March 2011 Book Reviews


andreaohtheplacesDr. Seuss’s Oh the Places You’ll Go Pop-Up

By: David a Carter

March 2nd marks the birthday of one of the greatest children’s book authors of all time. Many libraries and book stores dedicate displays to the man who created silly rhymes and worlds which captivate young readers.  This 20th anniversary edition of Oh the Places You’ll Go takes the traditional graduation gift to new dimensions.  A must have for any Dr. Seuss fanatic or pop-up collector, this pop-up will please many generations of Seuss readers.

andreafinnFinn McCool and the Great Fish

By: Eve Bunting

Bunting, a prolific and renowned children’s book author, grew up in Ireland which makes her an excellent storyteller for this Irish folktale.  Finn McCool, a lovable giant, longs to gain wisdom by catching a great fish.  While things do not go exactly to plan, Finn learns an important lesson about himself.  The book is a great way to share a traditional Irish tale without depending on leprechauns or shamrocks.

andreaspringSpring is here!

By: Will Hillenbrand

Once spring arrives, Mole can hardly wait to wake up his friend Bear.  However, the task is harder than he imagines.  Through various sounds and actions Mole, and the audience, attempt to wake up bear.  Finally, by milking, churning and mixing Mole wakes up his friend.  The repetition of the text and actions described make this book an excellent story to share and celebrate the coming of spring.

andrealionlambIn Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb

By: Marion Bauer

An expansion of the well known simile, this poem gives life to the month of March.  From a roaring and scratching lion to a flower spreading lamb, the book beautifully depicts the transitioning weather and moods without being too serious. Bauer, a Newberry Honor award author, is well paired with Caldecott winning illustrator Emily McCully.