Storybook Saturday... WHERE ARE YOU, BRONTË? written by Tomie dePaola, Illustrated by Barbara McClintock - REVIEW!

We're celebrating another day of bookish fun with Storybook Saturday! For those not up to speed on the post, I read a lot of great storybooks and thought, why not give them their own day in the sun. Hence, Storybook Sunday (or Saturday, depending on the week)! Feel free to join the fun and create a post on your own site with the same name. I'd love to see any linked up in the comments! Anywho...back to the matter at hand.

Today's featured title is celebrating its BOOK BIRTHDAY THIS TUESDAY (May 6th, 2025) via Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.  It's beautiful, it's touching, it's something that will pull at the heartstrings of readers while its message transcends generations.  It's the final work of a beloved author, and a touching tribute to a beloved friend.  Ladies and gents, I give you today's book of choice...

WHERE ARE YOU, BRONTË? 

by

Tomie dePaola

Illustrated by

Barbara McClintock

9781534418509

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

RELEASE DATE:  May 6th, 2025

This illustrated work of the heart not only shares the timeless characters of a talent that has passed, but the true depths of love that are felt, and the endless connection of spirit that exists between family.  I read this story immediately when it arrived, and just as immediately was in tears.  The warm feelings and simplicity bring joy to my heart, but the beauty and message of love continuing on stole my breath.  I was so moved, I couldn't even begin to share anything about the book at the time, and, quite frankly, am having a hard time right now with the same after rereading it.  

That's the thing about our fur babies.  They steal their way into our hearts one look, one lick, one moment of cuteness, mischief, or sweetness at a time.  Sadly, over the course of my own life, I've had to experience that separation more times than I care to count, and yet for all the tears it brings at a moment's notice, I wouldn't trade the time shared nor the memories for the world.  The loss is felt every day in the strangest of ways and moments, but the smiles, laughs, snuggles, and wiggles are priceless.  There's a saying I saw somewhere in all the social media hullabaloo, and while there are many memorable ones, this particular one stuck with me.

"To the world, you may be just one person...

...but to your dog, you are the world."

Honestly, I feel the same way about my fur kiddos.  They are the world, and I'd do anything for them...and, in my opinion, that's just how it should be.  This story shares the joy of the initial meeting, the fun moments while getting to know one another, the understanding needed in later years, the moment no one wants to consider, as well as those that come after and how to carry one.  For pet lovers at large, and trying to explain this sadly inevitable part of life to little ones, this story serves more than its purpose by adding more beauty, and tenderness to the world.  The tale will move you, while the illustrations enchant.  Keep an eye out for familiar faces from the past during the dinner party.

💖💔💖💔💖💔💖💔💖

About the author...

Photograph © Laurent Linn

Tomie dePaola (1934–2020) was the beloved author and/or illustrator of more than 270 books for young readers, including the children’s classic Strega Nona. He was the recipient of the Newbery Honor, Caldecott Honor, and the 2011 Children’s Literature Legacy Award for “significant and lasting contribution to children’s literature.” A native of Connecticut, Mr. dePaola studied at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, and spent much of his life in New London, New Hampshire. Visit his work online at Tomie.com.

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About the illustrator...

Barbara McClintock is an American illustrator and author of over forty books for children. Her books have received numerous awards and selections, including five New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book Awards, four ALA Notable Book selections, a Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor Award, a China Times Open Book Award, and a British Fantasy Award. One of her books is a bestselling title in Japan. She has lectured about her work nationally and internationally and is currently teaching classes on creating children’s books at Wesleyan University. Originally from New Jersey and North Dakota, she now resides in northeastern Connecticut with her partner, the illustrator David Johnson, and their three overly helpful cats.

💖💔💖💔💖💔💖💔💖

Special thanks to Alex at Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing for the copy for review (THANKS!). For more information on this title, the author, the illustrator, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title is set to release THIS TUESDAY May 6th, 2025, so mark your calendar or pre-order your copy today! SPECIAL NOTE FOR THOSE IN THE NYC AREA...Barbara McClintock will also be celebrating the book’s publication at a public, in-store launch event at NYC’s Books of Wonder on May 5.

