Category: Grandpappy’s Corner Page 1 of 4

REPOST: Grandpappy’s Corner: Saint Patrick the Forgiver by Ned Bustard: Patrick’s Story Told for Wee Ones

On March 17, 2025

In (Auto)Biography, Grandpappy's Corner, Non-Fiction, YA/MG/Children's Books

Pretty much have to do this today, right?

Grandpappy's Corner logo featuring the cover of Saint Patrick the Forgiver by Ned Bustard

Saint Patrick the Forgiver:
The History and Legends of Ireland’s Bishop

Written and Illustrated by Ned Bustard

DETAILS:
Publisher: IVP Kids
Publication Date: February 21, 2023
Format: eARC
Length: 32 pg.
Read Date: February 17, 2023

What’s Saint Patrick the Forgiver About?

Drawing on both legends about him and Patrick’s Confessions, this book tells the life story of Patrick of Ireland for the youngest set.

It starts off with his childhood and touches briefly on his period of slavery before moving into his return home and the call to Ireland. It doesn’t gloss over the hard parts of his life, but it doesn’t dwell on them, either. The focus is on Patrick forgiving those who wronged him, spreading the gospel—and even teaching the Trinity via the shamrock.

The book even covers some of the myths that arose around Patrick—baptizing a giant, driving out the snakes, etc.—working that in seamlessly with the book and not distracting from the main point.

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

This art is great—it’s friendly and cartoonish, with great colors and details. Bustard also weaves in traditional Celtic knots and Christian art (like elements seen in The Book of Kells, etc.). So we’ve got a pretty modern feel with a lot of Irish elements thrown in to ground it in Patrick’s history.

Are kids going to get that? Nope. Will the adults reading it with/to the kids? Quite likely. And if not, I think they’ll still appreciate it the art, even if they’re not familiar with the influences Bustard is drawing from.

Click here for a two page sample (picture and text) on the Publisher’s site. I’m not sure it’s the image I’d have used, but it’s representative.

How is it to Read Aloud?

It’s pretty fun—the rhythm is easy and the rhymes are nice (and only one or two of them seemed like stretching things to make the rhyme).

The Grandcritter isn’t around yet to listen to me read this, but I still read most of it aloud just to see how it went—I think it went pretty smoothly and I could have some fun with it.

So, what did I think about Saint Patrick the Forgiver?

This was a great way to give an age-appropriate lesson in forgiveness while telling the story of one of the heroes of the faith. I was entertained, and even chuckled a couple of times.

It’s a great combination of story, art, rhyme, and lesson. I can see this winning over little audiences as much as it did me. Hopefully, it’ll lodge in their minds enough that they’ll want to learn more about Patrick as they grow older and through him the Three-in-One that Patrick spent his life teaching about.

I strongly recommend this quick little read.

Disclaimer: I received this eARC from InterVarsity Press via NetGalley in exchange for this post—thanks to both for this.

5 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
Grandpappy Icon

Grandpappy’s Corner: Goodnight Darth Vader by Jeffrey Brown: Han Snored First

By HCNewton

On February 14, 2025

In Grandpappy's Corner, YA/MG/Children's Books

Goodnight Darth Vader

by Jeffrey Brown

DETAILS:
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Publication Date: July 22, 2014
Format: Hardcover
Length: 64 pg.
Read Date: February 8, 205

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away….

Episode Eight P.M.: BEDTIME

Lord Darth Vader rules the Galaxy, while attempting to rule his twin children, Luke and Leia Skywalker. He has commanded them to go to bed, but they have other ideas….

What’s Goodnight Darth Vader About?

This is a book in the style of Goodnight Moon featuring Darth Vader and his twins (in a very non-canonical way) while he’s trying to get them to sleep, with looks at individuals from throughout the Empire (or former Empire) as they settle in for the night.

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

Brown has this great style that both gets the detail necessary for the droids, aliens, ships, and all that. At the same time, he keeps it playful and appealing for people of all ages to look at.

You can see plenty of examples of this on his website.

Who Is This Book For?

I really don’t know who the audience for this book is—I know it’s sold for kids, it seems to be intended for kids, but I think this is a better fit for Star Wars fans than for the toddler (or younger) set.

