Review: THE ADVENTURES OF BLUE OCEAN BOB: INTO THE LEAD by Brooks Olbrys An excellent way to introduce young readers to ecology, friendship, empathy, and purpose, through gentle and appealing rhymes. Different episodes showcase situations in Nature, and enlist the help of compassionate humans when marine life and other animals are in need. Upper elementary and middle grade readers may read straight through. For younger kids, parents might read one story episode each bedtime, providing positive before-sleep reinforcement.
Review: KUDZU FOR CHRISTMAS by Emilie Elkin Khair Gorgeously written and beautifully illustrated, this adorable children's story warmed even my cold Scroogish heart. Two young brothers, Sam and Andy, worry about spooky tree shadows one night. Their wise mother shows them how to look for friendly animal and bird shapes formed by the kudzu-wrapped trees. The boys teach their friends, and incorporate kudzu into their expansive imaginative life.