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

Storybook Saturday: PATSY CLINE'S WALKIN' AFTER MIDNIGHT by Judith A. Proffer with Julie Dick Fudge, Ilustrated by Yoko Matsuoka - REVIEW!

We're celebrating another day of bookish fun with Storybook Saturday! For those not up to speed on the post, I read a lot of great storybooks and thought, why not give them their own day in the sun. Hence, Storybook Sunday (or Saturday, depending on the week)! Feel free to join the fun and create a post on your own site with the same name. I'd love to see any linked up in the comments! Anywho...back to the matter at hand.

Today's featured title is a matter of edutainment.  It's part truth, and part imagination, but the sum of its parts creates a wonderful tale to go walking through at any hour of the day.  😉  Brought to my attention by the team at Book Publicity Services, I'm donning my boots, and grabbing a hat (not a cowgirl style because I simply don't own one!), as we prepare to step between the pages of today's featured title...

Patsy Cline's Walkin' After Midnight

by

Judith A. Proffer with Julie Dick Fudge

Illustrated by

Yoko Matsuoka

978869355591

Meteor 17 Books

About the book...

Patsy has a big voice and a big heart - and she longs to share both with the world.

Whether she's fizzing sodas in a soda shop or piddling in the garden, Patsy daydreams of one day singing onstage at Carnegie Hall and The Grand Ole Opry. She muses about performing in Las Vegas - as the first female singer to headline her own show. She also dreams of hearing herself sing on the radio and even daydreams of having her own museum.

Patsy's sleep dreams are also filled with adventure and blazing color.

But Patsy's favorite dreams of all are her walking after midnight dreams - she calls it dream walking. She knows she's sleeping and yet it all seems so very, very real. It's when life and loss entwine and comfort. It's where imagination and possibilities come together with surprising encounters.

🎵   🌙   🤠   🎵   🤠   🌙   🎵

Filled with darling illustrations that not only bring Patsy's world to life, but invite readers to embark on their own "walks after midnight" (dreams), this is both a story and a piece of country music edutainment.  It shares the story of a little girl with BIG dreams that would carry her all the way to the big stages she so desperately wanted to perform on, and leave a legacy that is still celebrated to this day.  It reminds us that inspiration can come from anywhere, and dreams are the perfect place to explore all the possibilities that exist.  I admit, I wasn't expecting the tinge of sadness that hit my heart when we learned of Patsy's own dream walks after midnight, but the joy those moments brought her, the places she and Pepe saw, the dreams they shared, all went into making memories that she could pull out at a moment's notice when she needed a pick me up during the day.  Who knew that dream walking after midnight, and a whole lot of patience, would one day lead to the creation of a star the likes of which the music world would never forget?

The marriage of story and art creates an impeccable experience visually, and a memorable tale to read and share.  I've got to say, there are times when a story calls to me in a specific way, and this one practically begged to be read aloud with a Southern twang...and yes, I obliged.  It just added that little something extra that captured not only the imagination, but the heart as well.  A great pick for little dreamers as well as those looking to pick up the dreams they may have scattered along the way, I can see many generations taking that walk with Patsy, and walking away with a lighter heart.

🎵   🌙   🤠   🎵   🤠   🌙   🎵

Special thanks to Book Publicity Services for the chance to bring this title to you as well as the copy for review.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title, the authors, illustrators, or publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above.  This title is available now wherever books are sold.

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

STORYBOOK SATURDAY: The Christmas Owl by Ellen Kalish & Gideon Sterer - REVIEW!

Hi guys and gals!

Happy holidays and welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

We're celebrating another day of bookish fun with Storybook Saturday...the holiday edition! For those not up to speed on the post, I read a lot of great storybooks and thought, why not give them their own day in the sun. Hence, Storybook Saturday and/or Sunday! It crops up from time to time when the feeling is right and boy does this one ever!  Feel free to join the fun and create a post on your own site with the same name. I'd love to see any linked up in the comments! Anywho...back to the matter at hand.

