5 comments about Christmas in the Trenches.

1. Every year I buy a book to read to the family at Christmas. I knew about this story and I thought a well-illustrated tale would be of interest to my family. The illustrations were good, but the telling of the story in the book was only mediocre. I thought the fictional name of Thomas Tolliver was a hokey name to give the boy in the story.



2. Author John McCutcheon does a generally fine job of balancing the private hope for peace with the public horror of war in this tale of the increasingly well-known Christmas truces of WWI. These holiday-inspired truces occurred in the "No Man's Land" between the two entrenched (literally) armies, and NcCutcheon backs his history-inspired fiction with a closing "Historical Note" and references to two books: "Silent Night," by S. Weintraub, and :Christmas Truce," by M. Brown and S. Seaton.
   
   The violence, boredom, and sheer stupidity of this bloody war are only suggested to its intended early elementary school audience: A shadowy view of a man on a stretcher, cold, bored, sometimes sick soldiers. However, there is no denying that the book sanitizes WWI. At the conclusion, drawings of prone soldiers suggest being gunned down, but I doubt the young reader will make that interpretation.
   
   Instead, this book is about peace breaking out--if only for a night, and Christmas Eve at that. The soldiers, separated by about maybe 100 yards, hear each other singing CHristmas songs, and the first move towards unity is a joint singing of "Silent Night." A bt later, a lone German soldier with a white flag bravely walks over the snow, and soon the trenches empty, gifts are exchanged, photos shared, and an impromptu soccer game is played on the former battlefield. That's where one can feel the impact of the book--in one transcendent night when soldiers recognized their shared humanity, the common feelings that lay deep within them.
   
   Yes, I wanted the book to show the awful conditions in the trenches, to show even slightly more evidence of war's ravages, and to mention the who and why of the orders that placed them here. But, this is a book for young kids, and such "charged" issues would keep this book off at least some schools' library shelves and classrooms. I think though, that the afterward could have been broadened to include both the current explanation of the truces, and a brief, age-appropriate presentation of the war's causes and effects.
   
   THe oil illustrations are outstanding. Henri Sorenson had to show the murky trenches and dark evening hours, but the pictures are clear, nicely illuminated, and focus on the combatants' faces. Whether he intended it or not, the last scene of the weary soldiers back in the trench after the truce clevrly hints at the tremendous human toll.
   
   There is an accompanying CD featuring McCutcheon's cloying reading of his story, which tilts the tone strongly back towards the "saccharine" and "sanitized" side. It all sounds so wondrous and almost appealing that it feels unjust. He should have stuck with the three songs nicely performed on the CD: "Silent Night" in German and English, McCutcheon's recapitulation of the story "Christmas in the Trenches," which actualy, finally, sneaks in some anti-war sentiment (for example, "...Whose family have I fixed within my sights?"), and Track 4, which, strangely enough, is the same narration of the story heard at the beginning of the CD.



3. A wonderful story, well written and beautifully illustrated. I have seen
   John McCutcheon perform the song (the book comes with a CD) many times.
   I would strongly recommend the book and any of John's CD to anyone. You should also catch one of his concerts if you get the chance.



4. This is a well-written, well-illustrated, compelling children's story about the fraternization of rival soldiers during the First World War. The story of English and German soldiers singing "Silent Night" together in the trenches really humanizes the combatants in war and should lead the reader to question the sacrifice of human life in conflict. (Even older children will find this interesting, as a starting-point for exploring the First World War and other conflicts.)



5. "Christmas In The Trenches" is a piece of our history I've long been aware of. I have been shocked to learn how our current generation has no idea of this event. I would hope this book/cd will become an active lesson presented in our educational system again.
   
   "We Shall Never Forget"
   
   Mother of Fallen Soldier SSG Patrick Lee Lybert KIA 21 June 2006, Gowardesh, Afghanistan.

5 comments about Jingle Bugs (Mini Edition): A Merry Pop-up Book with Lights and Music.

1. When my 6-year-old son used to read this book, he laughed himself silly. It's a question/answer book, so he loved it when he learned to answer the questions himself. (Question: "What will be build when the snowflakes fall?" Answer: "A snowbug, of course, wings and all!") Now, my 3-year-old daughter reads this book all the time. Unfortunately, after 4 years of love, our copy has become pretty tattered. I've just ordered a replacement copy and can't wait to see her face when it arrives. As for the lighted tree and music on the last page, ours is STILL WORKING after all these years! I'm sure the battery will run out eventually (and there's no way to replace it), but I've been amazed at how long it's hung in there! This book has so many little things for kids to do, who cares if there's only one light in the book??? The kids certainly don't!