Sure, it’s not like a toddler gets the references (or understands most of the words in) Good Night New Orleans (to stay on-theme) or just about any other book I’ve talked about in Grandpappy’s Corner. So it’s not a big deal if a reader doesn’t get the Ackbar joke or know who Dexter is. So, sure, read it to your kid. But to appreciate this truly? You need to be a fan of the series.

So, what did I think about Goodnight Darth Vader?

I had a blast with it—I liked the art, the humor, the take on the Goodnight Moon style of book, and so on.

I’ve seen the covers for some of the other books along these lines that Brown has put out, but I haven’t read them—I only read this one because someone gave it to the Grandcritter. I’m going to take steps to get my hands on the others now.

The art, the strange creatures, the smiling kids—that’ll keep the young readers/read-to involved. The characters and jokes will help the fan enjoy this—even after multiple, multiple readings.

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
Grandpappy Icon

Grandpappy’s Corner: Little Aiden: A Big Kid Book for Toddlers by Albert and Anna Choi, Bettina Braskó (Illustrator): Aiden’s a “Big Kid” Now (well, bigger)

By HCNewton

On February 7, 2025

In Grandpappy's Corner, YA/MG/Children's Books

A quick note before I dive in—from 2/6-2/8 (11:59 PST), this book is available for free for Kindle. Now’s as good a time as any to pick it up!

Little Aiden: A Big Kid Book for Toddlers

by Albert and Anna Choi, Bettina Braskó (Illustrator)

DETAILS:
Series: Little Aiden 
Publisher: Mytogo Publishing
Publication Date: January 7, 2025
Format: eBook
Length: 45 pg.
Read Date: January 6, 2025

What’s Little Aiden About?

Aiden’s grown up a bit since we last saw him, and he’s working out how to be independent. Sometimes with great results, sometimes with unfortunate ones (and some of those are cute from the perspective of the reader, while frustrating for the Chois in the moment, I’m sure).

There’s a lot for the young reader/read-to person to identify with—perhaps a mildly mischievous inspiration, too (not that most toddlers need it).

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

Braskó’s work is the star of the show. Particularly in the depiction of Aiden’s Teddy. I don’t know if that’s all Braskó or if the Chois give direction for Teddy—even if they split credit for it, it’s Braskó’s execution that sells it. I think that Teddy’s background antics are going to be the main appeal of this book/series (aside from the all-important bonding with the young reader/read-to).

As for the main action? Aiden’s as cute as you want, the illustrations are bright and whimsical—the affection between the family is clear. I have a pretty good idea what this little moppet is like from this book alone.

How is it to Read Aloud?

It’s full of short, declarative sentences. No flair, no goofy words or rhymes—it’s a piece of cake on that front. I think the text serves well as a launching pad for discussions about the scene depicted and how it’s like their life.

It’d also be good for early readers to use to read to a younger sibling (I think).

What did the Little Critter think of It?

N/A—my phone screen is the only reader I have at the moment that can handle the color, and it’s too small for us to use. But it’s the kind of thing he’d dig for sure.

So, what did I think about Little Aiden?

It reminded me of I Am a Big Brother by Caroline Jayne Church, in that it’s not so much a story or a book to teach about something/render a lesson. It’s just a look at the life of someone going through something the reader can identify with—having a younger sibling in Church’s book, going through this stage of life in this case. I think seeing that commonality with others is an important thing. It’s also good to see that bigger people care enough about this stage of life to make books about it—it’s not all about big kids/adults or creatures having adventures or all about the cute baby stuff.

And there are some younger types who need to see early on that people who may have different ethnic backgrounds have similar experiences.

That’s probably a little deeper than people need to think about a picture book, though (or is it?). So let’s go with this—it’s a cute read with fun pictures. At the end of the day, that’s enough for the audience.

Like the other two books in this series, I recommend it.

Grandpappy Icon

Grandpappy’s Favorites of 2024

By HCNewton

On January 6, 2025

In Grandpappy's Corner, News/Misc., YA/MG/Children's Books

Grandpappy's Corner Favorite Picture Books of 2024 I’ve posted favorite Picture or Children’s books before, but now that I’m a Grandfather, I’m thinking about these things more. So, it’s not unusual for me to read these kinds of books, but I’m doing more of it. I fully expected this post to be larger this year–but there were fewer new-to-me reads and many, many re-reads (which I really should’ve anticipated). Anyway, here are the books that really stuck with me and struck me as ones to keep talking about.

