Easy as Pie

Text: Cari Best

Illustrations: Melissa Sweet

Year: 2010

Publisher: Farrar Straus Giroux, New York 

Age: 3 and above

No. of Pages: 36

ISBN:  978 0 37439 929 0

This book reminded me a lot of Harvey the Baker in that it introduces children to the delights of baking.

The story takes us through the baking (and cleaning!) routine as Jacob bakes a pie for his parents’ anniversary. He’s also a fan of Chef Monty, who hosts Jacob’s favorite television show.

Chef Monty’s culinary wisdom peeks through the pages every step of the baking process. Sample this: A happy baker bakes a happy pie.

Naturally, who would contradict such delightful insights?

Excerpt

“This pie business is harder than I thought,” he worried out loud.

But only for a second, because Jacob remembered another one of Chef Monty’s rules: Don’t give up even when what you’re making doesn't look the way it’s supposed to.

Happy Birthday Santa!

Author: Gillian Rogerson

Illustrator: Ingela Peterson

Year: 2005

Publisher: Gullane Children’s Books, Great Britain

Age: 4 and above

No. of Pages: 26

ISBN: 978 1 86233 761 9

We’re all used to stories and movies about Santa bringing gifts for children. This book, though, is a rarity, in that somebody actually looks out for Santa and brings him gifts in the middle of the night.

Meet Sylvie, an elf and Rudolph , a reindeer who suddenly realize they don’t know when Santa’s birthday is. Strangely, neither do the Chief Elf nor Rudolph’s old Uncle Bert at The Reindeer Retirement Home. The duo has quite an adventure but their persistence finally pays off.

I liked this book because it's about giving gifts to Santa when it’s usually the other way around. The story ever so subtly hints at determination and persistence, qualities that our children are rarely exposed to in this 'instant' age. 

Excerpt

Sylvie and Rudolph found the Wise Old Owl getting ready for a night out.

“Excuse me, Owl,” said Sylvie. “Do you know when Santa’s birthday is?”

“No, my dear, I don’t,” said the owl.

Sylvie and Rudolph sighed. 

A Little Fairy Magic

Author: Julia Hubery

Illustrator: Alison Edgson

Year: 2011

Publisher: Little Tiger Press, London

Age: 4 and above

No. of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978-1-84895-141-9

If only I could get one of the the pages of this book as a poster for my children’s room…

This has to be one of those dream books for little girls – it’s about little Phoebe, a mouse with a fairy costume and a magic wand. And, there’s actual glitter on the pages. The kids couldn't keep their hands off the book! 

Meet Fairy Fizzwhizz (ahem! Phoebe in real life) who sets out to become a fairy now that she has a costume. She tries to fly but lands with a bump. She tries to turn a ladybird into a parrot, but then it flies away.

She finally does make her brother happy in her role as a fairy and learns that being kind and thoughtful is ‘the best fairy magic in the world.’

Excerpt

Sam opened his eyes… and saw a sparkling new mast on his pirate ship.

“You really can do magic, Fairy Fizzwhizz!’ he laughed.

“I did, I did!” squealed Phoebe, and they sailed together until Daddy called, “Ahoy there, time for tea!” 

Bears!

By Paul Stickland

For Ages: 2 and above

No. of Pages: 26

Publisher: Ragged Bears Publishing, UK

Year: 2001

ISBN: 978 1 85714 222 8

Every once in a while, one comes across a must-have book. Well, here’s a beautiful one.

Bears is a endearing story about a happy little boy who, one night, finds himself playing host to countless warm, furry bears who are ‘happy as can be’. They've apparently come for a party and soon the house is jam-packed with bears until the little boy calls his parents to help organize the astonishing gathering.

The book captures the vivid imagination of little ones with exceptional paintings that stretch from corner to corner and glow with warmth and bliss. Hues of cozy yellows and snug purples paint a picture of unique contentment with life that mostly children seem to possess. The lyrical prose simply makes this book a winner.         

Excerpt

It started out with just a few

and then their numbers grew and grew,

until you really couldn’t hide

from bears who now were here, inside. 

Oscar's Half Birthday

Author and Illustrator: Bob Graham

For Ages: 5 and above

No. of Pages: 32

Publisher: Walker Books, London

Year: 2005

ISBN: 978-0-76362-699-0

Here’s a story of sweet, little Oscar who’s just turned 6 months old. Millie, his 4-year-old sister  and his parents are excited as they look forward to celebrating his ‘half-birthday’.

The sensitive narrative could easily be a slice of life from any of our lives. The author obviously has closely observed a baby with all the tenderness that can well up only in a parental heart. Or maybe I’m wrong. It is Bob Graham, after all, an award-winning children’s author.

