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Reviews
Click on any cover to return to Bookshelf
where you can look inside or buy any book.
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DINNER AT THE PANDA PALACE
illustrated by Nadine Bernard Westcott
 "...bouncy, rhyming verse and an innovative cast of characters give this counting book zip ... Only after many rereadings will little ones get their fill." -- Publishers Weekly. "
...a rollicking, counting rhyme...Perfect company for Hogrogian's Always Room for One More and De Regniers's May I Bring a Friend." -- School Library Journal.
"This sprightly story in rhyme incorporates a counting lesson...The theme of hospitality closes the story on a warm, satisfying note." -- Booklist.
"Everyone happily feasts on Dinner at the Panda Palace." -- The Horn Book.
A Weekly Reader Book Club Main Selection;
Harper Trophy Paperback;
Harper Trophy "Tell Me a Story" book-and-cassette package;
Scholastic Book Clubs: book, big book, book-and-cassette selection;
Scott Foresman Big Book;
Atlas Editions; PBS Storytime.
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 BIRTHDAY AT THE PANDA PALACE
pictures by Doug Cushman
 "Mouse’s birthday party is at The Panda Palace, and all her friends are attending, each bringing a special gift…with a rhyming guessing game for each….Rhyming clues and answers appear on alternating pages, allowing children to listen carefully and solve the riddle before turning the page to confirm their response…the combination of a popular theme and winning ending emphasizing a friendship’s reunion in a jovial zoo-like setting will encourage repeated readings with gleeful shouts at the appropriate time." – Kirkus Reviews
"...Mr. Panda is throwing a bash at his restaurant with many of the same animals first seen in Dinner at the Panda Palace (HarperCollins, 1991). Each guest gives Mouse a gift -- described on one page in bouncy rhyme and revealed as readers turn the page and shout out the last word to complete the quatrain.... Cushman’s bright and cheery illustrations echo the lively rhymes... All in all, a fun party. -- School Library Journal
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WELCOME, BABY!
Baby Rhymes for Baby Times
pictures by Melissa Sweet
 "This companion to Good for You! Toddler Rhymes for Toddler Times (2001) offers very young children 33 short poems to match their unique perspective of the world. The poems and pictures mirror the physical and emotional development of children from birth to about 18 months… A fine alternative to board books and nursery rhymes.” – Booklist.
“This adorable compendium of original rhymes begins with an infant’s birth… The selections are whimsical and lively and are sure to grab the attention of even the littlest listeners… A wonderful addition to any picture-book collection.” -- School Library Journal.
“A collection of original poems offers cheery readalouds for very young children… It all ends appropriately with a kiss goodnight.” – Kirkus Scholastic Book Clubs.
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GOOD FOR YOU!
Toddler Rhymes for Toddler Times
pictures by Melissa Sweet
 "...wonderfully affirming collection. Joyously exuberant, Calmenson's verses enlighten and entertain." -- Kirkus Reviews.
“Calmenson (Dinner at the Panda Palace) here offers 24 rhymes celebrating the milestones of toddlerhood… Calmenson and Sweet open the door to the world of poetry and the playfulness of language, and usher toddlers through it.” – Publishers Weekly.
“Calmenson’s short, interactive rhymes and riddles encourage toddlers to explore and expand on all the things that they are learning...an altogether buoyant book.” -- Booklist.
”...This winning collection can be used in storytimes or just for pleasurable times between parents and children.” -- School Library Journal.
“…a bouncy, cheerful celebration ... guaranteed to touch many chords with preschool-aged readers. Stephanie Calmenson, author of many children’s books, including The Principal’s New Clothes, clearly feels a strong connection to children, and understands their sense of humor, anxieties, thrills, and immense curiosity. – Amazon.com Scholastic Book Club Selection.
Texas Library Association “2002 2x2 Reading List”.
