book Archives - Page 7 of 32

Book Review “Disney Fairies: Meet Periwinkle”

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 3
Series: Passport to Reading Level 1
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: LB Kids
Release Date: November 4, 2014

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

If there is one Disney Fairy that my daughter loves outside of Tinker Bell, it is easily Periwinkle. We have either weekly or monthly viewings of “Secret of the Wings”. “Disney Fairies: Meet Periwinkle” is the latest Passport to Reading Level 1 book and it is coming at a perfect time as my daughter is learning to read.

Official Premise: Meet Periwinkle! Periwinkle is a frost fairy from the Winter Woods. When Tinker Bell and Peri meet, the two fairies discover a very special bond, but they are kept apart for the safety of their wings. However, when snow appears all over Pixie Hollow, Periwinkle and the frost fairies must help save the day!

The story is cute. It is a sort of abridged version of “Secret of the Wings”. The illustrations are colorful and vibrant. If you love Disney Fairies, I mean what little girl doesn’t, then this is a great buy for you. Plus at a price of less than $4 dollars on Amazon, I mean can you really go wrong here?

Book Review “DC Comics: A Visual History”

Author: by Daniel Wallace
Hardcover: 376 pages
Publisher: DK ADULT
Release Date: September 29, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

DC Comics is becoming much more relevant recently following the success of Marvels. Especially with the bunch of new films announced by DC including “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice”, fans are going to be looking for history of these characters in preparation for the films. This updated and expanded edition of “DC Comics: A Visual History” is a must have for any comic fan. It includes 16 new pages to cover 2010-2014 and an amazing new slipcase design along with two NEW prints packed inside. This has everything any fan would want to find out. It is detailed as hell and jam-packed with amazing information.

Official Premise: Trace DC’s fascinating story: the company’s beginnings as National Allied Publications in the 1934, and its subsequent change to Detective Comics, Inc. in 1937. The book details all the major DC publishing landmarks and more, displayed clearly, month by month. Highlighting the debuts of iconic super heroes like Superman and Batman, the geniuses that invented them, and the real-life events, like the Vietnam War, the atom bomb, and the Space Race, that shaped the atmosphere of the times, DC Comics: A Visual History follows the characters’ foray into the real world through TV series and blockbuster movies.

There is a solid foreword from former president of DC Comics (2002-2009), Paul Levitz. I have to admit, even though I have been a huge Batman and Superman fan since I was a kid, I have never been too big on the rest of the universe that was surrounding them. After reading this book, I understand that it is quite massive and really exciting to see what is set to come in the future. DK did an amazing job on this release, it is a literally a marvel (no pun intended) to look at and is so detailed, colorful and there is not an inch wasted throughout as it is filled with amazing images and facts.

Book Review “Batman: A Visual History”

Author: Matt Forbeck
Hardcover: 352 pages
Publisher: DK ADULT
Release Date: September 29, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Wow! When they say that this is the “definitive guide to the world of the Dark Knight”, they are not exaggerating. “Batman: A Visual History” is easily one of the best books that I have received in recent years along with the DK released “DC Comics: A Visual History”. This book follows Batman from his first appearance in 1939 right through today, which is it’s 75th anniversary. The book also includes two original prints! If you are a Batman fan, this is the ultimate book for any fan, young or old.

Official Premise: “Batman: A Visual History” follows the DC Comics hero from his 1939 origin as a vigilante created by Bob Kane to his present status as a worldwide cultural icon. The book features Batman’s greatest stories and charts the careers of the Super Heroes and super-villains associated with the Dark Knight, including Robin, the Justice League, the Joker, and Catwoman.

I literally just stared at this book when I received it. It is absolutely stunning. It is also large as hell. It comes in this beautiful slipcase with specially commissioned artwork by a top DC Comics artist. I have been a Batman film since I was about 6 years old when Tim Burton’s “Batman” hit theaters. This book is just perfect. I do not think words can honestly do it justice. When you open the book is jam-packed with so much information and there is not a inch of space wasted on any page. Cannot recommend anymore!

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Filed Under: Book Reviews Tagged With: batman, book, history, review, visual

Book Review “Disney Princess: Perfect Princess Christmas”

Age Range: 3 – 5 years
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Series: Disney Princess
Hardcover: 96 pages
Publisher: Disney Press
Release Date: September 9, 2014

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Disney Princess: Perfect Princess Christmas” features four Christmas-themed stories with our favorite Disney princess: Ariel, Aurora, Cinderella, Tiana. I am surprised but my daughter, who is two, was not terribly blown away with this. She loves Ariel and Tiana but still didn’t really latch on to this one. The stories are cute and certainly get you into the Christmas spirit. The illustrations are colorful and looks great. The book also comes with a free download of the Royal Christmas app for iPhone and iPad. Maybe we’ll try again next year and see if anything changes. I am sure others will love this book though.