Today's selection came to my attention via Wunderkind PR.  It was a Storybook released this October that tells the tale of a little owl that found his home suddenly mobile, becoming the center of attention and holiday cheer in our very own New York City.  Ring a bell?  Okay, sad to say, it didn't for me (was I under a rock?!), but apparently it all played out LAST YEAR because this GORGEOUSLY ILLUSTRATED storybook is based on the TRUE STORY of none other than a little owl appropriately dubbed, Rockefeller.  So, sit back, get cozy, and prepare to be entertained, delighted, and educated, as we explore today's holiday title in the spotlight and book of choice...

The Christmas Owl

by

Ellen Kalish & Gideon Sterer

Illustrated by

Ramona Kaulitzki

9780316299121

Little Brown Books for Young Readers

About the book...

A New York Times bestseller! Experience the beautiful story that captivated the country about a little owl found in the world's most famous Christmas tree. When Little Owl’s home is cut down by people saying it will make a beautiful Christmas tree, she’s not sure she wants anything to do with Christmas, whatever that means. But then she is saved by a woman named Ellen, whose house is merrily decorated for the holiday, and filled with birds who need someone to care for them. Surrounded by kindness and helpful new friends, Little Owl begins to wonder if Christmas might not be such a bad thing after all….

Co-written by Ellen Kalish, caretaker of the real owl found inside the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, The Christmas Owl is a charming story of friendship, compassion, and the true meaning of this special time of year

🌲     🦉      🎄     🦉     🌲

This is a BEAUTIFUL book, in both story and images, that shares a tale of unexpected adventure, holiday spirit, and the kindness of strangers.  

Our little owl friend wasn't expecting to go to sleep one night and wake up to a road trip far from home, nor was she to know that the holiday her and her animal friends were contemplating was about to be revealed in all its splendid magical glory.  She'd come to understand Christmas just THAT much more as she journeys from woodlands to city to rehabilitation center and back home once again.  With her new moniker that would forever earmark her story in our hearts, Rocky was returned to where she belonged thanks to the help of perfect strangers turned newly made friends that saw an animal in need an made it their mission to help her.  

If the story itself wasn't enough to bring a gleam to your eye, the illustrator does a wonderful job of visually bringing the story to life.  Page after page of woodland beauty, cityscapes, and that gloriously lit up Rockefeller tree, not to mention our little Rocky herself, appear right before you eyes as the tale unfolds, bringing you to the touching conclusion AND your chance to explore the full real life story on your own!  That's right.  At book's end, it includes a section that details Rocky's story with real life pictures of her fluffy feathered self, and a bit about the Ravensbeard Wildlife Center that helped our young owl friend recover fully in order to return to her wilderness friends.

All in all, it's a wonderful chance to indulge both your fiction and your nonfiction sides this holiday season, while sharing that love of reading with even the youngest amongst your family and friends.  It imparts beautiful messages that touch the heart, while perhaps also sparking that interest in wildlife recovery in the next generation for further exploration off the written page.

🌲     🦉      🎄     🦉     🌲

Rocky's Official Ornament

(all proceeds go to the Ravenbeard Wildlife Center)

🌲     🦉      🎄     🦉     🌲

About the authors and illustrator....

Ellen Kalish is the Executive Director of Ravensbeard Wildlife Center, a rehabilitation and educational center that focuses on rescue and release for wild birds. She served on the board for the New York State Wildlife Rehabilitation Council, and is the recipient of the William R. Ginsberg Stewardship Award from the Woodstock Land Conservancy and the Appreciation Award from the Catskill Exotic Bird Club. She invites you to visit her online at ravensbeard.org.

Gideon Sterer is the author of From Ed’s to Ned’s, Not Your Nest!, The Night Knights, and The Midnight Fair, among others. Gideon grew up in the woods of upstate New York where his parents owned a little zoo, in which he would run around after-hours and let the animals out. He now lives in the Hudson Valley and invites you to visit him online at gideonsterer.com and @gideonsterer.

Ramona Kaulitzki is the illustrator of the #1 New York Times bestseller Sisters First, as well as Wonderful You, Badger’s Perfect Garden, and several others. She enjoys creating characters and breathing life into them while imagining the worlds in which they live, and her love of animals and nature is a major inspiration for her work. She invites you to visit her online at ramonakaulitzkiart.com and @ramonakaulitzki.

