Mary GrandPre

The characters first introduced in this novel (originally published in 1952) remain fresh and engaging. Orphaned sisters, Nancy and Pamela (aka Plum), are determined never to spend another Christmas with mean Mrs. Monday. It is available again with new illustrations and an introduction by National Book Award winner, Jeanne Birdsall.

New poems, many rhyming, describe the animals introduced in Saint-Saens’ orchestral music that was first performed in the 19th century. Semi-abstract illustrations accompany the verse. The book includes a music CD to bring the carnival of animals to life for a new generation.

Vincent Van Gogh often had trouble sleeping. As a child, his parents fussed but Vincent continued to travel in his imagination, which precluded sleep. Glowing illustrations suggest the artist’s style and a rhythmic text provides an engaging introduction to Van Gogh and his powerful paintings. An author’s note includes additional information as well as images of several of Van Gogh’s paintings.