One Liners: An Avid Reader and Father Time Compromise #6

"One Liners: An Avid Reader and Father Time Compromise"....is the place where my love of books meets a busy schedule and in lieu of passing up the chance to share the book with you, I'll share the book(s) read in brief; enough to pique your curiosity without over indulging. Sound good? Here goes....

 

 

 

 

The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That!: Now you See Me.... by Tish Rabe

Release Date:  March 2011

 Publisher:  Bantam Children

32 pages

 

Picture Book

 

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Summary from Bantam Children:

 

Nick and Sally are playing hide and seek but Nick’s just too good, he always finds Sally wherever she’s hiding. Luckily the Cat in the Hat is there to show them how become the best hide and seekers ever!

This rhyming adventure is perfect for young first readers who are just learning to recognize words, basic vocabulary and short sentences. The Cat in the Hat knows all about that!

 

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

The brightly coloured pictures, and the large print (not too much on a page) is perfect for early readers. It helps teach about cameoflage, introduces the concept of animals being able to blend in with their environment. It shows how fun playing can be, especially hide and seek (although sadly unlike Nick & Sally we can't blend in to our surroundings that well).

Rating:

I give this 8/10

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The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! How Wet Can You Get? by Tish Rabe

Release Date:  March 2011

Publisher:  Bantam Children

16 pages

Picture Book

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Summary from Bantam Children:

Sally and Nick are playing in the rain—and getting really muddy! So when the Cat in the Hat offers to show them how animals get clean, the kids are keen to find out. But can Sally and Nick really get rid of the mud by taking dust baths, like a sparrow? Or by licking themselves, like a lion? And where are they going to find an oxpecker to pick it off them, like a hippo has? (Besides, oxpeckers tickle!) Maybe there's a better way for kids to get clean? The Cat in the Hat knows all about that!

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

Judging by the size of writing, I think this might be aimed more at older readers. The rhyming verse will be easy for children to learn when they re-read the book. It's interesting because Nick & Sally learn how different animals clean themselves, and why those methods aren't the best one for children. The 17 stickers are of the characters in different poses which match up to the story.

Rating:

I give this 8/10

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Astrosaurs Academy: Space Kidnap! By Steve Cole

Release Date:  March 2011

Publisher:  Red Fox

144 pages, Review copy

Children's 7+

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Summary from Red Fox:

The final exciting adventure in Steve Cole's hit spin-off series.

After years of training they’ve finally done it! Teggs and his classmates at Astrosaurs Academy are all set to become real space-exploring astrosaurs!

But first they must pass one final challenge. A mission into outer space, more dangerous than any they have faced before . . .

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:
I continue to love this series - it's a shame it comes to an end but the story of what happens after the academy is told in the series Astrosaurs! This tale proves that cheaters never prosper, and that at times of great peril, something eventually saves the day. There are some hair raising moments, as well as a lot of humour. I particularly like the collector's cards - they are of some of my favourite characters!

Rating:

I give this 9/10

 

 

One Liners: An Avid Reader and Father Time Compromise #5

"One Liners: An Avid Reader and Father Time Compromise"....is the place where my love of books meets a busy schedule and in lieu of passing up the chance to share the book with you, I'll share the book(s) read in brief; enough to pique your curiosity without over indulging. Sound good? Here goes....

Cows In Action: The Moo-lympic Games by Steve Cole

Release Date:  February 2010

Publisher:  Red Fox

148 pages, paperback

Children's

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Summary from Red Fox:

Professor McMoo, Pat and Bo aren't just any old cows, they're time-travelling, super-clever Cows In Action who visit past and future, around the world to stop the evil Ter-moo-nators changing history . . .

When Little Bo Vine and her brother Pat are captured by the evil F.B.I. ter-moo-nators and taken back to ancient Greece at the time of the ancient Olympic Games, Professor McMoo follows, determined to rescue them. But this is easier said than done, and with the ter-moo-nators plotting to win every event at the games, and take over the world, the C.I.A have got a challenge ahead . . .

