Thursday, August 30, 2012

Book Reviews: Children's Books; Zoe gets Ready / The Very Fairy Princess / Because Your Mommy Loves You

One of my most favorite things to do is read books with my kids. There's just something magical, and special about spending time with my kids while reading a great story. Below you'll find a few reviews for some of this year's children's book releases that I've enjoyed spending time reading with my kids.



Published by: Arthur A. Levine Books / Scholastic
Released on: May 1st, 2012
Ages: 4 & up
Source: book from publisher to review
5 stars: We Loved It!
Purchase from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

A story where getting dressed inspires big dreams!Each day is full of possibilities, and Zoe wants to be ready for everything this one might bring. But that makes getting dressed really, really hard! If it's a twirling day, she'll need to wear the purple skirt. But if it's a cartwheeling day, she'll want the polka-dot tights. Or it might be a hiding day, perfect for the flower crown that will help her blend into the garden . . . or a flying day, which demands butterfly wings! As the clothes pile up and Mama tells her it's time to go, there's only one way Zoe can be sure she's prepared for all the adventures ahead -- a solution that will have parents laughing in recognition and kids nodding in satisfaction. ZOE GETS READY is perfect for all those little girls who wouldn't have things any other way. -quoted from Goodreads

What a fabulous children's book. My daughter and I really enjoyed reading this one. Not only was the story engaging for her, but it's one she related to. Zoe and my daughter seemed to have a lot in common, as like Zoe my daughter really enjoys trying on various outfits through out the day, and has a hard time trying to decide which outfit is perfect for the day's activities. In the story, each outfit Zoe chooses/tries on goes along with what she wants to do that day. She tries on several outfits until her mom finally yells for Zoe to be done, which is very similar to what it's like in our home. The cute storyline and equally adorable illustrations make this one a must have. Plus who can resist a book with pink and a little dusting of glitter on it on it's cover?!


Published by: Little Brown
Released on: April 17th, 2012
Ages: 4 & up
Source: book from publisher to review
4 stars: We Enjoyed It
Purchase from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Gerry is asked to be the flower girl in Aunt Sue's wedding, and she couldn't be more excited. Her imagination runs wild with thoughts of extravagant decorations, a billowy white gown, and hundreds of guests. When she finds out the bride prefers a small celebration, Gerry can't help but be disappointed... but she soon realizes that having the wedding in her own backyard will let her put her creative stamp on everything. Even when disaster strikes in the form of rain on the big day, Gerry finds a way to bring sunshine to the party, reminding everyone that the most important thing at a wedding is the most special sparkle of all - happiness and love. Christine Davenier's whimsically elegant illustrations include lush garden scenes and plenty of wedding flowers in this spirited follow-up to The Very Fairy Princess and The Very Fairy Princess Takes the Stage from the renowned mother-daughter team. -quoted from Goodreads


My daughter loves The Fairy Princess books, and really enjoyed this, though not quite as much as the others. It's still a cute story, and one she likes having read to her. In this particular book Gerry wants to make everything perfect for her Aunt's wedding. What could be more exciting for a Princess than to help with a wedding that will be in her own backyard. Despite not everything going as planned, Gerry still brings a bit of sunshine to what could have turned out to be a dreary day. Cute story and great illustrations. I think fans of this series will enjoy this one.


Illustrated by: R.W. Alley
Published by: Clarion Books
Released on: April 3rd, 2012
Ages: 4 & up
Source: book from publisher to review
3 stars: It's A Good Read
Purchase from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

When a little boy and his mom go camping, mini-disasters abound, and there are
lots of opportunities for Mom to step in and fix everything. But instead, with a loving
touch, this mommy shows her child ways to do things for himself, going far to encourage
her child’s independence. And there is still plenty of opportunity for snuggling
under the stars.
This warm and humorous testament to all the loving things a supportive mom does
each day is every bit as heartwarming as its predecessor and is sure to become a favorite
for families everywhere -quoted from Goodreads


This story puts a different spin on showing how this mother loves her son. Instead of doing certain things for her son while preparing and then going on a campout out together, this mom helps her son do things. This not only teaches him to do things on his own, but it gives him a sense of empowerment. I liked seeing that part of showing a mom's love for her child. I'll admit, at first I wanted to see the type of love I'm used to reading about in a children's book. You know the one where the mother runs to her child who's lost and calling out her name and hugs him. On the flip side, I liked what the author was doing, and in showing that a mother's love for her child also comes in the form of her teaching them, and helping them to do things for themselves. The illustrations in this book are adorable!
I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves. ~ Anna Quindlen

Good children's literature appeals not only to
the child in the adult, but to the adult in the child.
~ Anonymous ~