The Wash Rag, The Reading Tub Newsletter, Fall 2008

This is the digest version of The Wash Rag, the Reading Tub's quarterly newsletter. If you prefer, you can read the newsletter edition. It has a lot more links and tidbits, like this one ...

Rolie Polie Olie Meet William Shakespeare ~ an article by author/educator J.H. Everett about ways to ham it up when you read aloud with kids.

CHAPTER ONE … General Tub Stuff
Happy Anniversary! It has been five years since I launched the Reading Tub® website as a “hobby.” Wow! It seems like yesterday, yet we have come so far. First things first … Thank You!

Without your support, your time, and your passion for reading, we would not be here. Whether you sent a book, reviewed a book, spread the word, sent us a donation, or volunteered to help us with the daily routine, you gave us what we need to encourage families to read and to help a child become a successful reader. For that, we will be forever grateful.

The Soap Dish … Stuff We're Bubbly About
We delayed publication of the Wash Rag so we could talk about the new Reading Tub website. And it is oh-so-worth it! We have been working all summer (mostly Beth from Sites2beseen.com) to upgrade the Website. In a nutshell ...

• We simplified the home page and added dynamic content. Every time you visit you’ll see a different set of books and a fact about reading and literacy.
• We created easier-to-use Navigation. The new tabs make it easier to find what you’re looking for.
• We reformatted the profile. It is even easier to borrow a book at your library, because the button is at the top, right next to the book cover.
• We expanded the Learning to Read Space. With more space for links, articles, and direct content, it’s easier to find what you need to help kids learn to read.

We are still moving a few things and catching the errant book cover, but early returns suggest that folks are very happy with the new look and the simplified presentation. Looking back is great, but looking ahead is even more fun. In the coming year, we hope to get a couple initiatives off the ground.

• Launch Read it Together. Thanks to a Community Grant (see sidebar) we are closer to getting this project off the ground. We will work on getting a sponsor for the remaining funding to write that Reading Guide.
• Add multi-media content. This one is in “pre-production” mode. We may have podcasts, videocasts, or a combination of both. It’s too soon to tell.
• Create a Wiki. This one is already on the drawing board. The goal is to create a place that complements what we do on the website and add more literacy tools.
• Expand collaborative efforts. There are lots of good ideas and some wonderful initiatives to promote family reading. I’d like to find ways for like-minded folks to come together to help each other promote their good works.
  

Author Showcase ~ Fall2008
The Author Showcase somehow seems to design itself each quarter. There is no process for picking themes or finding things in common. We fill slots one at a time, as authors express their interest. This month we have four first-time children’s book authors. What’s neat is that they not only wrote about kids, but their own children play a role in bringing the book to life, whether as inspiration, models for characters, or editors. Very cool!

Dr. Vicki Ebeling is a counselor and educator. She works one-on-one with kids and understands their needs, their frustrations, and their goals, for themselves and as readers. Her new book, The Winner’s Group is a middle-grade novel specifically designed for reluctant readers. Jump in the Reading Tub to meet Vicki Ebeling.

Lily Guzman has always found stories to be an effective way to help kids understand the world around them. Her bilingual children’s picture book The Caterpillar Story ~ La Historia de la Oruga is a poem she wrote to help her friends and family understand a tough decision in her life. Take a moment to visit with Lily Guzman.

Julia Rose believes that as an author it is best to write what you know. For Julia, that is her family. Her life experiences, particularly adventures with her children and grandchildren are central to her stories. Julia’s first novel, a middle-grade chapter book won Best Children’s Book of the Year by Christian Storyteller. Meet Julia Rose, author of The Gift Keepers.

Given the current state of the economy, Candi Sparks couldn’t have timed her debut children’s book series any better. What’s it about? MONEY! Candi knows that families want help in making smart money. She created the Can I Have Some Money book series (which includes picture and chapter books) as a way to help parents raise money-savvy kids. I know you’re going to want to hear what Candi has to say in this interview.

The Final Rinse
It is always fun to put together a Wash Rag, because it gives me a chance to stop and think about what’s been happening in the Reading Tub these past 90 days. Now, as we head toward the last two, event-filled months of the year, I expect things will get even busier. Since we won’t publish again until 2009, let me be the first to wish you happy holidays!

Read more!

The Wash Rag, The Reading Tub Newsletter, Fall 2008

https://thereadingtub.blogspot.com/2008/10/wash-rag-reading-tub-newsletter-fall.html

An Interview with John Mutford

When I learned about Book Blogger Appreciation Week, I thought it was a great idea. There are so many wonderful book bloggers (and book blog readers if you take the time to read comments). So when Amy announced we could host interviews, I jumped at the chance. I love the idea of learning new things, and an interview is a great way to go behind the virtual scenes and learn more. So I would like to introduce ...

John Mutford. I met John through Bookmineset, but that is just one of five blogs he authors. You can find challenges throughout Blogistan, but the Canadian Book Challenge. has to be one of the more unique. I'll let John tell you the rest.

TRT: Until BBAW, I had not heard about the Canadian Book Challenge. I'd love to know more. Can those of us on the southern border participate, too?

Absolutely. In fact, about a third of the participants are not Canadian. Not only have Americans joined, but there are participants from South Korea, Wales, India, and more. As an admittedly very awkward slogan, I’ve been telling people that the goal of the challenge is to celebrate, promote and explore Canadian books. The non-Canadians typically begin as explorers, but very quickly become celebrators. While it began on July 1^st (Canada Day), people are still joining and as long as you think you can read 13 books before next Canada Day, it’s not too late to sign up!

TRT: Since you are hosting the challenge, you get to organize everyone's input. Have you discovered any themes/patterns in what adults are reading these days?

Generally, people stick to novels. While poetry, children’s literature and nonfiction all get representation, novels definitely dominate the lists. Books which make headlines from winning awards, appearing on radio programs, best-seller lists and the like are, not surprisingly, very popular here as well. That said, there are plenty of new and/or not well-known authors who have gotten great attention. It's hard to find a theme when there are so many eclectic tastes!

TRT: In compiling the lists, have any new books been added to your TBR pile? Is there anything specific about those titles that caught your attention?

An author named Steve Zipp donated copies of his book to almost every participant who requested one, me included. I haven’t gotten to mine yet but from all the positive reviews that were generated, I’m looking forward to that one. Plus, I just moved to Yellowknife, so a book set here would be very interesting. A few other authors have joined as well, and having that at my fingertips so to speak, makes me want to get to their books soon, too (in particular Corey Redekop’s , Kathleen Molloy’s and Cheryl Kaye Tardif’s The River. As well, Andrew Davidson’s Gargoyle has gotten a lot a good buzz from Challenge members and beyond, and I don’t want to be out of the loop!

