President Lincoln: From Log Cabin to White House by Demi [Review & Giveaway]

February is the month when we celebrate American Presidents' Day and an ideal time to remember President Abraham Lincoln. Libraries and schools will feature books about presidents with bulletin boards with their pictures, stores will hold Presidents' Day Sales, and kids will give presidential book reports. So how timely to review President Lincoln: From Log Cabin to White House.

A children's picture book biography

My thoughts:  I love children's picture book biographies and introducing young children to historical and significant people who have shaped our world. Reading President Lincoln: From Log Cabin to White House I find that it goes a bit beyond the picture book status in that the text is more involved, detailed, and spans more ideas and time than is usual in a children's picture book biography. It does, however, fill a need for detailed information for the young biography reader.

Reading this to the 4-to-6-year-old will take patience on the part of the reader and listener. It can work, though. The text and back pages details will be suitable for up to about age 12.

The back page information is concise and informative and will provide good detail for student reference material for dates, events, and the Gettysburg address text. This makes it highly suitable for classroom and school library.

The illustrations are simply not a favorite of mine but they do tell the story quite nicely with lots of color and detail. I do like the significant Lincoln quotes in set apart blocks on the pages.

This is a good biography and the information is tops. I think this would be a good addition to libraries.

About the book: From a small log cabin in Kentucky to the steps of the White House, Abraham Lincoln rose from humble beginnings to the very height of prominence and prestige. Leading America through the momentous events of the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, and the abolition of slavery, the story of "Honest Abe" is one that all children should know. Now award-winning author and illustrator, Demi, recounts Lincoln s incredible life story of courage, wisdom, and compassion as only she can. Filled with stunning illustrations, this book contains an appendix of fascinating facts and famous quotes from Lincoln s life, as well as a timeline and map. President Lincoln: From Log Cabin to White House is not only a powerful teaching tool, but an entertaining and age-appropriate introduction to a man who has become one of the most influential and admired presidents of the United States."

About the author: Demi is the award-winning creator of numerous books for children, including The Empty Pot; Buddha; The Dalai Lama; The Legend of Saint Nicholas; Gandhi, which was named a New York Times Best Illustrated Book and received an Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award; and Muhammad, which was named a Kirkus Reviews Editors’ Choice selection, a Booklist Editors’ Choice selection, one of the Booklist Top Ten Religion Books for Youth, and a Book Links “Lasting Connections” selection, and was cited in a Publishers Weekly starred review as a “timely, exceptionally handsome biography [that] serves as an excellent introduction to Islam.” Demi lives in Carnation, Washington.

GIVEAWAY

Begins January 6

Ends January 27 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Wisdom Tales publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and freely given. Giveaway is provided by the publisher and sent directly to winner by publisher.

The Warli People by Hye-eun Shin & illustrated by Su-bi Jeong

ISBN 9780802854766

My thoughts: This Eerdmans Publishing book in the children's Trade Winds series gives children an opportunity to glimpse the art of a primitive culture in ancient India. The Warli were a hunter/gatherer culture that evolved into an agricultural people whose life was documented in the art the women of the tribe applied to the walls of their mud huts. Of course, centuries old mud huts have long ago deteriorated, but the art form managed to live on.

Using simplistic and geometrical forms such as circles, triangles, and squares to define their art, they pictured seasons and life, nature and people. I found it interesting to view and was amazed at the intricacies of the art even though very limited tools would have been available for them to use.

The text of the book is short and broken down into seasons, activities, and life in general. The back pages provide further information into the culture and geography. An interesting book.

This two page spread depicts the hunting Warli people. Note the stylized images of trees and creatures.

Like most cultures they celebrated harvest, Spring, life in general. This two page spread depicts Festival Night for the Warli People with dancing and music

About the book: A poetic depiction of ancient India

The Warli people, who live in ancient India, work hard throughout the year. They plant seeds in the spring so that the summer monsoons will help the plants grow, and they harvest their crops in the fall and store the food for the long winter ahead. But despite the hardships they face, they also find time to celebrate life's joyous moments.

This Trade Winds book highlights the day-to-day life in an agricultural society and offers historical information about one of the world's earliest civilizations.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Eerdmans Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and freely given.

Aliens Get the Sniffles Too! Ahhh-Choo! by Katy S. Duffield illustrated by K.G. Campbell [Review & Giveaway - USA/CANADA]

ISBN 9780763665029
Hardcover $16.99
Candlewick Press
32 pages ~ ages 3 - 7

My thoughts: It is that time of year that folks crowd doctor's offices, pharmacy lines for prescriptions grow lengthy, OTC products fly off the shelves, and folks huddle under wraps as they recover from colds, sniffles, flu and other ailments. And it is a time when Moms and Dads, Grannies and Aunties read to the sick and infirm little ones in their midst. And there is a new book that fills the bill hilariously taking a shot at the sick and infirm that might be "out there."