Check out this passage:

In the lift, Millie (Oscar’s sister) the dinosaur presses all the buttons. Bright as a Christmas tree they shine, bright as candles on a cake, glinting in Oscar’s dark eyes …

And, this sentence:

Oscar frowns up against the light – six different expressions on his face in the time it takes a leaf to fall.

Or this one:

His (Oscar’s) shoulders are hunched, his head nods and the sun shines through his ears, lighting them up like little lanterns.

The book is a treasure, not just for its heart-warming text and gentle humor but also for its breathtakingly detailed illustrations. 

My Little Pony – Pinkie Pie’s Pretty Hair Day

Text and Illustrations: Hasbro Inc.

For Ages: 2 and above

No. of Pages: 10

Publisher: Harper Collins Children’s Books, New York

Year: 2004

ISBN: 978-0-68987-495-6

The delightful and charming TV series My Little Pony is now here, in a book.

The first thing that jumps out at you is Pinkie Pie’s little lock of pink hair (nylon, of course) with silvery streaks set into an indentation that runs through all the pages. And yes, you guessed it! This is a story of a pre-party crisis where Pinkie Pie simply cannot decide how to wear her hair. Each of her friends suggests a hair style (that the children can try too) – braids, fluffed, smooth and straight until Wysteria gets an idea.

Excerpt

Rainbow Dash said, “I can help you, Pinkie Pie!”

She took out the braids and fluffed Pinkie Pie’s hair.

Fluff, fluff, fluff!

Pinkie Pie’s hair was standing out and sticking up!

“It’s beautiful!” cried Rainbow Dash. Pinkie Pie wasn’t sure she agreed.

Paddington at the Palace

Author: Michael Bond

Illustrator: R. W. Alley

For Ages: 4 and above

No. of Pages: 24

Publisher: Harper Collins, UK

Year: 1986

And here’s adorable Paddington again – this time on a visit to the Palace.

It’s a beautiful day when Paddington and Mr. Gruber set out to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Unfortunately, the bear has a bad time in the crowd and ends up missing the parade. Just when all seems glum, a man in a bowler hat asks the policeman at the gate to let them in so Paddington can get a proper photograph!

Then they know, someone in the Palace likes bears and has let them in.

Excerpt

“Look,” said a small boy, pointing at Paddington. “One of the soldiers has dropped his hat.”

“It’s what they call a busby, dear,” said his mother.

Paddington jumped to his feet. “I’m not a busby,” he cried. “I’m a bear!”

Happy 4th of July, Jenny Sweeney!

Author: Leslie Kimmelman

Illustrator: Nancy Cote

For Ages: 4 and above

No. of Pages: 32

Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company, USA

Year: 2003

ISBN: 978-0-80753-152-5

Here's a patriotic book for little hearts!

The book features an all-color snapshot of 4^th of July celebrations in an unnamed town. Each page describes different people, from Baby Lily to Mr. Jonas, a veteran and their preparations for this national holiday honoring USA’s birthday – all of it in rhyme. There's also a dog, Rags, who weaves in and out of every one's homes. 

Excerpt

Lisa practices her twirling.

Luis salutes the flag unfurling.

Mr. Jonas finds his cap.

Baby Lily takes a nap.

Mayor Swanson writes her speech.

Rags keeps running out of reach. 

PC Polly - Little Workmates

Author: Mandy Ross

Illustrator: Emma Dodd

Year: 2001

Publisher: Ladybird Books, London

Age: 4 and above

No. of Pages:  24

ISBN: 978 0 72142 168 7

The Little Workmates Series is a delightfully creative way to introduce children to the various people engaged in different professions and how they impact our lives. 

It is Story Town Show day and PC Polly has a busy day ahead of her. She has two cases to solve – a missing dog and a lost package of sausages.

She finds Barker, the dog who, in turn, sniffs his way to the misplaced sausages and is rewarded for her efforts with prize-winning sausages for her tea.

Other books in the Little Workmates Series:

•  Builder Bill      
• Doctor Daisy
• Farmer Fred
• Fireman Fergus
• Footballer Fabio
• Hairdresser Hannah
• Nurse Nancy
• Postman Pete  
• Queen Clara
• Teacher Tina
• Truckdriver Tom
• Vet Vicky

       

Excerpt

Sniff … sniff…sniff… went Barker, his nose to the ground.

“He must be following a trail!” puffed PC Polly, grabbing Barker’s lead.

Sniff … sniff…sniff… went Barker, through the town square and into the park.

“Barker! STOP! Gasped PC Polly, running along behind. 

Don’t Wake the Bear, Hare!

Text: Steve Smallman

Illustrator: Caroline Pedler

Year: 2010

Publisher: Little Tiger Press, London

Age: 3 and above

No. of Pages: 28

ISBN: 978 1 84895 032 0

Here’s another adorable grumpy bear story. :-) (One of my favorites - Gruff the Grump.)

