Pippi Longstocking is the well-known character of the Swedish writer Astrid Lindgren. The Pippi stories are well-known everywhere and Lindgren created a lot of books of this eccentric girl and her escapades. The books have written several decades ago.
Astrid Lindgren created a lot of books about this lively person, and she is called in the earliest Swedish versions Pippi Langstrump. The popular Pippi books are Pippi in the South Seas, Pippi after Christmas Party, Pippi goes on Board, Pippi Longstocking in the Park, Pippi on the Run, and the book named simply Pippi Longstocking.
Pippi Longstocking is the person that many boy or girl dreams of being and she lets us see that everything is possible. This imp is a rebel in a positive way and her behavior is sometimes eccentric. Pippi does what she wants to do and all the things to be done her way. Though Pippi is about 10 years old girl she is smart and familiar with a lot of things. But she is a good liar also. There is one thing that a lot of people know about Pippi and this is that this kid is very strong. Pippi can easily lift her horse Little Old Man up from the ground.
Pippi has several good friends but the best friends are Tommy and Annika, the kids in the neighborhood who live near the Pippi's extraordinary and large house, "Villa Villekulla". Of course, Pippi's dear room-mates are her pet animals, a pet ape Mr. Nilsson and her white horse.
This enthusiastic pigtailed girl with mismatched thigh-high stockings is very often shown to be happy and has positive approach although she is getting in trouble. Pippi Longstocking is by no means nasty and understands what is right and what is wrong. Pippi would like to to protect her friends but not like very much some people like the teacher of her friends. But she never means genuine harm to anybody.
Astrid Lindgren wrote the 1st Pippi book in 1945 and all first Pippi films have created long ago. The Swedish performer Inger Nilsson, who was known for her portrayal of Pippi was born in 1959, so she was only about ten years old in those days she acted in the old Pippi films. Lindgren who created numerous famous characters and stories died in 2002 when she was 94. If you are acquainted with Lindgren's life's work you might remember tales about The Brothers Lionheart, Karlsson-On-The-Roof, Ronia The Robber's Daughter, Emil Of Lonneberga, Seacrow Island or The Children Of Noisy Village.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
I'm an Adult - Why Am I Reading Childrens' Books?
Let's face it - some of the best writers being published today are writing for children (or young adults). You only have to mention Phillip Pullman (His Dark Materials) or J.K.Rowling ( Harry Potter) to see what we mean.
There is a long tradition of children's books being read and loved by adults.
Alice in Wonderland, Swallows and Amazons, Black Beauty are all classics that were originally written for children. In fact, you will find that more adults have read 'The Wind in the Willows' than children.
For the really sensitive, there are 'Adult Versions' of Harry Potter, or 'The Dog That Barked In The Nightime', but to be honest, there is no shame attached to reading these books. They are all very good books. As are Eoin Colfer's 'Artemis Fowl' books. In fact, sci-fi and fantasy prove fertile ground for cross-over books - see Garth Nix for example. And the 'Twilight' series of teenage-vampire-romance (now there's a genre!) appears to be enjoyed by adults and teens alike. There are even websites and forums dedicated to the books for adult fans.
'The Boy in the Striped Pajamas' by John Boyne is a spare and powerfully affecting story of the Holocaust aimed at younger readers but which has meaning for older readers too. And adults and children can read this book in different ways, not least because adults will know more of the background and can see the whole picture, in a way that younger readers probably wouldn't.
Writing for younger readers often means that the writer is forced to use a greater clarity and simpler language in order to get his or her message across. At its best, this can make for a shining simplicity of prose that can almost blend into poetry.
There is a long tradition of children's books being read and loved by adults.
Alice in Wonderland, Swallows and Amazons, Black Beauty are all classics that were originally written for children. In fact, you will find that more adults have read 'The Wind in the Willows' than children.
For the really sensitive, there are 'Adult Versions' of Harry Potter, or 'The Dog That Barked In The Nightime', but to be honest, there is no shame attached to reading these books. They are all very good books. As are Eoin Colfer's 'Artemis Fowl' books. In fact, sci-fi and fantasy prove fertile ground for cross-over books - see Garth Nix for example. And the 'Twilight' series of teenage-vampire-romance (now there's a genre!) appears to be enjoyed by adults and teens alike. There are even websites and forums dedicated to the books for adult fans.