I practically guarantee these will tickle you and/or warm your heart.

As always, re-reads (or re-re-re-re-re-re-re-re-reads) don’t count for these lists.

(in alphabetical order by author)

Panda Pat and the Rat Called Cat

by Neil Ballard, Steven Nosov (Illustrator)

My original post
It’s a fun story elevated by the eye-catching illustrations. There’s a little bit of a lesson—maybe even two—but nothing that will hit you over the head with the moral if you’re not in the mood to focus on it with your listener.

Also, whoever did the typesetting/interior design should get some kudos—it pops off the page in just the right way.

Ballard indicated that a sequel is in progress—I’ll gladly grab it when I see it.

Good characters, a nice story, and there’s no way the little reader in your life doesn’t like the art

3 Stars

How Dinosaurs Went Extinct: A Safety Guide

by Ame Dyckman, Jennifer Harney (Illustrator)

My original post
I picked this up in the bookstore while looking for something else—the cover image/title grabbed me, and when I flipped through it quickly, I just knew we needed it on our shelves. I dug the art and what little I skimmed appealed to me. When I got home and sat down to read it, I saw that my first impression was spot-on.

The jokes are great. I love the style of art—it just explodes off the page. You’re able to talk about common sense safety/manners in a way that a toddler will be able to have fun with (and hopefully learn from). What’s not to like?

4 Stars

Under the Barnyard Light

by Carla Crane Osborne, Brandon Dorman (Illustrator)

My original post
The others on this are silly and goofy. This isn’t–this isn’t a good or a bad thing. This is a good one to wind down with. (I tend to favor the ones that get a kid ramped up, this is because I’m a grandfather, winding down is someone else’s gig)

But still, I enjoyed this–it’s a quiet book, it’s a calming book. Between the atmosphere, the soft edges of the art, and the way the text carries you along–I imagine this is going to be a bedtime favorite for many.

The art combines realism with a style that will appeal to the younger readers. The colors might not be bright enough and the art “loud” enough to get the youngest readers, but he’ll draw in those north of two (I think).

3 Stars

How to Babysit a Grandpa

by Jean Reagan, Lee Wildish (Illustrator)

My original post
It’s a really creative idea. The execution is spot-on as well. Fun, adorable art. There’s something to appeal to all ages. I wouldn’t have minded another 2-4 pages just to fill things out a bit. But this is a fun one–and it’s one the Grandcritter likes, too (our tastes don’t overlap too often yet), so that’s a bonus.

4 1/2 Stars

How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

by Dr. Seuss, read by Walter Matthau

My original post
Obviously, this isn’t a first read. But it was a first listen. Bending (to the breaking point) one of my own rules, but…oh well.

Walter Matthau’s gravely, grouchy voice brings a different vibe to this story than the TV special does which makes it a winner in my book (nothing against the special, I’m just saying I like the change). His delivery of Seuss’ lines is just fantastic.

It’s a winning combination that I’m looking forward to returning to annually.

5 Stars

Grandpappy Icon

Grandpappy’s Corner: The Box by Jo Linsdell: Imagination + Cardboard

By HCNewton

On November 14, 2024

In Blog Series, Book Tour, Grandpappy's Corner, YA/MG/Children's Books

The Box

by Jo Linsdell

DETAILS:
Publication Date: March 14, 2024
Format: PDF
Length: 44 pg.
Read Date: November 13, 2024

What’s The Box About?

This is a glimpse into some of the many ways a boy uses a box to play. His imagination fuels his useage and we get a little glimpse into what he sees—like pirate ships or caves—that box becoming.

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

This is just cute. That’s all there is to say.

I really liked the way that Linsdell superimposed a drawing of whatever it is the boy is imagining (e.g., a robot or treasure chest) on top of the box.

How is it to Read Aloud?

It’s pretty straightforward, the text is really about getting the child you’re reading to to pay attention to the pictures and get their imagination going.

There’s a refrain repeated throughout. Initially, I thought Linsdell overused it. But then I realized it would function as a line that a child would pick up on and chant along with whoever’s reading it. It’s also the kind of phrase that you and/or the kid could use during play as well. So, whatever reflex I had about the frequency was off.

So, what did I think about The Box?

