cat-tastic lift-the-flap fun.

That Book Woman


Heather Henson - 2008
    Living way high up in the Appalachian Mountains, he'd rather help Pap plow or go out after wandering sheep than try some book learning. Nope. Cal does not want to sit stoney-still reading some chicken scratch. But that Book Woman keeps coming just the same. She comes in the rain. She comes in the snow. She comes right up the side of the mountain, and Cal knows that's not easy riding. And all just to lend his sister some books. Why, that woman must be plain foolish; or is she braver than he ever thought? That Book Woman is a rare and moving tale that honors a special part of American history; the Pack Horse Librarians, who helped untold numbers of children see the stories amid the chicken scratch, and thus made them into lifetime readers.

The Berenstain Bears and the Golden Rule


Stan Berenstain - 2008
    Children will discover choosing to be kind may not always be the easy choice. But it is always the right one. The Berenstain Bears and the Golden Rule— part of the popular Zonderkidz Living Lights™ series of books—is perfect for:Early readers, ages 4-8Reading out loud at home or in a classroomSmall group discussions and lessons highlighting Matthew 7:12: Do to others what you would have them do to you.Encouraging important conversations about right and wrong The Berenstain Bears and the Golden Rule: Features the hand-drawn artwork of the Berenstain familyContinues in the much-loved footsteps of Stan and Jan Berenstain with the Berenstain Bears series of booksIs part of one of the bestselling children’s book series ever created, with more than 250 books published and nearly 300 million copies sold to date

Bats at the Library


Brian Lies - 2008
    Brian Lies’ joyful critters and their nocturnal celebration cast library visits in a new light. Even the youngest of readers will want to join the batty book-fest!

My Name Is Not Isabella


Jennifer Fosberry - 2008
    From breakfast to bedtime, a young girl imagines being different women who made history, and ends the day empowered to be herself.

God's Dream


Desmond Tutu - 2008
    It involves people who reach out and hold each other's hands, but sometimes get angry and hurt each other — and say they're sorry and forgive. It's a wish that everyone will see they are brothers and sisters, no matter their way of speaking to God, no matter the size of their nose or the shade of their skin. Aided by vibrant artwork evoking such images as a rainbow and a sharing circle, Tutu offers the essence of his ubuntu philosophy, a wisdom so clear and crystalline that even the smallest child can understand.

Fancy Nancy: Bonjour, Butterfly


Jane O'Connor - 2008
    And that is why she can't wait for her friend Bree's Butterfly Birthday. It's going to be the fanciest birthday party ever!But when Nancy finds out she can't go because her grandparents' fiftieth anniversary party is the same day, she is furious. (Mad is way too plain for how she feels.) How Nancy overcomes her disappointment and reconnects with her family is a fun and meaningful story for young readers.Perfect for fans of the Eloise and Olivia books. From the dazzling New York Times bestselling duo Jane O’Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser.This edition is a jacketed hardcover.

Those Darn Squirrels!


Adam Rubin - 2008
    He'll build some birdfeeders and fill them with yummy seeds and berries. That way, the wild birds he loves so much will stick around for the winter--instead of flying south. But there are other hungry creatures in the forest, and the have plans, too...Those darn squirrels!

One Hen: How One Small Loan Made a Big Difference


Katie Smith Milway - 2008
    When his mother receives a loan from some village families, she gives a little money to her son. With this tiny loan, Kojo buys a hen.A year later, Kojo has built up a flock of 25 hens. With his earnings Kojo is able to return to school. Soon Kojo's farm grows to become the largest in the region.Kojo's story is inspired by the life of Kwabena Darko, who as a boy started a tiny poultry farm just like Kojo's, which later grew to be the largest in Ghana, and one of the largest in west Africa. Kwabena also started a trust that gives out small loans to people who cannot get a loan from a bank.One Hen shows what happens when a little help makes a big difference. The final pages of One Hen explain the microloan system and include a list of relevant organizations for children to explore.One Hen is part of CitizenKid: A collection of books that inform children about the world and inspire them to be better global citizens.

Splat the Cat


Rob Scotton - 2008
    What if he doesn't make any new friends? Nervous kitties wondering about friends and school will enjoy laughing along with Splat the Cat!Just in case, Splat decides to bring along his pet mouse, Seymour, and hides him in his lunchbox. The teacher, Mrs. Wimpydimple, introduces Splat to the class and he soon starts learning all his important cat lessons.But when Seymour escapes and the cats do what cats do (they chase mice!), Splat's worried again. Maybe now he'll lose all his friends, old and new! Just in time, wise Mrs. Wimpydimple takes charge and teaches everyone an important new lesson.Maybe Cat School is going to be okay after all! A fun school story to share in the classroom or at home.

Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun: Having the Courage To Be Who You Are


Maria Dismondy - 2008
    Lucy's defining moment comes when Ralph truly needs help. Because she knows what she stands for, Lucy has the courage to make a good choice. This charming story empowers children to always do the right thing and be proud of themselves, even when they are faced with sticky situation.

Horton Hears a Who and Other Sounds of Dr. Seuss: Horton Hears a Who; Horton Hatches the Egg; Thidwick, the Big-Hearted Moose


Dr. Seuss - 2008
    When his friends accuse him of imagining things Horton persuades the Whos to make as much noise as possible to prove they do indeed exist. Academy Award®-winner Dustin Hoffman's masterful narration, along with original music and sound effects, brings to life the heartwarming tale of Horton the elephant.Horton Hatches the Egg Horton is persuaded to sit on an egg whiles its mother, Maysie, takes a break. What Horton doesn't know is that Maysie is setting off for a permanent vacation in Palm Springs. He waits, and waits some more, through a freezing winter and a spring filled with insults from his friends. When the egg finally hatches everyone is in for a surprise.Thidwick, The Big-Hearted Moose This classic Seuss take features Thidwick, a happy-looking moose from Lake Winna-Bango with incredible antlers and a kind heart. Everyone takes advantage of his generosity and soon he has most of the other animals nesting on the top of his head. Will anyone take pity on him, or will he be able to cross the lake to rejoin the herd before winter?

We Are All Born Free: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Pictures


Amnesty InternationalDebi Gliori - 2008
    

Frogs


Nic Bishop - 2008
    See tiny poison dart frogs and mammoth bullfrogs, as Nic Bishop's amazing images show the beauty and diversity of frogs from around the globe. And simple, engaging text conveys basic information about frogs -- as well as cool and quirky facts. Nic Bishop Frogs is a fun and informative tour through an exciting amphibian world.

Violet the Pilot


Steve Breen - 2008
    And by eight she's building elaborate flying machines from scratch, mind-boggling contraptions such as the Tubbubbler, the Bicycopter, and the Wing-a-ma-jig. The kids at school tease her, but they have no idea what she's capable of. Maybe she could earn their respect by winning the blue ribbon in the upcoming Air Show. Or maybe something even better will happen, something involving her best ever invention, a Boy Scout troop in peril, and even the mayor himself! A classic underdog story full of humor and sweetness and retro pizzazz, Violet the Pilot is both endearing and adorable. It'll fly right into your heart.

Stories of Wisdom


Luis Fernandes - 2008
    These tales make it quite clear that common sense is more precious than all the wealth of the world. So, choose your companions for their sagacity and make yourself rich beyond measure.

Fancy Nancy's Favorite Fancy Words: From Accessories to Zany


Jane O'Connor - 2008
    Why say "beautiful" when there are fancy words like "gorgeous" and "glamorous"? Instead of "hello," try "bonjour," which is French and so much fancier! An umbrella will keep you dry, but a parasol will make you feel like a Hollywood movie star!With this helpful A-to-Z guide, Fancy Nancy shows that making plain words into fancy ones is not only educational, it's fun. Glossary of words included.

An Awesome Book!


Dallas Clayton - 2008
    Written in the vein of classic tales by Dr. Suess, Shel Silverstein, and Maurice Sendak it is a sure hit for all generations young and old.

South


Patrick McDonnell - 2008
    This is a wordless and profoundly moving story--by the creator of the beloved comic strip Mutts--that explores being lost and found, crossing boundaries, saying goodbye, and broadening horizons.

Alphabet


Matthew Van Fleet - 2008
    Young explorers are challenged to spot four plants or animals that begin with each letter of the alphabet. Twenty-three textures plus foils, flaps, pull tabs, and even a scratch-and-sniff scent add to the interactive surprises on every page. Also includes a removable full-color alphabet poster for learning fun!

Charley Harper ABCs: Chunky Edition


Charley Harper - 2008
    Full color.