TRT: Do you include the books you share with your kids in your challenge totals? If not, why not?

I haven’t this time around, but I’m only up to three books so far. The first time I ran the challenge, one of my thirteen books was a picture book called The Hockey Song written by Canadian troubadour Stompin’ Tom Connors and illustrated by Brenda Jones. Children’s literature is as valid a form as any, in my mind, and since there’s a lot of great children and young adult books coming out of Canada, I think it’s just as important to celebrate those. Not everyone includes such books in their totals, however, but I tell people to make up their own rules as far as reading choices go.

TRT: On your profile, you say you have more than 1 million books in your TBR pile. Is there a book in the pile that is calling your name and screaming "Me, next! Me, next!"

I have a bit of an anal little system that determines which book I’m reading next. I read a Canadian novel, followed by a non-Canadian novel, followed by a non-fiction book (from anywhere), followed by either a book from the Bible or a Shakespearean play. (Then it’s shampoo, lather and repeat.) During all this, I always have a book of poetry on the go. For the most part, I think it keeps me well rounded, but even then I find myself slipping in certain areas. I’m horrible at keeping up with new releases, for instance. Likewise, I’ve never read a graphic novel and Maus has been calling out for me.

TRT: Wow! That is an impressive system. Shakespeare … didn't like him in high school, loved him in college (English major – go figure). Of the plays you have read, are there any characters whose roles you'd like to perform on stage?

I have performed in Shakespeare’s Macbeth. It was a small, but fun role: First Murderer. I’d do another one for sure. Who? That’s a tough question. Maybe Coriolanus. It’s a very underrated play and he’s such a complex character. Or else Iago, from Othello. He’s just so deliciously evil, who wouldn’t have fun playing that guy?

TRT: How often would you say your kids "catch you reading"? Have you ever caught them reading/thumbing through books (i.e., trying to imitate you)?

I read a biography of Che Guevara claiming that books practically littered his childhood home. Guests would have to clear them out of the way to find a seat. While I don’t condone guerilla warfare, if the books played any part in Che’s identity, I’m afraid my kids will be heading to the jungles of Argentina pretty soon. We are always reading. My daughter was “imitating me” at about 3, and now at 5, she’s a full-fledged reader. I love that she even puts in appropriate intonations and does character voices. She’s often caught reading to her brother who just turned three, himself.

TRT: If you had to fill your children's library and could only have 10 books, what would they be?

Wow, tough call! To make it a little easier on me, I’m going to stick with picture books for this answer, acknowledging that there are loads of chapter books I couldn’t do without either. And I’ll also add the disclaimer that this list is tentative at best and in no particular order.

1. The Very Hungry Caterpillar- Eric Carle This one was a favourite of mine as a kid and of my daughter. Plus, as a teacher, there’s a gazillion ways to use this book in the classroom. My son is partial to Have You Seen My Cat? We’re huge Eric Carle fans.)

2. The Hockey Song- Stompin’ Tom Connors and Brenda Jones My son is obsessed with sports and the first books he ever showed an interest in were songs that were turned into books. This book was a no-brainer. He knows all the words. Not always in the right order, but that’s okay.

3. The Mummer Song- Bud Davidge and Ian Wallace As with #2, this is a song turned into a picture book, with wild, fun and sometimes scary illustrations by Ian Wallace. It’s a Newfoundland Christmas song and important to me to remember my heritage. My children love this so much, they want it read year round. After reading it, without fail, we have to play “mummers.” If you’re unfamiliar with Newfoundland mummering, I suggest you Google it. It’s dying out in popularity now, but was a huge part of our culture.

4. Wings- Christopher Myers My wife would never forgive me if I didn’t include this one, though the rest of us love it, too. The story of Ikarus Jackson, a boy who could fly, it’s about acceptance and has amazing collages totally capture the emotions within.

5. The Party- Barbara Reid This is the tale of a family reunion/ birthday party. The rhymes and repetition perfectly compliment the fun story and the children’s imaginations. Plus, it has those amazing plasticine pictures that made Reid a national treasure.

6. Get Out Of Bed- Robert Munsch and Alan and Lea Daniels I’m not a huge fan of Robert Munsch—don’t get me started on Love You Forever—but my kids love him. Plus he’s such a part of growing up in Canada, he’s probably overtaken Mr. Dressup in popularity. I’ve always found this one particularly fun to read aloud.

7. Joseph Had A Little Overcoat- Simms Taback This retelling of a Yiddish folksong was also done quite successfully by Phoebe Gilman in Something From Nothing, but it’s Taback’s illustrations that win out for me. Plus, I’ve always enjoyed reading this one aloud, to my students and my own kids. I have my own actions to go along with the text.

8. The Three Snow Bears- Jan Brett I’ve got to include a fairy tale and this Northern retelling is perfect my children, as they’ve lived in the North most of their lives. I love the care and detail Brett puts into all her illustrations.

9. An Extraordinary Egg- Leo Lionni It was tough to decide between Fish is Fish or this one, but the consistent joke of referring to the alligator as a chicken, makes us smile every time, so An Extraordinary Egg wins out.

10. Emma’s Eggs- Margaret Ruurs and Barbara Spurll It’s a simple tale about a chicken trying to please the farmer’s family, but it’s so cute and well told that it’s impossible not to love.

TRT: Thanks, John! I'll be stopping by to see how the Canadian Book Challenge goes ... and check out the Great Wednesday Compares, too.

Read more!

An Interview with John Mutford

https://thereadingtub.blogspot.com/2008/09/interview-with-john-mutford.html

The Wash Rag, Readng Tub Newsletter, Summer 2008

This is the digest version of The Wash Rag, the Reading Tub's quarterly newsletter. If you prefer, you can read the newsletter edition. It has a lot more links and tidbits, like this one ...

Thanks to Mother Nature, the Swans Island (Maine) public library has burned to the ground. The library lost all of its holdings and needs your help.

Chapter One ... General Tub Stuff

In the Spring Edition, I was packing for BookExpo America. Even though BEA is "just" three days, its effects last a very long time. Now, a month later, I am re-energized, refocused, and drowning in books … all good things.

The Reading Ahead posts for May/June at Scrub-a-Dub-Tub; the Reading Tub® blog is filled with many of the titles we received at BookExpo America. I cannot thank the publishers enough for their generosity in giving us the opportunity to read their book and donate it to an at-risk child. We are looking forward taking these contacts beyond BEA to long-term relationships.

Thanks to everyone who took our surveys. The information is very helpful for us as we begin to plot our direction and focus for the coming year. You can read the complete findings in the Survey Results post on the blog.

