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Book Reviews
Lap Time for Little Ones:
Fabulous Picture Books

by Terry Miller Shannon
Kids (including my own grandchildren) adore picture books! Here are just a few of our current favorites:

Bear Snores On
By Karma Wilson, illustrated by Jane Chapman
ISBN: 0689831870

A great bear snoozes in his cave, through the cold dark winter. Along come a mouse, a hare, and other animals. They light a fire, fix some snacks, and have a party. And the bear keeps right on sleeping, until . . . But I won't ruin the ending. My grandkids request this joyous tribute to the power of friendship again and again.

When Moon Fell Down
By Linda Smith, illustrated by Kathryn Brown
ISBN: 0060283017

One night, moon fell down. His new perspective dazzled him: horses had knees--who knew?! He and cow became buddies, and headed off to town to explore. Linda Smith's magical tale is sure to become a classic.

The Seven Silly Eaters
By Mary Ann Hoberman, illustrated by Marla Frazee
ISBN: 0152024409

Have you had any experience with picky eaters? Mrs. Peters goes all out to feed hers--all seven of them. She squeezes lemonade, bakes homemade bread, etc, etc. And what does she get in return? Quite the incredible present, as you'll see. Marla Frazee's whimsical illustrations are the perfect counterpart to a tale that's both funny and heartwarming.

Down to the Sea with Mr. Magee
By Chris Van Dusen
ISBN: 0811824993

Mr. Magee and his pooch, Dee, decide to spend the day in their boat. Their cruise is leisurely until (oh, dear!) they are accidentally flipped into a tree by a whale. They can't get down! Finally, they are rescued by the most unlikely of heroes. Chris Van Dusen's rhyming adventure story and his bright retro illustrations combine to make a perfect read-aloud.

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Terry Miller Shannon and her son, Tim Warner, wrote a funny, rhyming picture book. Tim's three-year-old bath-loving son inspired TUB TOYS (Tricycle Press, 2002), which MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW says is "..greatly recommended..whimsical and fun." Check it out at Tub Toys



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