Official Premise: Now little girls can celebrate the holidays with the Disney Princesses! From crackling fires and snowy sleigh rides to beachside gatherings and New Orleans feasts, each princess does Christmas her own way. These four Christmas-themed stories star Ariel, Aurora, Cinderella, Tiana, and their family and friends as they deck their castle halls. With gorgeous illustrations on every page, plus a foil-stamped jacket, this 96-page storybook is sure to be an instant classic.

Book Review “Disney Christmas Storybook Collection”

Age Range: 3 – 5 years
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Series: Storybook Collection
Hardcover: 304 pages
Publisher: Disney Press
Release Date: September 9, 2014

If you are a fan of the “Storybook Collection”, this is a third edition of this series. The holidays are just around the corner and what better way to spend it then with your favorite Disney and Pixar characters. This updated edition includes brand new Christmas-themed stories including new films like “Frozen”, “Wreck-It Ralph”, and “Tangled”. These films just so happen to be three of my daughters favorites. Also included is Cars, Monsters Inc and a Mickey Mouse story.

“Disney Christmas Storybook Collection” features 18 stories focusing on the magic of Christmas. The book is just so colorful and really well done. It is over 300 pages and a nice sturdy hardcover. The illustrations are beautiful and the stories are a lot of fun. I noticed a repeat with the “Frozen” stories from previous releases but my daughter doesn’t realized and still loves all of them. This has become a must read in our household and will continue through the holiday season.

Book Review “Disney’s A Merry Christmas Cookbook”

Age Range: 6 – 8 years
Grade Level: 1 – 3
Hardcover: 64 pages
Publisher: Disney Press
Release Date: September 16, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

First of all, words cannot express how much I love this book. I show my wife this book and we literally sat and read through each page of this book with our daughter. We ended up dog earring every single page of this book since each of the recipes are absolutely amazing. Whenever you get a cookbook, there are always a bunch of rrecipesthat you say “Ewww, this not for me”. Well I hope you do not read this book hungry because every single one listed here are outstanding (trust me we have already tried almost every one!). The book also has pull out recipes to give to your friends and family.

Official Premise: Treat your taste buds to a feast of traditional holiday delights! With simple step-by-step instructions, helpful cooking tips, color photographs, and charming character art, this book is the perfect way for parents and children to make holiday magic in the kitchen! A rating system lets kids know how difficult the recipes are, and cooking tips are sprinkled throughout.

Firstly, this is a Christmas cookbook, which is a major draw for our family because we simply love the holidays. Throw in our favorite Disney and Pixar characters and it just sweetens the deal. I love that these rrecipesare not difficult either. They are fun and very easy. Plus they are just plain cute like Olaf English Muffin Pizzas. My daughter is obsessed with the Sugar Rush Popcorn Gumdrop Garland from “Wreck it Ralph” and if you love “Frozen”, they have Anna’s Frozen Ice Candy! I cannot recommend this anymore…and I have already purchased numerous copies as gifts.

Book Review “Happy Holidays! From the Avengers”

Age Range: 6 – 8 years
Grade Level: 1 – 3
Series: Marvel: Avengers
Hardcover: 48 pages
Publisher: Marvel Press
Release Date: September 16, 2014

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Having a daughter, I have to try and cross her over from Princesses as much as I can while keeping the balance. She is already big on Star Wars, which is a score for daddy. So next to tackle is superheros. “Happy Holidays! From the Avengers” is a great way to start because my daughter loves the Holiday season and these characters are animated very well in this book to welcome a younger audience.

Official Premise: It was supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but after battling monsters and villains, the mighty Avengers just weren’t in the holiday spirit. Not even gifts form the Wasp could make their day merry. But who was that dashing through the snow? Could he save the Avengers and their holiday season?

The book also includes a read-along CD with none other narrating it than the voice of Stan Lee! This may not do anything for the younger kids but it is sure to grab the parents attention and get points in their book. It will also allow parents to share the information about Stan Lee to future get the younger kids involved in the history of the creator and the characters. Great book for younger kids, looks to enjoy the holidays with their favorite superheros.

