STAFF PICKS

Otis

Author: Loren Long
Kids Picks
Genre Picture Book
Retail Price $$15.95

Reminiscent of the best classics from childhood, Long's new picture book is engaging on so many levels. The story of friendship is sweet and uplifting while the wonderful illustrations add depth and emotion. Otis the tractor is sure to become a favorite of children everywhere./reviewed by Michele

Bad Rats

Author: Eric Drachman
Kids Picks
Genre Children's Picture Book
Retail Price $18.95 Hardcover

What exactly is a good rat? A good rat stays close to the curbs, keeps his tail in a straight line, and never ever goes out in the daytime. Josiah was a bad rat, or so Professor Perimeter told him. Josiah daydreamed, wandered away from walls and carried on during the daytime. AND Josiah wanted to be an artist! This delightful picture book reminds us that it is important to listen to our hearts as well as our minds. - Amy

The Birthday Tree

Author: Paul Fleischman
Kids Picks
Genre Children's Picture Book
Retail Price $16.99

This book is very special. It has the mythical qualities of a story that transcends the ordinary. Jack's parents plant an apple tree to honor his birth and Jack loves the tree like a friend, in fact, it is as though "they are one". Not since "The Giving Tree" has a mere tree held such power; to comfort, to shelter, and to ultimately convey truth. Powerful in its simplicity, the story is complimented by the extraordinary illustrations of Barry Root. A perfect fable to read in a month when we celebrate our green earth. -Michele

The Looking Glass Wars

Author: Frank Beddor
Kids Picks
Genre Youth Fantasy
Retail Price $8.99 Paperback

It was the Reverend Charles Dodgson, more familiarly known as Lewis Carroll, who wrote Alice's Adventure's in Wonderland. The Looking Glass Wars proposes that Dodgson's story is a twisted account of real events from another world. Beddor follows Alyss Heart from the day that her mother, Queen Genevieve of Wonderland, is killed by her Aunt Redd through Alyss's exile on Earth to her return to Wonderland and the dynastic wars that follow. Filled with the magic of Imagination, card warriors, and people with odd abilities, The Looking Glass Wars is an ingenious spin-off of Alice in Wonderland. Recommended for early teen readers. - Nick