Friday, 27 June 2014

Noah's Ark and other bible stories

First published 2004 as God and His creations
God and His creations

Behold!
In the beginning there was only God... then he started creating!
The last and most troublesome of his creations were men and women. God was forever having to give them a helping hand, as these brilliant stories reveal. Read all about the adventures of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, Noah and his Ark, Joseph and his Fabulous Robe, David and Goliath and many more, all illustrated in Marcia Williams' vivid comic-strip style

The adventures of Robin Hood

 Other Title: Robin Hood
"So the outlaws became the first of Robin's merry men. They nicknamed him Robin Hood and dressed him in Lincoln green."

An exuberant comic-strip retelling of eleven of Robin Hood's adventures: from becoming an outlaw and meeting Little John and Friar Tuck to falling in love with Maid Marian and battling with Guy of Gisborne. Packed with hilarious illustrations, witty narrative and jokes, this book brings the legend of Robin Hood alive.

Caring for horses

First edition
Summary: A narrative guide to training horses, from where to work with the animals, when to begin training, which skills can be taught, and what to wear and expect as you perform daily tasks.

Training horses

First edition
Summary: A narrative guide to training horses, from where to work with the animals, when to begin training, which skills can be taught, and what to wear and expect as you perform daily tasks.

Red Ted and the lost things

Summary: One day, a little bear named Red Ted is accidentally left on the seat of a train by his owner and ends up in the place for lost things. He doesn't despair, however - he puts his mind to work! With the help of his new friends, a pessimistic crocodile and a cat with a fondness for cheese, Ted finds his way home to the little girl who loves and misses him. In graphic novel format

The Princess and the Foal

Inspired by the real life story of Olympic equestrienne, Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein
Summary: Princess Haya, daughter of the King of Jordan loves her family more than anything. So when tragedy strikes at its heart, she is devastated. The princess becomes even more withdrawn until, on her birthday, the King gives her a life-changing present. For the princess has only one joy - her love of horses. So when she is entrusted with the care of a very special foal, and an incredible bond grows, the heartbroken Princess begins to dream of an extraordinary future.

New Zealand Post Book Award Finalist 2014

Tuesday, 17 June 2014

Happy hat : positive thinking

Retold by Joy Cowley

First edition
Global kids. Growing strong
Catalogued from publisher's website
Summary: The stories in this series help children to make good decisions based on an understanding of themselves and others. This story of optimism and hope is told through the eyes of a hat that has experienced a lot of changes in its life.  Whatever the situation, this happy hat finds pleasure and satisfaction in its life

Boats

A rhyming book for pre-schoolers about boats and boating.

New Zealand Post Book Award Finalist 2014

The Wise boy : conflict resolution

Summary: In a village in Africa, there lived a boy chief named Wusuri who was famous for his wisdom. He could solve any problem in the village with his wisdom. Follow Wusuri and see how wise he is

This edition includes a Readers Theatre script

Retold by Joy Cowley

Monday, 16 June 2014

The Drummer Boy : social responsibilities

First edition
Global kids. Growing strong
Catalogued from publisher's website
Summary: The stories in this series help children to make good decisions based on an understanding  of themselves and others. In a small village in Rwanda, Africa, there lives a boy named Rukundo who  liked to play the drums. Each day he  walks two hours to bring water for his family. But the water is dirty and his  family becomes sick. How can the people of the village  get clean drinking water

This edition includes a Readers Theatre script.

Showing horses

First edition
Summary: A narrative guide to showing horses, from how much to practice beforehand, what the show classes entail, what judges are looking for, and what to wear and expect as you perform.
Includes bibliographical references and index.

Riding horses

First edition
Summary: A narrative guide to riding horses,from where to rid the animals, how to saddle them, how to mount and give orders to them, and what to wear and expect as your perform daily tasks.
Includes bibliographical references and index.

Friday, 13 June 2014

Octopuses

Summary: "This photo-illustrated nonfiction story for young readers describes octopuses' behavior and how they defend themselves from predators. Includes picture glossary". -- Provided by publisher.

Whales

Summary: "This photo-illustrated nonfiction story for young readers describes how whales are mammals that need air and how different types of whales find food. Includes picture glossary." -- Provided by publisher.

Crabs

Summary: "This photo-illustrated book for early readers tells the story of a crab looking for food and getting in a fight to defend its territory". -- Provided by publisher.