The Soap Dish … Stuff We're Bubbly About

Before I go any further, I want to offer a very special thanks to Ashley B. who has valiantly tracked down missing library URLs and started adding new library links to the Reading Tub® website. We now have more than 1,000 public libraries in our directory. The only US states not listed are Montana and New Mexico. We just have not had any registered users from those locations.

Huge thanks also goes to Shelly T, our high school intern this summer. In addition to helping us build our database of literacy facts and ideas, Shelly prepared our interview with Jennifer Fosberry. The questions are hers, so I want to give her full credit! Before summer is out, Shelly has promised to write an article about her observations about reading and offer some ideas about how to reach that upper-high school audience.The fall 2008 edition of the Wash Rag will come out just about the time we reach our fifth anniversary. To celebrate this milestone, we are going to help promote book purchases for libraries and schools in need. I got the idea from the Kids Need to Read Foundation. So, if your school or library has a wish list on a bookseller site, please let me know about it. I will add it to a list of potential gift recipients when we celebrate later this year.

The Author Showcase

There is something magical when five authors – who do not know each other – become connected by their ability to create timeless stories. As young girls, our featured guests loved fairy tales and mysteries. They brought that love to their writing. Each of these women drew on their love of reading to create modern stories in styles and with plots reminiscent (but not duplicate) of the books and genres that inspired them.

Dr. Mosetta Penick Phillips-Cermak remembers the fairy tales her mother read to her as a child. When she decided to create a book to celebrate the birth of a grandniece, she knew a fairy tale would be just right! Meet Dr. Mosetta Penick Phillips-Cermak.

Hannah Stahlhut walked away from a 400-page manuscript to enter the Tweener Ministries International Reading Competition, where teens write a book for the Tweener (8 to 12) audience. Hannah took her unwritten idea and created an award-winning fantasy for pre-teens. Meet Hannah Stahlhut

Jennifer Swanson watched as her dog Penny dug all of the dirt out of a planter and then proceeded to sit there and study the world. That event propelled Jennifer to explore writing children's books. She has created Penny and Rio, a picture-book mystery series featuring two doggy detectives. Pull out your magnifying glass to meet Jennifer.

Thora Gabriel cherished those moments when she could leave the farm behind and enter the fairy elf kingdom she created in the woods nearby. Now am avid hiker, she knows the elf kingdom is there, somewhere, among the caverns of the Southwest United States. She is counting on Chessie Bligh, the hero of her award-winning fantasy, to help her discover the truth. Come explore the elf realm with Thora Gabriel.

For Jennifer Fosberry writing is the inevitable result of having science in her blood. Library science, that is. She started Monkey Barrel Press as a way to create books that move beyond repackaged "princess stuff." Her picture book, My Name is Not Isabella, introduces children to six women of great accomplishment. Meet (self-described) Top Banana, Jennifer Fosberry.

The Final Rinse
As we cross the halfway point for 2008, I look back and remain amazed at all that we have accomplished. You won't find it in the number of books we review (although it is a lot) or the number of requests we get (that's a lot, too). It is in the connections we have made with authors, publishers, parents, teachers, librarians –and others – who believe so passionately about creating a generation of successful readers that they give up their free time to share ideas, lead workshops, or just chat.

No one should have to pay extra to find a good book, and all of these folks make that possible. Literacy and raising readers should not be a competitive endeavor. There is no one, "perfect" solution to encouraging and promoting reading. Each child is different … and thankfully, there are people and tools that just might get her/him to open a book and turn the page!

Read more!

The Wash Rag, Readng Tub Newsletter, Summer 2008

https://thereadingtub.blogspot.com/2008/07/wash-rag-readng-tub-newsletter-summer.html

The Wash Rag, Spring 2008 Newsletter

This is the digest version of The Wash Rage, the Reading Tub's quarterly newsletter. If you prefer, you can read the newsletter edition, it has a lot more links and tidbits, like this one ...

Which teacher has the bigger influence on our kids' reading? The one who spends 900 hours in school with them or the one at home who spends 7,800 hours with them? Paraphrase … Jim Trelease, Read Aloud Handbook, Introduction, xv. Fifth revised Edition, 2006

CHAPTER ONE … General Tub Stuff
Welcome to all of our new subscribers and registered readers. It's wonderful to know there are so many people interested in children's literacy and reading. We are honored that you think enough of us – and what we do – to send a book, offer a suggestion, ask us a question, or become a registered reader.

One of the ways for us to stay connected and keep ourselves on track is through surveys. Right now, we have two open surveys.

• Survey One on the Reading Tub® website helps us understand traffic patterns and needs.
• Survey Two on Scrub-a-Dub-Tub, the Reading Tub® blog focuses on reading

Together, the surveys will help us identify needs, sort priorities, and build the tools you want. If you have taken one of the surveys – thank you! If you haven't had a chance, we would love to have your input. It might take three minutes to complete.

The surveys will remain open through the end of May 2008. I'll publish the results in June on the blog. Sneak peaks at the data suggest that the input will be valuable for consumers (parents/teachers/librarians) and producers (authors/publishers) alike. Stay tuned.

Over the past few months I have been carefully scanning the bookshelves, looking at site traffic patterns, and listening to others in the field. Based on that analysis, I modified the Reading Tub® book review criteria. You can read all the details on the Website. This was a difficult decision. The Reading Tub, Inc. is a non-profit for literacy with a mission that is about encouraging reading. In the end, I decided that our responsibility is to meet parents' needs for quality reading material and offer reasonable access through recognized, credible channels.

The Soap Dish … Stuff We're Bubbly About

Already this year we have reviewed 130 books (as of May 15). If we keep this pace, we're headed to 500 for the year!

Please welcome Bethany Vermillion to the Reading Tub® as a reviewer and feature writer. Look for Beth's articles on reading and literacy. We will let Bethany introduce herself:

In junior high, I would walk from class to class with my nose in a book. Without running into anyone, I finished the whole Babysitter’s Club series this way! I am a former sixth grade teacher and reading specialist; now I stay home to play with her one-year-old son, Jakson. I love historical fiction, starting a new book, and reading Click, Clack, Moo to Jakson. Aside from reading, I enjoy organizing rooms – ever read Berenstain Bears and the Messy Room? Awesome closet – sewing, and traveling with husband Zak.

Stop by Bethany's blog to say "hi" and catch a glimpse (or two) of Jakson.

Author Showcase ~ Spring 2008

Reading opens doors: the doors of our imagination, the doors of achievement, and doors of our own choosing. This showcase features three authors who understand how powerful reading can be, not only for our personal success but also for our spiritual growth and sense of self-worth.

Leona Bodie deRosa is a mother, grandmother, author, and reading advocate. It is easy to list them, but harder to distinguish them in how she lives her life. She wrote her first children's book One is Fun for her grandson … and asked her mother (an accomplished artist) to illustrate it. She wants to share her passion for reading with the next generation, just as she did her own sons. Read along as Leona Bodie de Rosa tells her story.

