Reviewer's Choice Tales Alive! Susan Milord Williamson Publishing 0-913589-79-9 $15.95 Combine folktales from Africa, Turkey, and other countries around the world with hands-on activities for kids ages 4-10 and teachings from science and math to crafts and cultural traditions and you have a fine blend of activity book and read-aloud tales. Then add beautiful color paintings by Michael A. Donato and you have a real winner. Honey Paw and Lightfoot Jonathan London & Jon Van Zyle Chronicle Books 0-8118-0533-6 $13.95 Young readers ages 4 to 8 will be entranced by the simple, poetic text, which fellows Lightfoot from newborn bear, no bigger than a hamster, to curious cub to adolescent bear, ready to head off on his own. The spectacular illustrations by one of Alaska's premier wildlife artists magnificently portray the intelligence and strength of the grizzly bear. And for youngsters who want to learn more, there is an afterword providing detailed information at the back of the book. Jon Van Zyle's artwork is magnificent! Peter Bedrick For an excellent collection of myths from Chinese traditions, choose Tao Tao Liu Sandersı Dragons Gods & Spirits From Chinese Mythology (0-87226-922-1, $22.50), which combines classic color illustrations by Johnny Pau with ancient myths of China dating back thousands of years. These varied tales will intrigue readers with their fine folklore and rich imaginative representations. Two new ŒInside Storyı titles are recommended picks for a wide age range from middle through high school. Jacqueline Morley and John Jamesı Shakespeareıs Theater (309-6) and Fiona MacDonald and Mark Berginıs 16th Century Mosque (310-X, $17.95 Each) pack in intricately-detailed color illustrations with a fine dose of history to consider the daily lives of individuals who lived during different periods of history. The Shakespeare title focuses on what it meant to be an actor during the times and how theater evolved; while 16th Century Mosque concentrates on the spread of Islam and the evolution of mosques around the world. Snow Watch Cheryl Archer & Pat Cupples Kids Can Press 29 Birch Avenue Toronto, Onatario, Canada M4V 1E2 1-55074-190-X $9.95 Get ready to turn kids into snow scientists. Children build a snow shelter, find out how fast an iceberg travels, make a snow gauge, decipher animal tracks to learn how animals adapt to winter, and much more. Indoor and outdoor activities and a "what happens if...?" section encourage kids to continue experimenting with snow on their own. Ideal for ages 8-11, young readers will find out how snowflakes form, what a glacier is and how it moves, about the world's largest ice cube (Antarctica), the true color of snow, how to catch a snowflake and keep it, and much, much more! Health & Medicine Twenty-First Century Each book in the "Understanding Illness" series for young readers grades 5-8 gives an overall view of a specific condition or disease, and relates the serous subject matter to young readers. All known causes and effects are explained with the most recent scientific information, and there is an emphasis, when possible, on coping with those conditions for which there may be no cure or easy answers. Modern technical advances are covered and numerous medical superstitions are destroyed. Illustrated in full color, these attractive titles by Elaine Landau also confront, discuss, and do away with the stigmas attached to these conditions and illnesses. This excellent series is composed of the following titles: Allergies (0-8050-2989-3 $15.95), Blindness (2992-3 $15.95); Cancer (2990-7 $15.95), Deafness (2993-1 $15.95), Diabetes (2988-5 $15.95), and Epilepsy (2991-5 $15.95). The Music Shelf Be A Friend Leotha Stanley & Henry Hawkins Zino Press 2348 Pinehurst Drive Middleton, WI 53562 1-55933-153-4 $19.95 (book/cassette) Be A Friend: The Story of African American Music in Song, Words and Pictures describes the story of African American music with original songs, historical information, illustrations and photos, and inspirational messages for children ages 8 and older. Be A Friend is divided into five chapters: spirituals, blues, jazz, gospel, and rap. Leotha Stanley composed and arranged eight songs in the five musical styles. In his songs, he conveys uplifting messages about friendship, honesty and self-respect. An audio cassette accompanies Be A Friend: side one features all eight songs sung by Madison, Wisconsin, elementary school students; side two includes the musical accompaniment only. Animal Folk Songs for Children Ruth Seeger & Barbara Cooney Linnet Books c/o The Shoe String Press PO Box 4327, Hamden, CT 06514 0-208-02365-8 $13.95 Two Audio Cassettes $17.95 Compact Disc $25.00 Here are more than forty American folk songs about all kinds of animals, brought together by a noted musician, folklorist, and teacher. And these songs are authentic, gathered from field recordings at the Library of Congress and transposed into piano from banjo-guitar-fiddle and voice patterns. They will be a delight not only for children, but for those who work with them. They are available on a double cassette and compact disc from Rounder Records, Cambridge, Massachusetts, performed by the Seeger family. Animal Folk Songs for Children is wonderfully illustrated by Barbara Cooney. Easy Guitar Tunes Usborne EDC Publishing $8.95 Over fifty graded tunes for beginners use either acoustic or electric guitars and an unusual range of styles; from blues and jazz to flamenco, country, and even heavy metal. Thereıs something here not only for virtually every musical taste from classical to rock; but tunes which challenge the picker to learn beyond a set genre. Combine this varied range of styles with a systematic teaching approach and you have a teaching guide which is extraordinary and fine in its scope and presentation for beginners. The Video Shelf The Swan