2. Just like Halloween Bugs, this book has adorable pop-ups, along with lights and music, that my son loves to play with. He enjoys this book so much that I am planning on buying the Easter Bugs book in the Spring.
   
   If you haven't bought one of these books, I highly recommend you do.



3. My children love David Carter's pop-up bug books! My son destroyed my older daughter's copy, so I bought one for each of them this Christmas. Now he do what he wants with his, and my daughter will have a pristine copy.



4. This 20-page (10 layouts with 10 "pop ups") book has a question on the left page and the movable piece that reveals the answer on the right. Topics are bug based and include Santa Bug, stocking, wreath, mistletoe, tree, etc. This is not like current pop-up books that have a major event with the turn of a page. These require the reader's manipulation: many pieces move flatly on the page (with a tab pull), some you unfold to reveal the pop up. While this may not dazzle as much initially, it does make it fun for kids as you read the question and they await the movement and answer. And this may mean they can turn the pages because it doesn't require as much care (as, say, a Sabuda pop up). Also, it might not get as destroyed by young, not-so careful readers.
   
   Two notes:
   My copy has a few pages where the tabs are a bit stiff.
   The last page, which has a light and music, requires the tab to be pushed back in to turn it off (if this isn't done, the battery will wear down).



5. My toddler does not like bugs in real life, but she absolutely LOVES this Jingle Bugs book. It keeps her very entertained and is a requested favorite bedtime story year round. However, I do suggest strong parental supervision as some of the pop ups will tear under the man-handling of impatient chubby fingers. (The ornament bug, in particular, gets caught on it's box.) The lights and music on the last page can be a little tricky, but with some gentle manuevering, they will work.
   
   Overall, this is a highly entertaining book with bright, amusing pictures and witty rhyme that both kids and parents will enjoy reading together.

5 comments about Holiday Princess: A Princess Diaries Book (Princess Diaries).

1. To be a good Princess, one must be diplomatic, and educated in everything regarding the countries and principalities surrounding one's own charge. This includes knowing how to celebrate every winter holiday, from the well-known Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, to the often unspoken about Yule, Chinese New Year, and Saturnalia - just to name a few. But this is not all that a good Princess must know. A good Princess must also be up on gift giving - what exactly is the right present to give to a guy you're not dating, but hope to be dating soon? Then there's those fabulous holiday movies - including some very unconventional holiday tales; and all of this is rounded off with a nice hot chocolate with marshmallows. This year, spend the holiday with Princess Mia, and her band of closest friends, from Lilly to Michael, and Tina to Paolo, as they give you the lowdown on all things Christmas, from how teenagers in other countries celebrate the holidays, and how to say "Happy New Year" in every language known-to-man.
   
   I have purchased and read every PRINCESS DIARIES HOW-TO BOOK, but HOLIDAY PRINCESS instantly took the prize as my favorite installment in the series. Perhaps it's my love of Christmas that made it my favorite; or maybe it's the fact that I love reading about how the PRINCESS DIARIES gang is spending their holiday season. Either way, HOLIDAY PRINCESS is a fun-filled book that will keep everyone on their toes for the holiday season. Cabot has created an informative guide that features style tips, shopping solutions, and much, much more that will get everyone through the Christmas rush; and each tip is accompanied by a marvelous illustration by Chesley McLaren. Overall, this is a must have book for all PRINCESS DIARIES fans, as it will quickly win a place in everyone's heart this holiday season.
   
   Erika Sorocco
   Book Review Columnist for The Community Bugle Newspaper



2. I have all of Meg Cabot's Princess Diary books, I even have the release dates marked on my calendar, so I was first in line at my bookstore this morning to buy this book.
   
   In this book, Princess Mia, her family and friends share their Christmas memories and customs. There is even a section on Christmas cards, and how to say, "Happy New Year" in a lot of languages.
   
   Great book to learn about Christmas customs and such.
   
   ``Katrina



3. Back again with another addition to the Princess Diaries series, Princess Mia invites us to share the holidays with her and the family in her witty rendition of what happens during the holidays. Loaded with advice from everyone closely associated with her, each chapter is also laden with her own views and excerpts on how things really are.
   