Adventures Beyond Nutmouse Hall


Emily Bearn - 2008
    Tumtum and Nutmeg lead cozy and quiet lives, secretly looking after Arthur and Lucy, the disheveled human children of the cottage, never dreaming that so many exciting adventures will soon find them. But when evil Aunt Ivy, a squeamish schoolteacher named Miss Short, and pirating pond rats threaten the safety of those they hold dear, the courageous pair will stop at nothing to save the day. In three thrilling tales with charming illustrations in every chapter, Tumtum and Nutmeg--along with the valiant efforts of veteran hero General Marchmouse, Ms. Tiptoe's bouncing ballerina army, and a team of caged gerbils--prove that small-size mice can have world-size hearts.

Kaspar: Prince of Cats


Michael Morpurgo - 2008
    Johnny was a bell-boy, you see, and he carried all of Countess Kandinsky's things to her room.But Johnny didn't expect to end up with Kaspar on his hands forever, and nor did he count on making friends with Lizziebeth, a spirited American heiress. Pretty soon, events are set in motion that will take Johnny - and Kaspar - all around the world, surviving theft, shipwreck and rooftop rescues along the way. Because everything changes with a cat like Kaspar around. After all, he's Prince Kaspar Kandinsky, Prince of Cats, a Muscovite, a Londoner and a New Yorker, and as far as anyone knows, the only cat to survive the sinking of the Titanic…

Waking Beauty


Leah Wilcox - 2008
    Every time the fairies watching over her try to tell him, he interrupts with his ideas of how to wake her. Eventually he gets the message, and his reaction is priceless: ?One hundred years of morning breath Wow! That could be the kiss of "death"!? With just as much interactive fun as "Falling for Rapunzel" (an IRA Notable Book and the winner of Maryland's Black-Eyed Susan Picture Book Award), this fractured fairy tale will elicit laughter that no one will be able to sleep through.

I Love You As Big As the World


David Van Buren - 2008
    It is big enough to fill the whole wide world. Lush, brightly-colored illustrations, from the illustrator of Little Honey Bear and the Smiley Moon, capture the humor and intimacy of a very special relationship with irresistible tenderness and grace. Children will treasure this reminder of how much they are loved.

Who Was Abraham Lincoln?


Janet B. Pascal - 2008
    But Lincoln was tragically shot one night at Ford's Theater--the first President to be assassinated. Over 100 black-and-white illustrations and maps are included.

A New Beginning


Sue Bentley - 2008
    Or even her own pet. But when Storm, a golden retriever with sparkling midnight-blue eyes, magically appears, she can't believe it. A wonderful adventure awaits them.

Blood-Curdling Box


Terry Deary - 2008
    It contains 20 books, including 'Rotten Romans', 'Terrible Tudors' and 'Awesome Egyptians'.

Woolbur


Leslie Helakoski - 2008
    Woolbur is not like other sheep. He hangs out with wild dogs and even dyes his wool blue."Don't worry!" says Grandpaa when Maa and Paa fret that Woolbur is different. But when they tell their son to follow the flock, the opposite happens—the flock follows him! Soon everyone is copying his wild hairstyles and taking turns on the spinning wheel. Leave it to Woolbur to find a new way to step ahead of the herd.Spunky, funky, and refreshingly distinct, Woolbur will strike a chord with anyone who's ever felt different. And that's all of us!AwardsBook Sense Hot PickGreat Lakes Book Award finalistGift of Literacy Oregon Book ChoiceMichigan Reads! One State, One Picture Book AwardBe sure to join Woolbur’s next adventure in Ready or Not, Woolbur Goes to School!

Forever Young


Bob Dylan - 2008
    Now award-winning artist Paul Rogers gives us a new interpretation of the lyrics. With images inspired by classic Dylan songs and pieces of his life, this is a bold and touching tribute to an anthem whose message will always stay forever young.

WALL-E


Vick E. - 2008
    WHEN A LOVABLE, lonely robot named WALL-E falls in love with a sophisticated female robot named EVE, he follows his heart all the way into outer space! Young fans will enjoy this Little Golden Book retelling of Disney/Pixar's WALL-E.

Fifteen Animals!


Sandra Boynton - 2008
    Fifteen Animals! also comes with a free song available via download. It's all the energy and appeal of Boynton: the lively language, distinctive illustrations, and inimitable characters. And music. And counting. And, for the first time, a person character, an earnest little boy who loves animals and happily sings: I really like animals, I like them a lot. Fifteen animals is what I’ve got. I’ve got fifteen animals. They're friendly and tame, and I’ve given each one a special name. Make that Bob.