Princess Sony Wonder 1-56406-822-6 Music, lyrics, and story blend in a fine CD which contains highlights from the Disney classic The Swan Princess. This is an involving CD classic which should delight kids whoıve already seen the film, as well as newcomers. Mose the Fireman Rabbit Ears Productions 131 Rowayton Ave., Rowayton, CT 06853 No ISBN $9.98 Part of Rabbit Ears Productions' Heroes and Legends series, Walter Becker and John Beasley composed and perform the rag time musical score for Michael Keaton's brilliant narration. Keaton adopts a broad New York accent for his interpretation of the story of Mose the Fireman, whose outrageous tall tale exploits and daring rescues made him a legend in New York City's Bowery in the 1800s. Everett Peck has crated the fanciful watercolor and pen/ink illustrations which capture the turn-of-the-century flavor of this lively story. Mose the Fireman is also available on audiocasette ($6.98) and on compact disc ($11.98). Kylie's Song Marshmedia PO Box 8082 Shawnee Mission KS 66208 9351K9 $79.95 Stereotypes form harmful, artificial barriers in the classroom. Kylie's Song (written by Patty Sheehan, illustrated by Itoko Maeno) offers a teaching tool for exploring and applauding valuable differences. Kylie's Song is the poignant story of a singing koala. Kylie dares to be different, to shine as her true self. But at first, she is rejected. Just as Kylie finds strength with two compatible creatures who also are different, so will young viewers understand the power of perseverance and self-appreciation. The twelve minute, full-color video is accompanied by a hardcover story and a teaching guide. The Computer Shelf The Way Things Work David Macaulay Dorling Kindersley This CD-ROM for Windows requires a PC with 386SX or higher processor and the usual color display and loudspeakers; but any with a relatively new computer will be able to access this educational disc. Click on objects in the inventorıs workshop; then make things happen for some real surprises. All ages will find this a delightful, educational introduction to inventions and technology; so donıt limit it to the kids. The Lion King Disney Software 1-67350-000-3 This CD-ROM for ages 3-9 includes the story on screen, with the ability to click on words and pictures accenting the story line. Try games, connect the dots, change screen colors, and further the interactive experience through a Lion King package which requires Windows and the usual modern computer system. Creative Multimedia 514 NW - 11th Ave. #203 Portland, OR 97209 Three fine CD-Rom presentations will delight viewers of all ages. For the young crowd, try Dinosaur Safari (MAC or MPC; 1-880428-19-9 $29.99), which mingles science with a multimedia adventure game. Spend hours hunting for dinosaurs, travelling through time, and gathering knowledge through a program which depicts dinos in realistic recreated computer-screen environments. Those with Windows will turn to Fodorıs Interactive Sports And Adventure Vacations (59-8 $29.99), which invites PC users to partake of sports and travel the world - all in the comfort of their computerıs environment. And all ages will delight in the new interactive Dr. Ruth with her Encyclopedia Of Sex (47-4 $29.99) using sound, video and text to illustrate information on over 200 topics. The advantage of the CD-ROM/computer marriage is evident in all three of these fine presentations: computer screen images are clear and inviting, instant access to virtually any topic is a keystroke away, and all three entertain even as they educate. Mario's Game Gallery MacPlay 17922 Fitch Avenue, Irvine, CA 92714 $39.95 (CD-ROM) Mario's Game Gallery features Backgammon, Go Fish, Checkers, Dominoes, and Yacht all in one fun-filled CD-ROM. Original music based on familiar Mario video game themes. State-of-the-art voice technology brings Mario to life with phonetic mouth movements as he jokes with and assists the player throughout the games. Animated sequences to delight and entertain the child in everyone. Help screens available for all the games with on-screen rules and directions. Intuitive piece movement makes every game easy to play. Recognizable game pieces from the world of Mario allow playing checkers with Koopas and Yoshis and Go Fish with all the familiar faces. Players may choose to just roll the dice against Mario in a game of Yacht. Choose Your Own Adventure! Choose Your Own Adventure Gareth Stevens $15.93 Each Enjoy the durability of hardcover presentations and the satisfaction of a collection which keeps adding new titles with the ŒChoose Your Own Adventureı series now in hardcover from Gareth Stevens. The series specializes in plots which require YA readers to choose the course of the action. Seddon Johnsonıs Alien, Go Home! invites readers to choose the reason for a shuttle disaster; Jay Lieboldıs Return Of The Ninja covers a martial arts teacherıs disappearance and the possible involvement of a family feud; You Are A Millionaire explains what can happen when a fortune in money is discovered in a vacant lot; Dinosaur Island tells of a plane crash which leads to prehistoric discoveries; Master Of Kung Fu by Richard Brightfield creates suspense when a friend vanishes on a trip to China and draws others into an intriguing search; Magic Master by Edward Packard provides a particularly inviting cover where a haunted-looking house contains a magician who has astonished the world; The Search For Aladdinıs Lamp by Jay Leibold covers a fabled lampıs real magic; Ghost Train by Louise Foley tells of a mysterious Indian womanıs involvement in a dangerous plot; Daredevil Park by Sara & Spencer Compton reveals a frightening parkıs test rides; and Edward Packardıs The Worst Day Of Your Life tells of a bad luck vacation working on a pig farm. At each step of each plot, turn to a different page for key elements