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KINDERGARTEN KIDS
Riddles, Rebuses, Wiggles, Giggles
pictures by Melissa Sweet
 "Calmenson, herself a former kindergarten teacher, explores that world in this collection of original poetry. The 18 short rhyming poems address common features of the classroom…and one of the last, a riff on the old "See you Later, Alligator” pattern, might just become a new playground classic with 19 ways to say good-bye...” – Kirkus.
"…highly interactive picture book… The book will hold up through repeated readings…. Calmenson’s bouncy words… create a positive, encouraging view of classroom activities." -- The Horn Book.
"There's lots to keep children interested in this snappy book …plenty of ideas to be found inside the covers, many of which will lead teachers to new ones of their own.” -- Booklist.
"…appealing collection of original rhymes…simple, interactive rhymes… provide a light, accessible introduction for new students…A lively and fun addition.” – School Library Journal.
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ROSIE - A VISITING DOG'S STORY
photographs by Justin Sutcliffe
 "Rosie's real-life adventures make for one of the outstanding nonfiction titles of the year." -- Smithsonian Magazine.
"Author of such popular books as The Principal's New Clothes, Calmenson here tells the story of her own dog, Rosie ... succinct yet sensitive descriptions...This is a close-up, valuable, and charming look at the contributions made by working dogs like Rosie." -- Booklist.
"Dog lovers will delight in this photo essay about a pet with an unusual occupation ... " -- School Library Journal.
"Rosie...will satisfy readers of all ages." -- The Horn Book Magazine.
"... well-known author, Stephanie Calmenson, shares Rosie's successes in a true story that is touching and delightful." -- Family Life.
"... an appealing read ... if the irresistible bundle of black-and-white fur were human, she'd be Jay Leno." -- Detroit Free Press.
Featured on Fox TV and in Sesame Street and CTW Magazines Junior Library Guild Selection; Scholastic Book Clubs.
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MAY I PET YOUR DOG?
The How-to-Guide for KIDS Meeting DOGS (and DOGS Meeting KIDS)
pictures by Jan Ormerod
 "Dachshund Harry leads the youngest readers through every step of kid-meets-dog etiquette... The line-and-watercolor illustrations are as simple and patient as the text, placing the viewer in a straight-on and consistent position for Harry's how-tos, reinforcing the way the "lessons" build on each other...What is perhaps most engaging about the book is the direct address from dog to child.” – Horn Book Magazine, starred review; Fanfare Best Book of 2007
“Harry is a cheerful and friendly long-haired dachshund who serves as the first-person narrator for this thoughtful look at the best way for a child to meet dogs… Children who are afraid of dogs, as well as those who love them, will find this volume useful and encouraging.” – Kirkus Reviews.
"A little boy learns from Harry, a dachshund, how to treat an unfamiliar dog safely and politely…friendly, gentle voice…positive, encouraging tone … Harry’s advice will certainly come in handy, and dogs will appreciate the safety and consideration shown by readers who put the techniques into practice.” – School Library Journal.
“Calmenson’s ease with declarative sentences makes this the perfect book for the sidewalk dog stalker. The narration is from the point of view of Harry, a real long-haired, dappled Dachshund…Calmenson, the author of one of my all-time-favorite dog books for children, Rosie, A Visiting Dog’s Story, concludes with a roundup of practical tips…as well as some important advice: Remember, dogs have feelings too.” Bark Magazine.
"Harry the dachshund narrates this explanation of safe kid-dog interaction, covering important aspects such as permission…safe approaches…and general philosophy…There’s a clear message that dogs and situations vary…This is a subject usually relegated to a page or two, at best, of dog books, and it’s useful to see it thoroughly explored as its own topic, since dog encounters are a big part of kids’ sidewalk travel…the book is clear and helpful…This will not only be a helpful lesson for heedlessly enthusiastic youngsters, it will provide more timid kids with useful tools that might make them feel more in control of inter-species encounters.” – The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
"Thank you very much for sending me a preview copy of Stephanie Calmenson's engaging book "May I Pet Your Dog?" I found the book delightful, very well illustrated, and informative. It sets just the right tone to encourage children to interact with animals in the correct way. Bravo!"