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

I'd been wanting to read this series for ages. I have a friend who loves cows, and I've already read some of the astrosaurs series and adore it. Strangely I didn't fall in love with this series. Don't get me wrong, it's well written, and the concepts are clever, especially all the humour. Yet it didn't seem as amazing as Astrosaurs, or some other animal antics books I've read. It was missing something I can't name. Comes with colourful collector's cards. Still a good read, just not one I'll re-read (I will read new ones, because they are funny).

Rating:

6/10

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Astrosaurs: The Claws of Christmas by Steve Cole

Release Date:  September 2010

Publisher:  Red Fox

129 pages, paperback

Children's

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Summary from Red Fox:

The astrosaurs are on their way home for Christmas when they encounter millions of Christmas presents flying through space. Teggs and his crew are ordered to take the presents back to Santa Claus and his elfosaauruses . Little do they know, that all is not merry this Christmas on the North Pole star . . . Can they track down whoever's determined to spoil Christmas?

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

These remain my favourite books by Steve. There's so much action and humour. Although I guessed a few of them, most of the plot twists took me by surprise which was nice. The illustrations add to the humour/peril being described. Comes with 4 brightly coloured, very sturdy collectors cards, One for my re-read shelf!

Rating:

9/10

 

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Gargoylz Save Christmas by Burchett & Vogler

Release Date:  September 2010

Publisher:  Red Fox

116 pages, paperback

Children's

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Summary from Red Fox:

In Gargoylz Save Christmas Max and Ben embark on the 10th madcap mission of this collectible series with the help of Santa’s special helper.

Oh, no, Santa’s elves have been struck down with the dreaded Sneeze Disease on Christmas Eve. Who will help out on the busiest night of the year?

Luckily Max and Ben with the help, or sometimes hindrance, of Santa’s special Gargoyle, are ready to lend a hand. But, as the boys should know by now, nothing is straightforward when a gargoyle’s on the loose, particularly on an occasion as important as Christmas!

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

I love this series! At the moment the Gargoylz remind me of fairies. Or pixies. I know this is probably at odds with what they look like (no pretty dresses for the girls...), but they are eager to help solve problems. Max and Ben go along for the ride in a different mode of transport to a car. They manage to enjoy themselves while they work, and there are lots of laughs to be had. I keep hoping every Gargoyl I see will turn to life. As usual it comes with a fun Gargoylz sticky toy.

Rating:

10/10

One Liners: An Avid Reader and Father Time Compromise #4

"One Liners: An Avid Reader and Father Time Compromise"....is the place where my love of books meets a busy schedule and in lieu of passing up the chance to share the book with you, I'll share the book(s) read in brief; enough to pique your curiosity without over indulging. Sound good? Here goes....

I Spy Something Wonderful by David Conway

Release Date:  February 2011

Publisher:  Red Fox Picture Books

20 pages, paperback

Children's Picture Book

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Summary from Red Fox Picture Books:

Mummy Deer, Daddy Deer and Baby Deer are playing ‘I spy’. There are lots of wonderful things to spot . . . a cloud as soft as a whisper, a sleepy sunset, a bright shimmering star. But there is something more wonderful than all these things. Can Baby Deer guess what it is?

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

This colourful, sweet picture books is all about love of a mother and father for their child. (Equally it can apply to anyone who loves a child, regardless of parent association). They all have fun together, picking out different things they like in the world using the well known game of I Spy. My favourite thing about the book are the rabbit and frog. Once they make their appearance, they are then in nearly all the scenes, reacting to what the little deer does.You can see them on the bottom left and right of the front cover, and they are even peering at the barcode on the back. A few of the pages fold out to reveal more of the scene.

Rating:

I give this 10/10.

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Frank and Teddy Make Friends by Louise Yates

Release Date:  February 2011

Publisher:  Jonathan Cape

32 pages, Hardback

Picture Book

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Summary from Jonathan Cape:   

Meet Professor Frank Mouse. He's very clever, very inventive and very ... lonely. Though he loves collecting, making and mending all sorts of things, shy Frank would love to have a friend to help him, so one day he makes Teddy! But Frank doesn't realise that what he really needs is a true friend - someone to teach him that real friendship is all about sharing, and Teddy might be just the fellow to do it...

