PB Planet

And Nuttin' But The Tooth!

2009-12-14T17:20:00.008-05:00

Whoa! Whoa-whoa-whoa! MonkeyKid just lost her first tooth! (No, this has nothing to do with PBs or PB--well, only slightly--or Outer Space-ace-ace-ace, but I'm just so happy and excited for her! Woo-hoo, MonkeyKid! CONGRATULATIONS, MonkeyKid!

It was so funny... she was enjoying her afternoon snack (PB cracker sandwiches--with cheddar cheese stuffed inside, go figure--and a Rice Krispie treat, when all of a sudden she whispered, "My tooth just fell out." It hadn't, but it had turned around completely and was practically out. I told her, than said, "I'll bet if you take one more bite of your Rice Krispie treat, that'll do it!" She did, and it did! Woo-hoo!

Much to do to prepare for the tiny Fang Fairy's arrival this eve (including assembling this SO-charming Tooth Fairy "Rest Stop" Gazebo I found at the brilliant Marilyn Scott Waters' The Toymaker site (www.thetoymaker.com), so I'll have to make this post a shorty, even though I know I really owe y'all a longie, because I hadn't posted in the last week whilst vanquishing The Ick once and for all! (I hope!) The best advice I can give about Swine Flu? Don't get it! HA HA HA!

Anyway, y'know what I REALLY need to do? Update my side column, because if anybody's noticed, it looks like I've been reading The Hunchback Assignments and listening to Alvin Ho for like, a month! (They're both fabulous, of course, but I do read/listen faster than that!

On the recently read MG/YA book list, there was also the fantasy MGBarkbelly by Cat Weatherill, illustrated by (PB Planet fave!) Peter Brown (Yearling, 2008), which is now officially One of My Favorite Books of ALL TIME! I also read another illustrated-by-Ross-Collins MG, Fairy Nuff: A Tale of Bluebell Wood by Herbie Brennan (Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2002). Oh, and there was the YA werewolf novel Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater (Scholastic Press, 2009), and I just re-read the original Clementine by Sara Pennypacker, illustrated by Marla Frazee (Hyperion Books for Children, 2008)--because it's brilliant! And, I'm sure I read other stuff while I was sick and just don't remember it. (Gosh, I hope that doesn't mean I did dumb stuff and don't remember it, too!) I'm currently reading The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a very Interesting Boy by Jeanne Birdsall (Yearling, Random House Children's Books, 2005)--so far, it's wonderful!

On the recently listened-to list, we also heard Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus by Barbara Park, narrated by Christina Moore (Recorded Books, 1998), and Ivy and Bean break the Fossil Record by Annie Barrows, narrated by Cassandra Morris (Recorded Books, 2007). Both were magnifico! (We don't have anew audiobook yet, so I'll leave Ivy and Bean up for now.)

Woo-hoo! Caught up! (Kinda.) See you soon, PBnauts!

"Dude, This is Easy!" PB Cookies... And More!

2009-12-07T17:22:00.009-05:00

Howdy, PBnauts! Did you have a nice weekend? Hope so! Read any great kidlit? Hope so!

I have to start with a big ol' THANK YOU to Kathy Temean, NJ SCBWI Regional Advisor, who sent me the greatest prezzie! It's Today I Will: A Year of Quotes, Notes, and Promises to Myself by Eileen & Jerry Spinelli, illustrated by Julia Rothman (Alfred A. Knopf--a MOST excellent publisher, hee hee hee!, 2009). This book is amazing! Each page represents a date, and for each date, there's a quote from a children's book, a cool illustration and conversational little paragraph describing it, and a little resolution you can make. Here, let's pick a page together, and you'll see what I mean. Get a month/day date in your head. You're thinking... September 5, aren't you? Okay, let's turn to the September 5 page and see what it says.

THE QUOTE: "When Lucy's house got too loud, she went to the library."
THE SOURCE: Lucy's Quiet Book by Angela Shelf Medearis, illustrated by Lisa Campbell Ernst.
THE PARAGRAPH: Isn't it nice to know there's a place like the library? For those times when you want mild, not wild. A place that's always the same, that welcomes you, that says "Come on in, friend--out of the cold, out of the heat, out of the noise." Think of the library as your other room.
THE "I WILL": Today I'll make myself at home in the library.

Isn't that beautiful? I love it. Thank you, Kathy! (Oh, that's a pic of a bunch of people I don't know waiting outside my library for it to open--the daily "doorbusters." I did ask permission to take and post their picture, though.)

Okie-doke, I'm (valiantly, I must say!) fighting off The Ick again, so we'll keep today's post short and sweet: just one PB review, one PB recipe, and one cool space-related thingie. Here we go!

First, the PB review! Big PB Planet applause for The Duchess of Whimsy: An Absolutely Delicious Fairy Tale by Randall de Seve, illustrated by Peter de Seve (Philomel Books, Penguin Young Readers Group, 2009). (The first "e" in "Seve" has an accent grave, but my computer's being uncooperative with accents right now.) Gorgeous illustrations (the shoe-wheels have GOT to be seen) accompany this delightfully unusual love story. The Duchess of Whimsy was the life of the party. The Earl of Norm, who loved her... was not. Desperately, he tried to win her attention and affection. But his borrowed giraffe did not impress her. His poetry did not impress her. And his fancy cape was just ridiculous. But when the Cook falls ill and the Earl makes a grilled cheese sandwich... A lovely example that people are often more than they appear when you really get to know them.

Now, the PB recipe! I finally tried that "sounds-too-good-to-be-true" three ingredient PB cookie recipe, and it's... PHENOMENAL! One seriously easy, seriously tasty cookie that looks, browns, and tastes just like the standard recipe! Here's how to make them (I'd love to credit somebody, but I've seen it everywhere, so let's just credit it to the universe!) But here's my title for them:

"DUDE, THIS IS EASY!" PB COOKIES
1 cup of sugar
1 cup of PB (smooth or crunchy)
1 egg, beaten

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Mix the three ingredients until blended, then drop by level tablespoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet, leaving about 1 1/2 inches between cookies. Do the little criss-cross thing with a metal fork, smooshing them down slightly. Bake for 15-18 minutes--done when light golden brown. Remove to a wire rack to cool. Makes 2 dozen cookies, which will probably be gone in a few hours.

(I know, I know--I ALWAYS use that blue plate. MonkeyKid made it. It's special. It's... my Blue Plate Special! HA HA HA!)

Okay, the space thingie: you know her. You love her! It's INTERPLANET JANET!

That's it, PBnauts! I'm off to go wallow in icky self-pity for a day or two. Maybe another PB cookie would make me feel better... See ya Wednesday or Thursday--I hope! STAY WELL!

Houdini and A Humpback Whale Walk into Alcatraz...

2009-12-01T22:05:00.002-05:00

Hi, PBnauts! I got to do something really fun yesterday! I was a... Secret Santa! I'm participating in the fabulous Book Blogger Holiday Swap (h ttp://holidayswap.wordpress.com /) and yesterday was Package O' Goodness shipping day! I hope my Santee likes their stuff--I LOVE what I got from my BBHS Secret Santa! Here it is:

It's a collection of the public street sign mascots, advertising characters, etc. from Japan! Kore wa kawaii, desu ka? Thank you, thank you Secret Santa... whoever you are! Wanna get in on the fun? Leave yourself a Post-It to sign up for next year!

Got a fun reply from illustrator Ross Collins--I may have found my weirdness equal!

Great birthday with Monkeykid! And, ever wonder what's inside those star-shaped weights that they tie onto helium balloons? Monkeykid and Husband Guy did... and then, they attacked it! KI-YA! So, what's inside? It's CEMENT! So now, we have a teeny star-shaped cement stepping stone in our garden!

I just splurged on an $89/year Amazon Prime membership. Me want book. Me order book. Book arrive with free shipping two days later. Me happy! (Me likely to spend mortgage payment on books.)

And other little extravagances... I just discovered there's a Peanut Butter of the Month Club! Listen to this: "gourmet, hand-crafted peanut butters from boutique, regional producers across the country." Whoa. From Amazing Clubs: http://tiny.cc/51mi1

Can you stand some more leftovers? Nope, not turkey and stuffing--PBs! I just looked at my return-to-the-library bag, and I can't really pull together a "theme" for my PBs today. (Note my failed post title attempt!) But, like real leftovers often are, these are good, too! Here are just a few recent reads:

Alcatraz to Zanzibar: Famous Places from A to Z by Colleen Dolphin (ABDO Publishing Company, 2009). Amazing photos and cool facts about famous places all around the globe. My fave: the Giant's Causeway, a natural rock formation in Northern Ireland. (It looks like a giant left a big pile of stone Legos on the beach!)

Humpback Whales Up Close by Jody Sullivan Rake (Capstone Press, 2010). Amazing photos and cool facts about humpback whales! Something I didn't know: a group of humpback whales will swim below a school of fish, blow bubbles from their blowholes to confuse the school--then gulp 'em up!

A Picture Book of Harry Houdini by David A. Adler and Michael S. Adler, illustrated by Matt Collins (Holiday House, 2009). Amazing illustrations and cool facts about Harry Houdini. Something that made me go, "Ohhh!": at age eleven, Houdini took a job with the local locksmith, where he soon learned to open all the locks without keys!

Hey, wait a minute! Those are all non-fiction titles! So hey, we have a theme after all! "Cool New Non-fiction Titles!" HOORAY!

I have a Broomstix deadline this week (yea, YULE! You RULE!) so I'll see ya Friday or Monday, PBnauts!

John Rocks! Art Rocks! (And Space Rocks!)

2009-11-29T18:45:00.009-05:00

Hey, PBnauts! Have a good Thanksgiving? Hope so! Healthy? Hope so! Big stuff on PB Planet today... let's get started!

First, a well-deserved CONGRATULATIONS KITTY to awesome guy and STNY agent John M. Cusick on the sale of his debut novel! Girl Parts was purchased (at auction!) by Candlewick Press, editor Deb Noyes-Wayshak. Audio rights purchased (at auction too!) by Tim Ditlow at Brilliance Audio. UK and ANZ rights are still being discussed. WOW, way to go, John!

Continuing today's lotsa-love theme... I have a new fave illustrator to rave over! Joining the brilliant Sir John Burningham, Polly Dunbar, Russel Ayto, Peter Brown (and newcomers Neil Numberman and Leeza Hernandez) in Ame's "Dang, They're Fantastic!" Hall o' Children's Book Illustrator Fame is... ROSS COLLINS!

(Here's a pic of Ross Collins I stole off his website. But since I'm sitting here saying how totally rad he is, he won't get mad, right?)

If you're thinking that you've heard of him before here on PB Planet, I owe you a gold star! I'd Spotlighted his fabulously funny Dear Vampa around Halloween. It was so awesome, I had to check out some of his other stuff, too. Here, have a peek at these great Ross Collins PBs!

Alvie Eats Soup by Ross Collins (Arthur A. Levin Books, Scholastic Press, 2002). As the title suggests, Alvie eats soup. The problem? Alvie only eats soup--soup for every meal! His folks try everything to get Alvie to eat anything else, but nothing works. Worse, Alvie's grandma Francesca the gourmet chef is coming to town! (You'll love the pics of steadfast Alvie, especially the soup spoon tucked behind Alvie's ear like a pencil!)

Germs by Ross Collins (Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2004). Moralistic Pox is ridiculed by the other germs--Pus, Rash, and Snot--at the Germ Academy. When he's assigned to infect a cute little girl, will he be able to do it? A super-fun introduction to the whole germ/defenses releationship, and the absolute cutest disgusting book you'll ever see!

Jack and the Dreamsack by Laurence Anholt, illustrated by Ross Collins (Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2003). The most imaginative, beautiful, fabulous children's "dreamscape" fantasy ever. EVER!

The No-Nothings and Their Baby by Anne Mazer, illustrated by Ross Collins (Arthur A. Levine Books, Scholastic Press, 2000). Riotous illustrations accompany the tale of the world's "simplest" (and by simplest, I mean "dumbest," but I didn't want to be mean) new parents. (Love their laundry line, their car, and their crazy get-ups!)