Think spacey, think little aliens, think what it might be "out there" if a Little Alien got sick like you get sick....... (love the idea of a sick kid book)

Well, Little Alien is different from you. He's got two throats. Double trouble! Ear ache? Wow! He's got five that hurt. Can you even imagine his troubles? We have lots to engage the little sick kid to whom this book is being read while he is abed. A dog - Mars Rover - who is super funny. And while Rover is a frequently bestowed name for doggies, a Mars Rover hints of space exploration and a machine/vehicle that will roam Mars.

Cure for getting rid of the sniffles? Why not a milkshake courtesy of the Milky Way. Again a bit of space discovery as discussion of the Milky Way takes place betwixt sick kid and loving reader. Cures like "shooting stars" ear drops, lunar decongestants (you won't believe this one), and the curative "meteor shower." But the discovery that a bit of fun and distraction is sometimes the best cure is the best there is.

A fun read and a super "sick kid" book.

About the book: Ahhh-flying-saucer-shooting-star-CHOO! Laughter is the best medicine when you're a little alien feeling under the weather.

Little Alien is sick. And sick is extra-terrestrial bad when you have two scratchy throats, five ears that hurt, and three runny noses. Splatch! Sputter! Spurt! Luckily Mama and Daddy Alien have an arsenal of lunar decongestants and meteor showers on hand to make him feel a little better (not to mention a Milky Way milkshake to help the medicine go down). Even so, the family's alien pooch, Mars Rover, can't stand to see his little buddy feeling out of sorts. Can a loyal pup's funny tricks finally coax a smile?

GIVEAWAY ~ 2 Winners

Begins January 3

Ends January 24 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA & CANADA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Candlewick Press to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Winner's copy will be provided and shipped directly to the winners by the publisher.

Cao Chong Weighs an Elephant by Songju Ma Daemicke and illustrated by Christina Wald from Arbordale Publishing [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9781628559040 Paperback $9.95
ISBN: 9781628559033 Hardcover $17.95

My thoughts: This joyfully illustrated picture book transports young readers to the year 200 C.E. (or A.D.) into Ancient China and amongst royals as is indicated by crowns and clothing.

The occasion is the presentation of an elephant - the first elephant to ever be seen in their country. Excitement runs high and soon discussion of the huge animal's weight ensues. So they must devise a method to determine its weight.

Cao Chong is a child prodigy recognized in Chinese History and he has a plan. It stumps and amazes the others that this child can know how to accomplish the task.

Arbordale publishes books for children that are school age and their books are attractive and entertaining. However, the main feature, in my opinion, is the capability they have of providing materials at the back of the book that take the reader beyond the limits of the story and engages his or her mind with activities in ways that demonstrate the science or math behind the actual story and even presents new ideas for their perusal.

The back pages for Creative Minds in this book include information about ancient China and modern China even providing maps that show city locations and China's borders for reader comparison. The principal of buoyancy and displacement is presented in understandable and demonstrable methods in the Creative Minds activities.

I highly recommend this book as a fun, entertaining, and highly educational book. Click here to see the Teaching Activities on the Arbordale website.

About the book: How much does an elephant weigh? How do you know? How would you know if you didn’t have a modern scale? Six-year-old Cao Chong, the most famous child prodigy in Chinese history, faced just this problem! Chong watches as the prime minister’s most trusted and learned advisors debate different methods. The principle of buoyancy and a little bit of creative thinking help this boy come up with a solution.

GIVEAWAY

Begins January 2, 2018

Ends January 23 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Arbordale Publishing to facilitate this review of my own opinions which are freely given. Giveaway copy is provided and shipped directly to the winner by Arbordale Publishing.

The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz

My thoughts:  Having grown up in a southern town that played a somewhat important role in the Revolutionary War, (or should we say, the War for American Independence?) and that was also steeped in pre-revolutionary war and later the Civil War history, I grew up fascinated by history. I have also read previous publications by the author Laura Frantz and found her writing style a joy to read and her attention to historical research and detail impeccable. So the opportunity to read The Lacemaker was met with much anticipation.

From the beginning of this story I was able to visualize the streets of Williamsburg where much of the story played out. The scenes were easily imaginable based on a visit I made years ago to Williamsburg and the author's apt descriptions.

Now the story...... This is a work of fiction though there is of necessity a sprinkling of real people involved in the story and the staging of the story is pretty much true to the history of the area and time. It is the cusp of the American Revolution and Williamsburg, Virginia, is about the explode. The Patriots and the Tories seethe with the fervor of their cause - be it King and Country, or Freedom and Liberty. Our heroin is a lovely Tory lady who is left, deserted by her father, friends, and fiance on the eve of their wedding. Then her home is trashed and confiscated by the Patriots and she is left bereft of home, protection, fortune, and livelihood.

She determines not to be defeated and seeks employment - unheard of for a Lady - but she does have the lady-like skill of lacemaking and needle-work that she begins to market.

Not trusted by Tories or Patriots, she is in danger. Her rescuer is a Patriot, a gentleman, a protector.