Where's Waldo? The Complete Collection


Martin Handford - 2008
    The only place you'll find all of Waldo's adventures in one fabulous collectionJust when you thought you’d found Waldo in all the likely places, we give you the slipcased edition — offering a complete set of Where's Waldo? adventures:WHERE'S WALDO?WHERE'S WALDO NOW?WHERE'S WALDO? THE FANTASTIC JOURNEYWHERE'S WALDO? THE WONDER BOOKWHERE'S WALDO? IN HOLLYWOODExclusively in paperback:WHERE'S WALDO? THE GREAT PICTURE HUNT!Showcasing Martin Handford's art in its original oversize paperback format, this handsome, hefty collection offers hours of entertainment forlong-time Waldo lovers and new seekers alike.

Keena Ford and the Second Grade Mix Up


Melissa Thomson - 2008
    Keena is super excited about starting second grade and she?s eager to impress her new teacher?but why does Ms. Hanson think Keena?s birthday is tomorrow? It was a small mistake, but now Keena can?t turn down her very own chocolate cake and sparkly crown, can she? No more than she can help sneaking into her best friend Eric?s classroom to see if it?s really as much fun as he claims. Too bad nothing turns out quite the way she plans . . .This laugh-out-loud book by first-time author Melissa Thomson has short chapters and lively illustrations, making it perfect for beginning readers.

The Boy in the Dress


David Walliams - 2008
    Dennis was different. Why was he different, you ask? Well, a small clue might be in the title of this book! Charming, surprising and hilarious—The Boy in the Dress is everything you would expect from the co-creator of Little Britain. David Walliams's beautiful first novel will touch the hearts (and funny bones) of children and adults alike.

The Doghouse


Jan Thomas - 2008
    . . THE DOGHOUSE. Who will risk a run-in with scary Dog to get it back? Hysterical high anxiety ensues as Mouse volunteers each animal to do the dirty work—but you’ll never believe what’s really going on in the doghouse!     With Jan Thomas’s fun, fresh art and priceless animal expressions, this timeless tale of fear and friendship will have readers howling.

The Big Tidy-Up


Norah Smaridge - 2008
    Free to let her room go, Jennifer turns a blind eye to the fustiness, the dustiness, and the spider’s webby empire up in the corner! Finally, one day, she can stand her own mess no longer, and gets to work— on the big tidy-up!

Mrs. Dole Is Out of Control!


Dan Gutman - 2008
    and the gang are graduating! But the out-of-control PTA president is turning the whole thing into a huge ceremony complete with fireworks, a petting zoo, and a flyover by the Blue Angels! Is moving up to third grade such a big deal? And what could possibly go wrong?

Wabi Sabi


Mark Reibstein - 2008
     At last, the master Says, "That's hard to explain." And That is all she says.This unsatisfying answer sets Wabi Sabi on a journey to uncover the meaning of her name, and on the way discovers what wabi sabi is: a Japanese philosophy of seeing beauty in simplicity, the ordinary, and the imperfect. Using spare text and haiku, Mark Reibstein weaves an extraordinary story about finding real beauty in unexpected places. Caldecott Medal-winning artist Ed Young complements the lyrical text with breathtaking collages. Together, they illustrate the unique world view that is wabi sabi. A New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book for 2008!

My Sister Jodie


Jacqueline Wilson - 2008
    Pearl is the younger one, small, shy and anxious. Jodie is nearly three years older, bold and brash and bad and Pearl adores her. When their parents get new jobs at Melchester College, a Victorian Gothic mansion, the girls spend a bizarre summer holiday in the boarding school with just a few leftover children for company. Things start to change now they are in their new home. Jodie has always been the leader but now it's Pearl who's making new friends. When term begins, their strange summer is over. But things keep on changing. Jodie really doesn't fit in with the posh teenagers in her class. Pearl is blossoming. Maybe she doesn't need Jodie as much as she used to. But Jodie needs her. And when the school celebration of Firework Night comes around and a tragic event occurs, Pearl realises quite how much she does need her big sister.

The Wolves Are Back


Jean Craighead George - 2008
    Gradually reintroduced, they are thriving again in the West, much to the benefit of the ecosystem. This book will teach a new generation to appreciate the grace, dignity, and value of wolves as it promotes awareness of the environment’s delicate balance. Paired with gorgeous paintings by landscape artist Wendell Minor, Jean Craighead George’s engaging text will inspire people of all ages to care about the protection of endangered species.