in a changing adventure story. Judaic Studies America: The Jewish Experience Sondra Leiman UAHC Press 838 Fifth Avenue, NY, NY 10021-7064 0-8074-0500-0 $12.00 Young readers will experience the story of American Jewry, from the early settlement in 1654 to the challenging events of today, through America: The Jewish Experience, an exciting full-color volume which is the result of painstaking reseach combining key historical information, literature, original documents, maps, photographs, and illustrations to weave a rich tapestry. Major themes include Jewish community (K'lal Yisrael), religious liberty, the cointributions of Ashkenazic and Sephardic communities, immigration, civil rights, and the changing face of Judaism in America. An exceptional history for young readers ages 9 through 12. The Audio Book Shelf Misty of Chincoteague Marguerite Henry Caedmon/Harper 1-55994-766-7 $9.95 Young performer Daisy lends her appealing childıs voice to this excellent abridged classic, which includes music as well as a compelling narrative style. This is MISTY at its best in audio form: the pairing of child with childrenıs audio works well. Odds Bodkin Storytelling Library River Tree Productions P.O. Box 410, Bradford, NH 03221 Three excellent, beautifully-done audios are highly recommended picks for kids, featuring the expressive and very dramatic voice of Odds Bodkin paired with some classic fairy tales. The Wise Little Girl (1-882412-02-8) tells of a girl who doesnıt want to become a spinner when she marries, and who uses a witchıs invitation to eventually free herself from her hated fate; The Teacup Fairy (00-1) features a fine fairy story for the younger set ages 3 and up, revolving around a miniature fairy; and ghosts come to life in the haunting Dark Tales Of The Supernatural (04-4). All are exceptionally dramatic productions and should prove compelling to young and aged listeners alike. The Science Shelf TAB Books Twenty science projects for high school students have been selected from those which have won awards in competitions: all provide challenging and practical experiments which illustrate scientific discoveries, and each helps answer questions in the process, in H. Steven Dashefskyıs Zoology (0-07-015687-5, $12.95). Projects include overviews, materials lists, facts on analyzing data, and suggestions for further study. Dashefskyıs Botany (015685-9, $12.95) performs a similar function with 20 science fair projects demonstrating how plants are affected by changes to their environments. The Kidsı Nature Almanac Alison Smith Crown Publishing 0-517-88293-0 $13.00 Parents and children can enjoy outdoor activities for the entire family using this almanac: a month-by-month guide for understanding nature and science. Over sixty quick, easy outdoor activities cover all the seasons: some are almost instant learners; others can be carried out over time to emphasize a lesson. The Kidsı Nature Almanac is a highly recommended acquistion. Natural World Eyewitness Dorling Kindersley 1-56458-719-3 $29.95 While this bright, photo-packed title is appropriate for middle school readers on up, itıs also a winning pick for young adults who will appreciate the visual approach combined with a lively exploration of nature; from animal physiology and evolutionary processes to time lines and classification charts. Carolrhoda Books Kids in grades 1-4 will appreciate D.M. Souza's "Creatures All Around Us" series with his excellent discussions of amphibians. Shy Salamanders (0-87614-826-7 $14.21) examines the many salamanders found around the world, considering their life cycles and habits and including many beautiful, eye-catching color photos of salamanders. Frogs, Frogs, Everywhere (825-9 $14.21) examines tadpoles, frogs, and a variety of toads, with beautiful color photos revealing the variety and differences between frogs. Both pack strong visual appeal with numerous natural history facts appropriate for young learners. Chelsea House Three new titles by Steve Parker in Chelsea House's "Science Discoveries" series focus on the early philosophers and scientists who fostered scientific thought and experimentation, and are recommended picks for elementary to early middle school level students. Louis Pasteur And Germs (0-7910-3002-4 $14.95) covers Pasteurıs discovery of germs and the fostering of the microbiology discipline; Aristotle And Scientific Thought (3005-9 $14.95) covers the life and times of a Greek philosopher who fostered early scientific analytical thought; and Isaac Newton And Gravity (3010-5 $14.95) reveals Newtonıs revolutionary discoveries in forces of nature. Young Adult Fiction Witch's Fang heather Kellerhals-Stewart Orca Book Publishers PO Box 468, Custer, WA 98240-0468 0-919591-88-4 $7.95 Witch's Fang is a suspense-filled adventure story featuring three teenagers who risk life and limb in order to fulfil their dream, with near-tragic results. As they attempt a first ascent on the last unclimbed summit in southern British Columbia, they understand that the struggle to attain a goal is as important as the goal itself. They put aside family conflicts and physical hardships and being to understand their own inner strengths. Witch's Fang is a realistic novel, with many exciting details of the teen's rock-climbing experiences and will fascinate teen and young adult readers. Houghton Mifflin An unforgettable, exceptional novel uses the letter correspondence format to reveal a growing friendship between two very different girls. Secrets are eventually revealed but the real value lies in close ties which are formed via mail in John Marsdenıs Letters From The Inside (0-395-68985-6, $13.95). That the ending is shocking and relatively unpredictable testifies to how much readers are involved in the story by that point. A stunning, unforgettable novel. Nearly as absorbing is Marsdenıs