The Three Grumpies by Tamra Wight, illustrated by Ross Collins (Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2003). When a girl wakes up on the wrong side of the bed, Grumpy, Grumpier, and Grumpiest follow her about all day. (And, they're really rather fetching in their stripey sweater accessories!)

After all this PB goodness, I had to check out one of Mr. Collins' MGs, too!

Medusa Jones by Ross Collins (Arthur A. Levine Books, Scholastic, Inc., 2008). All your fave Greek myth monsters as mid-grade misfits! From the amazing first line ("Pleeeaase can I turn them to stone?") to the climactic ending, you'll love Medusa and pals' efforts to get along with the annoying but beautiful Champions. Hysterically funny B&W illustrations throughout. (And how awesome are those headsnakes?)

The prolific Mr. Collins has other books, too--go check 'em out!

Now, because I like you: here's the promised pic of my space rock! It's a tektite, a natural glass formed when a meteorite hits and melts the rock around it. It feels like the sucked-down inside of a peppermint, and smells a bit like a cotton ball.(I didn't taste it, so I don't know what it tastes like.) Isn't it cool? (Okay, so I'm prone to fits of geekness. Shhh, don't tell.)

Tomorrow is Monkeykid's birthday, and I've got a whole lotta little cupcakes (PB? I wish! Not allowed at school) to bake, so I'll see ya Wednesday, PBnauts!

It's PB Time!

2009-11-24T08:39:00.012-05:00

Greetings, PBnauts! Well, one good thing about Swine Flu: you get plenty of time to browse catalogs for PB items and read PBs! Here are a few of my recent PB finds:

Check out this ingenious tool: the PB & J Spreader! PB swirls in your jelly jar? Jelly globs in your PB jar? Clever dual-sided silicone spreader eliminates double-dip results and two dirty knives (or fingers)! Machine washable, and only $10.00! Sold by Uncommon Goods (http://tinyurl.com/yld5reb).

PB time! Have you read any of these PBs? What did you think?

Amelia Bedelia's First Day of School by Herman Parish, illustrated by Lynne Avril (Greenwillow Books, HarperCollins Publishers, 2009). The nephew of Peggy Parish continues the adventures of everyone's favorite too-literal comedienne... as a kid!

The Banshee by Eve Bunting, illustrated by Emily Arnold McCully (Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2009). SUPER-spooky/suspenseful tale of a boy's determination to confront a real-life banshee in his yard... or is it?

How the Nobble Was Finally Found by C.K. Williams and Stephen Gammell (Harcourt Children's Books, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2009). Truly unique, poetic quest story of a truly unique creature's search to find a friend. LOVE the Nobble's esoteric hiding places: the bottom rung of the number eight, the space between Wednesday and Thursday, etc.

Little Devils by Robert J. Blake (Philomel Books, Penguin Young Readers Group, 2009). Charming family loyalty/bravery story starring three unusual protagonists: triplet Tasmanian devil pups, who must rescue their beloved "mum" from a trap! Blake's beautiful paintings truly bring to life the big, mischievous personalities of these little... well, devils!

On Our Way Home by Sebastien Braun (Boxer Books, 2009). Sweet first-person "me and my Daddy bear" bedtime story. Little ones will enjoy spotting the other forest friends in the charming pictures.

Princess Hyacinth: the Surprising Tale of a Girl who Floated by Florence Parry Heide, illustrated by Lane Smith, design by Molly Leach (Schwartz & Wade Books, Random House Children's Books, 2009). A fantastically funny and beautifully illustrated version of the classic fairy tale.

Timmerman Was Here by Colleen Sydor, illustrated by Nicolas Debon (Tundra Books, 2009). Suspenseful but surprisingly heartwarming Depression-era account of friendship between a girl and her home's kind yet mysterious boarder. Where does Timmerman go on those late-night walks? And why does he need that shovel?

Now, here it is: the PB Planet Spotlight Review! Big PB Planet applause for The Bog Baby by Jeanne Willis, illustrated by Gwen Millward (Schwartz & Wade Books, Random House Children's Books, 2008). Two little girls tell their Mom they're going to Annie's house to play. Instead, they sneak off to the magic pond in Bluebell Wood to fish for newts--but catch something much better. Whimsically, gorgeously written and illustrated, with a beautiful-but-not-preachy "nature is best left in nature" message, it's a truly fantastic read. In fact, I DARE you not to "it's-so-good!" cry with this one. (I did. Each of the three times I read it.) So... zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring a copy back to your home planet today!

TTFN, PBnauts! In the next few posts: I'll show you my space rock! I'll gush about a fave new illustrator! And, a salute to recent Alfred A. Knopf PB titles! (Why? Oh, I dunno...) ;)

Joey Fly, Private Eye Day!

2009-11-23T09:24:00.003-05:00

PBNAUTS! I'm back from tooling around the universe, and wowie, what an adventure! There were good parts (Disney World) and there were stinky parts (getting swine flu, which I'm still fighting--SNORT-SNORT!). But, it's SO good to be home! And what a great day it is here on PB Planet, because today is JOEY FLY, PRIVATE EYE day!

Joey Fly, Private Eye in Creepy Crawly Crime by Aaron Reynolds, illustrated by Neil Numberman (Henry Holt Books for Young Readers, 2009).

I know you hipsters have probably already heard of/read/bought multiple copies of this new AWESOME insect-o-rama whodunnit graphic novel that's got folks buzzing (pardon my bad pun).

You've probably already oohed and aahed at the AMAZING book trailer:

You've probably already caught some of the cool promo posts on other blogs--it's okay, I know you read other blogs--or checked out the sweet websites o' Aaaron and Neil: www.aaron-reynolds.com or www.neilnumberman.com.

You may even be following the wry humor of Joey Fly and Sammy Stingtail on Twitter:

http://twitter.com/JoeyFly

http://twitter.com/sammystingtail

But, I KNOW you haven't yet read this EXCLUSIVE mini Q&A with author Aaron Reynolds:

ME: So Aaron, if you could be a bug for a day, what kind would you be, and what would you do with your 24 buggy hours?

AARON: I think I'd want to be a grasshopper, and I'd probably just eat gum off the ground the whole time.

EWWW! (But hey, the guy's authored several rockin' books--including the new Joey Fly books in the works right now--so who are we to judge?)

Guess what? (Alright, who said "chicken butt!"?) Just click on the handy title of today's post to connect to Amazon.com, where you can peek inside Joey Fly (the book, not the fly himself--that would be gross) and conveniently order! Order for yourself, your kids, your mystery-lovin' friends, your teacher, your classroom (great for Insect Week!), your nieces and nephews, the paper boy, your pest control guy... oops, shouldn't have gone there.

Got praise or a question for Aaron and Neil? They're lurking in the shadows today (in a nice way), ready to respond to your comments!

Enjoy, PBnauts! New post soon.

Holly Hobbie… and the Plague?

2009-11-09T08:33:00.014-05:00

Dearest PBNauts,

I didn’t mean to neglect you! I’m sorry! It’s just super-duper chaos here at the space station (the good kind!), so my posts for the next week or two might be a little erratic. (On the bright side, since I can’t follow a schedule, it’ll be a surprise when you come visit and see a new post! And who doesn’t like surprises? SURPRISE!)

But for now, I have some great PB (both kinds!) info to share! Here we go!

First, the edible PB news: for all you PB&J lovers, there’s a new bread “base” for you! Arnold now makes these fab little pre-sliced Sandwich Flatbreads! See the one I had for breakfast this morning? Lightly toasted, PB and cherry jelly. YUM! Buy a pack, create your own Masterpiece PB&J, and leave a comment about it!

Now, the PB-with-pages news and reviews!

What a strange mix o’ books I read in the last few days! Here’s a few for ya! Did you read them? What did you think?

Aunt Matilda’s Almost-Boring Party (Front Street, Boyds Mill Press, 2009). A young boy is nodding off at his Aunt’s oh-so-perfect party, and that’s when things get interesting…

City Alphabet by Joanne Schwartz, photos by Matt Beam (Groundwood Books, House of Anansi Press, 2009). Extraordinary urban A-to-Z featuring photos shot in the downtown of a major city. (Nope, not gonna tell you! Pick it up, thumb through it, and see if it looks like your city!)

Constance and Tiny by Pierre Le Gall, illustrated by Eric Heliot (English translation by Shannon Rowan and Robert Agis, Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., 2009). The adventure of a truly horrid little girl and her enormous kitten, Tiny. (The back cover states, “You’re going to love hating them!”—and you will! You really will!)

Constance and the Great Escape by Pierre Le Gall, illustrated by Eric Heliot (English translation by Shannon Rowan and Robert Agis, Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., 2009). Constance is sent to the Jolly Boarding School, where she hatches a truly devious plan to get out and rejoin her beloved kitten, Tiny.

Fanny & Annabelle by Holly Hobbie (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2009). In this second Fanny book, Fanny writes her own PB, starring her doll, Annabelle. This fun story-within-a-story is sure to inspire the young author in your house! (And I’ll tell ya a secret: I had Holly Hobbie—the character—wallpaper in my room when I was in middle school. You know you’re jealous!)

Fish School by Nancy Poydar (Holiday House, 2009). Charlie wishes his goldfish, Wishy, could accompany him on his school trip to the aquarium. Then he gets an idea…

Lucy’s Cave: A Story of Vicksburg, 1863 by Karen B. Winnick (Boyds Mill Press, 2008). Powerful fictionalized account of a real eleven-year-old girl’s experience living in a cave in Vicksburg, Mississippi during the Union army attacks of Spring, 1863.

The Medieval Plague by Shevi Johnson (Capstone Press, 2010). Another chipper book from our friends at Capstone, the folks who brought you The Miserable Life of Medieval Peasants. (I had to watch Teletubbies for a bit to recover after reading this one. Needed the giggling baby sun and some bunnies to bring me back.)

OK GO by Carin Berger (Greenwillow Books, HarperCollins Publishers, 2009). Unique “go green!” message with zany collage art.

And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for… the PB Planet Spotlight Review! I’m super-thrilled to have discovered I Want a Dog! by Helga Bansch (North-South Books Inc., 2009). Lisa LOVES dogs. Dreams of dogs. Wants a dog! But her parents insist their apartment is too small for one. When her efforts to change their minds fail, Lisa comes up with a wonderfully inventive compromise that makes everyone happy (and helps someone in need, too). A MUST-HAVE if Lisa’s request is common to your house, too! So… zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring a copy back to your home planet today!

Gotta blast off, PBnauts! And remember, even if I’m not blogging regularly, I still love you! (“Awwww!”)

OOPS! Just realized I still haven’t posted about my fabulous “searched for it for 20 years PB!” (Ain’t I a tease?!)

Ame

Whittling Down the Mountain!

2009-11-02T17:42:00.005-05:00

Howdy, PBnauts! Did you have a great Halloween? Boy, I did! And check out this awesome treat Super PBnaut Jeanne sent: a Reese's PB Pumpkin! I'd never seen one before, and did a delighted dance. (Sorry I ripped it open to snarf it before I remembered to take a pic first!)

Writers: does Halloween make you want to write monster stories? It does for me. (Which is funny, because Thanksgiving doesn't make me want to write pilgrim stories!)

Okay, I was so busy rumpus-ing and eating candy this weekend, I barely made a dent in my "PBs To Read" mountain, but here are just a few recent reads. Have you read them? What did you think? If you didn't read them, which would you pick up?

Ballet Kitty by Bernette Ford and Sam Williams (Boxer Books Limited, Sterling Publishing Co., 2007). Kitty can't find her ballet slippers in time for her piroutte playdate! (I feel your pain, Kitty!)

Ballet Kitty: Ballet Class by Bernette Ford and Sam Williams (Boxer Books Limited, Sterling Publishing Co., 2008). More ballet slipper drama when Ginger Tom proves it isn't the shoes that make the dancer.