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

This is a fluffy bunny (not literally since Teddy is a teddy bear, not a rabbit) version of Frankenstein (I haven't read the original). Frank is a very cute eccentric mad mouse scientist whose nature is clearly shown in the illustrations. He lacks social skills, and gains a few with Teddy by his side, but only really discovers the meaning of life when he gets angry and banishes Teddy. It shows that even if friends mess someone's life up, they are still friends and will help each other out.

Rating:

I give this 10 out of 10.

One Liners: An Avid Reader and Father Time Compromise #3

"One Liners: An Avid Reader and Father Time Compromise"....is the place where my love of books meets a busy schedule and in lieu of passing up the chance to share the book with you, I'll share the book(s) read in brief; enough to pique your curiosity without over indulging. Sound good? Here goes....

Rowan: Bigger Picture & Rowan: The Next Big Thing

Release Date:  January 2002

Publisher:  Rowan

54 pages & 63 pages, Paperback

Personal Copy

Arts & Crafts/Knitting

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Summary from The Knitting Garden:

(Bigger Picture)

Featuring over 20 designs by Kim Hargreaves using Big Wool and Biggy Print yarn.

Includes patterns for easy and quick to knit sweaters, scarves, hats and bags!!

(The Next Big Thing)

The Next Big Thing - over thirty designs by Kim Hargreaves!

This contemporary collection contains both garments and accessories for men & women. There are ponchos and capes, long line coats, a sleeveless dress and a waistcoat with shaggy collar.  Accessories include a selection of hats and scarves, some knitted, some crocheted. Other items include bags, wrist & leg warmers!!

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

I ordinarily do not review knitting pattern books. I got this one and the 2nd Rowan one on Tuesday. They have lots of pictures giving close ups of the garments, which is always a big plus. The patterns are easy to read, with a clear ink diagram of the shape of the garment. I'm reviewing these two books because they made me laugh. This one feels as though the models inside were acting in a soap. It felt like it was a troubled relationship, half the time the girls looked like they were moping. Maybe I'm just used to cute baby patterns which look really natural. The Next Big Thing - that was more about friendship, I think, but it still didn't look natural and the people didn't necessarily look as though they'd usually wear the garments. I think when I see knitting patterns I want more normal people, in more normal clothes, people that I'd know rather than people who don't have many physical imperfections. None of that will stop me from knitting from a few patterns in here, which is what the books are about!

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Sammy Goes Flying by Odette Elliott

Release Date:  7th April 2011

Publisher:  Tamarind Books

32 pages, Paperback

Review copy

Children's Fiction

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Summary from Tamarind Books:

Sammy dreams of flying. His older siblings are going on a school trip to an aeroplane museum. But Sammy is too small to go. Then Grandma plans a magical day out just for Sammy.

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

This book is very blue! I love the different shades of blue and green that are used to tell Sammy's tale. It's hard being the youngest, but Sammy's parents make sure that he gets to fulfil his dream and have fun with his teddy. The joy he feels rises off from the pages and made me smile.

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Don't Want To Go! by Shirley Hughes

Release Date:  7th April 2011

Publisher:  Red Fox

32 pages, Paperback

Review Copy

Children's Fiction

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Summery from Red Fox:

Mum is ill and Dad has to go to work, so Lily will have to go to Melanie’s house for the day. Dad says she'll have lots of fun, but there’s a problem: Lily doesn't want to go!

Join Lily as she braves Melanie's house, and realises that doing new things needn't be scary after all...

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

I was exactly like Lily when I was little. I didn't like having to stay with strangers, although I mostly threw a strop when I went to school (I was the only child in my class to have a special sticker chart for when I was good and didn't cry when I got in. It worked!) Although Lily has her favourite toy with her, it isn't much comfort at first. She makes a decision to make a fuss, but then several someones distract her and she actually enjoys herself. I've read Shirley's books since I was little, and this is one of my favourites because it captures the exact sentiment of a young child.

