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BOOKS

Expect the unexpected by kristen schottPublished: July, 2009

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What makes a big adventure? Is it something you dream up – a make-believe trip into the unknown? Or can it happen right down the street, at the local playground? There’s a chance it could be filled with danger, or heroic feats, or maybe even a little bit of wit and wile. But whatever it is, one thing’s for certain: It will be fun. This month’s selection offers a look at eight adventures that, real or imagined, near or far, might inspire your child to embark on a journey of his or her own. ‘Ladybug Girl and Bumblebee Boy’ [ages 3-5] By David Soman and Jacky Davis (Dial Books; $16.99; 40 pages) When Lulu sports a red tutu and spotted boots, she is Ladybug Girl – and she can do anything. While at the playground, Lulu and her friend Sam start to play. But they can’t agree on what to do, until Lulu invites Sam to play Ladybug Girl. Sam is aptly dubbed Bumblebee Boy, and when they join forces, they’re unstoppable. Their escapade demonstrates the importance of teamwork. ‘I Need My Monster’ [ages 4-8] By Amanda Noll; illustrated by Howard McWilliam (Flashlight Press; $16.95; 32 pages) Many children are afraid of monsters, but not Ethan. Ethan needs his slobbery, scary beast, named Gabe, who has suddenly disappeared. Join Ethan as monster after monster appears under his bed, and watch as he turns down each one, claiming they’re too dopey, well-groomed or – and this one’s the worst – a girl. Children will laugh at the boy’s nighttime trials, but watch out, because if Gabe comes back, even fearless Ethan will get a shiver or two. ‘Tony and the Pizza Champions’ [ages 4-8] By Tony Gemignani; illustrated by Matthew Trueman (Chronicle Books; $16.99; 44 pages) When Tony and his team are invited to the World Pizza Championship in Italy, he and his sidekick Ken assemble a group of the strongest pizza tossers in the U.S. And, during the competition, they unleash a series of tricks so grand, not even Italy can compete. The captivating images help tell the real-life adventure of eight-time world pizza-tossing champion Tony Gemignani, cooking up a story filled with cheese, toppings and a whole lot of dough. ‘Wishworks Inc.’ [ages 7-10] By Stephanie Tolan; illustrated by Amy June Bates (Arthur A. Levine Books; $15.99; 146 pages) Max is always thinking up make-believe adventures with his make-believe dog. The book picks up after his parents’ divorce, when he moves to a new school, with new bullies. Max escapes into his daydreams and thinks up Wishworks Inc., where any wish can be granted. But will he make the right one? The book offers solace to children coping with trouble at home or school. Kristen Schott is OC Family magazine’s children’s book editor.

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