Monday, February 18, 2013

Granny Grommet and Me by Dianne Wolfer and Karen Blair

Grandparents are amazing, they know so much, can do so much - and some of us are lucky enough to have memories built by spending time with our grandmothers and grandfathers.  One child spends time with their grandmother down at the beach, and spends time with the Granny Grommets as they paddle, surf, and dive.  It is a chance to spend time with a much loved family member and her friends, but it is also the chance to gain the courage to try something new.

This is a story for grandmothers to share with their children, or to share with any child that needs a reminder of just how special grandmothers can be.  There is no preaching, no hidden meanings, it is just a story where a child learns something amazing simply because they spend time with their granny.  The illustrations are simple and match the story well, and because the child is not named, and because of their androgynous features and hairstyle the story works well for boys and for girls.

If you like this book then try The great granny gang by Judith Kerr, Countdown to Grandma's house by Debra Mostow Zakarin and Stacy Peterson, Nana's colours by Pamela Allen, and The grandma book by Todd Parr.

~ Reviewed by Elspeth Sweetman

Saturday, February 9, 2013

Cast in peril by Michelle Sagara

8th in the Chronicles of Elantra

Kaylin, private in the Hawks, the Elanatran law force, is torn in so many directions. Her new roommate, Bellusdeo, the last living female dragon is the target of an assassin attempt, which results in the destruction of Kaylin’s apartment.

Then there’s what hatched from the magical egg Kaylin was protecting.

To gain much-needed information in an ongoing investigation, Kaylin is being sent to the Recitation, a Barrani ritual, with little knowledge of what to expect.

Kaylin’s previous decisions have led to a rift between herself and the Barrani Consort. With most of the Barrani High Court against her – if not trying to kill her – it is not a comfortable journey.

Some finagling has allowed Kaylin’s friend and partner, Severn, to travel with her, along with Teela, Barrani Lord and Hawk.

Richly detailed – in characters, landscape, and intrigue – this is a welcome addition to the series that ends with the reader wanting more.


~ Reviewed by Aud Selene.