Anyone who’s had—or known—a small child (or a cat), knows that for certain ages a cardboard box is far more entertaining than the toy inside. This little book is a good reminder of that time (for us older readers), and either an encouragement for younger readers to do similar things—or to be reassured that they’re not alone in using boxes for many, many ends.

It’s a cute read, it’s a quick one—one of those books that the pictures and the ideas within are far more important than the story or text.

It’s worth your time, and I bet it’ll make a fan of younger readers.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author for this Tour.

3 Stars

Grandpappy Icon

The Irresponsible Reader On…Self-Published Children’s & Picture Books (a look in Grandpappy’s Corner)

By HCNewton

On July 22, 2024

In Books, Fiction, Grandpappy's Corner, Miscellany, News/Misc., Self-Published Authors Appreciation Week, YA/MG/Children's Books

(updated 7/22/24)

From the first moment that people did the strange thing of asking me to talk about their books on my blog, I’ve been impressed by the quality of a lot of what’s been published by authors going out on their own, taking all the risks, shouldering all the responsibility and doing all the work to get their words, their dreams, their blood, sweat, and tears. This should be celebrated—it’s definitely appreciated, as we’re trying to show this week.

In addition to the Q&As and Guest Posts I have this week, I’m also continuing my habit of highlighting the self-published works that I’ve blogged about over the last few years—just a sentence or two. Hopefully, this’ll be enough to make you click on the link to the full post. Beyond that, it’d be great if I inspired you to add a few of these to your TBR. Also, be sure you check out the other posts over at the SPAAW Hub.

I don’t know how I ended up on the radar of Children’s and Picture Book authors—particularly so many from Israel. But I’m just glad I did, these are guaranteed dashes of brightness and diversity to my reading schedule. I’ve also started to really dive into Children’s/Picture books on my own lately, so this is a pretty healthy list.