Sea Stars

Summary: "This photo-illustrated nonfiction story for young readers describes the body parts of sea stars and how they are adapted to find food in the ocean. Includes picture glossary". -- Provided by publisher.

Dolphins

"This photo-illustrated nonfiction story for young readers describes dolphins' behavior and the different methods they use to find food in the ocean. Includes photo glossary" -- Provided by publisher

Sea Horses

Summary: "This photo-illustrated book for early readers tells the story of sea horses finding a mate and having babies" -- Provided by publisher.

My two blankets

Summary: Cartwheel has arrived in a new country, and feels the loss of all she's ever known. She creates a safe place for herself under an 'old' blanket made out of memories and thoughts of home. As time goes on, Cartwheel begins to weave a 'new' blanket, one of friendship and a renewed sense of belonging. It is different from the old blanket, but it is eventually just as warm and familiar
A sophisticated picture book


Thursday, 12 June 2014

Sinbad the Sailor

Graphic / Comic Strip
Arabian nights
The stories of Sinbad the Sailor are some of the best-loved tales from 'The Arabian Nights'. Travel over the seas and follow Sinbad's adventures retold in Marcia Williams' vivid comic-strip style.

Share in the adventures of Sinbad in this wonderful re-telling of his travels. The stories of Sinbad the Sailor are some of the best loved tales from The Arabian Nights . Travel over the seas and follow Sinbad's adventures retold in Marcia Williams' vivid comic-strip style. These seven stories are presented in an entertaining and accessible way packed with hilarious creatures and spectacular feats! Also publishing this month are God and His Creations and King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table .

Iggy Wilder's Great Lost Dog Adventure

Graphic / Comic Strip

Dog lovers unite! Join Iggy Wilder on his search for his canine best friend, Fred. Seven-year-old Iggy Wilder loves dogs. In fact, he loves them so much he'd quite like to be one. So when Iggy's grandpa dies and his dog, Fred, is sent away, Iggy is desperate to get his four-pawed pal back...Packed with doggy facts and canine companionship, this is the heart-warming story of a young boy's search for his lost friend.

Today I will fly

First published: 2008.
Summary: Gerald the elephant worries about his best friend Piggie who is determined to fly. But surprising things happen when Piggie gets a little help from others.

The Terrible Tales of the Teenytinysaurs!

Graphic / Comic Strip

Summary: From stinky innards to steaming volcanic pools, slimy nostrils to star-spangled outer space, a teeny tiny gang of dinosaurs muddle through the myths and mysteries of prehistoric life. (From book cover)

Wednesday, 11 June 2014

I am invited to a party

Summary: Attending her first party, Piggie follows "party expert" Gerald the elephant's advice on what to wear, with surprising results

My friend is sad

Summary: When Gerald the Elephant is sad, Piggie is determined cheer him up, but finds after many tries that it only takes the simplest thing to change Gerald's mood

I will surprise my friend

1st ed
Summary: Best friends Elephant and Piggie decide that they will try to surprise each other, with unexpected results

Friday, 6 June 2014

Here in the Garden

Summary: The wind is raking through the falling leaves and I wish that you were here. As the seasons change, a young boy shares the magic of his garden with a special friend. (Back cover)

From award-winning author and illustrator Briony Stewart comes a tender picture book about loss, love and friendship.

The wind is raking through the falling leaves and I wish that you were here.

As the seasons change, a young boy shares the magic of his garden with a special friend.

Here in the Garden is a personal tale from Briony’s life and shows that you can always find your way back to a loved one through your heart and memories

Thumbelina

English edition
Original Korean text by Hee-jeong Yoon. English text edited by Joy Cowley. (Colophon)
Based on the tale by Hans Christian Andersen, not Brothers Grimm
New Zealand author

Maori in Aotearoa New Zealand : Understanding the culture, protocols and customs

Starting with the beaching of his Mataatua Bay of Plenty ancestral canoe, Buddy Mikaere provides a highly readable historical overview of Maori in New Zealand and goes on to examine the impact of a changing urban world on the traditional way of life. He describes the renaissance of Maori culture and the revival of language and traditions that were nearly lost to the past. The importance of marae and community, with tribal structure still evident in the settlement of Maori Treaty of Waitangi claims, the vitality of kapa haka and waka ama for Maori youth, the art of ta moko tattooing - all of these modern manifestations of culture are discussed and reviewed. Customs observed in formal situations, where people meet and greet one another, and at the marae where they come together to communicate and share hospitality, is described in detail, as is the tradition of burial. Photographs drawn from various sources, both historical and current, give a vivid impression of Maori traditions.