Tomorrow, When The War Began (70673-4, $13.95), set in Australia and covering the special problems faced by teens who return from a hiking trip in a remote area, only to find their country has been invaded and all the adults are missing. Ellie and her friends must face trials and change in this non-nuclear war. The Patchwork Girl of Oz L. Frank Baum Books of Wonder/Morrow 0-688-13354-1 $20.00 Forced out of their dark forest, two Oz characters embark on the search for magic ingredients which will change their lives, and encounter Dorothy and her cohorts and a spirited Patchwork Girl who travels in order to see the world. Fine vintage color illustrations throughout a strong story. Monkey Tag Pete Fromm Scholastic 0-590-46525-2 $14.95 Twins Eli and Thad have done almost everything together; but their paths diverge when an accident places one in a wheelchair and makes the other feel responsible. Eli begins to question his faith in God as well as his role as a responsible twin brother in this novel about the many family changes introduced by disability. The Eagle Kite Paula Fox Orchard Books 0-531-06892-7 $14.95 Liamıs father has AIDS, and the disease forces Liam to recognize some hard realities about his fatherıs condition, his parentsı relationship, and the certain outcome of his life. This is a realistic story about a boyıs confrontation with the results of AIDS in his own previously-stable home. Mine for Keeps Jean Little Viking Press 0-670-85967-2 $13.99 The reissue of this fantastic title in hardcover assures that library will keep a durable version on their shelves. Sally has lived at a rehabilitation school for most of her life and has dreamed of actually living at home with her family rather than just visiting them; but her dreams are nothing like the reality she faces when she does go home permanently, only to face the typical challenges of a new school and friends and the special problems of being handicapped in the world. Delacorte Press Carol Lynch Williamsı Adeline Street (0-385-31075-7, $14.95) continues the story of eleven-year-old Leah, who is recovering from her younger sisterıs sudden death. Leahıs confused emotions over changes affecting her home and friends are the focus of a sympathetic title which reveals a familyıs year of recovery. Dennis Covingtonıs Lasso The Moon (32101-5, $15.95) tells of a teenıs involvement with one of her fatherıs patients, a refugee from El Salvador who fears returning. Fernando changes her views of life and privilege in this compelling story weaving politics with romance and a coming of age. Joan Lowery Nixonıs new Orphan Train adventure Keeping Secrets (32139-2, $15.95) tells of a young girlıs involvement in the Civil War. Her investigations into a female visitorıs secret involve her in some dangerous spy operations in this revealing history novel. Songs in the Silence Catherine Frey Murphy Macmillan 0-02-767730-3 $14.95 Hallieıs beloved younger brother has been burned in an accident and faces a long time away from her as he recovers in a hospital, leaving Hallie with guilt and loneliness. As she struggles with her feelings and her inability to even see her brother, she becomes telepathically linked with a pilot whale who is also helping an injured smaller whale - and finds the healing process begun will affect her life. The fantasy is believable in this tale of adjustment. The Tent Gary Paulsen Harcourt Brace 0-15-292879-0 $14.00 A father and son struggling with poverty see an easy way out with a new career on the road preaching the Word of God to an audience eager for psychic and physical healing; but as success takes place and a good lie brings guilt, Steven begins to wonder if he and his father are doing the right thing. A thought-provoking reflection on lifeıs changes follows. The Tent is both thoughtful and very well written. Dial/Dutton Mildred D. Taylorıs The Well (1802-0, $14.99) tells of wells gone dry in Mississippi, and of a black familyıs encounters with prejudice and anger when teens from white and black families find it difficult to deal with each other. The story is short and quick, but pointed. Stacey Donovanıs Dive (45154-4, $15.99) explores a teenıs lifeıs challenges when her dog is hit by a car and her father becomes very ill. The two different challenges presented by life and death choices introduce V to the mysteries of friendship and family ties which are not as close as she once believed. For the Very Young Snake Supper Alan Durant & Ant Parker Artists & Writers/Western 0-307-17519-7 $9.95 Kids ages 3-6 will delight in a picture book featuring fold-back pages of a slithering snake who swallows a mouse, a goat, and even a tiger . . . but who canıt resist the additional challenge of an elephant. Kids with eating problems will especially appreciate the snakeıs adventures. One Very Small Square series Donald M. Silver W.H. Freeman Enjoy some intriguing pop-up titles with four new productions to attract the younger crowd. Nighttime In My Back Yard (6562-4 $8.95) covers night creatures; Life On A Limb (6563-2 $8.95) covers tree habitats; Take A Giant Step (6565-9 $8.95) and Prairie Dog Town (6564-0 $8.95) all reveal beautiful animals in different environments. Itıs a pleasure to see the pop-up format used for something other than pure entertainment: kids will learn as well as play with these titles. Lerner Publications Riddles and puns are the subject of three new titles for young picturebook readers. John Jansenıs Class Act (0-8225-2345-0 $10.13) includes a series of school-related riddles and jokes based on teachers and education. Jansenıs Playing Possum (2346-9 $10.13) provides riddles about marsupials: while a basic familiarity with Australian animals is required, the jokes are pointed and fun. Scott Petersonıs Plugged In (2344-2 $10.13) produces some zany electronically-oriented jokes. While some of the jokes will be more accessible to older readers, these fun word plays and ironies should ideally be enjoyed by the entire family. Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Helen Cooper is a master storyteller. A rice-stuffed frog faces a challenge to his life: a family of mice who begin a destruction program continued by a cat in The Tale Of Frog (0-688-13993-0 $6.95). In The Tale Of Bear (13990-6 $6.95), a dirty toy bear becomes trapped in the wash and faces many uncertainties about his future as a toy. The Tale Of Pig (13992-2 $6.95) contains a moral as a haughty piggy bank is broken, mended, and learns the real values in life. Excellent, rollicking rhymes accompany spirited stories of toys in trouble. My Little Duck Anna Raff HarperFestival 0-694-00632-7 $7.95 Pair a colorful board book story featuring a toddlerıs nursery rhyme classic with a washable terry duck and you have an inviting gift/toy package which helps kids to learn to read while providing parent/child interaction. Jamberry Bruce Degen HarperFestival 0-694-00651-3 $6.95 A boy and a rhyme-spouting bear romp through a berry world, looking for berries as they go. This rollicking board book invites kids to relish a whimsical world where a berry hunt is the motivating force for celebration. Paperback Picks Five-Minute Frights William A. Walker, Jr. Sterling Publishing 0-8069-0765-7 $3.95 Five minutes is plenty of time in which to read these stories, each illustrated with a creepy black and white drawing, and each featuring ordinary kids who battle evil in unusual ways. Roommates from Hell Michelle Weathers & Julia Miller Plume 0-452-27116-9 $7.95 Over 100 encounters with weird roommates should delight high school readers soon to branch out into their own living arrangements: many are eye-opening, thought-provoking accounts about individuals living more than a little on the edge. Bantam/Dell Sook Nyul Choiıs Echoes Of The White Giraffe (0-440-40970-5, $3.50) explores the world of refugee Sookan, whose family has fled the Seoul bombing: here she returns to Korea, developing a special relationship with a boy. Vivian Alcockıs Singer To The Sea God (41003-7, $3.99) tells of a sister turned to stone when she looks at Medusaıs head, and of a brother who takes his stone sister on a journey, only to find himself marooned on an island. The tension and fantasy is well done in this YA novel. Sid Fleischmanıs Jingo Django (41039-8, $3.99) tells of a boy rescued from an orphan house who finds himself in the care of one Mr. Peacock, who claims to know his father, and who takes him on a treasure hunt for buried gold. Richie Chevatıs Ghost Writer: The Big Stink & Five Other Mysteries (48221-1, $3.50) presents six spring vacation mysteries faced by the reader and the Ghostwriter team. Prior fans will love this new addition to the books. Fred McMane & Catherine Wolfıs Winning Women (48290-4, $3.99) profiles eight star athletes and their stories of success; from jockey Julie Krone to sprinter Gail Devers, who overcame disease to achieve star heights. Civil Rights Freedom Rides James Haskins Hyperion 0-7868-0048-8 $14.95 This documentary on the Freedom Riders of 1961 surveys civil rights issues, changes, and confrontations of the times in a title which is recommended for middle school readers in particular and some advanced elementary-level youngsters. This is an excellent survey of the events which prompted the freedom rides, and their ultimate impact on the movement for civil liberties. The Biography Shelf Diary of a Young Girl Anne Frank Doubleday 0-385-47378-8 $25.00 Thirty percent more diary entries are contained in this new translation: entries unavailable in the more popular best-seller of prior years. These restored entries were omitted by Anneıs father and by the first Dutch publisher of her diary: receive an eye-opening and more realistic impression from the original, which chronicles a stormy relationship with her mother and some other reflections rounding out Anneıs personality portrait. Enslow Publishers Two new additions to the "People to Know" series profile black contemporary achievers for kids ages 12 and older. Bob Bernotası Spike Lee, Filmmaker (0-89490-416-7 $17.95) covers the contributions of a man ³born to be a filmmaker², examining how Lee uses his films to document Afro-American experiences. Doreen Gonzalesı Alex Haley (573-2 $17.95) describes Haleyıs writing aspirations and achievements, explaining how Haleyıs work contributed to a new awareness of Afro-American struggles. Games & Hobbies Grimsyn Sector West End Games 0-87431-232-9 $12.00 Grimsyn Sector provides gamemasters and players alike with an outstanding view of one of the most interesting sectors of known space. A diverse group of planets, clustered into a small wedge within a few week's travel of the shatterzone, provide a unique gaming environment for any campaign. Megacorporations are outlined here, along with planetary and stellar systems, new alien species, fringe groups, and a host of other "strange facts and bizarre fiction." Barsaive Campaign Set FASA Corporation #6100 $25.00 Steeped in tales of legendary heroes, Barsaive lies at the heart of the Earthdawn universe. The Barsaive Campaign Set is a boxed set which includes cards depicting many of the treasures and creatures found in Barsaive, a poster-sized map of the land, an Explorer's guide that describes many facets of life in Barsaive, and the Gamemaster's Book, providing gamemasters with what they need to present a fully realized Earthdawn campaign to their players. The Good, The Bad and the Bogus Nathan Lockard Adventure Press P.O. Box 14059, Seattle, WA 98114 1-881583-04-X $14.95 This 1995 edition rates 800 Sega and Nintendo games, including violence and age-group ratings and such assessments as what is the best role-playing game for two simultaneous players. Families