🌲     🦉      🎄     🦉     🌲

Special thanks to Elena and Evalyn of the Wunderkind PR team for the chance to bring this to you and to Little Brown Books for Young Readers for the copy for review.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title, the authors, the illustrator, Ravensbeard Wildlife Center, or Rocky herself, feel free to click through the links provided above.  This title is available now for your reading and gifting pleasure, so stop by your local brick and mortar, or order your copy online today!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

STORYBOOK SATURDAY: Beautifully Different by Dana Salim

Hi guys and gals!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

We're celebrating another day of bookish fun with Storybook Saturday! For those not up to speed on the post, I read a lot of great storybooks and thought, why not give them their own day in the sun. Hence, Storybook Sunday (or Saturday, depending on the week...and since Easter is tomorrow...)! Feel free to join the fun and create a post on your own site with the same name. I'd love to see any linked up in the comments! Anywho...back to the matter at hand.

Today's selection is an ebook offering via DS Publishing.  It stars a Picture Book adventure series of which this particular installment aims to celebrate YOU...that is the collective you, meaning EACH OF YOU, in all your different shapes, colors, backgrounds, and what not.  Sound interesting?  Then what are we waiting for?  Let's DO this!  Today's Picture Book of choice is...

Yousuf's Everyday Adventures
Beautifully Different
by
Dana Salim
DS Publishing, LLC
9780996304511

Here we have a beautifully illustrated book with a creative story that celebrates the beauty to be found in a world full of differences.  Young Yousuf is a marvelous little kiddo and his question, let alone feelings towards it, are greater than his years.  The Time Travel game that he and his Dad play was not only precious but a learning experience.  Between the rhymes and word play, Dad guides Yousuf in the making of his make believe world, but leaves the actual creating and decision making to Yousuf. Like when he and Captain Baboon needed help to escape some dangerous waters,  or when he realizes the beautiful flowers he found were being choked by the weeds and had to find a way to rescue them all so they could share their individual beauty, thus answering his initial question about being different.  Yousuf's innocent journey through a sometimes hard learned lesson was a joy to be hold as were the colorful illustrations that bedecked every page.

In the end, I enjoyed spending time with Yousuf and can see kiddos far and wide joining in his adventures both in a classroom setting, during story time at home, or as a bit of bedtime reading.  It reminds readers that being different is not only okay, but BEAUTIFUL...besides, how boring of a world would it be if we were all the same?  Exactly.  The final page of the book is dedicated to a 'Did You Know?' filled with messages to take to heart from not only the author herself but a few well known humanitarians.  My favorite among them...

"I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot;  together we can do great things."
-- Mother Teresa

Something to think about...




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About the author...

Dana Salim loves singing silly songs, standing in the breeze and eating chocolate cake. But most of all she loves spending time with her son, Yousuf, and her husband. From row-boating, walking on frozen lakes, hiking to caves and waterfalls, to reading new books and learning new things; everyday holds an exciting adventure for the family!

Her first children's book "Dreamland with Mommy” is the first book in the series "Yousuf's Everyday Adventures". The second book "Beautifully Different" will be coming out April 2017. (So stay tuned!)

Dana's childhood adventures were split between Amman, Jordan and Vancouver, Canada. She finished Industrial Engineering at the University of Jordan before moving to Ohio, which was home for four awesome years. And now she resides in McAllen, Texas where she is always on the lookout for new adventures with her family.

Dana founded DS Publishing, LLC with her husband in August, 2016. Their mission is to provide products that instill and encourage diversity, acceptance and confidence in one's self and dreams.

And if there's one thing she would want to tell you right now it would be "Believe in yourself and go after your dreams, it's never too early or too late. Right now is the best time to do it!"

To learn more, go to http://www.danasalim.com/

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Special thanks to Kelsey at Book Publicity Services for the ebook for review.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title, the author, or those promotions forthcoming, feel free to click through the links provided above.  This title just celebrated its BOOK BIRTHDAY this month via DS Publishing, so take a moment to click over to the site and order your copy today!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

Storybook Saturday: Nanny and Me by Florence Ann Romano

Hi there!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today, we are exploring a read that reminds me of Mary Poppins.  How so?  Well, I suppose it’s the simple fact that it deals with Nanny’s and as much as she was magical, mysterious, and wonderful, so is the truth of their world.  So come with me as we discover the role of the Nanny from the eyes of youth.  Today’s book of choice is….