Geronimo Stilton: #1-32


Geronimo Stilton - 2008
    Titles: Lost Treasure of the Emerald Isle; The Curse of the Cheese Pyramid; Cat and Mouse in a Haunted House; I'm Too Fond of My Fur!; Four Mice Deep in the Jungle; Paws Off, Chedderface!; Red Pizzas for a Blue Count; Attack of the Bandit Cats; A Fabumouse Vacation for Geronimo; All Because of a Cup of Coffee; It's Halloween, You 'Fraidy Mouse!; Merry Christmas, Geronimo!; The Phantom of the Subway; The Temple of the Ruby of Fire; The Mona Mousa Code; A Cheese-Colored Camper; Watch Your Whiskers, Stilton!; Shipwreck on the Pirate Islands; My Name Is Stilton, Geronimo Stilton; Surf's Up, Geronimo!; The Wild, Wild West; The Secret of Cacklefur Castle; Valentine's Day Disaster; Field Trip to Niagra Falls; The Search for Sunken Treasure; The Mummy With No Name; The Christmas Toy Factory; Wedding Crasher; Down and Out.

The Way We Work: Getting to Know the Amazing Human Body


David Macaulay - 2008
    In order to present this complicated subject in an accurate and entertaining way, he put in years of research. He sat in on anatomy classes, dissections, and even reached inside the rib cages of two cadavers to compare their spleen sizes. He observed numerous surgeries, including a ten-hour procedure where a diseased pancreas was removed, as well as one where a worn-out old knee was replaced by a brand new one. This hands-on investigation gives Macaulay a unique perspective to lead his readers on a visual journey through the workings of the human body.The seven sections within the book take us from the cells that form our foundation to the individual systems they build. Each beautifully illustrated spread details different aspects of our complex structure, explaining the function of each and offering up-close glimpses, unique cross-sections and perspectives, and even a little humor along the way.This one-of-a-kind book can serve as a reference for children, families, teachers, and anyone who has questions about how his or her body works. When readers see how David Macaulay builds a body and explains the way it works, they will come away with a new appreciation of the amazing world inside them.

Willow


Denise Brennan-Nelson - 2008
    And that's how she likes it. And she likes trees that are colored green and apples that are painted red. Miss Hawthorn does not like things to be different or out of the ordinary. Into Miss Hawthorn's classroom comes young Willow. She doesn't color inside the lines, she breaks crayons, and she sees pink trees and blue apples. What will Miss Hawthorn think? Magical things can happen when your imagination is allowed to run wild, and for Miss Hawthorn the notion of what is art and what is possible is forever changed.

Richard Scarry's The Great Pie Robbery and Other Mysteries


Richard Scarry - 2008
    They catch robbers. They delight young readers with their antics! Whenever the criminals strike Richard Scarry’s two endearing animal sleuths are ready to go—and in this treasury they’re out to catch some pie thieves, nab a supermarket shoplifter who finds an ingenious way to sneak out his goodies, and seize the bad guys who swiped some pearls. What kids will love most, though, are the madcap, slapstick-filled pictures; adorable animal characters; and the engaging (but sometimes clueless) heroes who dress up in a hilarious series of disguises.

Haiku Baby


Betsy Snyder - 2008
    In just 17 syllables, a moment, a season, the elements are joyfully captured. This peaceful little board book has tabs to encourage little hands to turn the pages and adorable artwork to delight everyone!

Magic Tree House: #33-36


Mary Pope Osborne - 2008
    This time they head back into history to Venice, Italy, in the 1700s. With the help of some new friends, a research book, and a mysterious rhyme from Merlin, the heroes will save the beautiful city from a flood! Season of the SandstormsArmed only with a research book and a book of magic rhymes, Jack and Annie go back 1,200 years to the Golden Age of Baghdad. Their mission is a mystery until bandits attack a camel caravan and Jack and Annie are given a strange box to protect. What’s in the box? And how will it help the ruler of Baghdad spread wisdom throughout the world?Night of the New MagiciansA mysterious note from Merlin sends Jack and Annie to Paris, France for the 1889 World’s Fair. Their mission: find four “new magicians” and protect them from an evil sorcerer who plans to kidnap them and steal the secrets of their magic. How will they ever find the magicians in the bustling crowd? And will their own magic be any match for the powers of the evil sorcerer? Blizzard of the Blue MoonMerlin has sent Jack and Annie to New York City to rescue a beautiful magical creature–the unicorn. Where will they find a unicorn in a big city? And what about the blizzard that’s burying New York in snow? Only once in a blue moon do all the right elements come together to make magic in such a special way.