Japan

Exploring countries
Developed by literacy experts for students in grades three through seven, this book introduces young readers to the geography and culture of Japan.
(Provided by publisher)

Japan is a nation made up of many islands in the western Pacific Ocean. Over 100 million people live in this small nation of islands. Many live in the countryside, but millions live in crowded cities like Tokyo. Students will learn about the physical features of the landscape and surrounding waters as well as the cultural aspects of the Japanese from old traditions to modern everyday life.

India

Exploring countries
Summary: "Developed by literacy experts for students in grades three through seve, this book introduces young readers to the geograpy and culture of India"
(Provided by publisher)

India is the place to see the stunning Taj Mahal and a breathtaking view of some of the world's tallest peaks. The Himalayas extend along the country's northern border. Children will learn all about India, a country known for mountains, curry, and the world's second largest population.

Vietnam

Exploring countries
Summary: "Developed by literacy experts for studetns in grades three through seve, this book introduces young readers to the geography and culture of Vietnam"
(Provided by publisher)

Vietnam is famous for Ha Long Bay, a unique bay that formed over millions of years. Its scenic isles draw tourists from around the world. It is one of several marvels in Vietnam. Readers will explore other geographic features of Vietnam as well as the culture and traditions of the Vietnamese people.

Project Huia

New Zealand author
Summary: Logan's grandfather grew up near Palmerston North in the 1940s. One day, he and his sister Mavis spotted a beautiful and unusual bird in the kowhai tree outside their house: it was a huia bird, which was believed to be extinct. The bird flew away, and in an attempt to photograph it they managed to track it deep into the Manawatu Gorge. It was a dangerous journey through two train tunnels, made even more so when the horrible Carson boys got wind of their mission and decided to try and find the huia first so they could shoot it and sell its highly valuable feathers. More than 60 years later, 11-year-old Logan has returned to the Manawatu with Grandpop and a scientist to try and solve the mystery of what happened to the huia that he and Mavis found all those years ago. Grandpop must remember all the details of the events of many years ago. Can the group rely on his version of the events, and find the huia's final resting place? Will the huia still be there, and will its DNA still be valuable for scientific research into NZ's native fauna? And whoever would have thought that those Carsons are still living in the area and on the loose, and still up to their nasty tricks? (Publisher)

New Zealand Post Book Award Finalist 2014

Pippi Longstocking

Summary: Pippi is the only girl in the world who can do exactly what she likes. She is nine years old and lives in a cottage with a horse and a monkey. Her friends Tommy and Annika have to go to school and go to bed when they're told, but they still have time to join Pippi on all her great adventures. (Publisher)

When you reach me

Back of book:

By sixth grade, Miranda and her best friend, Sal, know how to navigate their New York City neighborhood. They know where it's safe to go, and who to avoid. Like the crazy guy on the corner.
But things start to unravel. Sal gets punched by a kid on the street for what seems like no reason, and he shuts Miranda out of his life. The apartment key that Miranda's mom keeps hidden for emergencies is stolen. And then a mysterious note arrives, scrawled on a tiny slip of paper.

I am coming to save your friend's life, and my own.
I ask two favours. First, you must write me a letter.

The notes keep coming, and Miranda slowly realizes that whoever is leaving them knows things no one should know. Each message brings her closer to believing that only she can prevent the tragic death. Until the final note makes her think she's too late.
This remarkable novel takes place in the real world but holds a fantastic puzzle at its heart. When You Reach Me is an original, and a brilliant and profound delight.

