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BOOKS

Pits and pieces by kristen schottPublished: November, 2009

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It’s November, and even though we live in mild-weathered Orange County, fall is here. The leaves are changing color and floating to the ground; and there’s a snap in the air that makes curling up in front of the fireplace with a book a comforting way to spend the evening. With this in mind, I selected eight tales with a little bit of something different in each of them. Though they don’t share a common theme, they will, in their own way, unite your family. ‘Family Fun Night’ [all ages] By Cynthia L. Copeland (Cider Mill Press; $14.95; 272 pages) This compilation of more than 300 activities is a great way to bring your family together. Copeland takes simple ideas and turns them on their head – such as the puzzle race on page 189 – through 18 themed chapters. Among them: a night picnic; a scavenger hunt; and, my favorite, a section on reading aloud. There are even dollar-saving tips and areas to record your own family favorites. It’s a valuable piece that will provide a lifetime of memories. ‘Ned’s New Home’ [ages 2-4] By Kevin Tseng (Tricycle Press; 32 pages; $14.99) Home. It’s more than just a place; it’s the feeling a person gets when he or she steps through the front door. And that’s exactly what this story captures. When Ned’s apple begins to rot, his comfortable life comes to an end. Seven different types of fruit are introduced through Ned’s search for a new home, but the only one that feels right is an apple. The book is a brightly colored, fun take on the age-old motto: “Home is where the heart is.” ‘When the Moon Forgot’ [ages 4-8] By Jimmy Liao (Little Brown & Co.; $17.99; 80 pages) This is a stunning, beautifully illustrated story about what happens when the moon falls out of the sky, a little boy discovers it, and they ultimately become the best of friends. Though readers must rely on the images to push the plot along, the touching, poignant tale will tug at their heart strings – especially when the moon must go back to the sky. It’s a wonderful way to tuck your children into bed. ‘The Wind in the Willows’ [ages 7 and up] By Kenneth Grahame; illustrated by Robert Ingpen (Trafalgar Square; $19.95; 224 pages) Though this book’s suggested reading level is ages 7 and up, it’s a classic that can be read to the littlest children. Who can resist the story of Mole, Water Rat, Badger and Toad as they face adventure together? The new edition, printed as a celebration of the book’s 100-year anniversary, offers more than 70 colorful illustrations that will pique your children’s curiosity. Kristen Schott is OC Family magazine’s children’s book editor.

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