Peter DeWitt recognizes the irony of his path in life. He was a student who struggled with school (particularly reading and writing) and then became … a teacher and published author. In his eleven years as a teacher, Peter would write stories to read with his students. His middle-grade fantasy novels were the next step in his writing career. When he's not at school or out talking with kids about his books, you are likely to catch him talking about struggling learners with parents and educators … or thinking about that next book. Enjoy this conversation about books, reading, and learning with Peter DeWitt.

Marianne Richmond sees inspiration in the daily pieces of life. Then she magically transforms them into greeting cards, storybooks, and other gift products. Through her art and writing, she reminds us that sometimes the "every day" can be the most extraordinary. Meet Marianne Richmond, award-winning picture book author, illustrator, artist, and creative services consultant.

Here is our line-up for the Summer 2008 Author Showcase:

• Hannah Stahlhut, author of the award-winning novel Journey to the Homeland, a chapter book for Tweens
• Jennifer Swanson, author of Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting, a picture book for children in elementary school
• Dr. Mosetta Penick Phillips-Cermak, author of The Wishing Flower, a picture book for upper elementary children
• Thora Gabriel, author of the award-winning novel Chessie Bligh and the Scroll of Andelthor, a YA fantasy
  

You missed your chance for a Summer preview! Don't miss your chance this Fall! There is just one spot left for the Fall 2008 Showcase. deadline: 30 June 2008 if you're hoping for a Summer 2008 preview feature.

The Final Rinse

As I close out this edition of the Wash Rag, I start packing for Book Expo America. It has been three years since we have been able to attend the event, so we are especially excited about the opportunity to say "Thanks" in person to all of you who have supported us these past few years … and to meet some new contacts, as well. This is a great opportunity not only to see what's what with children's literature, but also to put our pitch in for the readers who need books the most: the kids who don't have books and who struggle to read. If you're going to be in Los Angeles for BEA, drop me a line so we can get together.

Read more!

The Wash Rag, Spring 2008 Newsletter

https://thereadingtub.blogspot.com/2008/05/wash-rag-spring-2008-newsletter.html

The Wash Rag, Winter 2008 Edition

What a year it has been already! We can't wait to tell you about all of the things that are happening in the Reading Tub® You'll find all the same great stuff … just a little (dare we say it) splashier! To see the splashier web edition, click here.

CHAPTER ONE … General Tub Stuff

Welcome to all of our new subscribers and registered readers. We have just crossed the threshold of 1,000 people who at some point in the last 3½ years have sent us a book, asked us a question, or just registered!

Here in the Tub our bookshelves are bulging. In 2007, we received two books for every profile we posted. Even with publishing more than 235 profiles, we couldn’t seem to keep the number below 200 books waiting for review. Timely reviews are important, so we temporarily turned off the spigot to new clients in November 2007.

The good news is that we now have placed more than 150 books with reviewers. Some of those profiles are starting to come in. So as soon as we get the “pile” down to just 75 pending profiles, we will start accepting books from new authors and publishers again. I’m still hopeful that will happen by April 1. If you want to see where we are, just go to our Search page and check out the stats in the blue box.

We have renamed our One Letter at a Time Project. The purpose of the project is to place books with families that don’t have easy access to reading material. The goal is to have adults and children share the book together … hence the new name: Read it Together! Each donated book will be paired with a one-page guide that promotes reading in other ways.

The Soap Dish … Stuff We Are Bubbly About

Since we last published the Wash Rag (October 2007), we have more than tripled the number of family reviewers and schools participating in our Use Your ABCs program. Teachers and Library Media Specialists from around the country are getting kids engaged in reading and writing reviews. Here’s a sampling of what their doing …

• Reviews prepared by Ninth Grade Advanced English students

• Giving books to struggling Ninth Grade readers who read with first and second grade students.

• Asking at-risk junior high students to read the books and write reviews … and let them keep the book!

• Using a teacher’s read-aloud time to get a “class” review on a book.

• Asking college students enrolled in library studies and early childhood education to select books to read with groups of kids.

If you are interested in learning more … or sharing an idea about how to get kids involved, please contact Terry.

More news ...

In 2007, the Reading Tub, Inc. donated books in excess of $3,700 in value to non-profits that work directly with children or who make books accessible to kids who wouldn’t otherwise have any reading material at home.

Thanks to an incredibly generous donation from Judson Press, the Reading Tub, Inc. has 288 new books for our Read it Together project.

CLICK HERE ... a new feature in the Wash Rag. These are sites that caught our attention as particularly valuable resources for getting kids excited about reading.

Jen Robinson’s Growing Bookworms newsletter is full of great stuff: book reviews, literacy tips, and articles. [Click link to preview.]

I.N.K. (Interesting Nonfiction for Kids) is a fascinating new blog that shows us how “real stuff” can be as captivating and powerful as fiction.

Bookmark Destined to Become a Classic if you are reading with or looking for books for middle grade readers (4^th to 6^th grade).

~ Author Showcase ~ Winter 2008 ~

The creativity of the human mind is incredible. Even as you read this, someone, somewhere is thinking up something incredible. I tend to focus on the stuff that helps our kids feel and become incredible. This quarter, we’d like you to meet four individuals who show us that ingenuity – when it comes to getting kids excited about reading – knows no bounds!

Frances Gilbert loves creating picture-book stories. She grew up in England during World War II, and has vivid memories of being entertained by stories while hiding in a bomb shelter! Frances’ stories can come from anywhere: an adventure with her grandchildren, or a what if question that pops in her head after reading about Peruvian history. Jump in the Tub to meet Frances Gilbert

For Amber Kingston five is an important number. She decided she wanted to be an author and illustrator in 5^th grade, thanks to a writing project. A visit from her cousin Laura (then five years old) inspired Laura and the Leprechauns, a story she modeled after one of her favorite books … that she got when she was five years old! Jump in the Tub to meet Amber Kingston.

Patrick “Packy” Mader grew up in America’s Heartland. Packy’s books are inspired by his own life: growing up with six brothers and sisters on a dairy farm. His first book is the result of a promise he made to his daughter. He is committed to producing timeless stories with lessons that everyone can enjoy (even if you don’t know how to milk a cow)! Jump in the Tub to meet Patrick Mader.

Tara Rison loves books, and she loves kids. When she decided to open her own preschool, she wanted to build the curriculum around children’s literature. To her surprise she couldn’t find a program that combined classic children’s books with age-appropriate, activities. So she combined her training and experience in curriculum development, her love of kids, and passion for reading and created The Itty-Bitty Bookworm, a program for preschools and parents. Jump in the Tub to meet Tara Rison

The next edition of the Wash Rag will showcase these authors. Click on the links to see their books in the Tub.