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The Pink Bicycle by Gill Lobel

Release Date:  7th April 2011

Publisher:  Tamarind

32 pages, Paperback

Review copy

Children's Picture Books

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Summary from Tamarind:

Sunita and Blue Rabbit love riding on Alisha's red bike. But one day Alisha's knees start to get in the way! Mum and Dad say the red bike is too small. Can Alisha learn to ride the new pink bicycle with no stabilisers?

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:
The book is about Sunita getting to grips with a new bike, and the perils of riding without stabilisers. It takes something important for her to try it out. However, for me the book is about Blue Rabbit. Sunita takes him everywhere. He is in every picture, and his expressions are really funny, especially when danger looms. He had me smiling away, and I want him! He helps Sunita get through the harder parts of life, just as any special toy does for a child.

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The Boy Who Cried Ninja by Alex Latimer

Release Date:  7th April 2011

Publisher:  Picture Corgi

32 pages, Paperback

Review copy

Children's Picture Book

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Summary from Picture Corgi:

Once there was a boy named Tim whom no one believed, even when he was telling the truth. No one believed that it was a ninja who snaffled the last slice of cake; or that a giant squid ate his homework; or that it really was a time-travelling monkey who was throwing pencils at Grampa. How can Tim get his parents to believe him - when the truth is too incredible to be true?

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

I'm a fan of ninjas. They are really cool. What this ninja does isn't so cool though. Tim's parents think he's lying when he says the mischief the ninja and several other characters get up to. Tim doesn't like being punished for something he didn't do, so he finds a way to show his parents he wasn't lying. Most ninjas I've read about wouldn't steal cake without asking, unless it was from the enemy.

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Spike and Ali Enson by Malaika Rose Stanley

Release Date:  September 2011

Publisher:  Tamarind

144 pages, Paperback

Review copy

Children's Fiction

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Summary from Tamarind:

Bonnie baby or alien invader?

Everyone loves Spike’s baby brother, Ali. He’s so cute even the school bullies want to babysit him. But Spike isn’t so sure. Ali’s poos are bright green and his soft, brown skin looks a little scaly. Yes, there’s definitely something strange about Ali! And when Spike discovers a way to learn the truth, he begins to realise just how different his family really is…

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:
I liked it how Spike's father knits! That was nice to hear about. Spike has perfectly normal feelings about his little brother. I think he feels a bit jealous sometimes, because Spike was adopted and Ali wasn't. It was nice to hold similar views to Spike's parents about a few things - although their real identity is a huge shock to both me and Spike. The book ends on a small cliffhanger, but I think I know which choice Spike made because of the illustration on the opposite page.

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Pocket Cats: Lucky Star by Kitty Wells

Release Date:  August 2010

Publisher:  David Fickling Books

176 pages, Paperback

Review copy

Children's Fiction

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Summary from David Fickling Books:

Maddy has always wanted a cat, but now she's got something even better - three small ceramic cats which come to life and give her magical powers!

Maddy is thrilled to see Nibs again. But Nibs is NOT happy about their new problem: it involves a dog! Star is a gorgeous golden retriever, but he's sad because his glamorous owner doesn't love him. Can Maddy and Nibs find a way to make him happy?

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:
I've just finished reading this book and I nearly need a tissue. Maddy has so much fun with her cats, even though there's a bit of danger and potentially Maddy (along with her friend Rachel who knows all about the cats) could get into serious trouble. I get sad because Maddy has mixed feelings at the end of her adventures. She is happy to have sold the problem. This one was quite tricky. Nibs naturally doesn't like dogs, so has to overcome that issue. The dog in question is unloved by his owner. It's a tough thing to get someone to realise there is more to their pet than just putting them in for shows. Maddy & Nibs do succeed, using more of Maddy's special cat abilities. Nibs is quite prim, and it was horrible when she turned back into an ornament. I liked reading about her sleeping in the dolls house, with blu-tack placed so she didn't slip. It's little touches like that which add to how much fun this book is. As ever the illustrations fit perfectly with the story.