bullet Panda Pat and the Rat Called Cat by Neil Ballard, Steven Nosov (Illustrator)—a story of friendship and second chances (my post about it)
bullet Snobbity Snowman by Maria Bardyukova & Quiet Riley, Jr.—Snobbity is a snowman with an attitude (at least at the beginning). I loved the art. (my post about it)
bullet Elephant Wind by Heather L. Beal, Jubayda Sager (Illustrator)—A scientist explains a tornado to a daycare class. (my post about it)
bullet Hurricane Vacation by Heather L. Beal, Jasmine Mills (Illustrator)—Lily and Niko are visiting their family when a Hurricane Watch is issued, so they join their family in preparing the house for the storm and getting ready to go to a shelter. Along the way, they learn about what a hurricane is as well as all the ways that people can protect themselves, themselves, and so on. (my post about it)
bullet Tummy Rumble Quake by Heather L. Beal, Jubayda Sager (Illustrator)—A daycare class learns about earthquakes and earthquake safety. (my post about it)
bullet Bearded by Jeremy Billups—A Bearded Bear and a Red-Haired Little Girl go on adventures all over the world with an assortment of different animals. I love this art (and have a print of one illustration hanging on my office wall). (my post about it)
bullet Bearded Too by Jeremy Billups—A fun and fitting sequel to the above. (my post about it)
bullet Sea This and Sea That by Jeremy Billups—Set in a “crowded, hectic and gruff” city under the sea, with one quiet spot—The Sea This and Sea That Below the Seashore. Missus Bluffington gives a couple of kids (and the reader) a through her very unusual place, full of all sorts of sea creatures, sea plants, fish, and an octopus that shows up in some unusual places. (my post about it)
bullet Mike Nero and The Superhero School by Natasha Carlow, Kyle Stephen (Illustrator)—It’s Mike’s first day at a new school—he meets his principal and some incredible children and learns a little about the superpower he has within himself—and those inside other students, too. (my post about it)
bullet Little Aiden – A Feelings Book for Toddlers by Albert and Anna Choi, Bettina Braskó (Illustrator)—A parent assures Aiden that the wide range of emotions that he’s feeling throughout a day are okay. It’s okay to be happy or scared or confused. (my post about it)
bullet Little Aiden – A Love Book for Toddlers by Albert and Anna Choi, Bettina Braskó (Illustrator)—A parent assures Aiden of their love for him in various moods and in the midst of a range of activities—not all of which are the kind that a parent likes to see/endure, but none of which changes their love. (my post about it)
bullet Be Brave, Little Puffy by Arline Cooper—A puffer fish gets tired of being a puffer fish and tries out life with other kinds of fish. (my post about it)
bullet What’s in Your Howl? by Douglas Gamble, Illustrated by: Steve Humke, Terri Isaacson—a great look at trying to understand each other (my post about it)
bullet Kitties Are Not Good To Eat by Cassandra Gelvin—A board book/electronic equivalent full of cat photos and handy tips like the title. (my post about it)
bullet Kay-9 The Robot Dog by J.M. Gulmire—a young man who can’t even have a hypoallergenic dog makes a work around (my post about it)
bullet Vernon the Vegetarian Lion by John Hughson, Ali Smith (Illustrator)—Vernon tries out vegetarianism. It goes as well as you’d think. (my post about it)
bullet Meeting of the Mustangs by Cathy Kennedy—This is for kids older than the rest on this list (7+ was my guess). A story of a wild mustang growing up. (my post about it)
bullet The Fed-up Cow by Peta Lemon, Maria Dasic Todoric (Illustrator)—Hilda the cow tries out the lives of other animals before learning to accept herself. (my post about it)
bullet Noam’s Monstersby Shai Levinger, Kaustuv Brahmachari (Illustrator), Ephrat Abisror (Translator)—Written by a Clinical Psychologist, this is about a boy struggling with anxieties and fears. Hopeful yet honest. (my post about it)
bullet George the Bannana: Book One by Elliott Linker—A graphic novel by a local 3rd grader (probably a 4th grader now, actually) about a crime fighting banana and his sidekick/best friend Elliott. (there’s a very good sequel that I haven’t had the time to write about yet, too) (my post about it)
bullet George the Bannana: Book Two by Elliott Linker—George faces off against more dastardly types (my post about it is forthcoming)
bullet Moshe Comes to Visit by Tehila Sade Moyal, Fatima Pires (Illustrator)—A young boy discovers that everyone is afraid of something. (my post about it)
bullet Bear with Bear by Hagit R. Oron, Galia Armeland by Hagit R. Oron, Galia Armeland (Illustrator)—A young boy tries to choose a pet. (my post about it)
bullet Bravo and Elphie by Hagit R. Oron, Or Oron (Illustrator)—Ephie and her pet have some struggles at the playground. (my post about it)
bullet Elphie and Dad go on an Epic Adventure by Hagit R. Oron, Or Oron (Illustrator)—An imaginative dad turns running errands with his son into an epic adventure. (my post about it)
bullet Elphie Goes Trick or Treating by Hagit R. Oron, Or Oron (Illustrator)—The title pretty much sums it up. (my post about it)
bullet Elphie Meets the End of The World by Hagit R. Oron, Or Oron Misgav (Illustrator)—Elphie is playing hide and seek with Phante and Phante’s older brother comes in talking about how he saw on the news that the world ending. Eliphie doesn’t take the news well and runs home to hide. Mom and Dad try to comfort and assure him. But it doesn’t really take—so they decide that if the world is going to end, they might as well make a party of it. That seems to work, and in the end, drives home the lesson that every day—even our last—ought to be enjoyed as a gift. (my post about it)
bullet Under the Barnyard Light by Carla Crane Osborne, Brandon Dorman (Illustrator)—a quiet night’s chores (my post about it)
bullet Practice Makes Perfect by Michael Portnoy, Adelia Drubetski (Illustrator), Freda Zolty Kovatch (Translator)—Madam Fly’s two sons are musical geniuses, or something like it—because she’s convinced they should put on concerts despite having no experience with playing whatsoever. Experience and the crickets who run the local music shop try to teach them an important lesson when it comes to music (or just about anything). (my post about it)
bullet The Incredible Ordinary Hero or The Brave Bystander by Aida Rascanu, Beatrice Magrini (Illustrator)—a double-whammy of a lesson for the readers/audience. First, there’s a discussion of what it means to be a hero (doing things that are heroic) and there’s a little first aid lesson—age-appropriate, mind you—to help parents/teachers train up young ones. (my post about it)
bullet How Did the Hippopotamus Get There? by Sohrab Rezvan, Kyana Mitchell (Illustrator)—the answer to this question is not what you’d expect (my post about it)
bullet Lulu and the Missing Tooth Fairy by S. E. Richey—an incredibly cute story about…well, a missing tooth fairy and tooth fairy-ish creatures all over the world. (I apparently somehow never posted about this, but it’s so good I have to share a link for it)
bullet Trouble With Truffles by S. E. Richey—an incredibly cute and informative story about truffle hunting. (I apparently somehow never posted about this, but it’s so good I have to share a link for it)
bullet Red Stripes VS Miles the Mutant Mouse by Amy Rice and Kyson Rice—5-year-old Kyson came up with the story about a super-powered cat defending his city from a giant (and very hungry) mutant mouse, with an assist from his mother on the illustrations. (my post about it)
bullet The Flying Frog and the Kidnappers by David Yair, Ilana Graf (Illustrator), Natalie Jackson (Illustrator)—4th in a series of 11 (so far, anyway). This series for beginning readers is about Quack, a flying frog, who helps some siblings fight crime. Obviously, in this case, they’re up against some kidnappers. (my post about it)