Leona Bodie deRosa, author of One is Fun, a picture book for toddlers

Peter DeWitt, author, teacher, reluctant reader, and national speaker on literacy and reading. SeeToaster Pond and Isabella … and the Room of Lost Brooms

Marianne Richmond Award-winning picture book author, illustrator, artist, and creative services consultant See: I Love You So…>, Hooray for You, I Wished for You; an Adoption Story and You Are My Wish Come True

There is still one slot left for Summer 2008.

The Final Rinse

It’s hard to believe that 2008 we mark “only” our fourth year as a full-fledged non-profit! We continue to be excited about our growth and the opportunities to make a difference. It also means we need to do things differently, too. As we get more engaged in the overlapping worlds of literacy and children’s literature, we remain committed to offering fresh, useful content … and not clogging your in-box in the process.

So keep those cards and letters coming. We are always excited to hear about new books and broadcast ideas that get kids (and the adults in their lives) excited about reading.

Read more!

The Wash Rag, Winter 2008 Edition

https://thereadingtub.blogspot.com/2008/02/wash-rag-winter-2008-edition.html

The Wash Rag, Fall 2007, Issue 17

Fall is our favorite time of here in the Tub, because it is our anniversary. We launched our website in the Fall of 2003, so it is always fun to stop, take a breath, and see just how many pages we have turned in the last year. I won't bore you here, but I've put some "Tub History" stories on Scrub-a-Dub-Tub, the Reading Tub® blog.

Every time I sit down to write a newsletter, it seems like we have something new, as we work to make it easier for you to bring reading home! As you know, every profile we write has the "Recommended Age" for the audience. Well, we have tweaked that a little bit. From here on out, there will be two recommended ages:

Read Together ... for reading the book TO/with a child; and

Read Independently … when a child can read independently.

I've started doing it with new books, and will slowly go back to the existing collection of titles. Reading aloud with a child is a very important part of their developing vocabulary and literacy skills. By changing our format, we hope to emphasize that a little more.

We have also recently improved our subscription services. Now, if you tell us what age(s) you are most interested in, we can send you tailored correspondence. From now on, the bi-monthly Book Bags are issued based on your interests. Saves you time … keeps the inbox a little less crowded.

Our Author Showcase this quarter introduces you to some wonderful authors, an illustrator, and a very dedicated independent publisher. With the holidays just around the corner, you'll meet authors with seasonal stories, as well as those with positive messages and a sense of history.

Sherri Chessen helps kids tackle very tough problems. Sherri's passion for kids led her to create Gorp, a friendly blue creature that helps kids tackle some of the toughest issues they face. In 1996, Sherri published her first book The Gorp's Gift to try to address the growing problem of why we were losing so many of our children to gunfire. Her next book, The Gorp's Dream, took tackled prejudice and bullying, and, in her upcoming book, Sherri will empower kids about sexual abuse. Meet Sherri Chessen by clicking here.

Tim Garrison thinks a good fantasy starts with real life. In March 2007, Tim published the first title in his Collin Chronicles series, Magic, Bones, and Catacombs. The setting draws details from his own experience growing up on a farm; the characters are two brothers (Collin and Ramey) whose exploits and personalities come from his life, as well as from watching his sons; and the plot is the fruit of an imagination that grew up with some of the best pre-Harry adventure fantasies we know and love. Take a magical ride with Tim and learn about what's next for brothers Collin and Ramey.

For Robyn Gioia a chance opportunity has become a passion to set history straight. You know the adage, "you learn something new everyday." For most of us, the "something" becomes a new piece of information we store away. Not for Robyn. When she learned something she didn't know about St. Augustine, Florida, she turned it into a picture book for middle-grade readers: America's Real First Thanksgiving: St. Augustine, Florida, September 8, 1565. Click here to read about Robyn, Thanksgiving, and a couple of other things you might not know about Florida history.

Florrie Binford Kichler is bringing history back to life. Florrie Kichler is proof that books can transform your life. As an eight-year-old girl battling a serious illness, she was introduced to Childhood of Famous Americans Series™. Those "little orange biographies" became a mainstay for her, as a means of entertainment, a way of learning history, and, ultimately, inspiration. Today, Florrie is bringing those historical fiction novels back to life as The Young Patriot Series. The Young Patriot Series has won nine national awards, including Foreword magazine's Book of the Year and the Parent's Choice award. Florrie was also featured recently on C-Span2’s BookTV. Click here to read about Florrie, Patria Press, and the story behind The Young Patriot Series.

Cathy Morrison shares a secret: lots of reading goes into creating art for children's books. For twenty years, Cathy has pursued a love of illustration. She has brought the images we love (and stare at in awe) to nearly every genre of children's books. Cathy's published titles have won a number of awards, including Children’s BookSense 76, Foreword Magazine Book of the Year, Parent’s Choice Outstanding title, Independent Publisher's Magazine Juvenile Fiction Award, and the I-Parenting Media Award, to name a few! Click here to meet Cathy Morrison.

J.G. Rives loves the idea of sharing great stories. Where are My Christmas Presents? , J.G.'s first picture book, just hit the stores. In talking with him recently, it's easy to see that he is JUST as excited about some of the other books Sterli Publishing (his company) will launch in 2008 as he is about his newest "baby." Meet author/publisher J. G. Rives here.

The Winter Preview. The Author Showcase for Winter 2008 is full! We are excited about the opportunity to introduce this slate of talented individuals who are dedicated to introducing young children to literature and stories through picture books.

Frances Gilbert writes all kinds of stories. Her picture books incorporate some element of nature, whether they are tree-frogs in the rain forest, nocturnal animals, or a princess who wants to sail the seas. Ms. Gilbert's titles include Turtle on a Summer's Day, Celeste and Regine in the Rain Forest, To Know the Sea, and Goodnight World Outside.

Patrick Mader, author of Opa and Oma Together and Oma Finds a Miracle. Patrick "Packy" Mader draws on his own life growing up in Minnesota for this picture-book series about the lives of two grandparents who live and work on a dairy farm.

Tara Rison, creator of The Itty-Bitty Bookworm. When Tara decided she wanted to spend more time with her children, she decided to draw on her expertise as a curriculum and training specialist to create her own pre-school. In the process of building her curriculum – one that is based in children's literature – she has created multi-faceted units that others can use in educating children.

NOTICE: We are now accepting nominations for the Spring 2008 edition of the Author Showcase. If you want to be part of the Spring Preview, you must be on board by January 15, 2008. The Winter 2008 edition publishes in late February 2008. The Spring 2008 Wash Rag will be published in April/May 2008.