'The Boy in the Striped Pajamas' by John Boyne is a spare and powerfully affecting story of the Holocaust aimed at younger readers but which has meaning for older readers too. And adults and children can read this book in different ways, not least because adults will know more of the background and can see the whole picture, in a way that younger readers probably wouldn't.
Writing for younger readers often means that the writer is forced to use a greater clarity and simpler language in order to get his or her message across. At its best, this can make for a shining simplicity of prose that can almost blend into poetry.
Why is "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" So Popular?
The #1 New York Times Bestseller, Diary of a Wimpy Kid is a child favorite- my children included. The novel in cartoons by Jeff Kinney now has three additional books and a Do It Yourself Edition. Children rushed to the library to get the latest copy of the newest book when the school library had only two copies and in book stores and book fairs, children beg their parents to purchase it for them.
So what is it about these books that are so popular with children of this age? Honestly, I'm just happy to see children so eager to read but I was curious about the books both as a writer and as a parent. I want to know what my children are reading and take an interest in their books so I often read what they are reading if I haven't already. I'm also curious as a writer about popular types of writing of today.
So I set out to find out just what makes these books so popular. The first step was to read them for myself and what better time than when the school Scholastic Book Fair came around? My 3rd and 4th grade children were thrilled when I purchased them and now I get to read through them as well.
My first glances at Diary of a Wimpy Kid show me that it's similar to putting a comic strip in a book form. Can you remember reading your favorite comic in the Sunday paper and feeling sad that you had to wait another week for more?
Except this is also a novel. It tells the story of Greg Heffley, a wimpy kid, through his own eyes. Here through diary entries and drawings, we are introduced to an unlikely hero. I'm excited to discover more about this great book series and character.
So what is it about these books that are so popular with children of this age? Honestly, I'm just happy to see children so eager to read but I was curious about the books both as a writer and as a parent. I want to know what my children are reading and take an interest in their books so I often read what they are reading if I haven't already. I'm also curious as a writer about popular types of writing of today.
So I set out to find out just what makes these books so popular. The first step was to read them for myself and what better time than when the school Scholastic Book Fair came around? My 3rd and 4th grade children were thrilled when I purchased them and now I get to read through them as well.
My first glances at Diary of a Wimpy Kid show me that it's similar to putting a comic strip in a book form. Can you remember reading your favorite comic in the Sunday paper and feeling sad that you had to wait another week for more?
Except this is also a novel. It tells the story of Greg Heffley, a wimpy kid, through his own eyes. Here through diary entries and drawings, we are introduced to an unlikely hero. I'm excited to discover more about this great book series and character.
What's Up With Dr Seuss?
Ever wonder why it is that almost every kindergarten teacher in America has the books of Dr. Seuss as standard reading for their children? Or even better, why almost every kid in America wants to try green eggs and ham for breakfast? Who is this infamous Dr. Seuss that has seemingly taken over our elementary lesson plans and turned to bewitching our kids into wanting to read?
Well, it turns out this Dr. of ours is actually a one, Mr. Theodor Seuss Geisel. Did you catch that? - Seuss is actually his middle name (which was given to him from his mother's maiden name, Henrietta Seuss). Originally from Springfield, Massachusetts young Theodor (nicknamed Ted) was an avid reader. One of his favorite books was The Hole Book and at the age of six, he could recite the whole story by heart.
Ted, of course had other interests such as drawing and visiting the Forest Park Zoo, just six blocks away from their house on Fairfield Street. He would come home from the zoo and try to draw some of the creatures he'd seen. Of course, his imagination would get involved and Ted would have a zoo of his own animal creations. Drawing would come to be a favorite hobby of his all throughout his life, along with naming his creations and coming up with humorous words to put in their mouths.
So, when did this young Ted turn into the Dr. Seuss that would create the books our children are learning to read from? Well, the Seuss part of the name came about while Ted was attending Dartmouth College. As punishment for throwing too loud a party and waking his landlord, the dean of the college forced Ted Geisel to resign as editor of the school paper. But, Ted decided to keep on editing, writing and drawing cartoons under the guise of a different name, 'Ted Seuss' or just 'Seuss'.
Well, it turns out this Dr. of ours is actually a one, Mr. Theodor Seuss Geisel. Did you catch that? - Seuss is actually his middle name (which was given to him from his mother's maiden name, Henrietta Seuss). Originally from Springfield, Massachusetts young Theodor (nicknamed Ted) was an avid reader. One of his favorite books was The Hole Book and at the age of six, he could recite the whole story by heart.