If you're a self-published author that I've featured on this blog and I didn't mention you in this post and should have. I'm sorry (unless you're this guy). Please drop me a line, and I'll fix this. I want to keep this regularly updated so I keep talking about Self-Published Authors.

Self-Published Authors Appreciation Week Footer

The 2024 Self-Published Authors Appreciation Week Logo was made by Witty and Sarcastic Book Club

Grandpappy’s Corner: Under the Barnyard Light by Carla Crane Osborne, Brandon Dorman (Illustrator): A Quiet, Wintry Night’s Chores

By HCNewton

On July 2, 2024

In Fiction, Grandpappy's Corner, Literary Locals, YA/MG/Children's Books

Under the Barnyard Light

by Carla Crane Osborne, Brandon Dorman (Illustrator)

DETAILS:
Publisher: Gogonago
Publication Date: November 17, 2020
Format: Hardcover
Length: 26 pg.
Read Date: June 29, 2024

What’s Under the Barnyard Light About?

This book follows a young girl as she takes care of some farm chores on a cold and wintry night.

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

No slight intended toward the text, but the art here is the star of the show. That’s a commentary on the art, not the text. Few authors would be able to compete (not that it’s a competition). Dorman’s just fantastic. In these pages, he combines realism with a style that will appeal to the younger readers. The colors might not be bright enough and the art “loud” enough to get the youngest readers, but he’ll draw in those north of two (I think). It looks painted, not drawn and colored.

When I checked out his website, I realized I’d held other books that he’d illustrated and/or done the covers for–several of them, actually. My kids even owned some of them growing up.

How is it to Read Aloud?

Like Every Dreaming Creature, this book seems to demand a quiet reading voice–this is a book for settling down for the night (or at least a nap).

I will admit that the first time I read this myself, I got distracted by the rhyme scheme and ended up spending more time paying attention to it and trying to suss out the pattern. Take it from me–don’t do it. Just read it line by line–or couplet by couplet–while being ready to deal with frequent non-rhyming lines. If you go looking for a pattern or a rhythm, you’ll be lost.

Just sit back, adopt a hushed tone, and read. If you do that, you’ll find it to be a nice, soothing read. The text–and the art–are gentle and cozy. You read it that way and you’ll be set.

What did the Little Critter think of It?

He seemed to like the pictures, but had no patience for the book, we only got three pages into it before he was finished. In fairness, he’s young–and I picked a wrong time to try it. He wasn’t in the mood for a quiet book.

But I’m confident that when I try again, he’ll be fine with it.

So, what did I think about Under the Barnyard Light?

I enjoyed this–it did make me think of Every Dreaming Creature and settling down for the night–it’s a quiet book, it’s a calming book. Between the atmosphere, the soft edges of the art, and the way the text carries you along–I imagine this is going to be a bedtime favorite for many. Including the grandcritter in a few months.

This definitely inclines me to read more by Osborne, I’m curious to see what she does with different kinds of stories (for example, I doubt Pony Express is the kind of book you curl up with on your way to sleep).

3 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.