Through the generosity of Forever Young Books, the Reading Tub® now has 100 new copies of Cheri Hallwood's award-winning picture book, Winter's First Snowflake. The books will be part of our One Letter at a Time project, where we partner books and a reading guide together for parents. We can't say "Thank You" enough to Cheri for her incredibly generous donation.

Speaking of reading … I just recently attended a seminar sponsored by Read Aloud Virginia, and had the opportunity to listen to read-aloud guru Jim Trelease. He had some wonderful ideas for getting kids interested in reading. His enthusiasm is contagious. Look for a short article about what I learned in the next few weeks. We'll post it on Scrub-a-Dub-Tub, the Reading Tub® blog.

Our partnership with Be the Star You Are!™ dates back almost to the beginning of the Reading Tub®. Over the last three-and-a-half years, the Teen STAR Book Review team has received and read nearly 200 books. Now it is our turn to help promote their work … Be the Star You Are!™ is currently sponsoring its fourth annual writing contest to promote literacy and positive messages. The Entry Fee is $10, tax deductible, and First Prize is $100 and a guest spot on Be the Star You Are's™ internationally-syndicated radio program (total value: $700). Read more on our blog.

Attention Authors: Starstyle®-Be the Star You Are! is an internationally-syndicated radio program that is an outreach program of the charity, Be the Star You Are!™ They broadcast on the largest radio network in the world and are part of Modavox/Voice America/World Talk Radio. For a donation of $333.00, you will receive a 15-20 minute interview to promote your books. The live interview is broadcast on Thursdays from 3-4 pm PST on World Talk Radio. As part of your donation, you will receive listings on our web sites (www.star-style.com, www.bethestaryouare.org, www.worldtalkradio.com) plus an MP3. We can also have multiple CD's made for you at a reasonable cost. (Minimum 50-please email us for quotes). To learn more, visit the Be the Star You Are™ Website. Be sure to let Cynthia know you heard about the show in the Tub.

The Final Rinse

Because we are receiving so many books every month, and because the Wash Rag only comes out quarterly, we moved the title preview out. Now, when you go to Scrub-a-Dub-Tub, the Reading Tub® blog, you will see our "Reading Ahead" column. These are the books that based on cover and blurb alone pique our interest as a title kids might like. We know you can't judge a book by its cover … but it is human nature. In the real estate business they call it curb appeal … here in the Tub we call it "cover appeal." The format matches our book bags: each target audience gets its own post.

In just a few days we'll turn the page for Halloween and then start the "holiday" chapter of our year. As we head into this wonderful season of memories and celebration, we hope you enjoy the great, warm comfort of sharing a book with a child. We'll see you again when winter's day arrives!

Until then, happy reading.

Read more!

The Wash Rag, Fall 2007, Issue 17

https://thereadingtub.blogspot.com/2007/10/wash-rag-fall-2007-issue-17.html

The Wash Rag, Summer 2007

The Reading Tub Newsletter, Issue 16, Summer 2007

Summer's here, school is out, and life shifts to lay-back-and-relax mode. There is more time to be together, travel, and (last but not least) kick back with a book we have been waiting months to read!

Speaking of books to read … If you haven't checked out the May/June 2007 book bag, you might want to do that. It is probably the biggest collection of "favorites" we've ever had! I can't remember a month having as tough a time selecting "a few" favorites.

Just in time for summer reading, we have also upgraded the search engine on the site. Now, you can search the whole Web site or just the book bag. When you search the book bag (title, author, keyword), you're return is a list of books, sorted by age group, and the ability to print the book list and take it to your local library or bookstore. When you search the site, you still get the books, although there is no sort, but you can also get a return on other pages (like interviews and articles).

Before we jump into the Summer Author Showcase, I want to introduce you to Read Aloud Virginia (RAV). It is a non-profit educational literacy organization based in Richmond, VA. In 2008 RAV will celebrate it's tenth year of helping children learn to read! The organization's mission is to "promote healthy, successful children through reading aloud, and it is committed to encouraging parents, teachers, caregivers, and other adults to assume responsibility for children's literacy by reading to them for 20 minutes a day." When you visit the Read Aloud Virginia Website, you will find LOTS of information with tips for reading with kids, why reading aloud is important, and great books for reading with your kids. In October 2007, RAV is sponsoring a seminar (actually two) with Jim Trelease, whom many of you know as THE expert on reading with children. Click here to learn more about the seminar.

Now on with the show. Every quarter, I try to pull together an introduction that tells you a little bit about the individuals who comprise the Author Showcase. Most of the time, I discover a theme that I didn't realize was there. This time, I don't have to think that hard. I only need one word: passionate. In each of their interviews, our guests talk about how a personal passion became the catalyst for their work. Think I'm exaggerating? See for yourself. I'm betting that you will feel the energy as you read the interviews.

What could be better than books on tape? Listening to Andrea and Mark talk about great children's books for reading out loud. Or, even better, chatting with the individuals who crafted the stories. In July 2006, Andrea & Mark Blevis created Just One More Book! It is a website where you can access and/or download podcasts of great children's books. Their passion for sharing great books is evident in everything they do … and it leaps from the virtual pages of our interview, too. We will be truly surprised if you don't get a great tip for bringing more reading time into your family's day! Click here to meet Andrea and Mark.

Jennifer Bouani is an entrepreneur. She has been fascinated by business her entire life, and has put that energy into helping other kids that have that entrepreneurial spirit. Jennifer created the Future Business Leaders' Series™ books. The first title in the series, Tyler & His Solve-a-matic Machine. Jennifer's book, recently won an iParenting Media Award: The 2007 Excellent Products Call in Children’s Books. To read our interview with Jennifer, click here.

Laura Dunn-Dern is touching kids and parents around the world. To say that Lisa understands the media is a HUGE understatement. She is using traditional and emerging media to help children (and their families) build successful, happy relationships. You can see her on television, you can hear her on a monthly Internet radio show she co-hosts with her daughter, and you can read her blog. Lisa has just released Dr. Duncan, Dog on Duty, the second title in her semi-biographical picture book series; and she is producing and hosting a children's television show for Ethiopian Television (eTV). Click here to catch up with Lisa Dunn-Dern

Who will we meet next? As lazy as the days of summer may be, Autumn will be here in a flash. We are happy to report that the upcoming Author Showcase is bursting at the seams. Although we normally limit the showcase to three featured guests, because we have some new releases for the upcoming holiday season, we thought it best to expand our offerings.

Sherri Chessen, author of The Gorp's Gift and Gorp's Dream: A Tale of Diversity, Tolerance and Love in Pumpernickel Park.

