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Enduring stories by kristen schottPublished: October, 2009

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Many of the tales I’ve reviewed have a specific age range. But what if a book appeals to all ages? For me, an ageless piece is Frances Hodgson Burnett’s “A Little Princess.” Selections were read to me as a child, I read it myself when I was older, and I’ve read it again as a young woman. This month’s choices have this timeless quality. The stories will grow with your kids; the poems, introduced in childhood, may be presented again in a new light later in life. ‘The Ugly Duckling’ [ages 3 and up] By Hans Christian Andersen; illustrated by Pirkko Vainio (NorthSouth Books; $16.95; 32 pages) The tale of the duckling who’s just a little different than the rest of his family is not easily forgotten. And this retelling of the timeless piece is no different. The story follows the duckling as he discovers who he is, and it offers a lesson in acceptance, self-discovery and pride. It’s a must-read after a tough day, and it’ll be sure to lift any reader’s spirits. ‘The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales’ [all ages] By Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith (Viking; $17.99; 56 pages) Brilliant is the only word I can think of to describe this book. The authors artfully take well-known stories such as “Chicken Little” and “Little Red Riding Hood,” and create different stories for each, weaving a piece so entertaining it can’t be read just once. Nothing is overlooked: From the inside flap, to the narrator, to the text, which alternates in size, shape and color, it’s a masterful work. No wonder it garnered a Caldecott Honor. ‘Ambrosia’ [all ages] By Dan Manalang; illustrated by Nichole Wong (Flip Publishing; $14.99; 32 pages) The smiling, lopsided-eye coconut on the front of this book is invitation enough to pick it up, and the tale inside is unforgettable. “Ambrosia” broaches the difficult subject of prejudice, but it does so in an easy-to-follow, entertaining and fun rhyme that will attract kids eager to hear what happens. All readers will love the round, brown fruit who teaches the cherries, grapes and pears a valuable life lesson. ‘You’re Only Old Once’ [all ages] By Dr. Seuss (Random House; $17.99; 48 pages) “Buy a copy for your child now, and you give it to him on his 70th birthday,” reads the inside flap of this creation from Dr. Seuss. Through the author’s classic, memorable rhymes and imaginative illustrations, this book brings humor to some of the more unfortunate aspects of aging. It’s a story that children may not quite grasp until they’re a little older, but they’ll certainly enjoy watching parents or grandparents laugh at their book. Kristen Schott is OC Family magazine’s children’s book editor.

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