All the little animals of the forest are getting ready for Spring Party Day. They include badger, fox, hare, mice and the ants too!

They tiptoe around and organize the party very quietly so as to not disturb the hibernating bear. If he does wake up, he’s going to be very hungry and grumpy.

Best of all, this story is told in catchy, rhyming verse with illustrations that are witty and colorful. And, oh yes, there are plenty of opportunities for your little ones to engage in sounds – grr… humph… zzzzz…:-)

Excerpt

The lanterns were carefully hung in the trees.

The mice tied up ribbons that danced on the breeze.

They brought in the very last blueberry tart

And their party was now almost ready to start!

Milly, Molly and Grandpa’s Oak Tree

Author: Gill Pittar

Illustrator: Cris Morrell

Year: 2001

Publisher: Milly Molly Books, New Zealand

Age: 4 and above

No. of Pages: 24

ISBN: 978-1-87729-705-4

I love the way Milly and Molly books introduce a wide range of topics to children including sensitive issues like the death of loved ones. And, this has to be the most touching book I've read in the series.

Milly and Molly love Grandpa and Granny Peg. They are almost 100 years old and the center of their homestead is a grand old oak tree. It’s also time to bid goodbye to their loved ones.

Even though the story is about the passing away of beloved grandparents, the author deftly weaves in the story of the great oak tree to remind Milly and Molly of hope, the goodness of people they love and true love that endures and is passed on from generation to generation. 

Excerpt

Grandpa  and Granny Peg belonged to everyone. Everyone had enjoyed a pot of strawberry jam from Granny Peg’s pantry.

And everyone’s woodshed had been given a barrow of Grandpa’s firewood during moments of hardship.

Everyone, especially Milly and Molly, loved Grandpa and Granny Peg. 

Tilly’s Holiday

Author: Nadine Walter

Illustrator: Marjolein Pottie, Wikipedia

Year: 2005

Publisher: Myriad Books Ltd., London

Age: 5 and above

No. of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978 1 84746 113 1

Tilly the fly is bored and decides to go on a holiday against the advice of her friends. She seems to have an answer for every obstacle on the way to the holiday.

After some misadventures, including landing in a cowpat and later into a dog’s soup bowl, Tilly finds friends and a place to be.

Excerpt

The ball of wool suddenly bounces up and spits at her.

“Hisss! Hisss!” It’s a cat!

A big ginger cat with twitching whiskers.

“Oh no!” Tilly says as she is knocked on to the sitting room carpet. 

Baby Brains Superstar

Author and Illustrator: Simon James

Year: 2005

Publisher: Walker Books, London

Age: 4 and above

No. of Pages: 30

ISBN: 978-1-4063-0202-8

Baby Brains is a genius, who can sing and play like a maestro. He finishes music school in just two weeks and finds fame through a local talent contest.

He gets to be the opening act at the biggest open air music concert of all time. He writes a special, new song, gets a special rock-and-roll costume and his hair styled.

At the concert, is the twist in the tale!

Excerpt

At nine o’clock Baby Brains was flown by helicopter to the stadium and then lowered down on to the stage.

Two hundred thousand fans cheered for Baby Brains.

Everyone watched as he plugged in his guitar.

Baby Brains looked up at the thousands of people sitting in the stadium.

Baby Bear’s Birthday Hiccups

Author: Penny Little

Illustrator: Lara Jones

Year: 2008

Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books, London

Age: 3 and above

No. of Pages: 32

ISBN: 978-0-230-53176-5

Little Baby Bear’s birthday party is almost over when he’s suddenly hit with a bad case of hiccups.

There follows a series of well-intended remedies. Mummy Bear rubs his tummy, Little Leopard tickles him, Little Hippo gets him to hold his breath and more.

Finally, it’s time for bed and that's when the perfect hiccup cure arrives.

Excerpt

“What you need is to calm down,: said Nanny Giraffe softly.

“And Nanny Giraffe’s kisses are the cure for hiccups.”

She bent down low and gave Baby Bear …

One

Two

Three big kisses!

“All gone?” soothed Nanny Giraffe.

“Hic!” went Baby Bear.

Little Fairy Can’t Sleep

By Daniela Drescher

Year: 2007

Publisher: Floris Books, UK

Age: 6 and above

No. of Pages: 20

ISBN: 978-0-86315-825-4

This bedtime storybook is enchanting. The story, the words, the paintings – all of them weave that perfect magical moment where one feels tender happiness and warm camaraderie.

Faith, the little fairy can’t get to sleep because there’s magic in the air. She wanders through the night in search of the magic which happens to be a midsummer night’s party.

Excerpt

The crickets were chirping loudly, the fireflies were flickering brightly, and the full moon smiled down on Faith’s bed of flowers.

It was impossible to sleep. There was rustling, crackling and crunching all around … and magic was in the air.

What was going on? The little fairy got up and flew off into the night.