• Find out what the child or teen has read already. Ask them what authors they like to read. Discover the subjects and topics that interest them. Find out if they prefer fiction or nonfiction, fantasy or reality.
• Don't be afraid to ask your neighborhood children's librarian or children's books seller for suggestions and advice.
• Read your local newspaper's book section. Many newspapers and magazines feature book suggestions this time of year.
• Be consumer savvy. The books with biggest marketing budgets are not necessarily the best books for you child or teen. And conversely, a book you've never heard of may contain the story that changes your childís or teen's life. Natacha says, "Just because a book jacket may look promising does not mean the story is going to live up to it. We all fall victim at one time or another to 'judging a book by its cover.'Take into consideration the content and age recommendation. I think great care needs to be taken, especially if a young reader is at a higher reading level. However- an interesting looking book jacket on a picture book is always reason enough for me to want to open it up!"
• Consider all possibilities: great literature and fun, entertaining books. Says Natacha, "Think of books in terms of chocolate mousse and a Hershey kiss. There are moments for both!"

Great Book Gift Suggestions From Librarian and Bookseller Natacha Pouech

Parent and Teacher Sources for Book Recommendations
A Child's Delight by Noel Perrin
The Essential Guide to Children's Books and Their Creators by Anita Silvey
How to Get Your Child to Love Reading:
For Ravenous and Reluctant Readers Alike by Esme Raji Codell

Great New Holiday Books
A Christmas Stocking Story by Hilary Knight. The illustrator of the beloved Eloise books delivers a delightful holiday story about a mix-up between eight animal friends. All is well in the end when they make exchanges and all gifts suit each animal perfectly.

Feliz Navidad: Two Stories Celebrating Christmas by Jose Feliciano. Now you can sing along with that favorite infamous song while you read along! This handsomely illustrated volume (by David Diaz) is told both in English and Spanish and portrays Christmas celebrations in America and the Caribbean. After all, traditions and diversity are what makes the world go ëround.

It's a Miracle: a Hanukkah Storybook by Stephanie Spinner. On each magical night of Hanukkah, Grandma Karen tells six year-old Owen, the official Candle Lighter, a different story. Each one is about his family and special heritage.

K is for Kwanzaa by Juwanda G. Ford. Each letter of the alphabet represents an English or Swahili word and is accompanied by a simple definition explaining its importance to Kwanzaa.

The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore, illustrated by Anita Lobel. Set in Victorian New York City where Mr. Moore penned his famous tribute to Jolly Old Saint Nick, Ms. Lobel lavishes her warmly nostalgic and intricately rendered paintings on this beloved poem.

New Books That Make Great Gifts
For Toddlers
The Alphabet Room by Sara Pinto.
Not just another alphabet book! Each letter has a door that opens to reveal an addition to the room. But watch closely! Things are not what they seem! A fun lap book to be shared over and over again.

For Preschoolers
How I Became a Pirate by Melinda Long.
This little man has the time of his life aboard a pirate ship- just long enough so that he wonít miss soccer practice. While his preoccupied family is tending to matters on the beach, Jeremy joins the pirates in manner-less meals complete with plenty of burping and talking with mouthfuls of food and singing of sea chanteys. In return, he tries to show his mates how to play soccer- but a shark eats the ball! This is a delightful read aloud sure to make your listeners smile.

For Primary Grades
Babarís Museum of Art by Laurent deBrunoff (really for ages 1-100)
I absolutely love this book! Babar and Queen Celeste save the old train station from the wrecking ball by converting it into an art museum. (with the help of a female architect-yay!) Their children and neighbors help set it up with lovely pieces of fine art. Well known paintings from artists including Botticelli, Seurat, Rousseau and Van Gogh. With only one minor difference! Take a look at this very readable story and visual delight!

Clever Lollipop by Dick King-Smith.
Princess Penelope returns this time as a very reluctant reader. Her incredibly intelligent pig named Lollipop and one special teacher (isn't that usually all it takes) Collie Cob the Conjurer helps her to see the way.

For Middle Grade Readers
The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
This wonderful author gives us another story not to be missed! Author of Because of Winn-Dixie involves the lucky reader in the quandaries that our irresistible mouse friend Despereaux gets himself into. They include none other than speaking to the Princess Pea and reading books instead of eating them. See what happens when he is sentenced to spend the rest of his days in the dark, dank, rat infested dungeon. Don't underestimate the determination of a love struck mouse!

Inkheart by Cornelia Funke. The evil Capricorn wants this book- and Meggie and her Dad. They alone have the ability to bring this book alive. A real page turner from the author of Thief Lord. Sure to delight Harry Potter fans.

For Young Adults
Freaky Green Eyes by Joyce Carol Oates. Francesca, or Franky as she likes to be called, believes in herself and her strength. "Freaky Green Eyes" is her inner protective persona that surfaces when needed. This becomes necessary as she watches her parents' marriage dissolve and her father's anger escalates. Why does her mom wear long sleeves and scarves all the time? This is a story about the evils of abuse and second guessing yourself even when you know better. On the heels of her young adult debut, Big Mouth and Ugly Girl, this highly acclaimed novelist delivers yet another suspenseful and powerful story for teenage readers. Ageless!

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.
Illustrated and engineered by Robert Sabuda. Who wouldn't like to take a closer look down that infamous rabbit hole? Readers can do just that in this intricately crafted pop-up adaptation of the original tale.

If you're interested in more selections from Natacha Pouech and Bear Pond Books visit our website at bearpondbooks.com. You can also find a bookstore in your area using the services of www. superpages.com.


© 2003 Mary Brigid Barrett