will find this an important, critical guide. Vanished! Lombard Marketing 45 Wintonbury Ave Bloomfield CT 06002 #10002VAN $5.00 Vanished! is a mystery card game for two to six players, ages 8 through adult. Can you remember who was in the elevator before they vanished? In this fast paced memory game, nine elevator cards are laid out face down on the table between the players. Players are given a set of character cards, each of which contains similarities to the characters on the elevator cards. Your job is to match the characters to the correct elevator cards. But beware! The characters and the elevators are continually on the move! The winner is the first to match all characters to the elevator cards. Each Vanished! game box contains: 9 Elevator Cards, 6 sets of 9 full-color Character Cards, 1 Pawn, 1 Die, 15 Tempo Chips, and an instruction sheet. Substance Abuse Tough Choices John Langone Little, Brown 0-316-51407-1 $14.95 Receive an education on substance abuse which begins with statements readers are asked to label true or false, plus chapters of insights on prevention and understanding. An excellent education on abuse and its influences will make this a strong choice for middle and high school classroom discussion as well as personal reflection. Higly recommended. The History Shelf Lucent/Greenhaven Middle school and high school readers will appreciate three strong additions to the "World History Series" series which survey the realities of daily living under social and political changes. Timothy Levi Bielıs The Crusades (1-56006-245-2) provides timelines and excerpts from primary and secondary sources to reveal life during the Crusades and the major religious and political principles serving as the driving forces of the times. Gail Stewartıs Life During The French Revolution (078-6) examines both civilian and military lifestyles during the times, surveying the seeds of the revolt among the common ranks. Miriam Saganıs Womenıs Suffrage (290-8) considers womenıs rights efforts during the 1800s in America, examining influences on the changing role of women and how women met challenges to independence. Millbrook Press Charles A. Willsı Historical Album Of California (1-56294-479-7, $15.90) provides a strong illustrated account of California, from the Native populations who inhabited the state before the white man to the early settlement processes of the state and its bid for statehood. Middle school students will appreciate the many black and white and color illustrations within, and will find this a fine survey. New to the ŒHeadlinersı series is Jacqueline Drobis Meiselıs South Africa At The Crossroads (511-4, $15.90), which explains stories behind the headlines and brings readers in contact with the issues surrounding South African politics and apartheid changes. Some elementary-level readers may also become involved in this striking story of processes of local change. Laurie OıNeillıs Little Rock (354-5, $15.40) covers the desegregation of Central High in Arkansas, providing a moment-by-moment documentation of Little Rockıs struggle to comply with elements of racism and political mandate alike. Arthur Blakeıs The Scopes Trial (407-X, $15.40) tells of the trial which defended the right to teach, revealing the controversies surrounding the right to teach evolutionary theory. Walker & Company George Sullivanıs Presidents At Play (0-8027-8333-3, $15.95) is recommended for kids ages 10 and older: it provides an unusual profile of U.S. presidents in photographing and gathering facts about the presidentsı sports and recreational activities. Black and white photos of the presidentsı action plays include youthful as well as adult endeavors. John Devaneyıs 1945: America Triumphs (8328-7, $18.95) covers American involvements during the last year of World War II, using letters from soldiers, news article excerpts, and other source materials to account for the sentiments and events of 1945. Students at the middle school level who want to know about daily life during the times will find this eye-opening. The Art Shelf First Impressions: Carl Faberge Geza von Habsburg Abrams 0-8109-3324-1 $19.95 Developed especially for young readers, this new biography of Carl Faberge (1846-1920) introduces the world's best known jeweler/goldsmith. Faberge began his career as an apprentice in his father's modest jewelry shop in St. Petersburg, Russia. By 1884 he was the favorite jeweler and supplier of elaborate, luxurious gifts not only to Russian royalty but to ruling families and wealthy patrons all over the world as well. Ye Faberge was more than a skilled designer of art objects; he was also a highly successful businessman who eventually employed more than 500 craftsmen (goldsmith, silversmiths, enamelers, gemstone carvers) and owned elegant shops in St. Petersburg, Moscow, London, and other cities. Thirty-six color reproductions of Faberge creations along with 17 archival photographs document the life and work of a remarkable craftsman and his equally remarkable patrons. Art for Children Chelsea House Elementary-level students just beginning courses in art appreciation will find these fine titles which combine a childıs fantasy adventure with explorations of famous artistsı lives. In Pierre Sterckxıs Brueghel (0-7910-2806-2), for example, two children enter a toy shop and discover the art of Flemmish painter Brueghel. In Veronique Antoineıs Picasso (2815-1), itıs a boyıs lost dog which leads him to an old building where the artist Picasso lived and worked for nearly 20 years. Claire-Helene Blanquetıs Miro (2813-3) tells of a school girlıs discovery that her sleeping bag pattern is one of Miroıs styles; Jacqueline Loumayeıs Chagall (2807-0) tells of the dream worlds of the Russian painter; Loumayeıs Van Gogh (2817-8) reveals the discovery of an old church painting; Lillo Cantoıs The