Thank You Thanksgiving by David Milgrim

Thank You Thanksgiving by David Milgrim
(Toddlers and up)

It is the season for gratitude, and David Milgrim's picture book, Thank You Thanksgiving encourages this spirit with a simple story and lighthearted guessing game for young readers. A family finishes their Thanksgiving feast at the book's title page, and the real story begins at clean-up time. A young girl sets off on a mysterious, after-dinner errand with wallet in hand. Along the way, she expresses her gratitude for warm boots, pretty clouds and a variety of animals following her on her journey. The illustrations are funny and contain much of the story with Thanksgiving Day details and clues as to the reason for her trip. Readers may solve the mystery before the conclusion, but that doesn't take away from the book's warmth and overall message about being thankful for the little things. A great holiday book for young toddlers (who will love the idea of being thankful for the park) all the way up to early elementary kids (who can appreciate the guessing game).

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

Reviewed by Amanda L., Children's Staff

Imogene's Last Stand by Candace Fleming

Imogene's Last Stand by Candace Fleming
(Preschool - Grade 2)

Imogene Tripp is the kind of girl that can fingerpaint a map of the Oregon trail, give a puppet show lecture on women in history, and ride an old-fashioned, high-wheeled bicycle through her tiny town of Liddleville, New Hampshire. She is just the person to transform the dilapidated Liddleville Historical Society from a dusty, cobwebbed shack to a shining museum. Imagine her chagrin when a notice to tear the old historical society down appears in the front yard. The mayor has other plans for the space, but Imogene, quoting John Paul Jones, insists "I have not yet begun to fight!" With inspiration from her historical heroes, Imogene stands up to her fellow townspeople, all of whom seem uninterested in preserving their past. A last-minute discovery shocks the town, but will it be enough to save the museum? This unique picture book is full of funny details and spunky characters. Older preschoolers and early elementary students may be inspired by Imogene's passion for history and the book to learn more about Abraham Lincoln, Paul Revere or many other historical figures featured in this book.

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

Reviewed by Amanda L., Children's Staff

Ellie McDoodle, Have Pen Will Travel

Ellie McDoodle, Have Pen Will Travel, by Ruth McNally Barshaw
(Grades 2-4)

When Ellie's parents leave for a family funeral Ellie is dragged along on a camping trip with her aunt, uncle and cousins. While she's kicking and screaming (at least in her diary) Ellie is filling her diary with illustrations and character sketches of the family around her. She finds it more entertaing to dislike in her aunt, uncle and cousins than to like them, and her exaggerated portrayels of her family are play up their faults. But when her cousin gets a hold of her diary and writes, "No one likes you, either!" Ellie takes a step back from her diary to consider how her words and illustrations affect others. Part narration, part illustration, Ellie McDoodle, Have Pen Will Travel is a funny, entertaining and enlightening read.

The library's Book Buddies group unanimously gave this story two thumbs up!

Look for the sequel: Ellie McDoodle, New Kid in School

Find this book and more at www.newberglibrary.org

Reviewed by Korie B., Children's Staff