Ted, of course had other interests such as drawing and visiting the Forest Park Zoo, just six blocks away from their house on Fairfield Street. He would come home from the zoo and try to draw some of the creatures he'd seen. Of course, his imagination would get involved and Ted would have a zoo of his own animal creations. Drawing would come to be a favorite hobby of his all throughout his life, along with naming his creations and coming up with humorous words to put in their mouths.
So, when did this young Ted turn into the Dr. Seuss that would create the books our children are learning to read from? Well, the Seuss part of the name came about while Ted was attending Dartmouth College. As punishment for throwing too loud a party and waking his landlord, the dean of the college forced Ted Geisel to resign as editor of the school paper. But, Ted decided to keep on editing, writing and drawing cartoons under the guise of a different name, 'Ted Seuss' or just 'Seuss'.
Ceana Has CP - A Delightful Children's Book Dealing With Cerebral Palsy
Follow Ceana through a typical day of reading to her baby dolls. Does your child like to read to dolls? Ceana reads lots of books to them and they always listen. Watch Ceana work through her daily exercises of stretching. Sometimes Ceana gets a special treat from her dad with a ride on his big orange tractor. This book is playfully written and is a must read for any child irrespective of ability. The illustrations in the book will delight young and old. Ceana is a girl with a big smile who loves to play and hang out with her Grandma just like anyone else. Your child or students will love this fun, easy to understand story. Though written for ages 3 - 8, Ceana Has CP is a book all children will love. Ceana Has CP will teach your children about disabilities of all kinds in a fun, easy and child-like way. I would highly recommend it.
C. Fran Card has spent her adult life working with children and especially loves those with special needs.
In addition to raising seven sons, she has also been a school counselor, teacher, foster parent and founder of Christian Cradle, Inc. An adoption agency in Lansing, Michigan.
Ceana Has CP is beautifully illustrated by Violet Freeland who has treated others through her art. Violet has also gained recognition as one of those rare artists who touch the human heart with a charming and distinctive style. Violet studied under renowned Italian oil painter, Mina Greco Hall.
C. Fran Card has spent her adult life working with children and especially loves those with special needs.
In addition to raising seven sons, she has also been a school counselor, teacher, foster parent and founder of Christian Cradle, Inc. An adoption agency in Lansing, Michigan.
Ceana Has CP is beautifully illustrated by Violet Freeland who has treated others through her art. Violet has also gained recognition as one of those rare artists who touch the human heart with a charming and distinctive style. Violet studied under renowned Italian oil painter, Mina Greco Hall.
Moms Story - A Child Learns About MS
Mom's Story is a quick and easy read. It is a story about a nine-year-old child who learns that her mother has Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The book delves into the processes involved from the first symptoms to a diagnosis, all while depicting the main character's emotions and reactions as well as those of her siblings. The family goes from the initial fear that is common when a loved one is diagnosed with MS, to learning about the illness. Knowledge about MS helps a great deal to alleviate those initial fears.
While the child is learning about MS, Nickum cleverly weaves tidbits of information on how online help can be found for those interested in learning about MS. In addition to this, at the end of the book the author included a section titled Information Resources for Families. These pages contain sources of additional information in the form of websites, books, videos, and DVDs that help aid in the understanding of MS.
The education doesn't end there though, there are a number of other features in Mom's Story that help with a child's understanding of MS. With simplicity, Nickum incorporates the pronunciation of technical words associated with MS into the story. Words such as optic neuritis (op-tik nur-I'-tis), and demyelination (dee-mi-lin-A'-shun) are written again in parenthesis breaking the word down for easy pronunciation. This is a wonderful tool for children and adults as some of the words are difficult to pronounce. The author also included a glossary. Words such as Central Nervous System (CNS), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and Myelin are explained in a manner that children will be able to comprehend.
In addition to this, Nickum included pages for Facts about MS, Types of MS, Symptoms of MS, and What is an MRI? The Symptoms page is actually the only aspect of the book that I questioned - the symptoms of MS didn't include fatigue which is a very common complaint with MS sufferers. She did, however, mention it in the story itself.
While the child is learning about MS, Nickum cleverly weaves tidbits of information on how online help can be found for those interested in learning about MS. In addition to this, at the end of the book the author included a section titled Information Resources for Families. These pages contain sources of additional information in the form of websites, books, videos, and DVDs that help aid in the understanding of MS.