Renaissance (2824-0) tells of a boy who wants to become an artist and who learns about perspective; Loumayeıs Degas (2809-7) covers a painter who uses his brush like a camera; Didier Grosjean and Claudine Rolandıs Rousseau (2816-X) tells of an eleven-year-oldıs investigation into the French artistıs life; Michel Pierreıs Good Day, Mister Gauguin (2811-9) tells of a postcardıs hint about an artist; Yves Pinguillyıs DA VINCI (2808-9) tells of an injured girlıs discovery of the painter; Yolande Bailletıs Matisse (2812-7) tells of an attic discovery about painters; and Baillet and Christian Mauclerıs The Impressionists (2823-2) tells of a young artıs survey of an era in art history. All feature fine examples and lively formats to draw in young learners. The Picturebook Shelf Dinosaur Bob William Joyce HarperCollins 0-06-021074-5 $15.00 Kids ages 4-8 will welcome a blend of art, adventure and song which describes an interesting familyıs return from Africa with a rare dinosaur in tow. Fun illustrations mark a detailed adventure story which will grab the imaginations of kids. Henry Holt Anita Hakkinenıs Summer Legs (0-8050-2262-7, $14.95) uses rhyme and easy descriptions to illustrate a summerıs activities; from swimming to dripping mustard from a hot dog. Enjoy an unusual method of describing summer fun. Jim Aylesworthıs Mcgrawıs Emporium (3192-8, $15.95) also uses rhyme to describe a young boyıs search for the perfect present for his friend. He ³canıt find a thing to buy², until he discovers an antique shop packed with bizarre items from around the world, and a jolly old adventurer willing to describe his findings. Maria Cristina Brusca and Tona Wilson retell When Jaguars Ate The Moon (2797-1, $16.95), which will require either excellent reading skills or parental intervention, but which pack in the folk legends regarding creation. From how armadillos got armor to how the howler monkeys survived the floods, this is packed with fun tales. Angel's Kite Alberto Blanco & Rodolfo Morales Children's Book Press 0-89239-121-9 $13.95 Ever since the church bell disappeared, life in Angel's town just hasn't been the same. People have gotten used to it, but Angel, the young kite maker, can't forget. he makes a beautiful kite showing his entire town - with its streets, its trees, its town square, and yes, its church bell! Now the only thing left to do is to send the kite flying. Wonderful reading for children ages 6 to 12, bilingual in English and Spanish. Charlesbridge Publishing Phyllis Limbacher Tildesı Counting On Calico (0-88106-863-2, $14.95) will appeal to kids ages 3-8 with its exceptionally realistic illustrations of cats and its counting scheme, lead by a mouse named Squeaker who tells kids how to Œcount on a catı, part by part. Parents will want to join along to read the small print to younger kids: these explain cat facts. Barbara Barbieri McGrathıs The M&Mıs Brand Counting Book (854-3) uses pages of M&M candies to encourage kids to use the pictures and color-coded candies as counting devices. A fun, unusual, and familiar counting method is achieved. Dial/Dutton Linda Taylorıs The Lettuce Leaf Birthday Letter (0-8037-1454-8, $14.99) is a fine tale which requires good reading skills, but which offers kids an appealing story about a lettuce leaf birthday cardıs dilemmas. A well-meaning but forgetful bunny mailperson is entrusted with the letter: startling mix-ups result. Linda Jenningsı The Brave Little Bunny (45364-4, $12.99) is cute and gorgeous: realistic and appealing color drawings enhance this discussion of a lop-eared bunny tempted to explore the flower fields outside her home, until a hungry fox and fierce wild rabbits threaten her. Gayle Ross retells HOW Turtleıs Back Was Cracked (1728-8, $14.99), a traditional Cherokee folk story which tells of a wolfıs intervention in a turtle and possumıs lives, and how the turtle responds. Cherokee artist Murv Jacobıs color illustrations are fine accompaniments to this inviting folk story. Henryıs Gift: The Magic Eye David Worsick Andrews & McMeel 0-8362-7019-3 $14.95 The 3D Magic Eye is woven with a medieval fantasy story to create an unusual interactive picturebook mystery for kids. Henry has the gift of the Magic Eye: an ability to see into patterns to discover the hidden images which determine the future of kingdoms. Excellent reading and visual skills will prove essential to the successful understanding of this taleıs complex adventures. Candlewick Press Penelope Bennettıs Town Parrot (1-56402-484-9, $14.95) introduces youngsters to a parrot who lives with a person, describing the parrotıs daily habits which mirror those of her human Ann, and packing in parrot facts in the fictional format. Volume 4 of Big Bearıs Treasury (495-4, $19.95) is out, and it continues to prove outstanding, with the worldıs finest authors contributing short writings to a strong anthology parents wonıt mind reading aloud. The writings take many forms; from poems and essays to story formats: all are inviting and revealing. Houghton Mifflin In Alice Cameron & Carol Jonesı The Cat Sat On The Mat (0-395-68392-0, $13.95), a restless cat serves as a game and vocabulary-builder for youngsters, with inviting cut-away peekaboo holes and unexpected embellishments encouraging kids to guess where the cat will be seated next. Carol Jonesı Town Mouse Country Mouse (71129-0, $14.95) requires good reading skills; but tells the appealing story of two very different mice who perceive danger in the otherıs lifestyle. Rural and urban mice assess different lifestyles in this intriguing title with its peep-hole views. Artie Ann Batesı Ragsale (70030-2, $14.95) tells of ragsale day, where a girl and her elders seek unique treasures in a sale atmosphere. Again: good reading skills required; but Jeff Chapman-Craneıs fine, realistic illustrations make for an especially rewarding