Nanny and Me

By

Florence Ann Romano

Illustrated by

Sydni Kruger

9781620867860

Mascot Books

This is a peek inside the mysterious world of the Nanny.  It takes things from the children’s point of view and offers us a magical, imaginative adventure as we explore a day in the life of.  I can easily see it being used to reassure little ones that while Mommy and Daddy are away, the Nanny is here to play!  She (or he, because let’s face it…today’s world offers this option to BOTH sexes) will feed them, care for them, teach them things, play games, read them stories, tuck them into bed and basically fill in as their “special friend” until it’s time for Mommy and Daddy to return.  It reminds children that it’s not a sad time before or after but an in-between time to be filled with adventures and love.

I’m not certain how many of you out there reading this will have any firsthand experience with a Nanny, either personally or caring for your own children, but I respect the profession nonetheless.  It can’t possibly be easy to care for another’s child in a one on one environment without growing attached only to know that one day, they will be grown and your services will have to be put to use in another’s household.  The transition for the children (on my side at least) would seem less painful than that of the Nanny but then again, if you’ve done it for years, perhaps it gets easier and you’re able to separate the two.  More power to you Mary Poppins’ of the world! Moving forward…

Author Florence Ann Romano

This being a storybook, I would be remiss if I failed to mention the illustrations.  The images literally GLOW off the page lending the story an additional layer of warmth and friendliness to spare.  Mommy and Daddy are shown in a caring light as are the activities that keep them busy during the day in order to provide for their family.  The Nanny is shown equally friendly and bright as she takes her little charges here and there, to and fro, and makes certain they have a wondrous day.  When their imaginations take flight at bedtime, you can’t help but get caught up in the castle among the marshmallow clouds.

Recommended read for all ages but perhaps especially those that experience this world first hand.  As I said, it could definitely be used to help explain who the new addition to the family is as well as lay to rest any fears of parents leaving for any reason other than necessity.  With wonderful illustrations and a story that plays itself out nicely, it’s a great addition to any library, personal, classroom, or community.

Special thanks to Angelle at JKS Communications for the review copy as well as the chance to share this work with all of you.  (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, or future promotions, please feel free to click through the links provided above.  This title just celebrated its book birthday this week, so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf or virtual retailer of your choosing.

Until next time…happy reading!

Storybook Saturday: How the Witch Got Alf by Cora Annett

Hi there!

Welcome back to Storybook Saturday here at Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today, we're diving into an Early Reader once again, that combines all the charms of a Storybook with a bit more length tale wise allowing it to reach a wider audience than possibly at first intended.  I was going to wait until Fall to feature it but I simply couldn't hold it back.  Ladies and gents, lads and lasses, today's book of choice is...

How the Witch Got Alf

by

Cora Annett

Illustrated by

Steven Kellogg

0531027910

This is the story of little Alf, the donkey.  He is a proud member of a little farm with a "mom" and "dad" that keep the joint hopping, but lately, he's feeling a little down.  He can't understand why his caretakers don't want to spend as much quality time with him, or in the same ways they do with others members of the farm.  I mean, the farmer plays fetch with the dog.  The farmer's wife coddles the cat.  The caged bird sings beautifully for the enjoyment of them both.  What's left for poor little Alf?  More time to stand around chewing his lunch all by his lonesome?  Why isn't he viewed as useful and fun?  So, he makes a decision that will change all of their lives...with an outcome that reminds us all of our unique importance.

I must say, when I picked up this little gem, I expected a good story, no more no less.  What I got was MUCH more than anticipated and in the best possible ways.  Little Alf is such a charmer and his attempts at getting the same attention as his farm friends is endearing.  The sadness he feels over his perceived lot in life is heartbreaking but you're soon belly laughing at his antics (he runs away, but to the roof!  A donkey, on a roof!) as you smile and grin your way to the heartwarming end.  The pencil drawing illustrations add charm to each passage.  They work WITH the story without overwhelming it.  One of my favorite images depicted is also one of the saddest.  It's a scene that places Alf at the duck pond, gazing in at his reflection, as he comes to realize that he is simply unlovable.  Now, of course we all know that this is simply not the case, but the downtrodden little chap nearly broke my heart.  I wanted to reach into the page and give him a great big hug!  Luckily, after his misguided journey fraught with misunderstandings, he's back to his happy place with a family that loves him, understands him, and perhaps most felt of all, appreciates him.  

