Saturday, March 11, 2017

PPBF (Late): Norbert's Big Dream by Lori Degman, Illustrated by Marco Bucci

Title: Norbert's Big Dream 
Written By: Lori Degman
Illustrated By: Marco Bucci
Published By: Sleeping Bear Press, 2016
Genre: Fiction 
Suitable For Ages: 4-8
Themes/Topics: Persistence, Determination. 
Opening:  
Most pigs are satisfied just rolling in the mud, or slurping slop, or snoozing in the shade. 
But not Norbert. 
Norbert was a pig with a dream. 
Since he was a wee piglet, Norbert dreamed of swimming the English Channel. 
Brief SynopsisFrom the publisher: “Norbert has always dreamed of swimming in the English Channel, and though he trans every day, he realizes he does not know where it is, but his pig friends help him succeed in his swimming quest. 
Why I Like This Book: One word. Norbert. Who couldn't love a pig with a dream? And he is unique, quirky and adorably drawn in a cute Howard Fine-ish style. To be honest I am not sure whether I love the text or art more, and they are absolutely perfect together.  Even more brilliant is the subtle suggestion of being active over being lazy, as well as the inspiration to travel outside your comfort zone.  Dear Norman was not just a dreamer, but a doer! What a great example for little ones who dream, and perhaps even to those who don't that they should. 
Five Stars and a 2016 Cybils Picture Book Award Nomination from me! 
I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

See also Lori's informative post about book dummies here:
http://literallylynnemarie.blogspot.com/2016/03/the-picture-book-dummy-behind-norberts.html
For the complete list of books with resources, please visit Perfect Picture Books.

Friday, March 3, 2017

PPBF: A Review of Mary Had a Little Glam by Tammi Sauer, Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton

Title: Mary Had a Little Glam 
Written By: Tammi Sauer

Illustrated By: Vanessa Brantley-Newton
Publisher: Sterling Children's Books, 2016
Suitable For Ages: 3-8
Themes/Topics: Individuality, Fashion
Opening
Mary had a little glam, that grew into a lot. And everywhere that Mary went, she wasn't hard to spot. 
Brief Synopsis: In a delightful rhymed text, Mary accessorizes to the limit, brings style to school and inspires her classmates to make the most of their wardrobe when stepping out at recess. But when their destination is revealed, Mary thinks quick to keep everyone dressed for fun on the playground. 
Why I Like This Book: Jumping off from the familiar Nursery Rhyme, this story immediately impressed me with it's clever diversion and fun. Mary's fashion sense inspired lots of creativity and individuality. With a surprising twist at the end, this book is fashion fun for all! 
Rating: Four Hearts!
For the complete list of other perfect picture books, as well as my previous Perfect Picture Book Friday shares, please visit Susanna Hill's Perfect Picture Books.

Reviewed by: Lynne Marie 

PPBF: I'm a Girl by Yasmeen Ismail (Reviewed by Lynne Marie)

Title: I'm a Girl 
Written and Illustrated By: Yasmeen Ismail
Publisher: Bloomsbury, 2016
Suitable For Ages: 3-8
Themes/Topics: Individuality, Gender 
Opening
I'm supposed to be nice...  all sugar and spice but I'm sweet and sour, no a little flower!
Brief Synopsis: Despite stereotypes this adorable, quirky little character encounters in her life, she keeps being herself and having fun and ultimately finds the perfect person to share it with. 
Why I Like This Book: I absolutely loved the art. This colorful, active and engaging character jumped right off the page. I really loved her individuality and spunk and the way she just moved right through it and was true to herself the whole time. This book has a lot of emotional takeaway value, not only for girls, but for anyone who is different. 
Rating: Five Hearts!
For the complete list of other perfect picture books, as well as my previous Perfect Picture Book Friday shares, please visit Susanna Hill's Perfect Picture Books.

Thursday, March 2, 2017

CONTEST ENTRY: #50 Precious Words Writing Challenge


FLY BY
By Lynne Marie


Hungry Fly.
Fly spies pie.
My, oh my!
Key Lime Pie.
Fly flies by.
Frog spots fly.
My, oh, my!
Frog hops high.
One nice try.
Fly sails by.
That sly Fly!
One more try.
Frog jumps high.
Lands in pie.
Pie in eye.
Fly flies by.



Bye, Bye, Fly!