I wouldn’t go so far as to say it’s a necessary addition to every collection, but if you’ve got students who exhibit particular interest in the Presidents of the United States, this could be a nice addition.  As one might expect there is certainly more known about the mothers of some presidents than there is of others, but taken together, these snippets  offer an interesting glimpse into the varied backgrounds of the men who became President.  One of the sad things this book brings home is how many mothers didn’t live long enough to know that their sons had became president.  The illustrations are rather cartoonish, adding a bit of levity, while helping to make clear the different personalities of the women who raised presidents.

The illustrations are the real lure of the book — they’re charming!  The story basically tells of the day in the life of an octopus, as he uses his powers of camouflage and ink sprays to escape some annoying seahorses and seek some solitude.  It tells of her encounters with jelly fish and crabs and a whale and clownfish on her quest for peace and quiet.  When she finally finds herself in a quiet place, she finds herself missing the bustle of the reef and returns home.

This is the fourth book Wendy Mass has set in the small, unusual town of Willow Falls, and the title seems to imply it is the final book in the series.  As such, it does a really nice job of wrapping together the other books, and explaining the mysterious character that linked her other books.  While bringing satisfactory closure to this delightful series, it also manages to set up the possibility of a companion series to follow.  It brings back well-loved characters and ties together mystery and humor and time-travel as Amanda and Leo (the main characters from the first book in the series, 11 Birthdays) work together to unravel and rescue Grace, who has fallen into a strange trance.

The Hansel and Gretel tale told by the brothers Grimm is uniquely illustrated by Sybille Schenker and retold by Martin West.  Schenker uses translucent pages to give amazing dimension to this tale of two children, abandoned by their parents, who try to find their way home.  Coming upon a candy house, they need to outsmart a nearsighted witch.  With each turn of the page, the reader is met with layers of semi-transparent pages of silhouette-like images mixed with opaque sheets which create depth and an almost movie-like aspect to this well-known tale.  The effect is stunning.  However, the binding is string and not durable enough to withstand multiple library checkouts.  That being said, all collections should include this exquisite edition of this classic story.

This beautifully illustrated, wordless book shows the home of a family living near water.  The children happily play outside and enjoy using technology indoors.  The father is concerned with an approaching storm.  Although they place sandbags around they house to mitigate damage, they reluctantly decide to abandon their home and flee to safety.  As the storm abates, the family returns to view the damage.  After a moment of grief, they energetically move to rebuild.  Once again the home is returned to its former, tranquil condition and the family relaxes and enjoys an idyllic life once more.  The paintings are large, filled with color and powerful.  There are ample opportunities to discuss storms and flooding, emotions from comfort to grief, and perseverance with younger students, to the use of color and perspective in art with older students.  On the surface a very simple topic, this book provides a variety of deeper themes.  Recommended for all elementary library collections.

This  is a collection of hidden pictures for younger children.  The topic is princesses and their various parties and activities.  Each colorful, double-page spread includes an illustrated list of objects to find.  The book begins with a short list of six objects and increases in complexity to twelve items to locate.  Brightly colored illustrations are digitally created and are sure to capture one’s attention.

For the older, more experienced crafters, this book contains ideas and directions on how to “upgrade” one’s fashion statement with paper.  Yes, paper!  Beginning with an illustrated list of supplies most crafters have, or can easily get, suggestions for jewelry, headbands, belts, purses, or hats are given.  Each project includes a list of materials, photos of finished items, clear instructions, and tips.  These projects take time because glues and sealants must dry between steps.  Other related books are listed in the back with an internet site giving more resources and matching books.