gift. Bayou Lullaby Kathi Appelt William Morrow 0-688-12856-4 $16.00 Dark backgrounds lit by almost luminescent color mark a bayou lullaby which describes the sleeping creatures of a swamp in the rhythms and lingo of Cajun speech. Enjoy a gentle lilting lullaby which particularly lends to read-aloud enjoyment with parental attention. Nothing Happened Bill Harley Tricycle Press 1-883672-09-0 $14.95 Young Jack is certain that the fun is just beginning for adults each night when heıs sent to bed. His ideas are fueled by an older brother who describes a big party held as soon as Jack is asleep. He decides to stay up all night and find out, making some surprising discoveries about his family in the process of investigating his homeıs real night life. Good reading skills required. Bridgewater/Troll Marion Dane Bauerıs When I Go Camping With Grandma (0-8167-3448-8, $14.95) describes a young girlıs camping trip with her grandmother, revealing the surprises which can happen on a first outdoors adventure. From herons to fishing, descriptions are vivid and poetic. Lois G. Gramblingıs Can I Have A Stegosaurus, Mom? Can I? Please!? (3386-4, $14.95) tells of a youngsterıs imagination and his desire for a pet which will prove large enough to solve all his problems; from undesired dinners to holding off night monsters. A hilarious, fun story results. Lee & Low Books Two new Spring releases are highly recommended picks. William Millerıs Frederick Douglass: The Last Day Of Slavery (1-880000-17-2 $14.95) presents a very simple picturebook story of young Douglassı dreams of his freedom and his response to an overseerıs brutality. The book is simple enough for young learners, yet provides a different view of Douglassı life. Ken Mochizukiıs Heroes (16-4 $14.95) tells of Donnie, who is forced to always play the bad guy when he and his friends play war games because of his Japanese heritage. With a new war brewing in Vietnam in the 60s, Donnie must find a new pride in his roots in this intriguing story of unusual heroes. The Gift Robert F. Morneau Kodomo Press 317 West Maple St., Stillwater, MN 55082 0-9642140-6-7 $16.00 King rabbit Sammy and Angela, the loveliest pumpkin on the farm, share insights on life and death and the real meaning of values in the world in a gentle picture book story which will appeal to kids with some degree of reading skills. The gentle message will appeal to their parents, as well. Parents and Teachers Growing Together David Fontana Element Books 1-85230-559-2 $10.95 Parents are taught how to see life through a childıs eyes, and how to survey a childıs development stages with the idea of including mental and spiritual enhancements in instructions. This is a fine guide to nurturing the spirit and encouraging a sense of happiness and wholeness in a child. Numero Uno Gang Elaine Pageler High Noon Books These paperback easy readers are recommended for high/low students who need high drama combined with formats which lend to encouraging reading: unassuming paperbacks and teen-to-adult dramas. Mystery At Casa Grande (0-87879-552-9) covers forgeries at a cafe; Mystery Of The Fan Club (555-3) involves the gang with burglars, Mystery At The Fiesta (554-5) examines a dangerous emerald necklace; The Silver Box Mystery (551-0) considers a treasure map and Mystery At The Market (551-0) tells of the gangıs conviction of a manıs innocence. Adults seeking easier readers will welcome this series, also. Writers INC Write Source #0081 $8.45 (pb) #0082 $10.45 (hc) Writers INC incorporates the latest information on writing, thinking, and learning in its 360 pages. It is ideally suited to meet the many needs of todays students, grades 9 through 12. Writers INC contents include the writing process, style and form, searching and researching, special forms of writing, reading and learning, speaking and thinking, punctuation and grammar, tables, maps, useful lists, and APA & MLA research styles. Women Working A to Z Maria Kunstadter Highsmith Press P61-95564 $15.00 Women Working A to Z will encourage girls to consider any career of interest to them! When her young daughters were discouraged from male-dominated educational and career paths, Maria Kunstadter identified 25 culturally diverse women who have been successful in jobs from airline pilots to zoologists. Featuring photographs of women in their career settings, and as young girls, Women Working A to Z will engage the interests of both boys and girls. The women appearing in this creatively designed book explain how their early interests led them into their current jobs, which include both nontraditional and traditional female occupations. Parents, teachers and librarians can use Women Working A to Z to counter sexism in our society. Sports & Athletics How to Win a Sports Scholarship Penny Hastings and Todd Caven First Base Sports Inc. Box 1731, Manhattan Beach, CA 90267 1-884309-04-6 $14.95 Student-athletes receive a fine game plan on paying for college based on sports abilities and scholarships keyed to sports. Over thirty sports, from archery and wrestling to football and baseball, are covered in a title which tells how to win such a scholarship - even if youıre not the star of the team. Foreign Language The Harvest Birds Blanca Lopez De Mariscal Childrenıs Book Press 0-89239-131-6 $14.95 A man listens to the voice of nature and finds a dream in its message when his father dies and the land is divided between his two older brothers. Kids ages 6-12 will find this a fine bilingual English/Spanish story, and will relish the appealing and unusual story line. Every child is another hope for a better tomorrow. Every neglected, abused, uneducated, illiterate child is more than just today's tragedy, they are portents of a bleak future made manifest. Therefore love, nurture and educate your children -- they are our future -- our only future.