The Wildest Brother by Cornelia Funke

The Wildest Brother by Cornelia Funke
(Preschool - Grade 1)

Attention all strong, fierce monster-hunting kids (who are only a little afraid of monsters, just sometimes). Author Cornelia Funke has written a laugh-out-loud funny book starring a boy who battles imaginary creatures daily to protect his big sister. He sees himself as "lion-hearted and elephant-strong" in his quest. His sister doesn't REALLY mind when he uses her makeup to paints scars on his face or make "blood drops from a man-eating monster" on her desk. Mostly because he needs her protection too at a certain time of day. This picture book is currently the favorite at our house for its hilarious depiction of the monsters in our heads. It certainly empowered my son while making it okay to for him to be scared sometimes too. Watch for funny details in the great illustrations by Kerstin Meyer.

To find this book at our library, visit www.newberglibrary.org

Reviewed by Amanda L., Children's Staff

Boys of Steel: The Creators of Superman

Boys of Steel: The Creators of Superman, by Marc Tyler Nobleman, illustrated by Ross MacDonald
(Preschool and up)

Where did the Man of Steel come from? Boys of Steel tells the story of Superman's humble beginnings as the brain child of two quiet comic strip geeks from Ohio. Jerry and Joe meet in high school where their love for comics and dislike of sports draws them together. Both short, unassuming and bespectacled, it's easy to see where the inspiration for Superman's alter ego comes from. Wonderfully illustrated in a retro style, this read will delight those interested in comics, and inspire young artists and writers. An author's note at the end explains the fate of Jerry and Joe, and their battle with DC Comics for the rights to their creation.

Reviewed by Korie B., Children's Staff

Salad People and More Real Recipes by Mollie Katzen

Salad People and More Real Recipes
by Mollie Katzen
(Preschool and up)

At our house, we are in the midst of holiday cooking and baking with Mom at the helm of the stove. My kitchen-loving son is always ready to stir, shake spices or lick spoons. I know, however, that he would love to lead the way through a recipe instead of just assist. We tried several kids cookbooks and found a series perfect for the preschool set. Mollie Katzen has lovingly created both Salad People and More Real Recipes and a companion book Pretend Soup and other Real Recipes as "first cookbooks." Each step is beautifully illustrated so that even pre-readers can act as head cook. The food is simple, healthy and meatless. Kids can contribute to family meals with dishes like Sweet Potato Surprise, Corny Corn Cakes, Counting Soup, Polka Dot Rice and Salad People made from cheese, fruit, veggies and pasta.

My son loved the introductory quotes from the preschool class that tested each dish included with the recipes (i.e. "I hear the bubbles! I can hear bubbling!"). He also learned a little about measurement along the way. Grown-ups can follow along in traditional recipe format with tips for success. Happy cooking!

Older kids (ages eight and up) may enjoy Katzen's cookbook, Honest Pretzels And Other Amazing Recipes for Cooks Ages 8 & Up.

To find this book in our library, visit http://www.newberglibrary.org/.

Reviewed by Amanda L., Children's Staff