This is a graphic novel by Nol Yomtov and Berenice Muniz retelling Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.  This version provides the basic storyline of the original but is stripped of the details and period language.  There is a helpful pictorial character guide in the front of the book.  In the back is a short biography about William Shakespeare, a brief history of the play as well as some discussion questions, writing prompts and notes about Shakespearean language.  The illustrations are colorful and expressive.  Hopefully this book will inspire readers to delve into the original play to discover the richness to be found there.

This is a beautiful picture book version of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast complete with Jan Brett’s beautiful illustrations.  Ms. Brett retells this story in a gentle way, appropriate as a read aloud for all.  There is so much intricate detail woven into each illustration, one savors each page before turning to discover the next.  Even more important, are the underlying themes of bravery, integrity, love, compassion, and not judging by appearances.  I highly recommend this book.

Great photographs of vintage airplanes from various countries involved in WWII.The table of contents includes several key battles, famous people, paratroopers, strategic bombing, and glossary and index.  The reading level is intermediate to junior high, but the passages aren’t too long, approximately 200 words per page.  Interesting format and should appeal to most enthusiasts.

Five chapter of accurate and detailed information about the Afghanistan war, beginning with unrest in Afghanistan, the Taliban, Operation Enduring Freedom, Rebuilding, Insurgency, and Obama’s new Plan.  Details such as influential individuals, timeline, book and website resources, glossary, index and many color photographs are included in this book.  Great for intermediate learners.

Perfect for the election year!  It simplifies and amplifies the rhetoric and childish fighting between the two major political parties in the United States.  Of course, the main characters are a donkey and an elephant who’s banter is ridiculous.  In the end they end up making up after an independent wins the vote.  Only to begin the fight all over again.  A nice book for explaining or discussing the negative ads during the campaign season.  Recommended for primary aged children (and adults!).

This is a graphic novel, in cartoon format.  The illustrations are in color and the pages are glossy.  Would appeal to lower level readers with high interest level.  Reluctant reader, male readers primarily.  Although, anyone familiar with Stars Wars may find this book appealing, as it is quite true to the themes of the movie.

Remarkable pictures in this nonfiction book.  The layout is very attractive, to all ages.  The content had an emphasis on “attacks”  by this animal on humans.  Two out of five chapters was dedicated to this concept.  As an educator, I would rather have had one chapter on attacks, and had a different topic, less sensational, to focus on in the next chapter.  Something more along the lines of preservation and protection of the species.

An analytical look at different forms of energy being utilized on our planet along with pros and cons.  It includes case studies, which are real life examples from various regions.  There are graphs, pictures, captions, side bars, and a glossary in the back.

Stunning, real photographs of children throughout the world wearing their native costume and clothing!  respectful, beautiful, colorful, and heartwarming.  Recommended for preschool, K, 1st, 2nd grades.