Grandpappy Icon Literary Locals logo

Grandpappy’s Corner: Dinosaurs in Trucks Because Hey, Why Not? by Sandra Boynton: Boynton Whiffs One

By HCNewton

On June 17, 2024

In Grandpappy's Corner, YA/MG/Children's Books

Dinosaurs in Trucks Because Hey, Why Not?
by Sandra Boynton
DETAILS:
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: May 7, 2024
Format: Board Book
Length: 16 pages.
Read Date: June 11, 2024

What’s Dinosaurs in Trucks Because Hey, Why Not? About?
As far as we know (the book tells us), dinosaurs never had trucks. But that hardly seems fair–Boynton’s readers love dinosaurs, and they love trucks. It’s unthinkable that they never coexisted.
So, what would it be like if they did? That’s the mental exercise Boynton indulges in for 16 pages.
Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute
It’s classic Boynton–she’s as in fine form as ever. The dinosaurs are just as cute as you’d want.
How is it to Read Aloud?
It’s really not that interesting–the rhymes are simple. There’s nothing too goofy, or playful about it. Pretty simple text.
What did the Little Critter think of It?
He really enjoys the pictures of the trucks. The pictures of dinosaurs seem to work, too. The words don’t seem to have any impact one way or the other. Which is a pretty mixed review for a guy a little over a year old, but it’s honest.
So, what did I think about Dinosaurs in Trucks Because Hey, Why Not??
It’s a fun idea.
And that’s about it. It really didn’t do much for me. Everyone has an off day–Mariano Rivera gave up game-losing runs, Metallica released St.
Anger, Spider-Man runs out of webfluid before he takes on Electro. It’s not suprising that Boynton whiffs one, too. Disappointing? Sure. But she’s due one.
The book works for those younger who like the idea and the art–but not those who want Boynton’s characterisitc fun rhymes.

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.

Grandpappy’s Corner: Tiny Hands Hymns, Tiny Hands Prayers, and Tiny Hands Promises edited by Hannah Duguid Estes, illustrated by Jessica Hiatt: A Great Set of Starter Devotional Reads

By HCNewton

On April 28, 2024

In Grandpappy's Corner, Theology/Christian Living, YA/MG/Children's Books

Tiny Hands Hymns

Tiny Hands Prayers

and

Tiny Hands Promises

edited by Hannah Duguid Estes, illustrated by Jessica Hiatt

DETAILS:
Publisher: P & R Publishing
Publication Date: October 25, 2023
Format: Board Book
Length: 16 pg. (each)
Read Date: April 27, 2024

What are the Tiny Hands About?

These are little board books that serve as beginning devotional materials—training wheels for young worshippers, if you will.

Tiny Hands Hymns

These are the first stanzas/verses of some of the best hymns around (and easiest to learn, too): “Holy, Holy, Holy,” “Be Thou My Vision,” “Amazing Grace,” “This Is My Father’s World,” “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” “Crown Him with Many Crowns,” and Thomas Ken’s doxology.

On the opposite pages are fitting illustrations, with some accent illustrations on the pages with text.

Tiny Hands Prayers

These are a selection of prayers—translated by Iain Duguid (Professor of Old Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary), from various portions of Scripture to serve as models of prayer.

They include: Mary’s prayer from Luke 1, Hannah’s from 1 Samuel 2, a prayer based on Daniel’s Prayer from Daniel 9:4-19, a prayer based on Ephesians 3:14-19, David’s prayer from Psalm 130, The Lord’s Prayer from Matthew 6, and the prayer of the saints from Revelation 19, and the Aaronic benediction from Numbers 6.

Again, opposite each is an appropriate illustration, with some accent illustrations on the pages with text.

Tiny Hands Promises

This is a collection of covenant promises from the Old and New Testaments to introduce and remind even the littlest members of the covenant of what God has promised them. These, too, are translated by Iain Duguid.

They are Isaiah 43:1-3; John 10:27-28; Matthew 7:7-11; 2 Corinthians 12:9; James 1:5; 1 John 1:9, 7*; Philippians 1:6; and Revelation 21:3-5.

*I’m not sure I get why he ordered them this way.

Yet again, opposite each is an appropriate illustration, with some accent illustrations on the pages with text.

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

I’ve apparently appreciated Hiatt’s work as a cover designer on a few books (The Wonderful Works of God by Herman Bavinck, Things Unseen by J. Gresham Machen, and Struck Down but Not Destroyed by Pierce Taylor Hibbs), but illustrating board books calls for a slightly different skill set. Still, the illustrations remind me of those covers.