T. K. Garrison, author of The Collin Chronicles, Book 1: Magic, Bones, and Catacombs.

Robyn Gioia, author of America's Real First Thanksgiving: St. Augustine, Florida, September 8, 1565.

Florrie Binford Kichler, publisher Patria Press, LLC and the Young Patriot Series. Titles in this series of historical fiction novels include stories about John Audubon, George Rogers Clark, Abner Doubleday; Fredrick Douglass, Amelia Earhart, John Hancock, William Henry Harrison, Mahalia Jackson, Juliette Low, Eddie Rickenbacker, James Whitcomb Riley, Lew Wallace, and Phillis Wheatley,

James Rives, author of Where are My Christmas Presents?


The Reading Tub, Inc. has two pieces of news worth splashing about.

First, we are thrilled to announce that thanks to the generous support of Exit Studio, the Arlington, Virginia-based multi-media publisher, we will be able to start moving forward with our One Letter at a Time project. Exit Studio has donated twenty copies of its award-nominated book En Esta Hermosa Isla (On This Beautiful Island). The book is a Finalist for 2006 Book of the Year by Foreword Magazine, and has received critical acclaim from Criticas (Publisher's Weekly review publication for books in Spanish). We will pair the books with a Reading Guide (being developed) in our effort to create a positive reading experience for all families, not just those where English is spoken at home. If you'd like to learn more about this project, just follow this link.

Second, the Reading Tub® is honored to be selected as one of two recipients of funds raised through the China Dreamblogue Project. Reading Tub, Inc. Director Lonnie Hodge, who teaches in China, is collaborating with another teacher on this project. Here is what he has to say about the effort:

"Our dream is to travel in 2007 to every mainland province in China, beginning with Tibet. During this journey, we intend to chronicle the everyday lives of ordinary Chinese citizens. Our motivation for the trip came from a group of cancer survivors known as the League of Extraordinary Chinese Women, a group of five women who naturally and courageously combated their disease (advanced-stage HER2 breast cancer) with friendship, enthusiasm, meditation, and what medical care they could afford. Because of their courage, we decided that we should find a way to live out our dreams and help others to live out theirs. Our search led to The China Dreamblogue [http://www.blogofdreams.com].

"The Dreamblogue is a cyber-activism website that will have videocasts, podcasts, a China picture contest (to be turned into a coffee table book), a weekly Chinese horoscope, weekly Chinese recipes (also to be a book), and most importantly, the daily dreams of people from around the world. In all, the Dreamblogue has been created to be a tool of understanding and a place where dreams can be spoken into reality."

Please go to the Dreamblogue site for more details and to see how you can help. No financial commitment is expected only your visits to the site. Visitors will have a chance to win one of two donated trips to China for either blogging their dream or just commenting.

As I mentioned above, we are happy to have the "problem" of trying to select just a few titles from among the large collection of books we are reading. The list below identifies some of the some of the books that arrived this past quarter and which look particularly interesting at first glance.

Dangerous Places by Caroline Hardy (recommended ages: 3 to 6). This is a lift-the-flap book designed to help children learn to make safe choices. (Mercury Books, 2006)

Monsters and Water Beasts by Karen Hokanson Miller (recommended ages: 9 to 12). This is a collection of non-fiction stories about mythical creatures and monsters. (Henry Holt & Company, 2007)

Oma finds a Miracle by Patrick Mader (recommended ages: 4 to 8). In this story, the children are searching for a cow born out in the snow. This is the second title in this picture-book series about life on a farm in the Midwest. (Beaver's Pond Press, 2007)

The Old Man and the C by Carole Jean Tremblay (recommended ages: 6 to 10). This picture book is a fish-tale with lessons for kids. (Pineapple Press, 2006)

Tales of Tokoloshe by Pieter Scholtz (recommended ages: 8 to 12). This is a short-story collection, with tales drawn from southern African folklore. (Struik Publishers, 2004)

Tell Me a Story: Timeless Folktales from Around the World (recommended ages: 5 to 12). This is an E-Book collection of European, Japanese and Indian folktales from the newspaper column "Tell me a Story." These stories, read by award-winning actors, range from just under five minutes to thirteen minutes in length. (Universal Press Syndicate, 2006)

Welcome Home, Forever Child by Christine Mitchell (recommended age: 4 to 9). This is a book celebrating families for children adopted as toddlers, preschoolers, or elementary-aged children. (AuthorHouse, 2006)

Thankfully, the pace of new books has slowed a little bit for summer. It will help us get a handle on the stacks of books that have been waiting patiently to be shared with a family. I am happy to report that we have just under 200 books to read and more volunteers to help us. My goal is to be down to 100 books by the end of the summer.

Happy reading!

Read more!

The Wash Rag, Summer 2007

https://thereadingtub.blogspot.com/2007/07/wash-rag-summer-2007.html

THE WASH RAG
The Reading Tub Newsletter, Issue 15, Spring 2007

Welcome to the second edition of the Wash Rag for 2007. These past couple months have been quite a whirlwind … lots of great stuff to talk about, so let's dive right in. I know we have a section about all the exciting things going on, but there are two things worth mentioning right away!

First, The Reading Tub® is honored to announce its partnership with Barefoot Books, and more specifically Lori Rohleder, stallholder for ReadBarefootbooks.com. Lori is someone whose goals and values embody the Barefoot Books tradition, and she embraces the essence of the company: innovate, inspire, and imagine. Click here to learn more about Lori and the partnership with The Reading Tub®.

Next, The Reading Tub® was thrilled to be discovered by Just One More Book. Like us, Andrea and Mark created a Website powered by a passion for children's literature. Through the website and thrice-weekly podcasts, you can learn about some great books and the authors, illustrators, and publishers who create them. In case you missed it, we are now including a link to a JOMB podcast in every Book Bag: one for the 4 to 8 age group, one for the 8 to 12 age group. Stay tuned … Terry just filed an interview with Just One More Book that you'll be able to hear in the next month or so.

One of the great things about opening the Newsletter with interviews, is that we get the chance to put the authors (and their stories) front and center! This group of authors wears two hats: writers and publishers. They are each storytellers of the first order, but what makes their work truly interesting is their goal of making a difference for children. Their books offer families a chance to share stories that help kids with personal development (friendship, overcoming obstacles), or learn about science, history, and heroes.

Cheryl Block spent twelve years as a teacher, working with special needs children and teaching them science. When she saw how studying science opened other doors to learning, she was hooked. Now she creates multimedia products, combining a picture-book story with an educational CD. True Blue Friend, a story about a whale, focuses on sea mammals. The Rainbow Web, a story about spider, offers all kinds of interesting facts about arachnids. Here's your chance to learn something new. Click here to meet Cheryl Block.