W. Jean Dodds, DVM
“What a good book…really, really smart!…It’s full of all the information you want to give a child….The safety rules are so explicit and yet so digestible…done in a way that children will want to absorb the information…[Harry] is so cute and adorable…we’ve read this book a zillion times!” Andrea Ross, “Just One More Book”
“Required reading for every dog lover!” Lisa Von Drasek, Children’s Librarian, Bank Street College
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SHAGGY, WAGGY DOGS (and Others)
photographs by Justin Sutcliffe
 "… snappy four-line rhymes reflect a joy in and love of dogs as they spotlight more than 20 canine breeds...Calmenson follows up with brief, sound advice for choosing the right dog for your lifestyle and deciding whether you are right for a dog...Her carefully considered words will help encourage responsible, committed dog ownership." Booklist.
A Scholastic Book Club selection.
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PERFECT PUPPY
pictures by Thomas F. Yezerski
 "…warm story of acceptance, mistakes and all.” -- Horn Book.
"…engaging glimpse of puppy-training reality…Puppy’s hopes, fears, frustrations, and joys make up most of the simple text, which will sensitize youngsters to be understanding, patient trainers for their soon-to-be perfect puppies.” -- Booklist.
"…heart-warming story told from the dog’s perspective. Anyone who has ever had a pet or strived for perfection without success will enjoy Puppy’s amusing tale. – School Library Journal.
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THE PRINCIPAL'S NEW CLOTHES
illustrated by Denise Brunkus
 "... marvelous update of Andersen's The Emperor's New Clothes ... Calmenson's rendition of this beloved tale of self-aggrandizement is particularly fun because of its contemporary setting." -- Publishers Weekly.
"...will have children giggling through to the very end." -- Booklist.
"The whole school should chortle with glee over this one!" – Kirkus.
“…tried and true.” -- Jim Trelease, The Read-Aloud Handbook.
Scholastic book club and audiotape.
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THE FROG PRINCIPAL
illustrated by Denise Brunkus
 "...ribbit-tickling companion to The Principal’s New Clothes...Lucky is the school with a Principal like Mr. Bundy.” -- Kirkus Reviews.
“…a rollicking, riotous sequel to The Principal’s New Clothes…” Instructor “…quirky humor and delightful situation. Brunkus’s … illustrations accentuate the hilarity of this spoof…Read aloud or alone, this book is sure to get its share of chuckles.” School Library Journal.
“…a natural choice for all those principals who routinely visit primary-grade classrooms for a quick read-aloud.” -- Booklist.
Booklist Winner of the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal 2001;
Winner of the Missouri Association of School Librarian’s “Show Me Readers” Award 2004; Scholastic Book Club Selection
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THE TEENY TINY TEACHER
illustrated by Denis Roche
 "...hilarious...A fine example of what an imaginative author and illustrator can bring to an old favorite." -- School Library Journal.
“Calmenson engages readers’ attention through her use of repetition and the familiar setting... -- Publishers Weekly.
"...could easily become a story-hour favorite. -- Kirkus.
"Calmenson and Roche have bravely taken the old folktale and transformed it into a true picture book... setting the story in a modern classroom, draws young readers immediately into the story." -- The Horn Book.
Scholastic Book Clubs.
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JAZZMATAZZ!
pictures by Bruce Degen
Coming February 2008
"...a rainbow of sound...Calmenson and Degen have created a bright, syncopated jam session sure to please storytime audiences." -- Kirkus Reviews
More reviews coming soon!
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IT BEGINS WITH AN A
illustrated by Marisabina Russo
 "Calmenson once again shows her ability to connect with kids in this buoyant alphabet-cum-riddle book ... the text's basic vocabulary, bouncy rhythm and brief sentences are well suited to beginning readers." -- Publishers Weekly.
"A clever new alphabet book in riddle form ..." – Booklist.