Brave Charlotte and the Wolves by Anu Stohner, illustrated by Henrike Wilson (Bloomsbury U.S.A. Children's Books, 2009). Brave Charlotte outsmarts the (oddly-named) Wolfie the sheep and his gang, and makes a new friend, too.

Buffalo Wings by Aaron Reynolds, illustrated by Paulette Bogan (Bloomsbury U.S.A. Children's Books, 2007). Rooster's determined to procure buffalo wings for the big football-watching fiesta on the farm. But what will he do when he discovers what they're really made of?

Creamed Tuna Fish & Peas On Toast by Philip Christian Stead (A Neal Porter Book, Roaring Brook Press, 2009). Super silly rhyming story on the lengths a man will go to in order to ditch his least-favorite food.

The Everything Machine by Matt Novak (A Neal Porter Book, Roaring Brook Press, 2009). What do you do when the machine that does everything for everyone stops working? (You mean, like when Mom has the flu? HA HA HA HA HA!)

Humpty Dumpty Climbs Again by Dave Horowitz (G.P. Putnam's Sons, Penguin Young Readers Group, 2008). Can anything "egg" the rock-climbing celebrity out of retirement?

Jack the Bear by Christina Leist (Simply Read Books, 2009). Jack the Bear's super-important job is revealed. (Nope, ain't gonna tell ya. Read the book!)

The Marshmallow Incident by Judi Barrett, illustrated by Ron Barrett (Scholastic Press, 2009). From the creators of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs.) The long-standing feud between the towns of Left and Right comes to an abrupt halt when some unusual ammunition is used to keep the peace.

One True Bear by Ted Dewan (Orchard Books, Hachette Children's Books, 2009). Beautiful tale about one brave bear's volunteer assignment to become a difficult boy's special friend.

Trouble Gum by Matthew Cordell (A Feiwel and Friends Book, Macmillian, 2009). Ruben the pig gets hold of some gum. Some messy, sticky gum...

When You Meet A Bear on Broadway by Amy Hest, illustrated by Elivia Savadier (Melanie Kroupa Books, Farrary, Straus and Giroux, 2009). Charming how-to manual details what to do if you meet a little lost bear on Broadway, and how to reunite him with his Mama.

Wild, Wild Hair by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by George Cephas Ford (Scholastic, 1997). Tisa knows Monday means one thing: Mama's going to tame her wild, wild hair before school.

Now, I totally have to crow (Rocka-rocka-rooooo!) about this recent fabulous PB discovery. PB Planet Spotlight on... Dear Vampa by Ross Collins (Katherine Tegan Books, HarperCollins Publishers, 2009). (Yes, I know I should have done a Halloween-theme book post, but better late than never!) The Pires have new neighbors. And they're weird. REALLY weird. They stay up all day. They go out in the sunshine. And they have no idea what a good drink really is. Told in humorous deadpan style (no pun intended!) in little Bram Pire's letter to his "Vampa," with a great surprise ending. (Nope, not gonna ruin it for you--read the book!) With Collins' fantastic ink-and-color illustrations, this is sure to be a new family favorite. So... (I gotta say it!) zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring one to your home planet today!

Hey! I just realized I never made good on that promise to review my "I looked for it for twenty years" book from my childhood! Next post, PBnauts!

Help, I'm Lost!

2009-10-27T08:03:00.004-04:00

Howdy, PBnauts! Whatcha doin' in January? Registration opens today (1 PM, EST) for the SCBWI Annual Winter Conference in New York City. I'm planning to go! For the very first time! For those of you who really know me, this is huge for two reasons:

1. I have absolutely NO sense of direction. None. I get lost at our local mall.
2. New York City is a whole lot bigger than our local mall.

The fact that I'm ready to battle the above is enormo for me. (Oh, kidlit, how I must love thee!) I will undertake substantial mapping research prior to departing. (And, it probably wouldn't hurt to hang a tag around my neck that reads, "Please look after this writer. Thank you.")

Any of you going, too? Any other first timers? Come be lost with me! The more, the merrier!

Dunno about the weather where you live, but there was a major cold, rainy storm in this orbit today. Perfect day for PB oatmeal! (Of course, I think that every day, but today was a "you might agree with me" day!)

Realized that I've seriously neglected to post about a whole category of kidlit love here in the Space Station--the audio book! Now, in addition to the "IN MG/YA UNIVERSE" box where I post my "big kid" reads, we have the "BOOK ON THE GO" box for audio books! What are we currently listening to while we jaunt around in the Space Transporter (the 2001 four-wheeled hatchback model)? The brilliant Lenore Look's "The Alvin Ho Collection: Books 1 and 2: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Things and Allergic to Camping, Hiking, and Other Natural Disasters." It's voiced by the fantastically funny young actor, Everette Plen (pictured here) who is PERFECT in this!

Speaking of young talent, found some promising young writing talent--in my Space Station's living room! Check out the debut story from Monkeykid (reprinted with permission, royalties paid in jellybeans):

THE BOY AND THE MOVING ANIMALS

Once there was a boy named Edward. He had a model airplane kit. He put the model airplane together.
That night, Edward put the airplane in his room.
That night, when Edward was sleeping, the airplane flew around his room.
In the morning, before the boy woke up, the model airplane landed right where the boy had put it.
The next night, all his toys came to life.
On Thursday night, the model airplane crashed into Edward's lamp.
Edward woke up, and saw all of his stuffed animals running around like crazy! Edward tried to calm them down, but that only made it worse!
Edward's favorite animal, his pterodactyl, was flying around the room. It was racing his model airplane. Edward tried to stop them, but he couldn't. They were too high!
Edward's stuffed pig was running around his room. Edward tried to stop it, but it was too fast!
The pig started chasing the stuffed mouse.
The pterodactyl was also chasing Edward’s favorite stuffed kitten. And the kitten’s mother wasn’t too happy about it! She chased the pterodactyl away.
So every night, Edward and his animals played all night.

******

Hey, not bad for a first attempt by someone who hasn't even lost a baby tooth yet! (Just like Peter Pan!) Maybe she'll really get into writing! Maybe she'll want to come with me to the Conference! Hey, maybe she could navigate!

'Til next time, PBnauts! Wherever you go (or, if you're like me, wherever you end up), have fun!

Space Ick, Fort, Workshop, Congrats, Etc.!

2009-10-26T08:22:00.016-04:00

Mornin', PBnauts! I've kicked my nasty case of Space Ick that kept me grounded on Friday (thank you, Emergen-C!) and now I'm VROOMIN' to get back in the ol' Blog Saddle. YEE-HAW! Want a free sample of Emergen-C? Go here: http://www.emergenc.com/

Was able to drag my sorry self off the couch on Friday/Saturday and participate in the construction of this awesome blanket fort. (Still THE BEST rainy day activity, don't you think?)

The BESTEST part of the fort? MonkeyKid's sign:

THE BIG WEEKEND BLAST: yesterday's NJ SCBWI Mentoring Workshop! Editors Mary Kate Castellani (Walker), Nicole Kasprzak (Putnam), Erica Sussman (Harper) and the on-my-Genius-Idol-List Noa Wheeler (Henry Holt) had brilliant feedback for everybody. Great job as always, Kathy Temean and Laurie Wallmark!

A "CONGRATULATIONS KITTEN" to new author/illustrator buddy, Kate Hosford, who just signed a DOUBLE PB deal for her BIG BOUFFANT and BIG BOUFFANT 2, acquired by Andrew Karre at Lerner Publishing. The first will be the lead book on Lerner Publishing's Carolrhoda imprint's Spring 2011 list. Way to go, Kate!

Remember, PBnauts: share some good news, and I'll post it with this Congratulations Kitten! You KNOW you want a Congratulations Kitten of your own!

THE BIG WEEKEND BUMMER: yesterday night's Red Robin Dinner. Imagine my horror when I discovered Red Robin Corp. has RUINED their previously fabulous "Mountain High Mud Pie" dessert! They... they... NO, IT'S TOO TERRIBLE! I CAN'T EVEN BRING MYSELF TO SAY IT! Well, okay:

They took out the PB.

Blasphemy! Heresy! Just plain "Well, that STINKS!" I will be making an indignant inquiry call to the company later today.

From the Weird Questions Your Kids Ask You file: "Mommy, have you ever been in a duel?" I didn't think the time was right to tell her the truth, so I said no.

Possibly the CUTEST BLOG IN THE UNIVERSE can be found here: http://www.swimmerjordan.blogspot.com/

Straps BREAKING on "Return to Library" bag! Must unload! Shout if you read any of these I-recently-read PBs, and tell us what you thought! And y'know what? I'm not even going to alphabetize this list! (Yup, I'm feeling THAT wild and crazy today!)

Perfectly Arugula by Sarah Dillard (Sterling, 2009).

Tess's Tree by Jess M. Brallier, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds (Harper, HarperCollins, 2009).

My Parents Are Divorced, My Elbows Have Nicknames, and Other Facts About Me by Bill Cochran, illustrated by Steve Bjorkman (HarperCollins Publishers, 2009).

Chicks and Salsa by Aaron Reynolds, illustrated by Paulette Bogan (Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2005).

Feeling Sad by by Sarah Verroken (Enchanted Lion Books, 2009).

Matilda's Humdinger by Lynn Downey, illustrated by Tim Bowers (Alfred A. Knopf, 2006).

A Crazy Day at the Critter Cafe by Barbara Odanaka, illustrated by Lee White (Margaret K. McElderry Books, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, 2009).

Pennies for Elephants by Lita Judge (Disney Hyperion Books, 2009).

Teeny Tiny Ernest by Laura T. Barnes, illustrated by Carol A. Camburn (Barnesyard Books, 2000).

In the Dark of the Night by Paul Stewart, illustrated by Tim Vyner (Frances Lincoln Children's Books, 2008).

Hurry Up and Slow Down by Layn Marlow (Holiday House, 2008).

The Patch by Justina Chen Headley, illustrated by Mitch Vane (Charlesbridge, 2006).

Ocean Waves and Other Tales by Helen H. Kimbrough, illustrated by Lena Shiffman (AK Classics, 2007).

Dinosaur Bob and His Adventures with the Family Lazardo by William Joyce (A Laura Geringer book, HarperCollins Publishers, 1995).

Whoever You Are by Mem Fox, illustrated by Leslie Staub (Harcourt Brace & Company, 1997).

Three Truths

2009-10-22T11:28:00.011-04:00

Hi, PBnauts! Three Truths for today:
1. Super Agent Scott is a total Rock Star!
2. At the current rate, it is unlikely there will be any Reese's Peanut Butter cups left here on the Space Station by the time Halloween gets here.
3. I'll have my picture up at the post office if I don't shuttle down and pay my overdue book fines at the Library before closing today. On my "owe" list:

A Friend Like You by Julia Hubery, illustrated by Caroline Pedler (Good Books, 2009). Sweet opposites-are-friends story between a panda and a little golden monkey in the bamboo forest.

The Emperor’s New Clothes by Hans Christian Andersen, translated by Naomi Lewis, illustrated by Angela Barrett (Candlewick Press, 1997). Well-told, gorgeously illustrated version (LOVE the dogs!) of the classic fairy tale.

Henry & The Crazed Chicken Pirates by Carolyn Crimi, illustrated by John Manders (Candlewick Press, 2009). The shipwrecked book-lovin’ bunny and his pirate family must fight off a flock of attacking pirate… chickens?

The Hungry Ghosts by Julius Lester, illustrated by Geraldo Valerio (but there’s an accent over the e, and my computer’s not cooperating, Dial Books for Young Readers, Penguin Young Readers Group, 2009). Interesting ghost story that answers the question, “What do ghosts eat?”

The Little Toy Shop by Frances Wolfe (Tundra Books, 2008). Satisfying, feel-good story of stuffed animal friends separated, then reunited, thanks to a very special toy store and its very special, jolly, bearded (sounds familiar...) owner.