Book Review “Doc McStuffins: A Very McStuffins Christmas”

Age Range: 3 – 5 years
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Series: Doc Mcstuffins
Paperback: 24 pages
Publisher: Disney Press
Release Date: September 16, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Like the also recently released “Minnie’s Winter Bow Show”, “Doc McStuffins: A Very McStuffins Christmas” is a wonderful story about Christmas with the lovable gang of the Disney Junior hit series. This book is a favorite for my two year old, who loves pointing out all the characters like Santa and his toys. I love that Doc McStuffins is celebrating Christmas in the series since we celebrate the holiday and my daughter is a huge fan of that time of the year. Plus the book also comes with 50 special sparkly stickers!

Christmas Eve is full of surprises at the McStuffins house! When the toys sneak downstairs to leave Doc’s present under the tree, they find Tobias, one of Santa’s elves, delivering toys. But Tobias accidentally drops Donny’s robot toy and breaks it! Doc and the gang head out on a magical rescue mission to the North Pole to visit Santa’s workshop and fix the toy before Christmas morning.

Book Review “Disney Minnie: Minnie’s Winter Bow Show”

Age Range: 3 – 5 years
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Paperback: 24 pages
Publisher: Disney Press
Release Date: September 16, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

It is getting to be that time of the year! Fall is already here and we are entering the Holiday season. My two year old daughter loves nothing more than Minnie Mouse and especially Minnie’s Bowtique on Disney Junior. “Minnie’s Winter Bow Show” is the latest book in the series and is based on a movie event airing on Disney Junior this Winter (or on DVD November 4th). This is already going to be an instant classic in your house. The book is so incredible colorful and come stocked with 70 special sparkly stickers!

Official Premise: Minnie’s Winter Bow Show is quickly approaching-Minnie needs to make preparations, but she also needs to keep an eye on her two rambunctious nieces, Millie and Melody. One morning, the twins are playing in the glove balloon when it suddenly flies off with Minnie in tow! The balloon takes them on a wild winter wonderland adventure all the way to the Clubhouse North Pole! Will Minnie be able to make it back to her Bow-tique in time for her Winter Bow Show?

Book Review “Disney Sofia the First: A Gift from Sofia”

Age Range: 3 – 6 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 1
Series: Sofia the First
Board book: 16 pages
Publisher: Reader’s Digest
Release Date: September 30, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Sofia the First” is easily one of my daughters favorite shows. She is two years old and has been watching this show forever. Mix that with our favorite holiday season and you have an instant winner. “A Gift from Sofia” is a great story about Sofia getting ready to celebrate her first Wassailia in Enchancia. Talk about a colorful book, this book will easily make you smile and get into the holiday spirit real quick.

My daughter is currently potty training and this book sits right next to your potty and it is read every time she goes into the bathroom. She loves it. There are also three press-out glittery ornaments–a heart, a star, and a wreath featuring characters from Sofia the First! These were first to come out the minute she finished the book the first time. This is a must own for sure if you enjoy the holidays and “Sofia the First”.

Book Review “Disney Frozen Melt My Heart: Share Hugs with Olaf!”

Age Range: 2 – 5 years
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Series: Hugs Book
Board book: 10 pages
Publisher: Reader’s Digest
Release Date: October 7, 2014

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Right from the trailers of “Frozen”, I had a feeling that Olaf was going to be a instant favorite. Of course, I wasn’t wrong. Who didn’t see this movie and just fall in love with Olaf, a lovable snowman who loves hugs! This book is so cute and interactive. You are able to guide Olaf’s plush arms to hugs and pat those he loves. This book has given many hugs and even to myself by order of my two year old.

Official Premise: Olaf loves warm hugs! In this specially shaped board book featuring favorite quotes from Disney’s Frozen, Olaf has two plush arms to interact with every spread. With lots of hugging, patting, blowing kisses and waving, kids ages 2–5 will happily return to this adorable book over and over again!

The book is short but my daughter loves the idea of being able to control Olaf’s arms. The only issue that she had was turn pages where the arms got stuck in the pages but after a few times she was quickly able to figure that out as well. If you love “Frozen”, this yet another very fun companion book to this film. I can’t wait to see what Reader’s Digest comes out with next for this amazing film.

Book Review “Disney Frozen: Elsa’s Gift”

Age Range: 6 – 8 years
Grade Level: 1 – 3
Series: Disney Frozen
Board book: 24 pages
Publisher: Disney Press
Release Date: October 7, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Elsa’s Gift” is a brand new story is the world of “Disney Frozen” that is going to leave fans very happy. This book is a great follow up to the movie. It is cute, funny and features all of our favorite characters from the film. It is an oversized board book also so I love that it has some weight to it and it is not a flimsy book since it is guaranteed to get a lot of use with my daughter. This is must read almost nightly and it never fails to make my daughter laugh.

