Review: Brother Sun, Sister Moon, An Annoying ABC, and Otto The Book Bear

Brother Sun, Sister Moon-Saint Francis of Assisi's Canticle of the Creatures Re-imagined by Katherine Paterson and Illustrated by Pamela Dalton 

If you are looking for a children's book that is as gorgeous to look at as it is to read then Brother Sun, Sister Moon-Saint Francis of Assisi's Canticle of the Creatures re-imagined by Katherine Paterson and illustrated by Pamela Dalton is just such a book. The picture book is one of the most beautiful modern day children's books that I have found to date. The paper cut-outs that are used to illustrate the lovely adaptation or re-imagined Canticle of the Creatures by Saint Francis of Assisi are exquisite. My two year-old daughter brings me the book simply for me to open it up to the page that is filled with sunflowers. We find something new hidden in a corner or behind a tree branch each time we examine the cut-out illustrations. I loved explaining to her the difference between a chipmunk and a squirrel after we found a small chipmunk hidden beneath the ground on the cover of the book. We both have enjoyed reading this treasure over and over again. I am so sorry that is must be returned to the library. We both hate to see it leave the house. I know this is one book we will have to purchase.

An Annoying ABC by Barbara Bottner and Pictures by Michael Emberley

An Annoying ABC by Barbara Bottner is the perfect book for parents looking to introduce the alphabet to their child.  Miss Mabel's class of boisterous misbehaving students will have your child laughing and learning at the same time.  The class of twenty-five students--whose names just happen to coincide with the alphabet--makes the reading fun.  Least you think I have missed a letter don't forget the teacher, which makes twenty-six. Adelaide to Zelda annoy each other with perfectly matched behavior that makes for some clever alliteration. Although the children misbehavior  for 26 pages all is well in the end because the children apologize to each other and settle in for a peaceful rest of the day...at least for the moment.  Both the twins and Mom loved this one. 

Otto The Book Bear by Katie Cleminson

Otto the Book Bear by Katie Cleminson was one of four books that my daughter and I selected on our second trip to the library.  The story centers around Otto who loves for his owners to read his book, but Otto's life is not limited to the pages of his story.  Otto has the ability to leave the security of his book and explore the outside world.  At first he limits his exploration to his owner's home, but when they move and leave his book behind Otto must go in search of a new life outside the pages of his book and the security of his home.  I don't want to spoil what happens on his odyssey, but suffice it to say you will enjoy the journey.  The story line was full of adventure. but not too much for two year-old twins to lose interest.  The illustrations added to the story, and the ending was quite satisfying.  I loved every page of this book and more importantly so did the twins, finally success!  A book that both my children and I loved. 

Happy Reading!

The Things You Can Read!

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