What are your three truths for today? Share 'em here!

The Inside Scoop: Do NOT Build A Frankenstein!

2009-10-21T20:07:00.007-04:00

Howdy, PBnauts! I have a special blog post today. The awesome author/illustrator Neil Numberman shares his concept-to-completion journey of his first PB, Do NOT Build a Frankenstein! How cool is that? Now, can you do a decent Frankenstein impersonation? Show Neil in person at his big book reading/signing at NYC's Books of Wonder on Halloween Day! Check out the write-up in Time Out New York for more info:
http://newyorkkids.timeout.com/events/books/303381/halloween-haunts
Be sure to check Neil's website for all the latest and greatest:
http://neilnumbe rman.com/
And definitely check back in late November when Neil and the awesome Aaron Reynolds (Chicks and Salsa, Buffalo Wings, and the Tiger Moth series) guest-host PB Planet and chat about their new amazing graphic novel, Joey Fly, Private Eye in Creepy Crawly Crime. (It's so good, Monkeykid swiped it from me and soon as it came in, and wouldn't give it back until she finished it today!)
Take it away, Neil!

When I was a senior in undergrad, at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, I decided to make my thesis a picture book version of Mary Shelly's Frankenstein. This was in 2002! I created a dummy book, and went to work on finishing four pieces from that. But after school, I couldn't quite make the story work as a children's book. My monster was too wacky for the story's serious topics. Then when I came up to New York City in 2004, I tried my hand at it again for my first year book project at the School of Visual Arts' MFA Illustration program. Again, I got some great pieces out of it, but still no perfect story. Then along came Martha Mihalick over at Greenwillow Books, who stumbled across my website in 2006, and saw some of the paintings I did for my retelling of Mary Shelly's Frankenstein. After a couple back and forths, some modifications to the dummy book here and there, we had a kid telling the story of HIS experience building a monster, much like Dr. Victor Frankenstein recounts his tale of the monster to the crew that rescues him in the North Pole (hence the reason my book mostly takes place in the snow...)

I'm told by many people, over and over again, that Frankenstein was not the monster, he was the inventor, and my response to that is "Of course that's true, but who cares!" The monster has been embedded in Halloween and horror tales for over a century now, and much like most folklore, the facts evolve and get mixed up over time. Not to mention, I didn't want the title to be Do NOT Build a Frankenstein's Monster!, although that does have a certain awkward ring to it.

So now that the book is out, we're gearing up for the book reading/signing at Books of Wonder in New York City on Halloween! My girlfriend is making some of the most incredible Frankenstein cupcakes that I can't reveal too much about right now, but these things are gonna be the coolest looking cupcakes. And delicious!

I SO wish I could go! Somebody save me a cupcake!

Have a fab day, PBnauts!

CONGRATULATIONS TO NAT AND CHAR!

2009-10-20T21:23:00.008-04:00

Serious SUPERNOVA-sized CONGRATULATIONS to co-authors Natalie Zaman and Charlotte Bernardo on their recent book contract! Their YA novel, Sirens, was just acquired by Flux. It's scheduled for release in 2011, and all I can say is, you've already sold a copy here! Way to go!

Grate-Full

2009-10-20T20:47:00.004-04:00

Hi, PBnauts! Today, I am so grateful, I'm grate-full. I'm grateful that the space station repairs seem to be complete (until the next thing goes KABLOOEY, anyway--hah!). I'm grateful to have had the nice "chin-up!"s from all you. (You guys rock, do ya know that? You totally do.) I'm grateful to the super-awesome Heather Ayris for posting an interview about me (don't make fun of my picture!) on her blog today: http://frolickingthroughcyberspace.blogspot.com/ I'm grateful that some people within earshot of my loud voice (digital and otherwise) voted for Peter Brown's The Purple Kangaroo in the Cheerios poll. (Go, go, The Purple Kangaroo! And remember, you can vote once a day until the contest is over!) http://promo.simonandschuster.com/cheer ios-poll/poll.php And, I'm really, really grateful I'm not a medieval peasant, because I just read the most "Bummer, dude!" PB, The Miserable Life of Medieval Peasants by Jim Whiting (Capstone Press, 2010). Stinky houses, crummy food, disease... and logs for pillows? That's right: the poor medieval peasants had to use LOGS for pillows! That really put things in perspective for me. No matter how crunchy life can get, at least I've always got a comfy pillow. (Even when I'm screaming into it!) So, here's to not being a medieval peasant! And here's to gratitude! *clink*

Contest Results (And, Bummer! More Space Station Repairs)

2009-10-15T15:42:00.007-04:00

Howdy, PBnauts! Congratulations to the winners of the "Gimme Candy!" contest, PBnauts Jeanne, Corey, and Bettelynn! Ladies, please send your Earthly addresses to me (Jeanne, I'm sure I have yours, but I'm also a wee bit disorganized at the moment) at amedyckman@gmail.com, and I'll zip those out to you ASAP.

I have gobs of good books to share, funny kid adventures, PB stuff, and more... but sadly, that's gonna hafta end this post for now. The space station seriously needs repairs again. The thermal unit (a.k.a., the furnace) died today, and the new observation deck (a.k.a., sit-in window) is leaking! ALAS!

Hugs, y'all.

Monsters! Lions! Candy! And, a CONTEST!

2009-10-13T07:52:00.019-04:00

Mornin,' PBnauts! Join me and my big ol' cup o' coffee, toasty little bowl of PB oatmeal, and let's see what's new on the Planet today!

"OHHHH... just a few more days 'til the Wild Things mooo-vie! A few more days 'til the Wild Things mooo-vie! I can hardly wait! It's gonna be so great! RUM-PUS RUM-PUS RUM-PUS!" (shakes heinie) Okay, this is why I'm not allowed to use the Webcam.

Speaking of Wild Things, feast your peepers on these fabulous homemade original beloved-version costumes by amazing artist Sarah Clark! She made these for herself and housemates for last year's "Gimme Candy!" day. I so, SO hope that they suit up when they go to the movie. Can you imagine sitting next to them in the theater? Check out the costume progression at Sarah's site, http://sjeanetteclark.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2009-04-19T13%3A36%3A00-04%3A00&max-results=10

IN THE PB PLANET MAILBOX: A lovely little note from Moonbear (with a little help from his friend, Frank Asch)! SO CUTE! Moonbear told Monkeykid he was eating honey while typing, his paws were getting sticky, and then the text got all goofy! Big PB Planet thanks to PBnaut Heather (http://frolickingthroughcyberspace.blogspot.com/) for sharing her own writing-to-Moonbear story in Friday's post's comments!

I promised to share my latest cool 1970s used-book-sale PB find, and here it is! Harry and the Terrible Whatzit by Dick Gackenbach (Scholastic Inc., 1977). Harry just knows there's something terrible in the cellar, but Mother doesn't believe him. But when Mother goes down to get a jar of pickles and doesn't come back up, Harry goes after her. Armed only with a broom (and some super-fly 1970s fashion), Harry discovers, behind the furnace, a ten-foot-tall "double-headed, three-clawed, six-toed, long-horned Whatzit!" So what does Henry do? He (still laughing as I type this) proceeds to BEAT THE CRAP out of the Whatzit with the broom! As Harry's no longer afraid of it, the Whatzit shrinks! Harry then directs the peanut-sized Whatzit next door to Sheldon Parker's cellar, because "he's afraid of everything!" I just love this oh-so 70's PB--the awful colors, the really horrible monster, the bell-bottom trousers, and the take-charge action that you'd never find in a modern "kid-conquers-fear" story. (I just know I'm gonna get mail from the Monster Protection Agency now, though!)

Can't. Lift. My back-to-the library bag! MUST return my books today, including these recent reads:

How to Potty Train Your Monster by Kelly DiPucchio, illustrated by Mike Moon (Disney Hyperion Books, 2009). (Okay, I know I promised no more scatological humor after the "Columbus had to poo" post, but this creative little book is a riot!)

It's a Bad Day by Mary Ellen Firday, illustrated by Glin Dibley (Rising Moon Books, 2006). I admit it: I got it because of the kid picking his nose on the cover. C'mon, wouldn't you?

Lions: Amazing Animals by Jacqueline Dineen (Weigl Publishers Inc., 2010--wha? But that's what it says! "2010!"). Great lion facts. Did you know there's a super-rare Asiatic lion that lives in India? I didn't!

The Lion & The Mouse by Jerry Pinkney (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, Hachette Book Group, 2009). Absolutely gorgeous. Tons of little details. Pure genius, Mr. Pinkney.

Seymour Slug Starts School by Carey Armstrong-Ellis (Harry N. Abrams Publishers, Inc., 2005). Now, I can say I've read a book with a Fairy Slugmother. (Okay, I could've said it before, but now I'd be telling the truth.)

Now, the promised "Strangest PB Candy I Ever Ate" review!

The candy: Trader Joe's PB& J Bar.
The ingredients: tasty milk AND dark chocolate, a nice thick slab of sweet PB, a super-chewy raspberry jam fruit jelly layer... and CRUSHED POTATO CHIPS! No kidding! They're hiding there under the chocolate!
The verdict: Soft AND chewy, sweet AND salty... totally weird, but GOOD! And, the first 3 PBnauts to post a comment to this post containing the words "Gimme Candy!" in it will each win one!

IN THE NEXT POST: Finally found: the PB I was searching for for two decades! (That's the book-kind PB. Otherwise, that would be pretty gross.)

Have a mega-fantastic day, PBnauts!

An Original Columbus Day Poem

2009-10-12T13:46:00.009-04:00

Hi, PBnauts! I'm not really posting today (everybody's here at the space station, getting caught up on Fall cleaning... from 2003), but I did have to quickly share an original Columbus Day poem, created by yours truly while Husband Guy and I were doing weekend homework with Monkeykid.

HUSBAND GUY:
In 1492,
Columbus sailed the ocean blue.

ME:
He was so glad,
When he saw land,
Because he had to poo!

ME AND MONKEYKID:
BWAH HAH HAH HAH HAH HAH HAH!

I was sent to sit in the corner near the station garbage chute. I'm still here. But c'mon, take a look at that portrait, and tell me I'm not right!
Oh, well. Happy Columbus Day, everyone!

PB PLANET! NEW AND IMPROVED!

2009-10-09T09:31:00.021-04:00

Howdy, PBnauts! (cough, cough) Sorry, the atmosphere's just a little dusty today, what with the whole "Let's shoot a missile at the moon!" exercise this morning. Were you a wee bit nervous watching it on TV? Husband Guy was.

HUSBAND GUY: Well, here's the end of life as we know it.
ME: I think we're okay. We're on Tivo time. This happened 30 minutes ago.

So, figure out the new posting format? It's... chatty. Personal. Real insight into Ame's head. (Hey! Don't run away!) There'll still be picture book stuff. And peanut butter stuff. And a little space stuff. But there'll also be agent stuff. Editor stuff. NJ SCBWI stuff. Industry stuff. Library stuff. Cool blog stuff. More pics stuff. Tips, shout-outs, and good news cheers stuff. Teasers of stuff to come. STUFF! And it'll all be rolled into one handy-dandy-every-other-day-or-so-Monday-through-Friday post! LET'S GO!

Agent Recommendation: Super Agent Scott thought I'd like MOONCAKE by Frank Asch. He was right! It took me a while to hunt down a copy (published in 1983), but I'm so glad I did! Creative, innocent buddy story. Just perfect! Followed it up with two of the many sequels, SKYFIRE (funny!) and MOONDANCE. Do you remember these? Own any copies?

Wow, what a writing week! Finished two new... (Nope, can't talk about it yet. Just cross your fingers--and toes!--for me! Go, go, Super Agent Scott!) Just finished my "Unread" interview which will be appearing, in a few weeks, on the fantastic blog of Heather Ayris Burnell, "Frolicking Through Cyberspace." (See my "Favorite Blogs" blogroll and check it out.) I am mega-honored! And, great PB manuscripts already coming in for the Oct. 25 NJ SCBWI Mentoring Workshop. Gotta do my critiques. (And, gotta just say "Done!" on the revisions for mine and send it out!)