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Snow Dog by Malorie Blackman

Release Date:  September 2010

Publisher:  Corgi Pups

64 pages, Paperback

Review copy

Children's Fiction

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Summary from Corgi Pups:

“IT'S GOING TO BE WOOF-ONDERFUL!”

There is nothing Nicky wants more in the world than a dog to play with. But Mum and Dad don’t want a dog. Then Grandad has an idea – he and Nicky can make a dog: a snow-dome dog. Even better, he has some special clay, found at the end of a rainbow, so that the dog will be extra-special. Maybe even magic . . .

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

Dogs need a lot of care and attention (as shown in Pocket Cats: Lucky Star). Like many other children Nicky wants one of her own. I liked how her parents explained exactly why they couldn't have one, outline what a dog needs and why most people can't fulfil their needs. Nicky makes one with her grandad out of clay. That would make a good project for children, then they could 'have' a dog of their own which wouldn't need as much care. It wouldn't be like Harry, Nicky's dog who comes to life and Nicky can transport herself to his world where they can play together, but it would still be fun. I think this book shows how we can't always have something, but we can usually have something related to it.

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Snowy's Story by Amy Watson

Release Date:  September 2010

Publisher:  Red Fox

112 pages, Paperback

Review copy

Children's Fiction

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Summary from Red Fox:

Twins Lucy and Samuel know EXACTLY what they want for Christmas - a puppy of their own! Mum and Dad take them to Battersea Dogs Home a few days before Christmas, warning them to choose carefully - after all, a dog is for life and not just a gift to get bored of after a while.

Lucy and Samuel fall in love with a St Bernard puppy called Snowy - and he certainly lives up to his name, loving to leave pawprints in the snowy garden and help the twins build a snowman. One day, when Lucy has a fight with Samuel and storms off for a walk with Snowy, a blizzard sets in and she gets hopelessly lost. Can Snowy use his survival instincts to lead her back home?

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

This is a real feel good book. Samuel & Lucy are twins. It was realistic that they moaned as they got tired from shopping, but a few minutes later they forgot about how they felt because they saw cute little puppies. Unfortunately the puppies all had homes waiting for them, but their parents agree to a dog, as long as they get it from Battersea. Just like the other books in the series, reviewed here, Snowy's Story portrays the reality of a pet, the fun times and the not so fun times. Lucy gets a bit jealous because of the fun Samuel had with Snowy, she she decides to take off in the middle of the night with him. It wasn't a good idea, and she is in heaps of trouble when she gets back, but I had to laugh when Samuel thought her adventure was cool. There are details at the back on the process of applying for a pet with Battersea, as well as some fun puzzles (although they might need to be blown up on a photocopier).

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Little Miss Princess by Roger Hargreaves

Release Date:  March 2011

Publisher:  Egmont

34 pages, Paperback
Review copy

Children's Fiction

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Summary from Egmont:

Little Miss Princess lives in a castle with turrets and a moat. A very BIG castle. And Little Miss Princess has lots of people to do things for her. But Little Miss Princess isn’t rude and spoilt. She is a kind and generous, good hearted princess.

One day, she decides to help an injured Mr. Bump, but as you can imagine, Little Miss Princess isn't used to doing things herself, so everything doesn't quite go to plan...

A sweet and funny tale that will leave all little princesses giggling!

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

I was a huge fan of the Mr Men series when I was little, although I did want more stories about girls. My wish did start to come true with the Little Miss books. This is my favourite one to date. How cool is it to have one about a princess who is pink? (purple would have been more awesome). Little Miss Princess is a typical princess, living how you would expect a princess to live. She doesn't know much about how to do things, but she has a compassionate heart and is happiest when helping people. Unfortunately because of her inexperience when she tries to help with every day actions that most people take for granted, things go a little wrong. That doesn't matter too much because people understand that it's not her fault, and one person finds a way for Little Miss Princess to help successfully using the skills she has as a princess. This is an uplifting addition to the famous series.