How to Heal a Broken Wing


Bob Graham - 2008
    With the help of his sympathetic mother, he gently wraps the injured bird and takes it home. In classic Bob Graham style, the beauty is in the details: the careful ministrations with an eyedropper, the bedroom filled with animal memorabilia, the saving of the single feather as a good-luck charm for the bird's return to the sky. Wistful and uplifting, here is a tale of possibility -- and of the souls who never doubt its power.

Tea for Ruby


Sarah Ferguson - 2008
    You can't take Ruby anywhere! One sunny morning, the postman brings Ruby an amazing invitation to have tea with -- the Queen! Ruby had better polish her manners and quickly. Will Ruby really be ready in time?Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser, illustrator of the "Fancy Nancy" series.

My Secret War Diary, by Flossie Albright: My History of the Second World War 1939-1945


Marcia Williams - 2008
    After Flossie's father joins the army, the nine-year-old girl is left to care for both her baby brother and her great-uncle. In a collage-style diary merging photos, postcards, and other memorabilia, Flossie relays events ranging from the arrival of evacuees to the wrenching news that her cousin has been killed. Her vibrant first-person narration reveals a humor and a fighting spirit that sees her through many a hardship until she welcomes her dad home at last.

The Serial Garden: The Complete Armitage Family Stories


Joan Aiken - 2008
    After Mrs. Armitage makes a wish, the Armitage family has “interesting and unusual” experiences every Monday (and the occasional Tuesday). The Board of Incantation tries to take over their house to use as a school for young wizards; the Furies come to stay; and a cutout from a cereal box leads into a beautiful and tragic palace garden. Charming and magical, the uncommon lives of the Armitage family will thrill and delight. Includes Joan Aiken’s “Prelude” from Armitage, Armitage, Fly Away Home, as well as introductions from Joan Aiken’s daughter, Lizza Aiken, and best-selling author Garth Nix. Illustrated by Andi Watson.

Ladybug Girl


David Soman - 2008
    Her dog, Bingo the basset hound, is always by her side and the two prove that they are not too little to explore nature, build forts, and make their own big fun.For fans of Fancy Nancy and Toot and Puddle, the Ladybug Girl series honors individuality, creativity, and a love of the outdoors!

The Girl Who Could Fly


Victoria Forester - 2008
    Just like that. Easy as pie.Sure, she hasn’t mastered reverse propulsion and her loops are kind of sloppy, but she’s real good at loop-the-loops.Problem is, the good folk of Lowland County are afraid of Piper. And her ma is at her wit’s end. So it seems only fitting that she leave her parents’ farm to attend a top-secret, maximum-security school for kids with exceptional abilities.School is great at first with a bunch of new friends whose skills range from super-strength to super-genius. (Plus all the homemade apple pie she can eat!) But Piper is special, even among the special. And there are consequences.Consequences too dire to talk about. Too crazy to consider. And too dangerous to ignore.At turns exhilarating and terrifying, Victoria Forester’s debut novel is an unforgettable story of defiance and courage about an irrepressible heroine who can, who will, who must...fly.

The Secret of the Sacred Scarab


Fiona Ingram - 2008
    Only when the evil Dr. Faisal Khalid shows a particular interest in the cousins and their scarab, do the boys realise they are in terrible danger. Justin and Adam embark upon the adventure of a lifetime, taking them down the Nile and across the harsh desert in their search for the legendary tomb of the Scarab King, an ancient Egyptian ruler. They are plunged into a whirlpool of hazardous and mysterious events when Dr. Khalid kidnaps them. They survive terrifying dangers in a hostile environment (such as a giant cobra, as well as sinking sand), pursued by enemies in their quest to solve the secret of the sacred scarab. They must translate the hieroglyphic clues on the underside of the scarab, as well as rescue the missing archaeologist James Kinnaird, and their friend, the Egyptologist Ebrahim Faza, before time runs out. They must also learn more about the ancient Seven Stones of Power and the mysterious Shemsu-Hor. With just their wits, courage, and each other, the boys manage to survive … only to find that the end of one journey is the beginning of another! Book bonus includes a Readers’ Guide to Ancient Egypt for young explorers, plus hand-drawn pictures from Adam’s journal of what the cousins saw in Egypt.