   From holiday etiquette on everything from addressing cards to purchasing gifts for others, to what's fashionable to eat, there's something for everyone in this little book (that is, if you're into being a princess and all). Mia is hilariously objective in her comments about her family's take on things, and Meg Cabot cleverly does this by putting all of Mia's comments in red, so you can't mistake her thoughts.
   
   One of the highlights of the book is Mia's chapter on Christmas around the world. Throughout the chapter, there are dozens of countries, complete with folklore, tradition, and how this particular culture spends their holiday season --- a very useful and informative tool for the student who has to do a book report (hint, hint). It's all there. There might even be some countries listed that no one has ever heard of, or ever thought of, that celebrate their own version of Christmas.
   
   Additionally, there are explanations on which movies are best to watch during Christmas, recipes to make, and the real story of truths and myths of what Christmas really means. Finally, it's a wrap with an in-depth guide to Kwanzaa and, of course, the symbolization of Happy New Year, complete with a listing of how to say it in 60 different languages!
   
   Although we won't be in Genovia with the royal princess, she made sure we knew enough to have lasting memories, as if we were. Happy Holidays everyone!
   
   --- Reviewed by Belinda Williams



4. We're either approaching or all ready knee deep in the holiday season, depending on your point of view. Many of us feel overwhelmed by this time of year, but don't worry, Princess Mia is here to rescue us.
   
   With her usual flair, Ms. Cabot has penned an amusing guide to all the holidays and variations thereof celebrated in the Christmas season around the world. Despite the light tone, this is actually a very informative book. I guarantee that unless you have studied holidays in depth, you'll learn something and enjoy yourself while doing it. Most of the characters we've come to love in the other Princess books contribute to this volume; Lily, Grandmere, Michael, Mr. G, Mia's mother, friends, baby brother, and of course, the Princess herself. If you just need to take a break from the onslaught of chaos, then no matter how old you are, grab this book and smile.
   
   Amanda Killgore



5. I usually like Meg Cabot, but this book was a waste of my money. It is boring and not half as good as I expected of Cabot. The Princess Diaries Books, as oppose to the series, are just not worth it.

No comments about The Classic Tale of the Velveteen Rabbit: Or, How Toys Became Real(Christmas Edition).

5 comments about You Are My Miracle.

1. Wonderful book at the chirstmas season, to help parents take a moment and read with their children. It is such a sweet book.



2. !!!!!!Wonderful "lyrics" and beautiful message- reads like a song. This is a beautiful gift from any parent to a child who brightens your life. This would also be a lovely gift to a new parent.



3. What a sweet, sweet message this book has...describes in a unique way just how much a child is loved.



4. an outstanding children's book - nice price break on it - arrived on time and in perfect shape



5. My in-laws got this book for all of their grandkids one year at Christmas. My son is only two and a half, but I've read it to him the past two Christmas seasons and it always makes me cry. It is a beautifully written book, with words that speak to the heart. It's nearly impossible to express in words the love that parents have for their children, but this book does a great job at doing just that. I will definitely be buying "You are My I Love You" as well.

2 comments about December Secrets (Kids of the Polk Street School).

1. I read this book for a college course I am taking towards my elementary education degree. This is definitely a story that I would recommend to 2nd and 3rd graders. The story itself would definitely keep the child's attention and, in the end, they would learn a very valuable lesson about the true meaning of friendship.



2. While towards the end of the book the main character does begin to see people for what is inside not outside, thru most of the book the main character constantly refers to Jill as fat. I would estimate the word fat is in the book over 40 times. It also has no uplifting message until the bitter end. My son had to read this book for school, but believe you me I turned in a review with is report.
   There are better books out there for children the DO celebrate diversity. Look for them instead.

3 comments about The Poky Little Puppy's First Christmas (Little Golden Book).

1. My mother bought this book for my son, to start a new family tradition. Every Christmas, my mother would read me the Poky Little Puppy and now she reads this book to her Grandson.

   It is cute to see what trouble the puppies and The Poky Little Puppy get into while trying to have a good Christmas. I would really recommend getting this book, plus the other Poky Little puppy book, a great collection to have.




2. Not a bad book, but there are other books out there that are much better at teaching the moral "The best gifts are those that we give".



3. The Poky Little Puppy's First Christmas is a Little Golden Book that teaches a great big lesson about the spirit of Christmas and selfless acts!
   
   It's wonderfully written, adorably illustrated and any child (or adult) who reads it will come away with a wonderful, warm feeling. This is, indeed, a very special book to share with the children in your life.