One Liners: An Avid Reader and Father Time Compromise #2

"One Liners: An Avid Reader and Father Time Compromise"....is the place where my love of books meets a busy schedule and in lieu of passing up the chance to share the book with you, I'll share the book(s) read in brief; enough to pique your curiosity without over indulging. Sound good? Here goes....

Princess Poppy: The Play by Janey Louise Jones

Release Date:  March 2011

Publisher:  Picture Corgi/Random House

32 pages, Paperback

Review copy

Children's, Picture Book

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Summary from Kids at Random House:

Poppy is putting on a play in her garden! But there's so much to do - she will need tickets and costumes and actors and a story. Her best friend Honey is taking part, and so are her cousins Daisy and Edward. Everyone in the village will be there for the performance, so Poppy wants to make sure everything is just perfect. But when Poppy starts ordering everyone around, the others name her Princess Bossy Boots, and won't help her any more.

What should Poppy do to save the play?

 

 

 

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

As ever I adore the tales about the girl who loves playing princess. This time she puts on a play. Well, she tries to. She's a little madam, bosses them all around so her friends leave her on her own. It's realistic how she gets upset after, and how her mother explains her behaviour wasn't exactly princess-like. She says sorry, and then makes up & helps out. I love her mother's costume best! Lots of glitter and it's really funny. Definitely add this to your Poppy collection! 

One Liners: An Avid Reader and Father Time Compromise #1

Hi guys!  So I bet you're wondering what this post is all about, right?  It's the start of a new review type here at the site and is best explained by the title it is given.  "One Liners:  An Avid Reader and Father Time Compromise"....meaning this is the place where my love of books meets a busy schedule and in lieu of passing up the chance to share the book with you, I'll share a few of the books read in brief; enough to pique your curiosity without over indulging.  Sound good?  Here goes....

Peely Wally by Kali Stileman

Release Date:  January 2011

Publisher:  Red Fox

Paperback

Review copy

Children's, Picture book

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Summary from Red Fox via Randomhouse:

Peely Wally was a small bird who lived high up in a tree . . .

One day she laid an egg.

This is the story of Peely Wally and the adventure of her egg!

Follow the dotted line and see where the egg goes! With lots of animals to spot and talk about and a butterfly to find on each page. Don't miss the special surprise at the end!

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Nayuleska's thoughts:

This is a cute book, with vibrant colours. Best bit: when the egg wobbles - there are faded images of it all next to each other giving a suggestion of moving. I loved opening the egg at the end and seeing Peely Wally's child.

Final Rating:

10/10

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Scruffy Bear and the Six White Mice by Chris Wormell

Release Date:  January 2011

Publisher:  Randomhouse UK Juvenile

Hardback

Review copy

Children's, Picture book

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Summary from Random House Australia:

One day a small scruffy bear meets six terrified white mice; they’re scared of the dark forest and all the predatory creatures that live there, including an owl, a fox and a slithery snake… But never fear, Scruffy Bear has all kinds of ingenious ideas about how to keep them safe!

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

Mice are hunted by many in the woods, but it's a good thing they have a quick thinking bear to help them escape. Even if the bear does look like a slimmed version of Winnie-the-Pooh occasionally. Apart from the owl, the predators are scary looking. More so the snake since I'm terrified of them. I quickly covered it up with my hands so I could continue reading.

Final Rating:

8/10

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Me and You by Anthony Browne

Release Date:  October 2010

Publisher:  Farrar, Straus, and Giroux

32 pages, Hardcover

Review copy

Children's, Picture book

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Summary from Farrar, Straus, and Giroux:

A small bear goes for a stroll in the park with his parents, leaving their bowls of porridge cooling on the kitchen table. Meanwhile, a girl with golden hair is hopelessly lost in a big, frightening city when she comes across a house with the door left invitingly open. Inside are three bowls of porridge in the kitchen, three chairs in the living room, and three comfortable-looking beds upstairs, and no one seems to be home . . .

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

A non-cute version of Goldilocks. One page has graphic novel panels, the other has a large picture. Story is enjoyable, I was terrified by the bears though! So was the girl.