The Borrowers : The Borrowers afield

2-in-1 ed
Contents: The Borrowers -- The Borrowers afield
Summary: The Borrowers have lived in the secret places of quiet old houses; behind the mantelpiece, inside the harpsichord, under the kitchen clock. They owned nothing, borrowed everything, and thought human beings were invented just for their use. Until one of the Borrowers made friends with a human. (Publisher)
First published: 1952-1955
Borrowers afield

Thursday, 5 June 2014

Felix and the Red Rats

New Zealand author
Summary: When David's uncle comes to visit he sets off a bizarre series of events. Things become complicated when the pet rats turn bright red. David senses that somehow the red rats are connected to the story he is reading, and he becomes more convinced when the colour red becomes contagious. The parallel story sees Felix and his friend Bella inadvertently shifted into a strange land where they must solve a riddle. But this puts them into great danger. How will they escape and find their way home? (Publisher)

New Zealand Post Book Award Finalist 2014

Mr. Popper's penguins

The lovable Mr. Popper dreams of being an intrepid Antarctic explorer, living life among the penguins alongside his hero, Admiral Drake. So he is shocked one day when the Admiral responds to his fan letter by sending him a package containing a real, live penguin! Soon, this penguin is joined by another, and before long Mr. Popper has an ice rick in the basement and a dozen delightful penguins living in his house. With hardly enough money to feed his family, and an every-increasing bill for raw fish and canned shrimp, what can the wonderfully imaginative Mr. Popper do but train his penguins and taken the show on the road!

Dunger

Summary: William and Melissa have been roped into helping their old hippie grandparents fix up their holiday home in the middle of Sounds. They'll have no electricity, no cellphone reception, and only each other for company. As far as they are concerned, this is NOT a holiday
New Zealand author

New Zealand Post Book Award Finalist 2014

My side of the mountain

Puffin
Sam Gribley is terribly unhappy living in New York City with his family, so he runs away to the Catskill Mountains to live by himself. With only a penknife, a ball of cord, forty dollars, and some flint and steel, he intends to survive on his own. Sam learns about courage, danger, and independence during his year in the wilderness, a year that changes his life forever.

King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table

Includes end-notes
Step up to the Round Table and join the Knights of the Realm.

A legend is born when young Arthur meets Merlin and draws the mighty sword from its stone. This spellbinding retelling brings to life King Arthur and the adventures of his Knights, from the quest for the Holy Grail to the final tragedy of the Last Battle.

Clever Camouflage

Red Rocket Readers - Fluency - Level 2
Inside back cover has a glossary

Inside front cover:
"Why do animals need to camouflage themselves?
Camouflage is away of hiding by blending into the background. Many animals use camouflage so that they won't be caught by their enemies. Other animals use camouflage to hid from animals they are trying to catch. Which animals do you know that use clever camouflage?"

This book would be great for primary age students, easy to read and factual regarding camouflage

Tuesday, 3 June 2014

When Edgar Met Cecil

First edition
Summary: Edgar the robot is unhappy when his family moves to a new town, until he meets Cecil, an alien, and they become friends

A little princess

Sara Crewe is nicknamed the Little Princess. She has all the comfort and find things she could want, but she also reveals a kind and loving heart, a lively mind and a rich imagination. But then her father dies - bankrupt - and Sara has only dreams to support her. But will they be enough?

The Little Prince

First published in French, 1943
'Complete and unabridged'--Cover

The Little Prince is a classic tale of equal appeal to children and adults. On one level it is the story of an airman's discovery in the desert of a small boy from another planet - the Little Prince of the title - and his stories of intergalactic travel, while on the other hand it is a thought-provoking allegory of the human condition. First published in 1943, the year before the author's death in action, this new translation contains Saint-Exupery's delightful illustrations.

Mary Poppins

Originally published: London : Peter Davies, 1934
When Jane and Michael Banks draw up an advertisement for a nanny, Mary Poppins arrives on a gust of the East Wind and slides up the banister, changing their lives forever.

Their wonderful new nanny is strict but fair, and full of surprises. Soon the Banks children are whisked off on the most exciting and magical adventures they have ever had. But Mary Poppins has only promised to stay until the wind changes...

Bud, not Buddy

Yearling Newbery
Dell Yearling

Times may be hard, and ten-year-old Bud may be a motherless boy on the run, but Bud's go a few things going for him:

1. He has his own suitcase full of special things.

2. He's the author of Bud Caldwell's Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself.

3. His momma never told him who his father was, but she left a clue: flyers advertising Herman E. Calloway and his famous band, the Dusky Devastators of the Depression!!!!

Bud's got and idea that those flyers will lead him to his father. Once he decides to hit the road and find this mystery man, nothing can stop him - not hunger, not fair, not vampires, not even Herman E. Calloway himself.