"a sure-to-be-successful experience... More interactive -- and therefore more fun -- than the usual "A is for apple" alphabet. -- Kirkus.
"...the child appeal of a riddle book combined with the practicality of an alphabet book ... Preschoolers will delight in responding to "What is it?" -- School Library Journal.
ABA "Pick of the Lists"
Scholastic book club, audiotape, and big book.
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WHAT AM I? Very First Riddles
illustrated by Karen Gundersheimer
 "This small book is a gem." School Library Journal.
"Stephanie Calmenson introduces turn-of-the-page suspense in What Am I?, a riddle book for very young children.” -- Zena Sutherland.
"The joy of riddles is given to the youngest readers in these simple, rhyming puzzles." Publishers Weekly.
"Catchy, rhyming riddles about familiar objects will delight young audiences…" Sesame Street Magazine.
"Books that engage children, that ask for their participation, are among the most popular. It is a pleasure to be able to offer children this collection of riddles about everyday objects ... children will be reading this book to themselves in no time at all." The Horn Book.
"... a sweet way for small children to discover the fun of guessing games." Parents Magazine.
A Scholastic Book Club selection.
ABA Pick of the Lists.
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ZIP, WHIZ, ZOOM!
illustrated by Dorothy Stott
 "Calmenson's simple, breezy verse invites her audience's participation; each stanza begins with the sound effects of a different vehicle, with the various vrooms, whirrs, toots and beeps joining at the end in a robust crescendo." Publishers Weekly.
"This energetic story in rhyme ... will provide a lively introduction to transportation for an age group already fascinated with things that zip, whiz, and zoom." School Library Journal.
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ENGINE, ENGINE NUMBER NINE
illustrated by Paul Meisel
 "This rendition of a traditional American children's rhyme is a definite read-aloud. Kids, adults, animals and even a band are taking the train. But where are they all going? The simple storyline is well-complemented by the bold, colorful cartoon illustrations. Kids will find lots to look for and discuss. The rhyming verses will soon have even the youngest singing along." -- Children's Book Review Service.
“A rhyming verse follows the journey of a train as it picks up passengers, including a marching band and a number of farm animals, and eventually the destination is divulged...the passengers return home sleepy and satisfied, clutching all manner of ribbons, prizes and trophies.” -- The Horn Book.
Scholastic Book Club selection
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MARIGOLD AND GRANDMA
ON THE TOWN
illustrated by Mary Chalmers
 "In the spirit of Minarik's Little Bear ... Calmenson brings in delicious details ... An endearing introduction to someone who could become a real favorite." -- Kirkus, bulleted review.
"...just right for the intended audience ... Marigold is a pleasure to spend time with." -- The Horn Book.
"An all-around, year-round choice for one-on-one sharing or easy reading." -- School Library Journal.
"This simple, sweet tale of a young bunny and her granny displays a genuine grasp of what children find funny." -- USA Today.
A Harper Trophy paperback;
ABA "Pick of the Lists"
A Weekly Reader Book Club Selection.
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HOTTER THAN A HOT DOG!
illustrated by Elivia Savadier
 " ... lyrical text ... The startling contrast between the steamy city and the ... beach is wonderful." -- School Library Journal.
"Sweet, funny, and right on the mark ..." -- Booklist.
"This endearing tale of a steamy day's romp at the beach radiates with the warmth of summertime." -- Publishers Weekly.
"... delightful slice of city life ... story of friendship and understanding between a child and her grandmother ... just right to warm up a reader longing for summer days ... " -- Horn Book.
Weekly Reader Book Club selection
IRA-CBC Children' Choice.
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WANTED: WARM, FURRY FRIEND
illustrated by Amy Schwartz
 "Hare hilarity ... The telling is delicious ... Ralph and Alice are a pair to cherish." Publishers Weekly.
"A warm, furry romance ..." School Library Journal.
"... kids will delight in figuring out the truth ... readers who may feel they are beyond picture books will appreciate the romance and subtle message about first impressions." Booklist.
ABA Pick of the Lists.
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