I think these are great. Bright and cheerful, without being cartoonish or silly (I have nothing against those kinds of illustrations, but they’re not fitting for the subjects).

How are they to Read Aloud?

They’re fine—although I can’t imagine that anyone, even those who can’t carry a tune, not singing the hymns instead of reading them.

The translations (I’d be tempted to call them paraphrases, but the books say translations—and I don’t know enough to contradict that) are foreign-feeling for people who are familiar with/have memorized the relevant portions from the AV, ESV, NASB, etc. Once you get past that feeling, there’s nothing about the text that’s difficult or odd to read—and they seem easy enough for young children to comprehend (to some degree).

What did the Little Critter think of Them?

Okay, I haven’t had the chance to read these with him, but his Momma has. She reports that he likes Tiny Hands Hymns, because she sings them, and he really responds well to singing. He doesn’t really seem to care about the others one way or another. That fits his personality—but doesn’t really reflect on the books, if you ask me.

So, what did I think about the Tiny Hands books?

I think they’re a great idea—and overall, I am pleased with the execution. I do recommend them without hesitation.

I have some questions about some of the technical bits of translation, verse choices, and whatnot—not so much that I have a problem with the books, I’d just like someone good with the original languages to sit down with me and walk through these.

But for a young child? I think they’re well done and would be great resources for regular use.

4 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
Grandpappy Icon

Grandpappy’s Corner: Along Came a Radioactive Spider by Annie Hunter Eriksen, Lee Gatlin (Illustrator): The Man Behind Spidey’s Look (and more!)

By HCNewton

On April 25, 2024

In (Auto)Biography, Comics, Grandpappy's Corner, Non-Fiction, YA/MG/Children's Books

Along Came a Radioactive Spider:
Strange Steve Ditko and
the Creation of Spider-Man

by Annie Hunter Eriksen , Lee Gatlin (Illustrator)

DETAILS:
Publisher: Page Street Kids
Publication Date: August 1, 2023
Format: Hardcover
Length: 32 pg.
Read Date: April 20, 2024

What’s Along Came a Radioactive Spider About?

It’s right there in the title—subtitle, really, I guess. This is an unauthorized biography (we’re told at one point that Ditko would hate a book about him, so there’s no chance of an authorized one) of Spider-Man’s co-creator, Steve Ditko, written for the older picture book reader.

It covers his childhood and a little of his comic book career up to Spider-Man and then Doctor Strange. Following that, we get two text-heavy pages talking about Ditko in a bit more detail (for the parents, I’m guessing).

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

Gatlin has a very distinctive style that I wish I knew how to describe. I’ve seen his work here and there on the internet (I don’t think it ever had his name attached, sadly), but I’ve never seen this much in one place at a time.

You’re never in doubt as to what he’s drawing, but realism isn’t really what he’s going for. There’s an energy, a mood, a feeling of movement to all his drawings that I find really appealing—and I imagine young readers/those-read-to will find compelling as well.

I assumed that when the book covered people like Spider-Man or Doctor Strange that he’d go for a Ditko-feel to the art, just to pay homage or show the reader what Ditko produced. But he didn’t—at least not too much—there’s a distinct look to most of that art to separate it from the rest of the book, but it’s just a different flavor of Gatlin (which is perfectly fine, I’m just trying to describe things in my own meager way).

I’m planning on spending more time just looking at the illustrations, catching what I missed the first couple of times—and I don’t imagine I’ll be the only one.

So, what did I think about Along Came a Radioactive Spider?

I really do wonder how many children will care about this—they may like Spider-Man or Doctor Strange, but will they care about the story of the man who drew them and helped create them? I’m just not sure.

Now, their parents and grandparents are going to love this—and probably want more. And yes, this could be a fun non-Marvel Cinematic Universe way to introduce a child to a couple of comic book heroes, and that’s probably the idea behind most people buying this book.

Or I could be wrong—that’s just a guess on my part. I’d like to be wrong.

For a biography of a little-known figure who has altered superhero history the way that few have, this is a great read. And the right reader is going to delight in it. I’d have liked it to be twice the length—but the subject and the medium don’t really allow for that, so I got over that pretty quickly.

This is apparently a companion book to With Great Power: The Marvelous Stan Lee from the same creators—I’ve got to get my hands on that one.

3.5 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
Grandpappy Icon