Speaking of Mentoring Workshops, wishing good luck to the fabulous Tara Lazar, Laurie Wallmark, and any of my other writing buddies who are going (but I didn't know they were going, or I forgot) to the Rutgers One-On-One Conference on October 17! Are you going? Lemme know, and I'll "good luck!" you, too!

And speaking of Laurie Wallmark, I hear Laurie might have some good news soon. WOO-HOO!

OOF! There's a ton of PBs in my "bring back to the Library" bag. Here's my "5 a day." Have you read any of these? What did you think?

LOM AND THE GNATTERS by Kurusa (which is so cool. I want a one-word name!), illustrated by Isabel Ferrer, translated by Elisa Amado. (Groundwood Books, House of Anansi Press, 2009.) If you have a kid that won't let you brush their hair, this cautionary tale is for you! And, loved the word "snotties" for "boogers!"

MOONLIGHT, THE HALLOWEEN CAT by Cynthia Rylant (okay, when does she SLEEP?!), illustrated by Melissa Sweet (HarperCollins Publishers, 2003). Sweet Halloween story.

ONCE UPON A TWICE by Denise Doyen, illustrated by Barry Moser (Random House Children's Books, 2009). If you like books with the occasional "created" word, check this one out. Cleverly done!

TUBA LESSONS by T.C. Bartlett and Monique Felix (Creative Editions, 2009). C'mon. Who doesn't love a tuba?

A WIZARD IN LOVE by Mireille Levert, illustrated by Marie Lafrance (Tundra Books, 2007). I dig the wizard with the bouquet of "flesh-eating flowers" on the cover.

Now, feast your eyes on this scrumptious PB "sunflower" sent in by Super PBnaut, Jeanne! (Yep, that's a chocolate truffle in the center.) My kind of meal! Thanks, Jeanne, for sending it in. PBnauts, send in your PB pics, and I'll post yours, too!

TEASER FOR NEXT TIME: In my next post, I'll have pics and a review or two of some recent phenomenal 1970s kidlit finds (used book sales ROCK!). Also, pics and a review of the STRANGEST PB candy I've ever eaten!

Happy reading and writing, PBnauts! (cough)

(I'm Back)

2009-10-08T18:53:00.003-04:00

A GREAT BIG OL' HOWDY, PBNAUTS! Okay, I know I was supposed to be back on Monday. I'm sorry. Busy, busy with writing and re-setting, and contemplating how to make PB Planet better. Check back tomorrow for a preview of the new posting format? I'll really try to make it good.

AAARGH!

2009-10-01T08:49:00.002-04:00

BANG-BANG-BANG-BANG-BANG-BANG! AAARGH! Okay, PBnauts, here's what I'm gonna do: we'll call it a wash until Monday. On Monday morning, when all the space station construction will be done, PB Planet will be back in all it's book-y, peanut buttery goofiness. I promise more fun pics--including a fantabulous PB creation by one of PB Planet's fave PBnauts, Jeanne! (Thanks, Jeanne!) I promise more reviews--including a retro review of a rarity from my personal PB collection. (My book PB collection, not my edible PB collection!) I promise a new poll. I promise lots of fun! But if I don't get out of this space station this minute with all this banging, I'm going to go completely nuts! (And I don't mean peanuts!) So, see you Monday, PBnauts!

BANG! BANG-BANG-BANG!

2009-09-29T19:04:00.001-04:00

BANG! BANG-BANG-BANG! 11 straight hours of BANG! BANG-BANG-BANG! Maybe tomorrow, PBnauts!

BANG! BANG-BANG-BANG!

2009-09-28T14:54:00.003-04:00

This is all we hear on the Planet today, as space station construction continues (and hopefully, completes). Sorry, PBnauts, but I can't (BANG!) even hear myself (BANG!) think! Hope to be back to abnormal normal tomorrow. Until then, read PBs, eat PB, and be merry!

PB Planet Posts a Pic of Peter Brown. How Many Pics of Peter Brown Can PB Planet Post?

2009-09-25T08:45:00.006-04:00

Hey, PBnauts! Busy, busy day on the Planet today! So instead of our normal daily posts, here's one of my fave "great-author-and-their-book" photos! It's Peter Brown, the super-talented (and really nice!) author/illustrator of the NY Times Bestselling The Curious Garden. (He even joked about the name of this blog, as his initials are also "PB!" So, welcome to Peter Brown Planet!) This pic was taken by yours truly at the fabulous annual Princeton Library Children's Book Festival a few weeks ago. (It's a fantastic event--if you'll be in the area next year, try to go!) Gobs of amazing authors and illustrators were there: Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen, Dan Gutman, E.B. Lewis, Nancy Viau, etc. Be sure to scan your local listings and see if there are any kidlit festivals this weekend in your orbit--they're really fun. Got a good one? Be sure to write in and share. Have a great weekend, PBnauts!

PB Planet Daily Spotlight: ABC UK

2009-09-24T10:48:00.004-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for ABC UK by James Dunn, illustrated by Helen Bate (Frances Lincoln Children's Books, 2008). This patriotic ABC book from our friends across the pond is a surprisingly fun read! There are expected entries ("B is for The Beatles," "Q is for Queen,") but some surprises too. And everyone will giggle over trying to pronounce "L is for Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch." (And, if you're like we were and don't know what "Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch" is, there's a helpful glossary in the back. We're now in the Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch know!) A great array of picks by Dunn, with creative, eye-catching illustrations by Bate. (Her Yorkshire Pudding pic will make you crave it!) Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring a copy back to your home planet today!

Art Imitates... Breakfast?

2009-09-24T10:33:00.004-04:00

No, it's not modern art! (Well, I guess it could be!) It's really melted PB on raisin toast! You've known PB and raisins were a perfect match since you first had Ants on a Log. When was the last time YOU ate them together? Me? About an hour ago!

PB Planet Daily Specials--9/24/09

2009-09-24T10:27:00.002-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my Planet today. Have you read them? What did you think?

June and August by Vivian Walsh, illustrated by Adam McCauley (Abrams Books for Young Readers, Harry N. Abrams, Inc., 2009).

The Jungle Grapevine by Alex Beard (Abrams Books for Young Readers, Harry N. Abrams, Inc., 2009).

Paddington at the Beach by Michael Bond, illustrated by R. W. Alley (Harper, HarperCollins Publishers, 2008).

Perfectly Martha by Susan Meddaugh (Walter Lorraine Books, Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004).

Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Book? by Lauren Child (Hyperion Books for Children, 2003).

PB Planet Spotlight: Gertrude is Gertrude is Gertrude is Gertrude

2009-09-23T09:32:00.003-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Gertrude is Gertrude is Gertrude is Gertrude by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Calef Brown (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division, 2009). In this brilliantly, perfectly, utterly nonsensical homage to Gertrude Stein, Gertrude, Alice, and Basket--who is a famous poodle, you know-- invite you into their home. Come in come in come in! Come sit on a chair! Come to an artists-and-writers party! Talk, talk, laugh, talk. Have some tea. (Don't mind Picasso sitting there.) Now, you have to go--Miss Gertrude has to write. Out, out, out! You go write, too. (And don't forget to have fun when you do!) While you're at it, make some amazing art like Calef Brown's. Paint, paint, happy paint. Then zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

PB... and Caffeine?

2009-09-23T09:22:00.003-04:00

Okay, how did I not know about this sooner? Butterfinger Buzz--the crunchy PB goodness of Butterfinger, infused with 80 milligrams of caffeine to get your motor runnin'! It was touted as a limited edition release, and most of the reviews I've seen so far were posted several months ago, but you might still be able to find a bar or two. Did any of you PBnauts try it? How was it?

PB Planet Daily Specials--9/23/09

2009-09-23T09:16:00.002-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

How Do Dinosaurs Eat Their Food? by Jane Yolen & Mark Teague (The Blue Sky Press, Scholastic, Inc., 2005).

Martha Blah Blah by Susan Meddaugh (Walter Lorraine Books, Houghton Mifflin Company, 1996).

Paulina P. (for Petersen) by Lisa Cinar (Simply Read Books, 2009).

Two Bad Pilgrims by Kathryn Lasky, illustrated by John Manders, color work by Vince Dorse (Viking, Penguin Young Readers Group, 2009).

Zelda and Ivy One Christmas by Laura McGee Kvasnosky (Candlewick Press, 2000).

PB Planet Spotlight: Uncle Andy's Cats

2009-09-22T10:22:00.003-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Uncle Andy's Cats by James Warhola (G.P. Putnam's Sons, Penguin Young Readers Group, 2009). In this fantastically fun feline fable, based upon the author's real-life experiences with his famous Pop artist uncle, we learn the origin of Andy Warhol's numerous cats--all named Sam. From naps in the wig drawer to frolicking amongst the Campbell's soup boxes, the Sams soon have the run of Warhol's studio home. Soon, there's no denying it: they have too many Sams! What can they do? Kids will love the clever resolution and adorable cats throughout--and even learn a little art history in the process! Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

"Original" Rice Krispies Treats Had PB?

2009-09-22T10:08:00.003-04:00

We're big on Kellogg's Rice Krispie treats here on PB Planet (note our Rice Krispie piggie), so imagine my glee to find this recipe for the "original" treat--which included PB!--posted on the terrific Rice Krispie website! (www.ricekrispies.com) I can't wait to try these!

Your first ever recipe was 1 cup sugar. 1 cup light corn syrup (Karo) , and 1 cup peanut butter. and the small box of Rice Krispies, and in my opinion and my 4 children, it is the best one ever. My grand children and great grandchildren love them. They disappear before they even get cool enough to cut into squares. I am 80 years old and still make them, with the Peanut Butter. Peggy, LA Posted: 07-19-2009, 2:50 PM

PB Planet Daily Specials--9/22/09

2009-09-22T08:50:00.004-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my Planet today! Have you read them? What did you think?
Cowboy Dreams: Sleep Tight, Little Buckaroo by Kathi Appelt, illustrated by Barry Root (HarperCollins Publishers, 1999).

Jack and the Dreamsack by Laurence Anholt, illustrated by Ross Collins (Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2003).

Mama's Saris by Pooja Makhijani, illustrated by Elena Gomez (Little, Brown and Company, 2007).

Star of the Week: A Story of Love, Adoption, and Brownies with Sprinkles by Darlene Friedman, illustrated by Roger Roth (The Bowen Press, HarperCollins Publishers, 2009).

That's Papa's Way by Kate Banks, illustrated by Lauren Castillo (Frances Foster Books, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2009).

PB Planet Poll Results--Week of 9/14/09

2009-09-22T08:49:00.002-04:00

Big PB Planet congratulations to the winner of the "Who's Your Favorite PB Character-Turned-PBS-Star?" poll, Curious George! The mischievous little monkey got 3 of 5 votes cast, with Angelina Ballerina and Arthur each taking one vote. And, if you voted for "Chicken" in the "What Meat Goes Best With PB?" poll, you're a winner, too! (3 of 5 votes cast, with "Bacon" and "Beef" each getting one vote, too.) Thanks to everyone who participated, and please check out this week's polls!

Pardon Our Dust!

2009-09-21T14:16:00.004-04:00

Hi, PBnauts! Sorry to have flaked for posting on Friday, but we were closed for repairs here at the space station. How do you like our new observation deck? (The feline life forms native to this orbit seem to be pleased.)

See you Tuesday, when normal (abnormal!) posting will resume!

PB Planet Spotlight: Henry and the Kite Dragon

2009-09-17T11:24:00.002-04:00

(An In-Case-You-Missed-It Review): Big PB Planet applause for Henry and the Kite Dragon by Bruce Edward Hall, illustrated by William Low (Philomel Books, Penguin Young Readers Group, 2004). Henry Chu and his friends in Chinatown love to help old Grandfather Chin make his wonderful rice paper kites... until Tony Guglione and his friends from Little Italy throw rocks and destroy them. But why? Hall's cultural-clash tale (based on true events from 1920s New York) is both surprising and touching, and beautifully illustrated with Low's richly painted scenes. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

PB Diet?

