Picture Book

Little Apple Goat

Little Apple Goat is ordinary in every way — except for one. Instead of munching on oats or grass or laundry left on the line, she prefers to eat fruit from the orchard. But one stormy night, all of the fruit trees in the orchard are destroyed. The trunks are chopped down and the land is cleared. The farm animals cannot imagine life without the orchard, and Little Apple Goat doesn’t know how she will manage without her fruit. But time passes, and something mysterious begins to happen on the farm . . . Sweet, colorful illustrations bring to life this clever tale that will charm young readers and also introduce them to the changing seasons.

One Hundred Shining Candles

This well-loved storybook has been reissued with enhanced reproduction and many newly created illustrations just in time for a warm Christmas read under a cozy quilt by the light of a flickering fire. Ten-year-old Lucy is a pioneer girl in the Upper Canada of 1800. Her imagination fired by the schoolmaster’s stories of Christmas memories, Lucy sets about making a special Yuletide gift — something her frail mother will be able to remember and cherish forever. But even with the unwelcome help of her little brother, Dan, making one hundred handmade candles to light on Christmas night is a daunting task. Limited supplies and resources make the job that much harder, but in the end it is Lucy’s own bossiness that nearly causes a disaster. Deeply disappointed in herself, Lucy accepts the sacrifice Dan offers to make, and together the children manage to create the most wonderful of all Christmases. One Hundred Shining Candles, written by one of Canada’s best writers for children, shows readers of all ages the true joy of giving from the heart. Delicate illustrations throughout perfectly depict this gentle story set against harsh times.

Wish: Wishing Traditions Around the World

This lively compilation of wishing traditions from around the world is sure to educate and inspire young readers. Each charming tradition provides insight into the cultures of lands far and near while reminding us of the similarities we all share. Includes Japan, China, Thailand, Russia, Iran, Israel, India, Australia, South Africa, Italy, Ireland, Brazil, Guatemala, Mexico, and the USA!

Cinderella

Cinderella’s evil stepmother makes her cook and clean and dust and sweep until her arms ache and her head spins. But with a tap of her fairy godmother’s wand, the kind, mistreated beauty becomes a shimmering vision worthy of a prince.

The Night of the Moon: A Muslim Holiday Story

This vibrantly illustrated picture book invites children to experience the traditions of Ramadan and Eid through the eyes of a seven-year-old Pakistani-American girl named Yasmeen.

Featured in WOW Review Volume IX, Issue 1.

Little Old Ladies

Don’t be fooled by the pillbox hats, pearl necklaces, or support hose. Ignore the walkers, hearing aids, and false teeth. Little old ladies are people to be reckoned with and lead far more exciting lives than we could ever imagine. To benefit from these wonderful women, all you have to do is listen. In this quirky, uproarious picture book, Franziska Kalch uncovers the secrets of this often misunderstood population. You won’t find these old ladies feeding the ducks at the pond or walking at the local mall. Instead, look for them at the trendiest dance clubs or basking by the pool. They have so many experiences and ideas to share. We just have to ask.

Marco Polo

Marco Polo’s adventures as he travels from Venice to Beijing.

The Swineherd

Lisbeth Zwerger, winner of the 1990 Hans Christian Andersen Medal, brings her distinctive talent to this classic Andersen fairy tale of a foolish Prince who seeks to marry the Emperor’s daughter, and the even more foolish Princess who fails to recognize his true worth. When the Princess refuses him, he disguises himself as a swineherd and plays her favorite songs. By the time she warms up to him it’s too late; he reveals his true identity and leaves her all alone.

The Girl Who Drew A Phoenix

One day a young girl named Feng Huang finds a phoenix feather that has fallen from the sky. When she tries to draw the magical bird and share her inspiration, no one is able to tell what it is. Luckily for Feng Huang, the Queen Phoenix sees her troubles and swoops down from the heavens to offer her help. A phoenix’s powers are not easily revealed, however, and Feng Huang embarks on a journey of thought, wonder, and self-discovery. Wisdom, Clear Sight, Equality, Generosity, and Right Judgment are worthy qualities indeed, but Feng Huang finds that they are only truly powerful when shared. Brilliant sweeps of plumage and flourishes of sparkles and stars accentuate award-winning artist Demi’s interpretation of one of the most intriguing and elegant creatures of ancient myth.

Nikolai, The Only Bear

There are one hundred orphans at the Russian orphanage, but Nikolai is the only bear. He growls when he speaks and claws the air when he plays. “Play nice, Nikolai,” the keepers say. No one wants to take Nikolai home. Until one day, when a fur-faced man and a smooth-faced woman come to visit from America. They growl with him and play with him, and sing songs that make him feel soft-bearish. And when it’s time for them to go home, Nikolai knows that he has found the right family at last.