The story unfolds amidst the conflicts of the time and war ensues and with it the dangers to each person. Lady Elizabeth who becomes known as Liberty and Noble Rynallt are both strong, believable characters. Their faith shines through strengthening them for what they have to endure.

Laura Frantz has penned a wonderful story and one I highly recommend.

Watch for a Giveaway soon!

About the book: When colonial Williamsburg explodes like a powder keg on the eve of the American Revolution, Lady Elisabeth "Liberty" Lawson is abandoned by her fiance and suspected of being a spy for the hated British. No one comes to her aid save the Patriot Noble Rynallt, a man with formidable enemies of his own. Liberty is left with a terrible choice. Will the Virginia belle turned lacemaker side with the radical revolutionaries, or stay true to her English roots? And at what cost?

Historical romance favorite Laura Frantz is back with a suspenseful story of love, betrayal, and new beginnings. With her meticulous eye for detail and her knack for creating living, breathing characters, Frantz continues to enchant historical fiction readers who long to feel they are a part of the story.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Revell a division of Baker Publishing House, to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

With Love, From Me to You by Dr. Mary Manz Simon Published by Zondervan

My thoughts: This lovely little board book presents the concept of being loved and showing love in a light-hearted, gentle, sweet, and fun method using the tried and true rhyming text that helps to imprint the ideas and words on the  mind and heart of the young "reader" and listener.

While the "mail-bear" appears to have a mail pouch stuffed with valentines, love is a message that is appropriate anytime and all the time and therefore this book is not just a "Valentine" book. The book's publication launch date was December 26, 2017 which is timely for the upcoming Valentine holiday. But as I said, the message to extend love is appropriate at all times.

Cute, friendly, smiling animals populate this charming book. The little train that traverses the countryside is adorable and just begs to be played with. Alas, it stays ont the pages. The flitting birds, fluffy clouds, and floating dandelion puffs lend airy happiness. But the sharing of love with those around is the  message and it is clearly stated in the text and images. A joyful, delightful book to present to a young child to help them get beyond the "me" stage to the "you" stage.

A red heart sends a message
that says "I so love you,"
but we can send those same words
in what we say and do. 

If I see someone crying
or looking very sad,
I'll stop to show some kindness
and he won't feel so bad.

About the book: With Love, From Me to You is a board book for little ones that will remind them how important it is to love and be loved. With adorable illustrations and sweet, rhyming text by bestselling author Dr. Mary Manz Simon, this book shows children how important their actions and words are in expressing God’s great love with one another. Parents will enjoy reading this book on Valentine’s Day or any day of the year to encourage their children to remember that love is more than gifts and candy; it’s about doing for others and sending love to everyone who’s near.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the BookLook Blogger Review Program on behalf of the publisher, Zondervan, to facilitate an honest review of the book. Opinions are my own, alone, and are freely given.

If You Were Me and Lived In...Viking Europe by Carole P. Roman & illustrated by Mateya Arkova

My thoughts: As 2017 winds down and we look forward to the restart of school in January 2018, it's time to focus a bit on educational items. Carole P. Roman is a former school teacher with emphasis on social studies. She has produced a plethora of books on countries across the globe and introduced young readers to cultures and geographical information about the countries.

Venturing into the ancient world to continue her "If You Were Me and Lived in....." series the author looks at life in Viking Europe and the year is roughly 890 A.D. While ideal for elementary students those in the early middle school grades will find them interesting and profit from inclusion in their studies. Readers can immerse themselves into the story imagining what it was like to actually live during the period about which they are reading.

Geographically, the Vikings traveled far distances to plunder, enslave, trade goods, and to resettle. Their life style is described by the author examining that of the wealthy, those of low station, and the captured and enslaved populace.

The illustrations by Mateya Arkova use soft-toned colors which for an historical period of rugged, barbarian, seafaring and waring peoples is interesting. I think of browns blacks, greys punctuated with the blue of sky and sea and green of landscapes but not pastels or reds. The illustrations provide an interesting perception of the time and peoples.

The back pages include descriptions of gods and goddesses worshiped by these Viking, Scandinavian, Norsemen as well as some actual known historically important men and women of this long ago era. The pages of words defined and with pronunciation guide are abundant.

Hard bound copies would provide good resource material for classroom as well as school libraries. But the soft cover book I reviewed is durable and well suited for the home library.

About the book: Hop in our time travel machine and join Carole P. Roman as she visits a Viking settlement in the year 890 AD. Learn what your name could be and the kind of food you might eat. Read about the different levels of society, how they affect where you would live, and the type of clothing you might wear. Mateya Arkova's beautiful illustrations illustrate what Vikings ate and their children did for fun. If You Were Me and Lived in.. Viking Europe is an exciting trip that shows a colorful culture through the eyes of a child.

GIVEAWAY

5 Winners each 1 Copy

Begins December 26

Ends January 17 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses

a Rafflecopter giveaway DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the author to facilitate this review of my own opinions which are freely given. Winner's copies will be sent by author directly to the winners.