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Thrills and chills by kristen schottPublished: August, 2010

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Your children only have a short time left before they head back to school, so why not close the summer with an adventure through the written word? There’s no end to the possibilities this genre offers, and your kids may discover something about themselves through the daring, courageous and sometimes silly characters within the pages. So, stop by your local bookstore to find the perfect adventure story, and take a journey that your kiddies will never forget. ‘Matty Takes Off!’ [infant to 5] By Miriam Moss and Jane Simmons (Andersen Press; $9.99; 32 pages) This adorable story follows Matty, an organized bear, and his cat as they travel to visit his messy sister, Milly. Though they have a hard time getting out the door – Matty overpacks – they have fun on the open road. And, when they get to Milly’s, Matty realizes he doesn’t need everything he thought he needed, after all. It’s a simple tale little ones will enjoy. ‘Harry and Horsie’ [ages 3-6] By Katie Van Camp; illustrated by Lincoln Agnew (Balzer + Bray; $16.99; 32 pages) Take a trip into space with this clever tale about a little boy who blasts off on his rocket ship to find his beloved toy. Though it’s her first picture book, Katie Van Camp has written a captivating story, and the vibrant illustrations and easy-to-read text make it fun to get lost in the pages. Share this with your children today – you won’t regret it. ‘Gumption’   [ages 4-8] By Elise Broach; illustrated by Richard Egielski (Atheneum; $16.99; 40 pages) “All it takes is a bit of gumption.” And so Peter’s safari to Africa with his Uncle Nigel begins. Peter faces many scenarios on the journey that require him to be brave and self-confident – lessons that will be imparted on readers as they turn the pages. It’s a positive story, and your kids will enjoy the bright illustrations and witty text. This is a must-read. ‘Out of the Woods’ [ages 8-12] By Lyn Gardner; illustrated by Mini Grey (David Fickling Books; $17.99; 368 pages) This entertaining sequel to “Into the Woods” picks up with the three Eden sisters, who must defeat the evil witch Belladonna. With illustrations that add character to the fast-paced writing, the book interweaves old motifs – seven dwarves, a granny-eating wolf and a magic mirror – with new to create a modern depiction of the classics. It’s great for fairy-tale lovers of every age. Kristen Schott is OC Family magazine’s children’s book editor.

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