A Pirate's Night Before Christmas


Philip Yates - 2008
    Moore classic. On this ship of mischievous brigands—who have visions of treasure chests, not sugarplums, dancing in their heads—you wouldn’t expect a visit from nice St. Nick. Instead, here comes Sir Peggedy, with his peg leg and hook arm, cracking his whip and driving eight giant seahorses: Salty, Scurvy, Sinbad, Mollie, Cutthroat, Cross-Eyes, Roger, and Jolly. Philip Yates’ rollicking rhymes and Sebastià Serra’s sprightly, fun-filled pictures—featuring whimsically multicolored seahorses, stockings hung on the ship’s bowsprit with tar, child-friendly pirates, and a complete treasure map—turn this Christmas perennial into a jubilant celebration!

Ponyo Picture Book


Hayao Miyazaki - 2008
    One day, Ponyo's curiosity takes her far from home. After accidentally hitching a ride on a jellyfish, Ponyo washes up on the shore and is found by Sosuke, a kindly human boy. The two become fast friends and are swept away on an incredible adventure.Ponyo is a sweet-faced goldfish from a magical realm under the sea. One day, Ponyo's curiosity takes her far from home. After accidentally hitching a ride on a jellyfish, Ponyo washes up on the shore and is found by Sosuke, a kindly human boy. The two become fast friends and are swept away on an incredible adventure.

The Dodgeball Chronicles


Frank Cammuso - 2008
    He's got new lunch buddies, Percy and Wayne, and his science teacher, Mr. Merlyn, is pretty cool. But then there's scary Principal Dagger and big bad Joe and The Horde, a bunch of brawny bullies who rule the school.

Mary Engelbreit's Nursery Tales: A Treasury of Children's Classics


Mary Engelbreit - 2008
    The delightful characters will become storyland friends for life for children who meet them here. Just wait until your child sees the Giant's expression as he cries, "Fee, fi, fo, fum," or the adorable Elves dancing in the Shoemaker's cottage! The Ginger-bread Boy's candy buttons and the dazzling feathers of the Ugly Duckling are among the many inviting details to discover with each new look.A collection of nursery tales so child friendly, rewarding, and full of fun could only have come from the rich and playful imagination of Mary Engelbreit.

Mr. Men: The Complete Collection


Roger Hargreaves - 2008
    

Stitchin' and Pullin': A Gee's Bend Quilt


Patricia C. McKissack - 2008
    For a hundred years, generations of women from Gee’s Bend have quilted together, sharing stories, trading recipes, singing hymns—all the while stitchin’ and pullin’ thread through cloth. Every day Baby Girl listens, watches, and waits, until she’s called to sit at the quilting frame. Piece by piece, she puzzles her quilt together—telling not just her story, but the story of her family, the story of Gee’s Bend, and the story of her ancestors’ struggle for freedom.

Help Me, Mr. Mutt!: Expert Answers for Dogs with People Problems


Janet Stevens - 2008
    Mutt, Canine Counselor, has solutions to the most sticky dilemmas. But Mr. Mutt has his own problem to solve: the cat (aka The Queen), who has her own idea of who’s in charge. Now Mr. Mutt is the one who needs help--quick!         Through letters and newspaper clippings--and with plenty of their trademark humor--Janet Stevens and Susan Stevens Crummel give voice to despairing dogs everywhere.

That's Not My Monkey...


Fiona Watt - 2008
    The bright pictures, with their patches of different textures, are designed to develop sensory and language awareness. Babies and toddlers will love turning the pages and touching the feely patches.

The Lost Island of Tamarind


Nadia Aguiar - 2008
    She's spent her whole life living on the sea with her marine biologist parents, her younger brother, Simon, and baby sister, Penny. Maya used to love living on a sailboat, but lately, everything feels terribly claustrophobic. Maya longs to go to school on land. To make friends. To lead a normal life. But when a violent storm hits and Maya's parents are washed overboard, life becomes anything but normal. The children manage to steer the boat toward a mysterious island, to a place that doesn't exist on a map.Welcome to Tamarind, where fish can fly, pirates patrol the waters, jaguars lurk, the islanders are at war, and an evil, child-stealing enchantress rules the jungle.Maya never imagined she'd have to face so many dangers. But then, who could have imagined a place like Tamarind. . . .?In her stunning first novel, Nadia Aguiar presents a heart-pounding adventure tale about a haunting, fantastical island cut off from the outside world.