Final Rating:

7/10

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Morris the Mankiest Monster by Giles Andreae and Sarah McIntyre

Release Date:  January 2009

Publisher:  David Fickling Books

32 pages, Hardcover

Review Copy

Children's, Picture book

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Summary from David Fickling Books:

It’s years since he last changed his t-shirt

It’s crusty and crawling with ants

His shoes are all slurpy and squelchy inside

And potatoes grow out of his pants

Morris is sweet, charming... and completely disgusting!

Kids will absolutely LOVE him.

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

Distinctly gross monster who will appeal to children who seem to thrive on gross themes.. And yet I couldn't help but look and admire the pictures :) Not for the faint hearted, or if you're eating/plan on eating food.

Final rating:

9/10

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Molly and the Night Monster by Chris Wormell

Release Date:   January 2010

Publisher:  Red Fox

32 pages, Paperback

Review copy

Children's, Picture book

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Summary from Red Fox via Random House:

When Molly wakes up in the middle of the night, she hears the sound of a step on the stairs. It could be a crocodile creeping up to catch her . . . Or a giant giraffe outside on the landing . . . Or an enormous elephant turning the doorknob and opening the door . . . Or even a night monster come to gobble her up . . .

But when Molly surprises the tiptoeing beast, she gets an even bigger surprise of her own!

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Nayuleska's Thought:

It's supposed to help ease nightmares and Molly's imagination. I found the illustrations really scary and as a child I would have been freaked out by this book. Even if there was a hug at the end, I wasn't reassured.

Final Rating:

 4/10 (the story was good)

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One Smart Fish by Chris Wormell

Release Date:  January 2011

Publisher:  Red Fox

32 pages, Paperback

Review copy

Children's, Picture book

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Summary from Red Fox via Random House:

Long ago in the deep ocean, there lived . . . one smart fish! He wasn’t the biggest and he wasn’t the boldest, but he was the cleverest. What this smart fish wanted more than anything else was to walk upon the land.

But everyone knows that fish can’t walk . . . can they?

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

 Compared to the book above, I loved this book! It was vibrant and engaging. Some of the fish were a little scary, but it's a book that makes you think about change and evolution.

Final Rating:

7/10

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The Giant Jam Sandwich by John Vernon Lord and Janet Burrowy

Release date:  April 2009

Publisher:  Houghton Mifflin Harcourt 

32 pages, Paperback

Review copy

Children's, Picture book

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Summary from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt:

It's a dark day for Itching Down. Four million wasps have just descended on the town, and the pests are relentless! What can be done? Bap the Baker has a crazy idea that just might work . . .

Young readers will love having this lyrical, rhyming text in a new accessible format as they watch the industrious citizens of Itching Down knead, bake, and slather the biggest wasp trap there ever was!

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

Very clever story of how villagers defeat the wasps. Lots of detail to the illustrations, although they aren't my favourite style. Original book published 1972.

Final Rating:

7/10

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Sir Charlie Stinky Socks and the Really Dreadful Spell by Kristina Stephenson

Release Date:  October 2007

Publisher:  Egmont Books Ltd

32 pages, Hardcover

Review copy

Children's, picture book

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Summary from Egmont Books Ltd:

Once upon a time, there was a deep, dark forest, where monstrous trees groaned, terrible beasties moaned and wiggly woos waited to tickle your toes. Nobody ever went there until...

Sir Charlie Stinkysocks, his good grey mare and his pet cat Envelope decide the time has come for a really big adventure. Sir Charlie packs his best sword and his sandwiches and off he goes, over the hills and far away, until he gets to the deep, dark forest. Sir Charlie doesn't flinch when he meets the beasties, or the dragon, or the wily witch, but when he comes across the princess, he realises he's met his match!

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Nayuleska's Thoughts:

This has a high appeal, for stinky socks are known throughout the world as being a bit gross. It's cute that it's the socks which gets rid of the spell. I liked the egg timer on each page showing how time passed. The flaps added an extra element to the book, although sometimes it was confusing which part of the flap I had to read first.

Final Rating:

9/10

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Hope you found a few titles to add to your TBR list!  Happy reading!