The education doesn't end there though, there are a number of other features in Mom's Story that help with a child's understanding of MS. With simplicity, Nickum incorporates the pronunciation of technical words associated with MS into the story. Words such as optic neuritis (op-tik nur-I'-tis), and demyelination (dee-mi-lin-A'-shun) are written again in parenthesis breaking the word down for easy pronunciation. This is a wonderful tool for children and adults as some of the words are difficult to pronounce. The author also included a glossary. Words such as Central Nervous System (CNS), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and Myelin are explained in a manner that children will be able to comprehend.
In addition to this, Nickum included pages for Facts about MS, Types of MS, Symptoms of MS, and What is an MRI? The Symptoms page is actually the only aspect of the book that I questioned - the symptoms of MS didn't include fatigue which is a very common complaint with MS sufferers. She did, however, mention it in the story itself.
Humberto the Bookworm Hamster
Storytelling is an important means of teaching children; they absorb what they hear and see. This in turn enables them to process subtle lessons without realizing it. Humberto, the Bookworm Hamster is a wonderful children's picture book that utilizes this very process. Calvani cleverly weaves an engaging story that conveys two very important messages for children.
The first message, or lesson, is that reading can bring a child on fantastic adventures, and it can open new and unknown worlds...it can ignite the imagination. The child can be a hero on a huge white steed, with sword in hand; he can be a space traveler soaring through the universe; he can fight a fire-breathing dragon with the aid of his magical lance; he can travel to far away places; a child can be anything and do anything through books.
The second message in Humberto, the Bookworm Hamster is that of friendship. Through outstanding story telling, Calvani demonstrates the importance of balance. Humberto limits his entire world to reading until he is awakened to the fact that there are other things in life as important, sometimes even more important. Choosing between saving his books during a flood, or his neighbors, Humberto chooses his neighbors. He realizes having friends fills a part of his life that books cannot. And, the best part is that he can share his books with his new friends.
In addition to a charming story, the illustrations in Humberto, the Bookworm Hamster are amazing. They are bright, bold, and fanciful. They are sure to capture every child's attention and imagination.
I am an advocate of children reading for learning, inspiration, and for sparking the imagination. As a grandparent I look for books that not only tell an entertaining story, but ones that also provide an uplifting lesson or moral element. I have two young grandchildren and this is definitely a book I will be reading to them.
The first message, or lesson, is that reading can bring a child on fantastic adventures, and it can open new and unknown worlds...it can ignite the imagination. The child can be a hero on a huge white steed, with sword in hand; he can be a space traveler soaring through the universe; he can fight a fire-breathing dragon with the aid of his magical lance; he can travel to far away places; a child can be anything and do anything through books.
The second message in Humberto, the Bookworm Hamster is that of friendship. Through outstanding story telling, Calvani demonstrates the importance of balance. Humberto limits his entire world to reading until he is awakened to the fact that there are other things in life as important, sometimes even more important. Choosing between saving his books during a flood, or his neighbors, Humberto chooses his neighbors. He realizes having friends fills a part of his life that books cannot. And, the best part is that he can share his books with his new friends.
In addition to a charming story, the illustrations in Humberto, the Bookworm Hamster are amazing. They are bright, bold, and fanciful. They are sure to capture every child's attention and imagination.
I am an advocate of children reading for learning, inspiration, and for sparking the imagination. As a grandparent I look for books that not only tell an entertaining story, but ones that also provide an uplifting lesson or moral element. I have two young grandchildren and this is definitely a book I will be reading to them.
Inspirational Book For Little Girls - Real Beauty Comes From the Heart
The Most Beautiful Little Girl In The World
Every little girl is beautiful. As a little girl grows up, inevitably she finds another little girl prettier, smarter, healthier, wealthier, more athletic, etc.. From a distance, a little girl often thinks that a friend may seem to have it all. Feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, insecurity and even hate can then ensue. Teaching a little girl to look within her own heart, know how valuable she is to the God who created her, and to know God's love are great resources for life. Inner beauty, that comes from a close relationship with God, transcends any label the world may give. If a little girl lets that inner beauty shine through, she willl be "The Most Beautiful Little Girl In The World"!
