'Tis the Season

It's been quite some time since I found a children's book that hit a nerve and tickled me as much as this one.  Totally apropos for Flu season and all those OCD folks out there.  I'm quite familiar with them, having married one.  (The whole world is covered...) 

In this simply illustrated book, Scaredy Squirrel has reached  a point of catalyst or perhaps even catapult as he discovers the value of exploring and leaving the safety of his home.  A nod to my friend Anna, who I believe, would appreciate this squirrel.  (Really Lazy Days)

Shall we dance?

My family's two favorite characters getting down your way!  Elephant and Piggie bust a move.  It'll leave you in stitches.  Hooray for Willems again!

Inspirational Artwork

Here's a sneak peak of my artist's work that he did from memory:  

Do you remember the post Mini Masterpieces?  What would you think about using great artwork from great artists for this purpose?  I think perpetuating the power of art can inspire a growing generation.  I'm a huge fan of artwork and it's power to heal, lift, inspire, and regenerate.  I think if anyone is willing to participate, I'd love to have kids sell a book with their artwork to help another artist.  I'm off to the elementary school this morning.  Perhaps I can inspire a few teachers to share their students work... Here's hoping I can get somewhere with this project! 

Mini Masterpieces

I'm a huge fan of children in general.  Super keen on art.  In love with a good book.  So the culmination of my life? Combine them all!  I would love to make a collection of children's artwork.  Their perspective on their favorite books.  Their imagination.  Their humor.  Their love.

So here's my invitation to you.  Please share with me your children's, student's artwork, or even your artwork as a child.  We could see about getting it published and the proceeds of the sales could benefit a library, a children's hospital, or a particular child in need.  Please comment on who or what you would like it to most benefit and we'll have a vote on it.  What do you say?  Will you help me?  Let's get as many as we can by February 14th!

Fans of children's books

Want to know from people who really care about books what's worth the time and money?  Cybil Awards  Grateful to be finding these great links.

Ridiculous Rapunzel

Disney recently rewrote this classic with Tangled; one of which I am looking forward to seeing.  In anticipation of the comedic adaption I picked up Falling for Rapunzel.  While hubby was passed out on the couch and I was on my last leg of the evening, the children snuggled nearby for an evening story.  Much to my surprise we were thoroughly re-energized  by laughing through each turn of the page.  A book that gave us such entertainment, I just had to share with my son's first grade class with much delight.  I look forward to discovering more fun fairy tales from one of my new-found fast favorite children's authors Leah Wilcox.

Happiness is...

...sitting with children on your lap long enough to have your legs begin to go numb.  ...seeing them cry because reading time is over and it's now time for bed.  ...having your child take you by the finger rather than the hand.  Our copy of Love is... is so well worn that it has been taped and dental floss run through to bind it back together.  This is one of a series including Happiness is a Warm Puppy..., Happiness is a sad song... and Security is a Thumb and a Blanket...