The McElderry Book of Greek Myths


Eric A. Kimmel - 2008
    Vibrant art adds a fresh twist to this collection, giving today's readers their own version of these timeless tales. Eric A. Kimmel brings these adventures to life with language that is colloquial and easy to read. Pep Monserrat breathes beautiful modern colors and style into his paintings, even as he reinvents images from classical antiquity. Together they've created a masterpiece of mythology, perfect for young readers.

The Rook Trilogy


Paul Stewart - 2008
    In the heart of the Deepwoods, Rook encounters a mysterious character - the last sky pirate . . . Vox High in the crumbling Palace of Statues, little more than a prisoner of the all-powerful Guardians of the Night, Vox Verlix plots and schemes . . . Rook Barkwater finds himself embroiled in Vox's scheming.He must stop him or the Edgeworld could fall into total chaos . . . Freeglader Undertown is destroyed! Gnokgoblins, waifs and cloddertrogs huddle by the ruins, preparing for a mass exodus to the Free Glades. Rook Barkwater knows the journey will be full of peril. Dangers are everywhere, and in the Goblin Nations, the tribes are massing for war. Can Rook and his friends preserve freedom in the Edgeworld?

My First 100 Words (Sign Language)


Michiyo Nelson - 2008
    For quick reference, this book also comes with a bonus full-size poster of the ASL alphabet--perfect for home or the classroom

The Dangerous Alphabet


Neil Gaiman - 2008
    . .Two children, treasure map in hand, and their pet gazelle sneak past their father, out of their house, and into a world beneath the city, where monsters and pirates roam.Will they find the treasure? Will they make it out alive?The Dangerous Alphabet is a tale of adventure, piracy, danger, and heroism told in twenty-six alphabetical lines—although even the alphabet is not to be relied upon here. A delightfully dangerous journey from national bestselling author Neil Gaiman and the monstrously talented Gris Grimly, The Dangerous Alphabet is sure to captivate and chillyoung readers.

Volcanoes!


Anne Schreiber - 2008
    Join the adventure to learn more about volcanoes, one of nature's most spectacular events.

The Caribbean


Rob Kidd - 2008
    Its one goal: to destroy the Pirate Lords for their Shadow Master--an alchemist who has created a special gold that grants him unfathomable power. But the soothsayer, Tia Dalma has other plans for the Lords and cannot allow them to be destroyed. So she calls on the one man who can turn the tide--Captain Jack Sparrow... In Book One of Legends of the Brethren Court, the mystic Tia Dalma sends Jack Sparrow on a mission to recover nine pieces of shadow gold. If he fails, she warns, the seas will become the playground of shadows and those who survive their reign of terror will wish they had not. Reluctantly relying on the help of his untrustworthy first mate, Barbossa, and a rag-tag assortment of familiar characters, Jack will take on the Shadow Master. But at what cost?

Icarus at the Edge of Time


Brian Greene - 2008
    The beauty of the book lies in the images, provided by NASA and the Hubble Space telescope, and printed on board rather than paper.

The Sea Serpent and Me


Dashka Slater - 2008
    As rainy day after rainy day passes, the two sing songs, take baths, and talk about the sea.But little girls live on land, and a growing sea serpent needs wave upon wave of water.Here’s a story about the true meaning of friendship, perfect for children, parents, and anyone who has ever had second thoughts about growing up.

The Best Story


Eileen Spinelli - 2008
    Her father thinks the best stories are the funniest. And Aunt Jane tells her that the best stories have to make people cry. A story that does all these things doesn't seem quite right, though, and the one thing the whole family can agree on is that the best story has to be your own.Anne Wilsdorf's hilarious illustrations perfectly capture this colorful family and their outrageous stories in Eileen Spinelli's heartfelt tale about creativity and finding your own voice.

The Hidden World of Fairies


Tennant Redbank - 2008
    This illustrated guide is jam-packed with fairy facts and includes loads of interactive elements, like secret notes, miniature books, and a removable fairy talent medallion.Find out how garden fairies make the flowers bloom; learn how to say "hello" in Frog with the animal-talent fairies; find out the magical meaning behind colors from the art fairies...and more!Full of astonishing and charming details about fairy life, The Hidden World of Fairies offers fairies fans an intimate glimpse into their favorite magical world.