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Books

Words for all ages These colorful, informative stories are perfect for your child who is starting to read on her own. By Craig ReemPublished: October, 2008

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This month’s choices for all ages may seem educational, but they are also really fun reads. Presented to you are authors as renowned as Ray Bradbury and people as famous as FDR. The books serve as bridges for young readers transitioning from hearing stories read to them to understanding the deep meaning of the words they can digest on their own. So, for this month, at least, most of the reviews offer a chance to hand a title over and say, “Enjoy the book.” Henry’s Freedom Box [AGES 8-12] By Ellen Levine; illustrated by Kadir Nelson (Scholastic Press, $16.99, 42 pages) Slavery in America was a terrible thing, and out of that misery came stories of bravery. In this one, young Henry, who doesn’t even know his birth date, dreams of living a life that he chooses. It is a story grippingly told, as Henry’s mother puts the times into perspective: “Do you see those leaves blowing in the wind? They are torn from the trees like slave children are torn from their families.” Oh, to be free ... Franklin Delano Roosevelt for Kids [AGES 9-12] By Richard Panchyk (Chicago Review Press, $14.95, 146 pages) This activity-filled book provides a first-rate look at one of America’s greatest presidents. For emerging readers, and those caught up in putting together their first history report, this is a good resource. The chapters are well laid out and quick to get through. Classic Animal Stories [AGES 3-12] Compiled by Cooper Edens (Chronicle Books, $19.99, 156 pages) Whether you read this book to your preschooler or hand it off to one of your older children, many of the stories you want your family to enjoy can be found here. It is a wide range, from “Aesop’s Fables” to “The Wind in the Willow” to “Baa, Baa, Black Sheep.” You will find Lassie in these pages and Winnie-the-Pooh, as well. These are classics, in every sense of the word. The Halloween Tree [AGES 10 and up] By Ray Bradbury; illustrated by Joseph Mugnaini (Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers, $15.95, 160 pages) Ray Bradbury is famous for fantasy and science fiction. While Halloween has evolved into a mega-holiday, this 36-year-old story keeps to the tradition of haunted times and strange happenings. Only Bradbury can spin a tale like this. And he has. It’s eerie, and main character Carapace Clavicle Moundshroud is mysterious. It’s perfect for Oct. 31. Craig Reem is a contributing editor to Inland Empire Family magazine.

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