Dedication

Recommended read for both the young and young at heart.  Who couldn't use a reminder that though we are all different, we all have our place in this world?  It may be up to us to find it, and own it but that niche is ours for the taking.  Simply reach for the place that feels right to your heart and your forever home won't be far behind.

Review copy came from my own personal library and was discovered on a trip to the second chance bookstore at my local library.  The original release is listed as 1975 via Franklin Watts for the Weekly Reader Children's Book Club, so search carefully if you care to add it to your own collection.

Until next time...happy reading!

Storybook Saturday: The Boy Who Wouldn't Read by Denise Walter McConduit

Hi guys!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers and another installment of Storybook Saturday.

Today, we're jumping between the pages of a grand bookish adventure just waiting to be explored.  It stars a young man who quite frankly couldn't see the point of reading, in any shape or form, and just what happens when a semi-wish comes true.  Ready to see the world a bit less wordy?  ~shivers~  Brace yourselves because the ending is SO worth it.  Ladies and gents, let's have a little fun in honor of National Library Week.  Today's book of choice is...

The Boy Who Wouldn't Read

by

Denise Walter McConduit

Illustrated by

David Harrington

9781455618293

Pelican Publishing Company

That's right.

This is the story of a boy named Robbie who found no joy, comfort, or understanding in the world of words.  Whether it be for homework or fun, to pass the time or gain directions, he simply saw no point in having a wordy world and thought everything would be much better if they were to disappear completely.

Whoa.  Scary thought.  *-*

One "It's a Wonderful Life" type wish later and some book destroying tactics employed by this misguided youth, and KAZAAM!  Sorcerer Sileas decides enough is ENOUGH.  It's time this boy was taught a lesson, but how?  Oh, trust me, it's a doozy.  With a wave of his wand, the words were ALL GONE...but as wonderful as Robbie thought things might be, he soon found out that so many were much much harder.  From traversing his neighborhood to being up on the news, procuring a frosty drink (because the money was green but lacking any amounts, etc) to catching the right bus home, Robbie soon found out just HOW useful words really were.  Personally I think the pork chop ice cream and the dog biscuit cookies were a nice touch.  ^_^   ...though I may be taking a little vindictive joy in all of that.  

Anyway, when he sees the error of his ways, his only hope is that Sileas will set things right.  Will he or won't he...that IS a very good question! Though it would serve him right to live in this new reality, the former is the correct answer.  From this awful trial is born a young lad with nothing better to do than celebrate the written word with books of every shape and size.  That's right!  Robbie is a converted reader and there's no one that's happier about that outcome than he himself.

If the story itself wasn't transforming enough, the combination of word and illustration paints the picture even clearer.  Robbie's disdain for reading in all forms can be read (pun intended) from the look on his face.  It's rather disheartening, truth be told, but once he sees the wordy light and understands the role these assembled letters play in everyone's day-to-day, things become much brighter.  The final results of this un-wish lived through were fantastic.  I almost jumped for joy, and did in fact do a fist pump in the air.  What can I say?  Seeing someone turned from a non-reader to a reader in any capacity, warms my heart and I am grateful to the illustrator for bringing this story to life in all its many colors.

In conclusion, a book for readers and non of all ages with a story that imparts just how important the world of reading truly is.  It'll leave you with a smile on your face and in your heart.  What more could you ask for?  

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Special thanks to the team at Pelican Publishing Company for the review copy and chance to share this read with all of you.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their full catalog, feel free to click through the links provided above.  This title is available now via Pelican Publishing Company, so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf or virtual retailer of your choosing.

Until next time...happy reading!

Storybook Saturday: Fish Head by Jean Fritz

Hi guys!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

 

Sorry for the late post as life has been a bit hectic here lately (what's new...I know) but I took a shine to my idea of having a Storybook Saturday feature and couldn't let this one pass us by.  Today's selection technically falls into the Early Readers category but it IS part storybook so I'm making the call.  The day's spotlight shines on an oldie but a goodie with spunkiness to spare entitled...

