Snow Days

Snow Days

The Question, ($16.95, www.shakethemoonbooks.com) by Scott J. Langteau with illustrations by Lidat Truong, both SoCal locals, is a funny, imaginative new book (published early December 2011), ideal for ages 4-8. One of my recommendations would be to read the book slowly, savoring every colorful page like you would a delicious assortment of pastries. You’ll want to have plenty of time to study all the fantastic, detailed artwork on each page because there are lots of silly little things added for those who don’t turn the pages too quickly. And like pastries, who wants to miss a good treat?

As I write I am looking at the mountain peaks now frosted in fresh, white snow. On such a wintry day, what would you do if you awoke to a window “of snow to the sky, under drifts that have buried every house that’s nearby?” That is the initial question this delightful picture book poses and the way the main character keeps pushing the question to extremes, as my son would do, is something a lot of kids could relate to. “If I’m stuck here ’til spring, as is likely the case, will I write a great novel or just stare into space?”

I especially loved the surprise ending since I had no idea where the story was taking me! I was just so happy to be along for the ride.  While there are one or two rhymes that were a stretch for me, I think children might not be as picky as I am and will more than likely have joined the young boy on his imaginative adventure in no time at all. If you like this book, you’ll want to check out the author’s previous book entitled Sofa Boy. That’s my plan – Sofa Boy and some pastries!

Watch an eBook trailer  here:

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Let it Snow!

Debbie Glade shares her views on two snowy picture books, which would both make great holiday gifts . . .

Perfect Snow ($16.99, Albert Whitney & Co, ages 3-8) is a visually mesmerizing book. Author/illustrator Barbara Reid uses Plasticine, a modeling clay, to sculpt scenes for the unique illustrations. She also adds comic book style panels of black and white watercolors to show a series of scenes on various pages.

The story is about a boy named, Scott, who is hoping for a snow day, because he so wants to stay home to play in the snow. But to his dismay, school is not cancelled. During recess time, however, Scott gets his classmates involved in a snow project, but can they finish before the bell rings? You’ll have to read the book to find out.

Kids will love this book, because they can all relate to the joy of playing in the snow on a blustery day. Even if they live in a warm climate, children can certainly dream about playing in the snow.

Razzle Dazzle Ruby, ($17.99, Scholastic Books, ages 4 and up) by Masha D’yans, is a most imaginative pop-up book! A girl named Ruby, inspired by the sparkle of the snow, decides to go outside and play with her dog, Rocket. Out there in the snowy wonderland, they use their imaginations and have some magical adventures. Razzle Dazzle Ruby is so colorful, creative and beautifully done. It just makes me happy to read it, look at the illustrations, and play with the pop-ups. Little girls everywhere are sure to love this wintry treasure too.

Author Masha D’yans has her own line of greeting cards and an awesome website.

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