Hi giggle readers! Remember when I said that there were so many new books in our Books and Media area that I couldn’t fit them all in one installment? Well, here’s “volume 2!”
Do you have a little guy or gal who is just fascinated by machinery or transportation? Is your new BFF “Bob the Builder?” If you answered, “yes”, then you’ll want to pick up a copy of Hard at Work, or On the Go, by Ant Parker. These simple, colorful (and wipe-able!) books are perfect for toddlers with a penchant for all things that excavate, move and make noise. With clever captions and simple text, your kids will definitely “dig” them!
Did you think Jamie Lee Curtis was only good at selling Activia yogurt? Well, think again. She’s also an excellent and prolific writer of children’s books. Along with her collaborator/illustrator, Laura Cornell, she has created a beautiful series of books that cover such diverse topics as building self-esteem, coping with moods, developing a good vocabulary, and treating others with respect. Check out Big Words for Little People,. Today I Feel Silly, I’m Gonna Like Me, and Is there Really a Human Race. All titles, except the last, are written for ages 4-8, and the latter is geared to ages 0 and up. So, put down that yogurt and come on over!
Now, it’s easier than ever to be green with our new collection of eco-friendly books. Animals Everywhere by Lilian Pluta, and The Five Senses by Leslie Bockol, are two short and sweet tales about the animal world and our senses. Both are written in simple rhyme schemes that will engage a toddler/early reader. Little Helpers, also by Lilian Pluta is written for a slightly older child, (4-5 yrs.) All focus on the importance of caring for our world. The books are made of 98% recycled materials and use only eco-friendly inks. There’s even a section in the back of the books for parents and children that includes helpful tips on being eco-responsible citizens. And at $6.99, you’ll save some green too.
While we’re on the subject of animals, don’t miss The Jungle Grapevine, by Alex Beard. This book is gorgeous!! Mr. Beard has travelled extensively throughout Africa, illustrating the wildlife he encountered, and they are the inspiration for this charming book. As you might guess, Jungle Grapevine’s main characters are the animals, and the book is a humorous, cautionary tale about the perils of spreading rumors in the African Jungle. Older children will enjoy the story, (a combination of Chicken Little and If you Give a Moose a Muffin) as well as the detailed illustrations.
Last, but certainly not least, are two new “floating books” from Soft Shapes. Counting and Colors, are two great ways to keep your little one engaged in and out of the bath…
Now that we’ve given you some great choices for your children’s eyes, what about something for their ears? Dan Zane can take care of that! At giggle by popular demand, are Dan Zane’s cheerful and exuberant cd’s: Dan Zane & Friends, Houseparty and 76 Trombones. Whichever title you choose, Dan and his band (some celebrity guests, as well!) will have your entire family tapping, clapping, and dancing to his contagious beats.
So, what are you waiting for? Beat a path to giggle, and check out all our terrific titles. If you come on Tuesdays at 4:00 pm, stay for story-time, too. Hope to see you there!
September 1, 2010
