Children's Choices 2009 (continued)
Young Readers (Grades 3–4)Babymouse #8: Puppy LoveJennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm. New York: Random House Children's Books. Babymouse has had her challenges with pets, but she is certain getting a dog will be different. Pet owners and other readers will laugh themselves silly with her rationalization and side comments about owning a pet. The graphic novel format in this book works well for beginning readers who are in transition to chapter books. The book naturally generates many pet stories, too. (Team 4) Babymouse #9: Monster MashJennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm. New York: Random House Children's Books. This book, in the popular Babymouse series, takes place prior to and during Halloween. In this episode, Babymouse feels forced to give into some bullies who expect her to do as they tell her—a situation that many children find familiar. The graphic format of this book series is attractive to reluctant readers. It is a good book for discussing bully behavior and alternative ways of problem solving when faced with bad situations. (Team 4) The Big Little Book of Happy SadnessColin Thompson. La Jolla, CA: Kane/Miller Book Publishers. The detailed illustrations and story involving a three-legged dog, a boy, and his grandmother lead to an understanding of what is important in life—a sense of belonging. (Team 3) Boys of Steel: The Creators of SupermanMarc Tyler Nobleman. Ill. Ross MacDonald. New York: Alfred A. Knopf. This fascinating biography chronicles the events before and after the creation of Superman comics. One lesson the creators of Superman convey to young people in this book is getting legal advice before you sell rights to the characters you create. The book serves as an inspiration for young authors and illustrators and as a starting point for a discussion on plagiarism and copyright issues. (Team 4) Car Science: An Under-the-Hood, Behind-the-Dash Look at How Cars WorkRichard Hammond. New York: DK Publishing. Get ready to create a waiting list for this fascinating nonfiction book on cars that attracts boys like a candy store. From auto parts to driving and everything in between, this book is great for inspiring boys and reluctant readers. The book generates some timely discussion on an industry that is in serious financial trouble. (Team 4) Dr. Frankenstein's Human Body BookRichard Walker. New York: DK Publishing. In this book, the reader becomes the assistant to Dr. Frankenstein, helping to create a human being. Interesting photos and illustrations show how the body works, and the well-written text adds to the importance of this book. (Team 1) Easy Earth-Friendly Crafts in 5 StepsAnna Llimos. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow Publishers. Children can easily follow the five-step directions and colorful photographs in this book as they transform everyday objects such as cardboard juice containers and egg cartons into crafty hippos, helicopters, and more. (Team 2) Florida Panthers: Struggle for SurvivalWilliam Caper. New York: Bearport Publishing. The Florida Panther is considered one of the most endangered animals in the world. This informational book explains their struggle for survival through meaningful text and striking color photos. (Team 3) How Strong Is It? A Mighty Book All About StrengthBen Hillman. New York: Scholastic Reference. This nonfiction book features amazing digital images and compares the strength of 22 different objects or animals, included such wonders as hair strength, a shark bite, a martial arts kick, glue, an icebreaker and many more. From math to science, this book offers possibilities and projections for science projects, math extrapolations, and discussion about the popular television show, MythBusters. (Team 4) How to Speak Cat!Sarah Whitehead. New York: Scholastic Reference. Young readers of this book can find answers about adopting, growing up with, and living with a cat. Bright photos and interesting text add to the value of this book—a fun read for the cat owner and the soon-to-be cat owner alike. (Team 1) How to Speak Dog!Sarah Whitehead. New York: Scholastic Reference. This is a must-read for every child who owns a dog. Colorful photographs, dog facts, top tips, quick quizzes, step-by-step directions, and checklists engage the reader in learning all about caring for their favorite canine. (Team 2) I, VivaldiJanice Shefelman. Ill. Tom Shefelman. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers. In this story, readers are taught about Antonio Vivaldi by Antonio Vivaldi. The biography starts from his birth. The illustrations along with the text tell the story of the famous classical musician who lived and wrote in Venice. (Team 1) Magic Tree House #40: Eve of the Emperor PenguinMary Pope Osborne. Ill. Sal Murdocca. New York: Random House Children's Books. Readers of this book are magically taken to Antarctica and learn about the majestic penguins and the search for the secrets that are needed to return to Camelot. Reality, fiction, and fantasy keep the reader engaged. (Team 1) Manny Ramirez and the Boston Red Sox: 2004 World SeriesMichael Sandler. New York: Bearport Publishing. The perfect story for the young sports enthusiast, this book touches on ethnic pride and talent. It is filled with action photos and good, strong text that will encourage boys to read. (Team 1)
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