5 comments about A Gnome's Christmas.

1. A Gnome's Christmas is priceless fun for all ages...I can vouch for that sinceI am 77 and love it. Poortvliet's gnomes are recognized anywhere. They are THE gnomes. If you are Finnish, you will like the mysterious box found in a barn in Finland containing this fun information about Gnomes and their lives in general, but especially Christmas customs. Anybody with crafting skill might be inspired to create a little gnome house instead of a dollhouse. I couldn't resist buying a half dozen books to give as gifts next Christmas. I'd give the book 100 stars if it were possible.



2. This itsy bitsy work is great for the children. Gave three out to my GKids. For adults you might want Ms. Virtue's Healing book with Fairies. There is a World Guide if you want a vast historical review of what distant past generations have to say about nature people. If You Could Only See .. A Gnome's Story is a more modern, direct-channel of the Gnomes for those who want to learn how to see, sense, hear and feel the wee folk. If you want light reading, the Christmas book here fits in a stocking, looks real Christmasy and is a very simply written bookette that the kids will enjoy for their first introduction to Gnomes. Good for 6 - 12 years old, I would guess. Consider it.
   
   Windy



3. Book arrived in excellent(new) condition in a most timely manner-2 days if I remember correctly. I'm quite impressed.



4. I enjoyed this book, but then I enjoy all of Poortvliet's work. I would recommend this to anyone.



5. This is a great book with fabulous illustrations. For those seeking mainly stories on Gnomes, this book is not for you. This book has one story and is then filled with arts & crafts ideas and traditions. This would be great for setting up children's Christmas parties that need a theme, or for an elementary school classroom teacher looking for fun ways to celebrate the season with projects.

3 comments about Lost!.

1. Great book! McPhail does a wonderful job with the topic of being lost. A boy, a bear, friendship and finding the way home. I enjoyed it as much as my child.



2. This is a great book! And like so many of David McPhails books, it's worth buying the hardcover. Who's lost, the boy or the bear? A friendship develops while trying to find the way home. McPhail does a wonderful job covering the topic of being lost.



3. This is a GREAT book! My mother bought it for my 2 daughters after we all got lost in Boston. I have been reading this book to my oldest (age 3 1/2) daughter for over six months and neither she nor I have tired of it yet. The words flow well and the illustrations are beautiful! I just ordered 2 more books by the same author ("Sisters" and "Santa's Name book") for my two daughters. I anticipate that we all will enjoy them just as much!

5 comments about Legend of the Christmas Tree, The.

1. I purchased this book for two reasons. It brings to light the true meaning of Christmas...Jesus and sharing love. This story provides another format to talk about the birth of Christ to your children aside from the traditional manger story. There's a light introduction to the biblical significance of Christmas, in addition to the treasure of family unity. I found that this book helps reinforce the values which I am trying to emphasize in my own family, while also cherrishing old time family traditions. In case you were concerned, I don't think it dilutes the truth of the bible...Also, as a mother of two young elementary school-aged children, I also have the opportunity to be a guest reader in the classroom. It is totally appropriate reading for public schools, even though there is biblical reference. This book offers a refreshing change from the fantasy holiday stories and commercialization of Christmas. It will be a special story to your family and it will set a warm-hearted atmosphere to your tree-decorating festivities.



2. Using the format of a family searching for a Christmas tree, the story tells about the legend which began during the Reformation. In Germany in the 1500's, Martin Luther (founder of the Lutheran Church) brought a tree into his house and he set candles on it to celebrate Jesus, the Light of the World. There's a brief mention of the Biblical significance of Christmas. Many people find it appropriate for public school use along with the singing of the song, "Oh, Christmas Tree."
   The birthdays of famous people are recognized so in recognizing Jesus' birthday it is historically significant to know why he is famous.



3. with a great message. I enjoyed this book very much myself. I used it in children's church during December. The children loved it and could tell others what the legend was.



4. I avidly read children's literature. (I'm a teacher- what can you expect?) I thought the idea of the story was nice, but the author seemed to be trying too hard. The story didn't always flow smoothly from page to page (or sometimes from sentence to sentence). The book seemed to be almost littered with adjectives that distracted me from the story. Save your money.



5. I'll save this one and read it every Christmas, BUT it is extremely heavy on the adjectives, and totally corny. I would skip this one if I were you, for me it's not worth the money to send it back!!