The Most Beautiful Little Girl in the World is a wonderfully inspirational children's book filled with delightful text and beautiful photographic images. This book will become a very special keepsake in a child's personal library. Although this book is designed for little girls from birth to seven, it will be enjoyed by children of all ages. This book is part of the Nice Little Children's Books collection. This collection which was created in 2009 with the purpose of making children aware of, at an early age, how much God loves them and keeping God first in their lives. The currently available books answer childrens' questions such as: (Who is) The Most Beautiful Little Girl In The World and When Should I Pray?, Heaven, A Collection of Children's Thoughts with more books to come soon... These books make wonderful keepsake gifts and are designed to inspire all children by making them aware of how much God loves them. Many little girls' lives will be brightened by reading The Most Beautiful Little Girl in the World!
Every little girl is beautiful. As a little girl grows up, inevitably she finds another little girl prettier, smarter, healthier, wealthier, more athletic, etc.. From a distance, a little girl often thinks that a friend may seem to have it all. Feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, insecurity and even hate can then ensue. Teaching a little girl to look within her own heart, know how valuable she is to the God who created her, and to know God's love are great resources for life. Inner beauty, that comes from a close relationship with God, transcends any label the world may give. If a little girl lets that inner beauty shine through, she willl be "The Most Beautiful Little Girl In The World"!
The Most Beautiful Little Girl in the World is a wonderfully inspirational children's book filled with delightful text and beautiful photographic images. This book will become a very special keepsake in a child's personal library. Although this book is designed for little girls from birth to seven, it will be enjoyed by children of all ages. This book is part of the Nice Little Children's Books collection. This collection which was created in 2009 with the purpose of making children aware of, at an early age, how much God loves them and keeping God first in their lives. The currently available books answer childrens' questions such as: (Who is) The Most Beautiful Little Girl In The World and When Should I Pray?, Heaven, A Collection of Children's Thoughts with more books to come soon... These books make wonderful keepsake gifts and are designed to inspire all children by making them aware of how much God loves them. Many little girls' lives will be brightened by reading The Most Beautiful Little Girl in the World!
Book Review - Shaggy Parrot and the Reggae Band
GRAMMY AWARD winner Orville "Shaggy" Burrell gets it about the Arts. He thoroughly understands the outworkings of combining performing, literary and visual arts. Sometimes referring to himself as a big child, the the platinum selling reggae artiste with curved lips resembling that of a bird's beak, undertook the title role as "Shaggy Parrot" in the recent book "Shaggy Parrot and the Reggae Band."
The book is the brainchild of another renowned singer Jana Bent, whose brother Rupert Bent 111 created the CD's music. Being the manager of Sean Paul's band, Badda Banz, he incorporates other members. In September 2008, the book was added to Jamaica's Early Childhood Curriculum Resource List, and on January 7, 2009 the book was launched at the Kingston and St Andrew Parish library. Through the book, both visual and performing arts compliment each other.
The colourful illustrations by Trinidadian, John Mendes, teach about Jamaica's coasts, and indegenious sea creatures, musical instruments in a Reggae Band, and limited reggae dance steps. But then you can get a glimpse of typical dressing of Jamaicans in a reggae scene from the Coral Line dance crew. Following the audio CD, where the narrator leads you through the book, you also learn about harmony of notes and musical instruments. On the other hand, through the literary skills of the writers, there are many lessons on the respect, harmony in nature and the environment. The writing team include Shaggy's girlfriend Rebecca Packer, Kellie Magnus and Ireland-born Veronica Salter Ph.D.
The book is the brainchild of another renowned singer Jana Bent, whose brother Rupert Bent 111 created the CD's music. Being the manager of Sean Paul's band, Badda Banz, he incorporates other members. In September 2008, the book was added to Jamaica's Early Childhood Curriculum Resource List, and on January 7, 2009 the book was launched at the Kingston and St Andrew Parish library. Through the book, both visual and performing arts compliment each other.
The colourful illustrations by Trinidadian, John Mendes, teach about Jamaica's coasts, and indegenious sea creatures, musical instruments in a Reggae Band, and limited reggae dance steps. But then you can get a glimpse of typical dressing of Jamaicans in a reggae scene from the Coral Line dance crew. Following the audio CD, where the narrator leads you through the book, you also learn about harmony of notes and musical instruments. On the other hand, through the literary skills of the writers, there are many lessons on the respect, harmony in nature and the environment. The writing team include Shaggy's girlfriend Rebecca Packer, Kellie Magnus and Ireland-born Veronica Salter Ph.D.
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