The story takes place during preparation for the Winter Ball. Elsa is trying to show how much she appreciates Anna. But can she find the perfect gift? There is one part in the book where the girls have a snowball fight and it always cracks my daughter up and she laughs so hard. This book also includes a free downloadable the Frozen Storybook Deluxe App for iPhone & iPad. We want more Frozen Disney! Keep them coming!

Book Review “Disney Learning: Reading Adventures – Sofia the First – Level Pre-1 Boxed Set”

Age Range: 3 – 5 years
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Series: Reading Adventures
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Disney Press
Release Date: November 4, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

I simply love “Disney Learning: Reading Adventures” series. Want your kids to not only have fun but also learn this is it. Talk about getting your money’s work…this book includes ten, 16-page books, 86 stickers, parent letter, and achievement certificate. Plus what little girl doesn’t love “Sofia the First”?! The topic of the books include “Numbers are Everywhere”, “How Do You Feel”, “What Does Sofia Know” and “Sofia Feelings”. These are great learning topics. Throw in some fun stickers to play with and you have a great mix of learning with the ability to have fun.

Official Premise: Disney Reading Adventures is a curriculum-based, leveled reading program that offers children the support and guidance they need as they progress on the reading continuum from emergent readers to independent readers who read for meaning. Thoughtfully crafted and engaging stories contain key features that develop children’s reading comprehension and vocabulary skills. The stories are highly predictable with repetitive sentence structures and easy-to-read sight words designed to inspire a sense of mastery and confidence.

Book Review “Disney Frozen Let It Go”

Age Range: 2 – 5 years
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Series: Disney Frozen
Board book: 12 pages
Publisher: Reader’s Digest
Release Date: October 14, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Disney Frozen Let It Go” is a very simple and neat book. If your kids love the song “Let it Go” from “Frozen” (I mean who doesn’t?) They will love this book. This story is based around the song but it is not just a boring story book, since it features a spinning Elsa that transforms from her Queen’s attire into her icy gown. Small but very effective

Official Premise: Relive the enchanting moment when Queen Elsa finally accepts who she is and transforms herself — and then the world around her. Turn the spinner and watch as she creates her ice castle, makes a snow cloud for Olaf and skates with her friends.

So if you want to hear something cute, when my two year old daughter plays with this book, she has to open it page and when she spins Elsa, she sings out let “Let it Go…Let it GO!” So I think that this is a very effective book. She looks the characters and the interactive ability to read the book along with playing with Elsa as well.

Book Review “Adventure Time: The Art of Ooo”

Author: Chris McDonnell
Hardcover: 352 pages
Publisher: Harry N. Abrams
Release Date: October 14, 2014

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Adventure Time” is a show like no other. I remember when I was a kid and “The Simpsons” used to be the show to watch. Now “Adventure Time” has taken that place with today’s kids/teens. This show is such a trip. That is really the only way to describe it. It is colorful, funky and totally out there…but I love it and I also love it’s animation. “Adventure Time: The Art of Ooo” is a beast of a book running over 350 pages. This page is no joke at all. If you are a fan of this show and want an inside look behind-the-scenes, this is the book you are going to want! FIST PUMP!

Official Premise: Adventure Time: The Art of Ooo is the first book to take fans behind the scenes of Finn the Human’s and Jake the Dog’s adventures in the post-apocalyptic, magical land of Ooo. Packed to the seams with concept art and storyboards, this lavishly illustrated tome offers an all-access pass into the Emmy Award–winning show team’s creative process. The Art of Ooo traces series creator Pendleton Ward’s early influences and work, then reveals how the writers, storyboarders, animators, and voice actors work in tandem to bring this wildly inventive series to life.

When I heard that “Adenture Time” was goign to be getting a companion book from Abrams, I knew that we were going to be in for a real treat. This book includes some great early character sketches, background paintings and rare glimpses into the series’ show bible. It is a real visual guide to this show along with commentary from all the show’s key creative talent throughout. If you are just getting into this show or a fan from day 1, you will not be disappointed by this book, no question.

If you are going to get an author to do a book about a weird animated series, you have to get someone that understand’s weird and strange animation. Chris McDonnell has designed books on amazing and very unique animators like Ralph Bakshi and Bill Plympton and to me that sums up the definition of what is needed here. Plus too this book off with an outstanding introduction by Guillermo del Toro (“Hellboy”) and you have a guaranteed hit. I hope Abrams have future books planned for this series!

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