Lynda Bulla was looking for an outlet to "do more" once her kids were grown and on their own. As a Librarian's Assistant she had a love of books and stories, and decided to write some of her own. Lynda is driven to write stories that families will want to share for generations. Her themes are timeless and emphasize the importance of teaching values to our children. Her first book The Old Clock on the Wall was inspired, in part, by her grand-daughter who was dealing with the frustrations of dyslexia. Meet Lynda Bulla and learn more about her books, each dedicated to one of her grandchildren: The Old Clock on the Wall; Katydid; Freedom Rings: an American Parable; and The Churkendoose.

Nancy M West weaves stories with the elements that both children and parents love: dogs, heroes, friendship, perseverance, life lessons, and true-life stories. Her company, Off Lead Publications, is a publishing house that specializes in stories about dogs. Nancy's most recent book, Kali Takes the Lead is an illustrated children's book about humanitarian mine detection dogs. Her first book, Chips the War Dog has just been re-published by Off Lead Publications as Chips the Hometown Hero. Although she has written books for a wide range of audiences, her favorite genre is pre-teen and young adult, because they let her develop the stories more completely. Click here to meet Nancy M West.

Summer is just around the corner. Look for these interviews in the Summer 2007 Edition of the Wash Rag.

Jennifer Bouani, author of Tyler & His Solve-a-matic Machine. Jennifer's book, part of the Future Business Leaders' Series™ just won an iParenting Media Award: The 2007 Excellent Products Call in Children’s Books.

Andrea & Mark with Just One More Book. Stop by Just One More Book. Three times a week you can get a new podcast (or visit the website any time) to learn about great children's books, meet authors, illustrators, publishers, and those of us passionate about reading with our kids.

NOTICE: Are you still sitting on the side afraid to dip your toe in the water? Jump in – thanks to GoogleAds and coast-to-coast media coverage, the Reading Tub® is getting LOTS more traffic and interest. Want readers to find you? Then you have to take the leap!

We have one opening left for Summer 2007. Let us know before June 1, 2007 and you can be in our upcoming Showcase. We also have one space left for fall. Remember, all donations for the Author Showcase are tax deductible. Click here to learn more.

There is lots to be excited about here in the Reading Tub®, not the least of which is coast-to-coast media coverage in April.

At the beginning of the month, KGO-TV (ABC-7, San Francisco) aired a feature on Cynthia Brian and Be the Star You Are!® The focus of the piece was the Teen STAR Book Review Team … some of you authors may even notice that the kids are working you’re your book! Here is the link for Salute to Cynthia Brian: http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=abc7_salutes&id=5189819

At the end of the month, CBS-19 and ABC-16, two stations that are part of the Charlottesville (VA) Newsplex, aired a feature about the Reading Tub® as part of their evening newscasts. Click here to listen to the Reading Tub's® story. Be sure to click the red camera to see the broadcast. Here's the link: http://www.charlottesvillenewsplex.tv/community/headlines/7261436.html

Terry Doherty is a judge for the Mom's Choice Awards, sponsored by the Just for Mom Foundation. In March she received a BUNCH of books to read as part of her duties. The Just for Mom Foundation graciously donated the books to the Reading Tub® and we will be donating them to local literacy organizations, like we always do. But before we do that, we'll be writing our reviews. Look for them in the next month or so. Terry only saw a portion of the materials donated … we don't envy the Foundation. They have some great books to choose from.

NOTE: The Mom's Choice Awards will not be announced until June 2007. The Emblems you see on the Reading Tub mean ONLY that the book is part of the contest. Read the "NOTE" to find out if it is a winner.

The spring crop of new books is equally exciting. We have been averaging about 10 books per week, with a fairly broad audience mix. Here are the ones that seem particularly intriguing (based on the blurbs or illustrations). Bookmark the title links and it will be easy to see when these profiles are finished.

America's Real First Thanksgiving by Robin Gioia. Recommended ages: 9 to 12. This is a book that introduces a little-known piece of history, with art, photos and story. (Pineapple Press, 2007)

The Collin Chronicles, Book 1: Magic, Bones, and Catacombs by T.K. Garrison. Recommended ages: 10 to 13. Brothers Collin and Ramey Miller start their journey by searching for a mysterious gold mine. Along the way, they meet Peter Kringle's most powerful and enchanted toy: Peter is the brother of the more famous Kristopher Kringle. (BookSurge Publishing, 2007)

Conor and the Crossworlds, Book 1: Breaking the Barrier by Kevin Gerard. Recommended ages: 9 to 12. Conor Jameson (a 10-year-old boy) and Purugama (a magical beast) begin a fantastic journey after Conor subconsciously calls forth the power of the crossworlds creators. (AuthorHouse, 2007)

Grandmother's Stories; Wise Woman Tales form Many Cultures edited by Burleigh Muton. Recommended ages: 6 to 12. This is a multi-media product, with an illustrated book and two CDs. The book comprises stories (fables) where the wise woman character plays a pivotal role. (Barefoot Books, 1999)

Just Imagine by John M. Thompson and George M. Schultz. Recommended ages: 4 to 8. This picture book uses poetry and evocative illustrations to take kids on visual, imaginative journeys. (Illumination Arts, 2006)

There's a Season for All by Sammy Shu. Recommended ages: 5 to 9. This is a story where four fairy sisters learn about love, friendship, cooperation, and respect. (Raynestorme Books, an imprint of Silver Rose Publishing, Inc., 2005)

The great thing about technology, is it lets us share information. I'd like to say "quickly and easily" but thanks to spammers, pfishers and other malcontents, it isn't always easy. So I'll say this:

We reply to every legitimate email we receive; and we do it within 48 hours of you hitting the "send" button. So if you asked us a question about literacy, if you wanted to know whether we'll review your book, or if it was just a general question we DID send you an email. If you haven't heard back from us in 48 hours, send us another email. Just be sure to let us know that it is your second attempt. That way, we can find an alternate way to reach you!

Read more!

https://thereadingtub.blogspot.com/2007/05/wash-rag-reading-tub-newsletter-issue.html

THe Wash Rag, Winter 2007 (redux)

Sometimes the editor needs an editor. I just sent out an Email version of the newsletter, and man, the first three paragraphs about killed me! My apologies for the garbled transmission.

But while I have your attention, there is one thing I want to expand on: reaching 1,000 books.

For the average reader, adding another 90 books to their collection would take a long time (even with bargain books). But for a Book Reviewer, it isn't that hard. In reality, we'll probably have those 90 books in less than 10 weeks ... before summer solstice arrives.

Now, to have 1,000 book profiles completed. THAT will take a little bit longer!

Read more!

THe Wash Rag, Winter 2007 (redux)

https://thereadingtub.blogspot.com/2007/03/wash-rag-winter-2007-redux.html