2009-09-17T10:47:00.002-04:00

"Eat peanut butter every day and lose all the weight you want."

Okay, I HAVE to get this book!

PB Planet Daily Specials--9/17/09

2009-09-17T09:47:00.003-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my Planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

Billy Twitters and His Blue Whale Problem by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Adam Rex (Disney Hyperion Books, 2009).

The Cut-Ups Crack Up (Viking, Penguin Books USA Inc., 1992).

Henry's Night (inspired by Henry David Thorueau's Walden), written by D.B. Johnson and Linda Michelin, illustrated by D. B. Johnson (Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2009).

Martha Walks the Dog by Susan Meddaugh (Walter Lorraine Books, Houghton Mifflin Company, 1998).

Zelda and Ivy and the Boy Next Door by Laura McGee Kvasnosky (Candlewick Press, 1999).

PB Planet Spotlight: Tom's Tree

2009-09-16T12:20:00.002-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Tom's Tree by Gillian Shields, illustrated by Gemma Raynor (Good Books, 2009). When Tom plants a tree seed in his garden, he dreams of fruit and tree houses and all the childhood adventures he can have once he has big, strong tree of his own. But little trees grow more slowly than little boys, who eventually go away to have grown-up adventures instead. Yet little trees are patient, and one day, Tom returns with a little boy of his own... Raynor's skilled-but-simply-drawn, cheerful artwork nicely complements the innocence of this sweet tale. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

PB Withdrawl

2009-09-16T12:09:00.001-04:00

It is 12:10 PM. I've been awake since 6:00 AM. I have not eaten any PB yet today. I wonder if I can go all day long without eating any...

Oh no! Now, all I can do is think about PB!

12:12 PM: Today's experiment... failed. (smack, smack, smack!)

PB Planet Daily Specials--9/16/09

2009-09-16T11:58:00.004-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my Planet today! Have you read them? What did you think?

The Beggar's Magic: A Chinese Tale retold by Margaret & Raymond Chang, illustrated by David Johnson (Margaret K. McElderry Books, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division, 1997).

The Cut-Ups at Camp Custer by James Marshall (Viking Kestrel, The Penguin Group, 1989).

Martha Calling by Susan Meddaugh (Houghton Mifflin Company, 1994).

Mr. Putter & Tabby Spill the Beans by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Arthur Howard (Harcourt Children's Books, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2009).

Pretty Pru (A Tilly and Friends Book) by Polly Dunbar (Candlewick Press, 2009).

PB Planet Spotlight: Hello Baby!

2009-09-15T23:58:00.002-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Hello Baby! by Mem Fox, illustrated by Steve Jenkins (Beach Lane Books, Simon & Schuster, 2009). In her legendary lyrical style, the fabulous Ms. Fox asks the reader which kind of baby they are. Listing several possible beautiful animal baby matches from monkeys to owls, little readers will adore the answer, revealed on the book's final page. Jenkins' detailed paper-cut artwork is amazing--he even makes baby warthogs look cute! Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

PB Challenge!

2009-09-15T23:56:00.001-04:00

I’ve been thinking in my thinking spot (and I’ve even crash-thunk other people’s thinking spots), and I just can’t come up with a food that wouldn’t taste better with PB in it. (Well, except for New England Clam Chowder, but that's about it.) Can you think of one?

PB Planet Daily Specials--9/15/09

2009-09-15T10:34:00.000-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my Planet today! Have you read them? What did you think?

Backpack Stories by Kevin O'Malley (Albert Whitman & Company, 2009).

The Moonbow of Mr. B. Bones by J. Patrick Lewis, illustrated by Dirk Zimmer (A Borzoi Book, Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., 1992).

Mr. Pusskins: A Love Story by Sam Lloyd (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division, 2006).

The Princess Who Had Almost Everything by Mireille Levert, illustrated by Josee Masse (Tundra Books, 2006).

The Snowflake Sisters by J. Patrick Lewis, illustrated by Lisa Desimini (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division, 2003).

PB Planet Spotlight: It's Not Fair!

2009-09-14T22:57:00.002-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for It's Not Fair! by Amy Krouse Rosenthal & Tom Lichtenheld (HarperCollins Publishers, 2008). From laments about who got the bigger half of the cookie to comparative bedtimes to a pig sighing wistfully at the flying birds above him, here's a hilariously illustrated collection of "not fair" situations. (Once you see that everyone has a "not fair" moment every now and then, you're bound to feel better when they pop up in your day!) Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

Play With Your (PB) Food!

2009-09-14T12:51:00.003-04:00

Awww, isn't my breakfast CUTE? Combine 1/2 a bagel, your favorite PB, two mini-marshmallows, one raisin cut in half, and a little silliness! Assemble, eat, enjoy!

PB Planet Daily Specials--9/14/09

2009-09-14T12:45:00.004-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today! Have you read them? What did you think?

Adios, Tricycle! by Susan Middleton Elya, illustrated by Elisabeth Schlossberg (G.P. Putnam's Sons, Penguin Young Readers Group, 2009).

Grandmother, Have the Angels Come? by Denise Vega, illustrated by Erin Eitter Kono (Little, Brown and Company Books for Young Readers, 2009).

Lord of the Sky by Linda Zeman-Spaleny, illustrated by Ludmila Zeman (Tundra Books, 2009).

Martha Speaks by Susan Meddaugh (Houghton Mifflin Company, 1992).

Martha The Movie Mouse by Arnold Lobel (HarperTrophy, HarperCollins Publishers, 1966).

PB Planet Poll Results--Week of 9/07/09

2009-09-14T12:35:00.003-04:00

Big PB Planet congratulations to the winner of the PB Planet "Who's Your Favorite PB Duck" poll, Duck from Click, Clack, Moo (etc.) by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin! The funny fowl won all four votes cast! (Way to sweep it, Duck!) And, if you voted for "Cashew Butter" in the "What's Your Favorite PB-Substitute?" poll, you're a winner, too! (2 of 4 votes cast, with "Almond Butter" and "Nutella" each getting a vote, too.) Thanks to everybody who participated, and please check out this week's polls!

PB Planet Spotlight: Wolf Camp

2009-09-11T12:58:00.007-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Wolf Camp, written by Katie McKy, illustrated by Bonnie Leick (Tanglewood Publishing, Inc., 2009). When Maddie comes home from "Wolf Camp," she seems different somehow. She now prefers meat over candy. Squirrels run at the sight of her. And the family collie isn't the only one who howls. But little by little, her new traits slip away, and life pretty much returns to normal--until a flyer for a new camp arrives. Highlighted by Leick's fabulous illustrations, this clever, original tale is bound to become a favorite summer (or year-round!) title with your young camper. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

PB Game!

2009-09-11T09:37:00.008-04:00

You know the "What in the World" feature in National Geographic Kids magazine? (You get a close-up of something, and you have to identify it based on the little bit you see.) Well, "What in the World" is this?

PB Planet Daily Specials--9/11/09

2009-09-11T09:37:00.001-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

The Adventures of the Dish and The Spoon by Mini Grey (A Borzoi Book, Alfred A. Knopf, Random House Children's Books, 2006).

The Cut-Ups Carry On by James Marshall (Viking Penguin, Penguin Books USA, 1990).

The Grumpy Dump Truck by Brie Spangler (A Borzoi Book, Alfred A. Knopf, Random House Children's Books, 2009).

The Magic Book by K.T. Hao, illustrated by Giuliano Ferri, translated by Annie Kung (Purple Bear Books, 2008).

Zelda and Ivy: Keeping Secrets by Laura McGee Kvasnosky (Candlewick Press, 2009).

PB Planet Spotlight: Dog Day

2009-09-10T08:29:00.003-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Dog Day by Sarah Hayes, illustrated by Hannah Broadway (Farrar Straus Giroux, 2008). In this delightfully silly story, Ben, Ellie, and the rest of the students arrive at school to find their new teacher is a dog! As we see what a day in a dog-run school would entail, little listeners will be sure to giggle as the students wag their bottoms and even attempt to mimic Riff's leg-lifting! Broadway's bright, cartoony illustrations enliven the humor of this fun read. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

HOW Many Uses for PB?

2009-09-10T08:25:00.002-04:00

I just found a website that lists 2000+ "alternate" uses for PB! (Warning: some of them are quite absurd.) Still, good for a laugh--and laughs are good for everyone.
http://members.kconline.com/kerr/pb.htm

PB Planet Daily Specials--9/10/09

2009-09-10T08:08:00.002-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

The Bear With Sticky Paws Goes to School by Clara Vulliamy (Tiger Tales, ME Media, 2008).

The Cut-Ups Cut Loose by James Marshall (Viking Kestrel, 1987).

First Dog by J. Patrick Lewis and Beth Zappitello, illustrated by Tim Bowers (Sleeping Bear Press, 2009).

Miss Bindergarten Celebrates the 100th Day of Kindergarten by Joseph Slate, illustrated by Ashley Wolff (Dutton Children's Books, Penguin Putnam, Inc., 1998).

The Three Little Tamales by Eric A. Kimmel, illustrated by Valeria Docampo (Marshall Cavendish Children, 2009).

Slacking? Wasn't!

2009-09-09T22:30:00.001-04:00

Hi, PBnauts! Nope, wasn't slacking today: NJ SCBWI event. See you tomorrow!

PB Planet Spotlight: The Curious Garden

2009-09-08T09:05:00.005-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for The Curious Garden by Peter Brown (Little, Brown and Company Books for Young Readers, 2009). Liam lives in a city without trees, gardens, or greenery of any kind. It's so drab and dreary, nearly everyone stays indoors. Except Liam, who explores. And one day, in his explorations, Liam comes across a straglly garden that needs his help. Beautifully told and illustrated with Brown's fantastic images, it's a moving testament to the power of one person to change their world. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

Great Faire Fare!

2009-09-08T09:01:00.002-04:00

Three cheers for the bagel shop at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire! You can buy a bagel with PB there! Huzzah, huzzah, HUZZAH!

PB Planet Daily Specials--9/08/09

2009-09-08T08:30:00.010-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

Boo-Hoo Moo by Margie Palatini, illustrated by Keith Graves (Katherine Tegen Books, HarperCollins Publishers, 2009).

The Difference Between Babies & Cookies by Mary Hanson, illustrated by Debbie Tilley (Silver Whistle, Harcourt, Inc., 2002).

The Invisible Moose by Dennis Haseley, illustrated by Steven Kellogg (Dial Books for Young Readers, Penguin Young Readers Group, 2006).

Miss Nelson is Missing! by Harry Allard, illustrated by James Marshall (Houghton Mifflin Company, 1977).

My Mom is Trying to Ruin My Life by Kate Feiffer, illustrated by Diane Goode (A Paula Wiseman Book, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2009).

PB Planet Poll Results--Week of 8/31/09

2009-09-08T08:25:00.004-04:00

Big PB Planet congratulations to the winner of our "Who's Your Favorite PB Teacher?" poll, Miss Smith! The magical teacher with the magic book took 100% of all votes cast! (Okay, only one vote was cast--where is everybody?!--but still, that's 100%!) Likewise for the winner of the "What Veggie Goes Best With PB?" poll, celery! Thanks to everybody who participated (hey, I guess that'd be me!) and please check out this week's polls.

PB Planet School Daze!

2009-09-02T00:15:00.002-04:00

Much to do, much to do, PBnauts! Please check back on Tuesday, September 7, for new posts. In the meantime, best wishes with your back-to-school activities, have a fun holiday, and eat/read lots of PB/s! Hugs, Ame

PB Planet Spotlight: The King and The Seed

2009-09-01T22:34:00.002-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for The King and the Seed by Eric Maddern, illustrated by Paul Hess (Frances Lincoln Limited, 2009). In this engaging Euro-medieval retelling of the classic Chinese folktale, a childless and elderly king announces a competition to choose his heir. Knights, lords, and nobles gather, as does a curious farmer's boy, Jack, who just wants to watch the expected tournament. But when the king passes out seeds instead of swords, the farmer's son decides to give it a try... Creative, rich illustrations and a likable main character will prod this toward the re-read stack for sure. Zoom on over to your home planet and bring it back to your home planet today!