 

 

Fish Head

by

Jean Fritz

Illustrated by

Marc Simont

Coward, McCann & Geoghegan, Inc

 

I say it's an oldie because it's original print date is 1954, HOWEVER it's a goodie because the story is just that....GOOD!  It tells the tale of a dock wise street cat that is the uncrowned king of his neighborhood.  He knows where to go to stay out of the weather when things get rough.  He knows how to score the BEST scraps of fish when his belly grumbles.  Yes, the Waterfront Market was kind to him, even if it didn't actually intend to be....hey, no one likes a thief! 

 

Anyway, one day good old Fish Head was chasing a rapscallion little vermin out of his territory when goodness me, things took an unexpected turn!  He lands on a boat and before he knows it, out to sea it sails putting him in less than familiar territory.  Before he gains his sea legs, a few two legged boat dwellers have a little fun at his expense...which he repays in kind (or rather not-so-kind but hey, they deserved it!).  A few ports later and Fish Head is now the four legged scourge of the seven seas but in his heart, he still longs for home.  One day the familiar sights and scents of where it all began roll back around but our dear little Fish Head is about to discover the ultimate lesson.  Home is not where we rest our heads, but where we feel most welcome and loved.

 

 

 

 

This review title came from my own personal library by way of a used bookstore find at my local library.  I was quite taken by the spunky little cat on the cover and though obviously not intended for my age group, I have an active imagination and couldn't wait to dive into Fish Head's story.  Was it worth the read?  Absolutely!  I do believe that little ones will get into the adventure of it all while enjoying the simplistic yet fitting artwork that adorns each page.  The limited use of color just drives the story home even more and sets the stage for the high seas adventure awaiting our feline friend.  Recommended read for all ages looking for an adventure with heart.

 

Until next time...happy reading!

 

 

 



Mais, jamais d'la vie!: Petite Rouge by Sheila Hebert-Collins

Hi there!

Welcome back to the Saturday edition of Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

I'm thinking of starting something new like "Storybook Saturday" in the near future.  Stay tuned for the final decision but in the mean time, I'm christening TODAY as Storybook Saturday with a look inside a fairytale with a cajun twist.  It comes to us from the folks over at Pelican Publishing and stars a well known character in a familiar story, but a whole world away.  Ready to meet today's featured title?  Well then, here we go! Today's book of choice is...

Petite Rouge

A Cajun Twist to an Old Tale

by

Sheila Hebert-Collins

Illustrated by

Alison Davis Lyne

Pelican Publishing

978158980623

This here is a DE-licious story just waiting to be devoured like her mother's shrimp etouffee!  It takes our familiar 'Little Red' and gives her an every day persona by the name of Clotilde.  Of course for the story to continue a sick grandmother must appear and sure enough, grandmere just happens to be, but she doesn't live in the woods, but in the swamp.  Tricky for a wolf to navigate, right?  Good thing the trickster here is a gator names Taille-Taille, or rather a BAD thing!  Grandmother, what big TEETH you have takes on a WHOLE other meaning when staring down the mouth of a scaly green reptile set on making you the main course of his nightly repast.  *gulp*

The tale comes alive both in picture and word.  The colorful palette used in each full page illustrated spread promises readers a visual experience they will remember.  Word wise, the Cajun sprinkled throughout takes your tongue on a twisty ride through the swamp and back again.  As Odelia and Clotilde prepare the basket for grandmere, we learn about trawlers and Mouton.  When Petite Rouge travels to grandmere's, we discover how handy a pirogue can truly be.   By book's end, you'll be throwing your own fais do do yelling viens ici to all those within hear shot to celebrate the spicy new additions to your vocabulary.  

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So, if you're a fan of the classic Little Red, I highly recommend you try this one on for size!  It'll bring a smile to your face and a twang to your tongue, but there's a good time to be had by all within.  Special thanks to Bergen at Pelican Publishing for the review copy.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their growing catalog, be sure to stop by their official site.  This title is available now, so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf or virtual retailer of your choosing.

Until next time...C'est tout...and happy reading!