PB Poster!

2009-09-01T01:09:00.002-04:00

Hey, PBnauts! You can buy an "I (heart) Peanut Butter" poster here! Sweet!
http://www.zazzle.com/i_love_heart_peanut_butter_poster-228638601651591757

PB Planet Daily Specials--9/01/09

2009-09-01T00:40:00.003-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

All Alone by Kevin Henkes (Greenwillow Books, HarperCollins Publishers, 1981).

Blueberry Girl by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Charles Vess (HarperCollins Publishers, 2009).

Never, Ever Shout in a Zoo by Karma Wilson, illustrated by Doug Cushman (Little, Brown and Company, 2004).

One Pizza, One Penny by K.T. Hao, illustrated by Giuliano Ferri, translated by Roxanne Hsu Feldman (Cricket Books, Carus Publishing, 2003).

Puppy Love: The Story of Esme and Sam by Gillian Shields, illustrated by Elizabeth Harbour (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2009).

PB Planet Spotlight: The Rope

2009-08-31T09:39:00.002-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for The Rope by Joe Kulka (Pelican Publishing, 2008). Pa, Ma, and the children enjoy a simple life--until Junior discovers the rope hanging from the sky in the middle of their cornfield. Puzzled by it and its sign that says, "Pull for more," the family decides to ponder the mystery over supper. But when Pa asks for a second helping of soup, and there isn't any more, he gets an idea... Kulka's fantastic-as-always art humorously depicts the poor family's disastrous experiments with "more," and warmly illustrates their realization that they'd already had all they ever needed. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today.

PB Perfume?

2009-08-31T09:38:00.002-04:00

Psst... I'll tell you a secret: as long as it wouldn't hurt anybody with peanut allergies, I would totally wear PB perfume! I'd be happy all day long!

PB Planet Daily Specials--9/01/09

2009-08-31T09:31:00.002-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

Down the Back of the Chair by Margaret Mahy, illustrated by Polly Dunbar (Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin Company, 2006).

Little Boy with a Big Horn by Jack Bechdolt, illustrated by Dan Yaccarino (A Golden Book, Random House Children's Books, 1950, renewed 1978, illustrations 2008).

The Reluctant Flower Girl by Lynne Barasch (HarperCollins Publishers, 2001).

The Tale of Two Mice: A Cat-and-Mouse-Tale by Ruth Brown (Candlewick Press, 2008).

What To Do? What to Do? by Toni Teevin, illustrated by Janet Pedersen (Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin Company, 2006).

PB Planet Poll Results--Week of 8/24/09

2009-08-31T09:23:00.002-04:00

Big PB Planet congratulations to the winners of the "Who's Your Favorite Book Bear?" poll, Corduroy and Stillwater! The little friendster and the big zen-ster (cheesy, I know!) each got 2 of 5 votes cast, with Karma Wilson's Bear taking the remaining vote. And if you voted for "Blackberry" in the "What's Your Favorite With-PB Fruit Spread Flavor?" poll, you're a winner, too! (5 of 7 votes cast, with "Grape" and "Strawberry" each taking one vote as well.) Thanks to everybody who participated, and please check out this week's polls!

PB Planet Spotlight: Stella, Unleashed: Notes From the Doghouse

2009-08-28T23:51:00.007-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Stella, Unleashed: Notes From the Doghouse by Linda Ashman, illustrated by Paul Meisel (Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., 2008). A fantastic collection of hysterically clever poems starring former pound puppy Stella and her "chosen" family. Divided into different categories (dogagories?) of all things canine (Around the House, Trouble!, Out & About, The Neighborhood Pack, etc.), these funny rhymes and perfectly-matched illustrations are sure to have you "howling" with laughter. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

Oh, Fudge! (PB Fudge!)

2009-08-28T23:51:00.005-04:00

Three great-sounding PB fudge recipes here, including "Creamiest Peanut Butter Fudge." Craving alert! Craving alert! http://hubpages.com/hub/Top-Ten-Fudge-Recipes

PB Planet Daily Specials--8/28/09

2009-08-28T23:50:00.001-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

Baghead by Jarrett J. Krosoczka (Alfred A. Knopf, 2002).

Caps for Sale: A Tale of a Peddler, Some Monkeys and Their Monkey Business by Esphyr Slobodkina (Young Scott Books, Harper & Row, Publishers, 1940 and 1947, renewed 1968).

The Cut-Ups by James Marshall (Viking Kestrel, 1984).

Grumpy Grandpa by Heather Henson, illustrated by Ross MacDonald (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Simon & Schuster, 2009).

Posey Plans a Party by Harriet Ziefert, illustrated by Yukiko Kido (Blue Apple Books, 2009).

PB Planet Spotlight: A Home for Dakota

2009-08-27T21:47:00.002-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for A Home for Dakota by Jan Zita Grover, illustrated by Nancy Lane (A Sit! Stay! Read! Series book, The Gryphon Press, 2008). The simultaneously heartbreaking and heartwarming story of a sweet Keeshond rescued from her horrible life as a puppy mill breeder dog. At her foster home with Emma, Dakota is shown kindness she'd never known before, and she begins to get better--even starting to grow fur again. And one day, a potential adoptive family comes to visit, with a little girl who has even less hair than Dakota... A beautifully illustrated story, with a "how you can help" page on puppy mills and rescue dogs. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

2009-08-27T06:49:00.002-04:00

This is Maripi, one of the beautiful Giant Anteaters at the National Zoo. Can you guess what Maripi's favorite treat is? That's right, it's PB! You have good taste, Maripi!

PB Planet Daily Specials--8/27/09

2009-08-27T06:41:00.002-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

Aggie and Ben: Three Stories by Lori Ries, illustrated by Frank W. Dormer (Charlesbridge, 2006).

Gone With the Wand by Margie Palatini, illustrated by Brian Ajhar (Orchard Books, Scholastic, Inc., 2009).

Good Dog, Aggie by Lori Ries, illustrated by Frank W. Dormer* (Charlesbridge, 2009).

Zelda and Ivy by Laura McGee Kvasnosky (Candlewick Press, 1998).

Zelda and Ivy: The Runaways by Laura McGee Kvasnosky (Candlewick Press, 2006).

PB Planet Spotlight: The Great Fuzz Frenzy

2009-08-26T10:00:00.004-04:00

(An In-Case-You-Missed-It Review): Big PB Planet applause for The Great Fuzz Frenzy by Janet Stevens and Susan Stevens Crummel, illustrated by Janet Stevens (Scholastic, Inc., 2005). It's supply-and-demand at it's funniest when a fuzzy green tennis ball drops down the prairie dog hole--and suddenly, every prairie dog has to have some of that fuzz! But when Big Bark (the meanest prairie dog around) swipes all the fuzz when the others are sleeping, will they be able to forgive him when he needs their help the most? A charming, smart story about the importance of sticking together, with ooh-you-just-wanna-hug-'em! illustrations. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

A PB Mystery

2009-08-26T09:57:00.003-04:00

Why is it that the smooth, shiny PB on the top of a jar of regular (not the you-need-to-stir-it) PB tastes better than the rest of the PB in the jar? (And who keeps scraping this out of the PB jar before I can eat it? Husband Guy, is this you?!)

PB Planet Daily Specials--8/26/09

2009-08-26T09:48:00.003-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

Alfie and the Big Boys by Shirley Hughes (The Bodley Head, Random House Children's Books, 2007).

An Invitation to the Butterfly Ball: A Counting Rhyme by Jane Yolen, illustrated by Jane Breskin Zalben (Boyds Mill Press, 1991).

Sakes Alive! A Cattle Drive by Karma Wilson, illustrated by Karla Firehammer (Little, Brown and Company, 2005).

The Sorcerer's Apprentice by Ted Dewan (A Doubleday Book for Young readers, Bantam Doubleday Dell Publishing Group, Inc., 1998).

What's So Bad About Gasoline? Fossil Fuels and What They Do by Anne Rockwell, illustrated by Paul Meisel (Collins, HarperCollins Publishers, 2009).

INVADED!

2009-08-25T14:06:00.003-04:00

Wondering why there was no PB Planet Spotlight yesterday and no posts today? PB Planet was invaded! Sure, they called themselves "Kindergarteners" and the invasion a "Play Date," but if you look at the scribbled-on wall, juice-sticky floor, and cookie crumbs everywhere, you'll know it for what it was! As President of PB Planet, I'm declaring a State of Emergency until planetary clean-up is completed. (See you tomorrow, PBnauts!)

Pricey PB!

2009-08-24T00:06:00.001-04:00

Did you hear about the world's most expensive PB? $425 (2003 pricing) for 3 small 6-ounce jars! Read all about it here: http://www.nytimes.com/2003/06/08/weekinreview/ideas-trends-you-get-what-you-pay-for-peanut-butter-with-a-pedigree.html

PB Planet Daily Specials--8/24/09

2009-08-24T00:05:00.000-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my home planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

Always Come Home to Me by Belle Yang (Candlewick Press, 2007).

Jazz Baby by Lisa Wheeler, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie (Harcourt, Inc., 2007).

Jeffrey and Sloth by Kari-Lynn Winters, illustrated by Ben Hodson (Orca Book Publishers, 2007).

The Magic Rabbit by Richard Jesse Watson (The Blue Sky Press, Scholastic, Inc., 2005).

When the Root Children Wake Up by Audrey Wood, illustrated by Ned Bittinger (Scholastic Press, 2002).

PB Planet Poll Results--Week of 8/17/09

2009-08-24T00:02:00.000-04:00

Big PB Planet congratulations to the winner of the “Who’s Your Favorite Wild Thing?” poll, “Bernard!” Maurice Sendak’s big blue guy with the big bare tootsies got 2 of 4 votes cast, with “Emil” and “Moishe” each taking 1 of the remaining 2 votes. And, if you chose “Pickles” as your choice for “Which would you most likely try on your PB sandwich?” poll, then you’re a winner, too! (2 of 5 votes cast, with “Hot Peppers,” “Lima Beans,” and “Sauerkraut” each getting 1 vote.) Thanks to everyone who participated, and please check out this week’s polls!

Go-Go-Gorilla!

2009-08-21T07:34:00.002-04:00

Hi, PBnauts! I'm taking today as a play... I mean, research day, but please do check out the secret blog of my friend, Norman the Gorilla: www.normanthegorilla.wordpress.com/
(Just don't tell Betsy that Norman is blogging! I'll give you her sites too, but don't you tell! www.betsydevany.wordpress.com and betsydevany.com) Have a PB-filled weekend!

PB Planet Spotlight: Max's Magic Seeds

2009-08-20T08:45:00.004-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Max's Magic Seeds by Géraldine Elschner, illustrated by Jean-Pierre Corderoch translated by Charise Myngheer (minedition, Penguin Young Readers Group, 2007). Max receives an unusual present from his favorite uncle, Botanist Bill: a large potato sack full of flower seeds! Uncle Bill promises that if Max secretly scatters the seeds on his way to school, the walk will soon be much more interesting. When beautiful flowers appear all over town, the entire community is happy. A wonderful "little efforts can do a lot" story, with charming and uplifting illustrations. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

Poor Cavemen!

2009-08-20T08:41:00.001-04:00

It just occurred to me that cavemen didn't have PB. That makes me unbelievably sad.

PB Planet Daily Specials--8/20/09

2009-08-20T08:37:00.002-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

After Happily Ever After: The Fairy Godmother Takes a Break by Tony Bradman, illustrated by Sarah Warburton (Stone Arch Books, 2006).

The Big Ugly Monster and the Little Stone Rabbit by Chris Wormell (A Borzoi Book, Alfred A. Knopf, Random House Children's Books, 2004).

Hooray José ! by Michael Garland (Marshall Cavendish Children, 2007).

If I Could by Susan Milord, illustrated by Christopher Denise (Candlewick Press, 2008).

Thunder Boomer! by Shutta Crum, illustrated by Carol Thompson (Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2009).

PB Planet Spotlight: Even An Ostrich Needs a Nest: Where Birds Begin

2009-08-19T08:39:00.002-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Even an Ostrich Needs a Nest: Where Birds Begin by Irene Kelly (Holiday House, 2009). In this fascinating non-fiction book, we're treated to a look at forty birds (from the American Dipper to the Yellow-rumped Hornbill) and their brilliant, beautiful, often bizarre abodes. Wonderful drawings and cool factoids (size, weight, materials, etc.) accompany each entry. (Those containing the words "droppings" and "dung" are sure to get giggles when read aloud!) A well-illustrated, great reference book--and a fun read! Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

PB Space Food Sticks!

2009-08-19T08:36:00.001-04:00

I'm SO excited to have found this cool PB product, PB flavor Space Food Sticks! The classic chewy astro-snack of yesteryear is back! (It should be the Official Snack Food of PB Planet, no?) Available at www.funkyfoodshop.com.

PB Planet Daily Specials--8/19/09

2009-08-19T08:35:00.000-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my home planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

Baby Sea Otter by Betty Tatham, illustrated by Joan Paley (Henry Holt and Company, 2005).

The Great Math Tattle Battle by Anne Bowen, illustrated by Jaime Zollars (Albert Whitman & Company, 2006).

If I Were a Jungle Animal by Tom and Amanda Ellery (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2009).

Pastry School in Paris: An Adventure in Capacity by Cindy Neuschwander, illustrated by Bryan Langdo (Henry Holt and Company, 2009).

Play With Me by Michael Elsohn Ross, illustrations by Julie Downing (Tricycle Press, Ten Speed Press, 2009).

PB Planet Spotlight: Yes Day!

2009-08-18T20:43:00.004-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Yes Day! by Amy Krouse Rosenthal & Tom Lichtenheld (HarperCollins Children’s Books, 2009). A little boy wakes up, spots his calendar, and sees it's his favorite day of the year: Yes Day! We're soon shown why: from "Can I please have pizza for breakfast?" to "Can we stay up really late?" every question put to his parents is answered in the affirmative. (And hey, once a year, why not?) A super-fun fantasy, with Lichtenheld's exuberant illustrations making you feel like you're part of the good time. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

Are You Ready... For the BIG Cup?!

2009-08-18T08:39:00.002-04:00

How do you make a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup even better? You add more PB! Doesn't it look fabulous? I haven't even eaten it yet... I'm just kinda basking in its glory for a bit.

But this got me wondering... what's the BIGGEST PB candy? Anybody know?

PB Planet Daily Specials--8/18/09

2009-08-18T08:35:00.002-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

Always Lots of Heinies at the Zoo by Ayun Halliday, illustrated by Dan Santat (Disney Hyperion Books, 2009).

King & King by Linda de Haan, illustrated by Stern Nijland (Tricycle Press, Ten Speed Press, 2000).

Periwinkle Smith and the Twirly, Whirly Tutu by John & Wendy (Price Stern Sloan, Penguin Group, 2009).

Quiet Bunny by Lisa McCue (Sterling Publishing Co., 2009).

When I Get Bigger by Mercer Mayer (Golden Books, Random House Children’s Books, 1983).

PB Planet Spotlight: Finding Susie

2009-08-17T15:58:00.003-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Finding Susie by Sandra Day O'Connor, illustrated by Tom Pohrt (A Borzoi Book, Alfred A. Knopf, Random House Children's Books, 2009). The former Supreme Court Justice delivers an excellent finding-the-perfect-pet autobiographical story. Raised on a ranch in the American Southwest, lonely young Sandra attempts to befriend several desert animals in need of help (a tortoise, a cottontail rabbit, and other far more exotic--even dangerous!--critters). But as each returns/is returned to the wild, Sandra still longs for an animal companion that can love her in return. Pohrt expertly illustrates the desert and its denizens, and the endpapers, featuring real pictures of young Sandra's animal friends, are fascinating. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

The "Poifect!" PB & J!

2009-08-17T15:44:00.004-04:00

Hey, PBnauts! A new PB Planet fave author, Neil Numberman (Do Not Build a Frankenstein!, www.neilnumberman.com) kindly shared his PB & J recipe, which he declares "Poifect!" (It sounds great to me, too!) Here it is:

"My perfect PB & J is Stonewall Kitchen's Red Pepper Jelly with homemade peanut butter (olive oil, raw peanuts, throw it in the latest Vita-Mix) in between two slices of Ezekiel Sprouted Bread."

If you don't know, Ezekiel products (by the Food for Life Baking Co.) use "freshly sprouted, certified organically grown live grains" which "significantly increases valuable nutrients." All I know is, it's dang tasty! http://www.foodforlife.com/

Thanks, Neil! PBnauts, share your fave PB & J recipes, too!

PB Planet Daily Specials--8/17/09

2009-08-17T08:36:00.004-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

Astro Bunnies by Christine Loomis, illustrated by Ora Eitan (G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2001).

Barnyard Slam by Dian Curtis Regan, illustrated by Paul Meisel (Holiday House, 2009).

Henry’s First-Moon Birthday by Lenore Look, illustrated by Yumi Heo (An Anne Schwartz Book, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Simon & Schuster, 2001.

My Little Sister Ate One Hare by Bill Grossman, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes (Crown Publishers, Inc., Random House, 1996).

The Prince Won’t Go to Bed! by Dayle Ann Dodds, illustrated by Kyrsten Brooker (Melanie Kroupa Books, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2007).

PB Planet Poll Results--Week of 8/10/09

2009-08-17T08:35:00.006-04:00

Big PB Planet congratulations to the winner of the “What’s Your Fave Food-in-the-Title PB?” poll, "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs!” The wacky weather classic got 4 of 6 votes cast, with “Pickle Chiffon Pie” taking the remaining 2 votes. And, if you chose “Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup” as your selection in the “What’s Your Fave PB Candy?” poll, you’re a winner, too! (4 of 6 votes cast, with “Atkinson’s Chick-O-Stick” and “Cadbury’s Wunderbar” each taking 1 vote.) Thanks to everyone who participated, and please check out this week’s polls!

PB Planet Spotlight: Princess Peepers

2009-08-14T10:04:00.006-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Princess Peepers by Pam Calvert, illustrated by Tuesday Mourning (Marshall Cavendish Children, 2008). Princess Peepers adores her spectacular spectacles--until her snooty peers at The Royal Academy for Perfect Princesses poke fun at her. Determined not to be different (especially at the upcoming Royal Ball), PP packs up all her glasses, and stumbles off to show her new look to the others. But why is PP heading the wrong way down the path? Funny "sight gags" and misunderstandings abound in Calvert's positive-themed tale, and Mournings' pinky-purply hues and fancy costumes will appeal to every little princess. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today.

Hello, Gorgeous!

2009-08-14T09:56:00.003-04:00

Hey, let's take pictures of our favorite PB & J sandwiches! Here's mine: whole wheat bread (lightly toasted), Jif Reduced Fat PB, and Dickinson's Seedless Black Raspberry Jam! (I swear, it's like there's a chorus of angels in my kitchen, singing "Yummm!" And note that I couldn't even wait until I snapped the photo before I took a big bite--it's that good!) Send in a pic of yours, and I'll post it, too!

PB Planet Daily Specials--8/14/09

2009-08-14T09:28:00.002-04:00

Here are the PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

Cock-A-Doodle-Doo by Cecily Matthews, illustrated by Lorette Broekstra (Little Hare Books, 2008).

Dinosaur Starts School by Pamela Duncan Edwards, illustrated by Deborah Allwright (Albert Whitman & Company, 2008).

The Patch by Justina Chen Headley, illustrated by Mitch Vane (Charlesbridge, 2006).

Ted by Tony DiTerlizzi (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, Simon & Schuster, 2001).

Toot & Puddle by Holly Hobbie (Little, Brown and Company, 1997).

PB Planet Spotlight: Do Not Build a Frankenstein!

2009-08-13T13:18:00.002-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Do Not Build a Frankenstein! by Neil Numberman (Greenwillow Books, HarperCollins Publishers, 2009). The new kid in the neighborhood has some very important advice to give: do not build a Frankenstein! He should know--he made that "mistake!" But after detailing all the awful things that come of having your very own Frankenstein, will the new kid succeeded in convincing everyone? Numberman's goofy, fun illustrations and authentic voice have plenty of kid-appeal. Perfect for Halloween or anyday, this non-scary, unusual buddy/pet story will likely become a big hit. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!

Bake for Your Librarians!

2009-08-13T10:04:00.005-04:00

Bake for your local librarians! Show your appreciation for your benevolent book folks with these yummy-and-easy homemade treats. (No, they don’t have PB in them—sadly, you have to be aware of allergies when you bring treats to a public place—but at home, we split them and spread the cut sides with PB, smoosh ‘em together, and snarf ‘em up!) They’re fantastic-o!

BANANA APPLESAUCE MINI-MUFFINS

Low-fat, no cholesterol, and a tasty way to use up overripe bananas!

This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled, depending on how much mashed banana you have. (Start by measuring the bananas—you can always add extra applesauce in their place if you don’t have enough.) You can also use this recipe to make standard-size muffins (bake for about 18 minutes or until golden-to-medium brown) or an 8x4x2 loaf (bake about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden-to-medium brown and a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean).

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cake flour*
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon (or more, to your liking—I add tons!) ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 slightly beaten egg whites
3/4 cup mashed banana
1/4 cup cinnamon applesauce
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup cooking oil
nonstick spray coating

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Spray a 24-muffin mini-muffin tin with nonstick spray coating.
3. In a medium mixing bowl, mix all the dry ingredients.
4. In a large mixing bowl, slightly beat the egg whites, then add the rest of the wet ingredients.
5. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until moistened.
6. Fill the mini-muffin tins and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden-to-medium brown.

*If you don’t have cake flour, just substitute all-purpose flour, and try not to over-stir the batter or it will become gluey.

ENJOY!

SPECIAL HALLOWEEN PREVIEW PB Planet Daily Specials--8/13/09

2009-08-13T07:08:00.002-04:00

They’re out! A whole bunch of new-for-2009 Halloween books! Here are the new Halloween PBs I read on my planet today--have you read them? What did you think?

Boo to You! by Lois Ehlert (Beach Lane Books, Simon & Schuster, 2009).

Do Not Build a Frankenstein! by Neil Numberman (Greenwillow Books, HarperCollins Publishers, 2009). (Ame says: look for this one in today’s PB Planet Spotlight Review!)

Haunted Party by Iza Trapani (Charlesbridge, 2009).

Hush, Baby Ghostling by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by Pascal Lemaitre (Margaret K. McElderry Books, Simon & Schuster, 2009).

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas: The Thirteen Days of Christmas by Steven Davison and Carolyn Gardner, illustrated by Time Wollweber and Sherri Lundberg, based on a story and characters created by Tim Burton (Disney Press, Disney Enterprises, 2009).

PB Planet Spotlight: Song of Middle C

2009-08-12T09:00:00.002-04:00

Big PB Planet applause for Song of Middle C by Alison McGhee, illustrated by Scott Menchin (Candlewick Press, 2009). Much preparation goes into a girl's first piano recital--tireless practicing, extensive visualization... and lucky underwear. But when her big moment finally comes, so do the butterflies-in-the-stomach. What will the girl do if she can't remember her piece? Menchin's cartoony-but-expressive artwork (love the wood elves and "floating heads" of the audience!) perfectly illustrates all the nuances and nerves of McGhee's funny text. Zoom on over to your local bookstore and bring it back to your home planet today!