The Lollipop Book Club Blog

Non-Candy Gifts for Easter Baskets

2011-03-21T20:27:00.009-04:00

I am a chocaholic. Wait, let's be honest. I'm a candyholic. As I approach my 40th year, my love for anything sweet seems to have intensified. Except for black jellybeans and black licorice, I have never met a piece of candy I did not enjoy down to the last bite.

The trouble is that my penchant for sweet treats has not been kind to my waistline or my dentine. And as a mom of 3 little kids who seem to have inherited my taste buds (especially my daughter), I need to keep the quantity of candy in my house to a minimum.

But, alas, it's Easter and the colorful treats beckon wherever I shop. Every year, despite my best intentions to limit the candy, my children are tickled to find heaps of candy overflowing their baskets. That in and of itself is not a big deal.

It's the onslaught of candy that continues the rest of Easter day. First the grandparents from both sides arrive bearing baskets. And next, there's the big neighborhood Easter egg hunt. By the end of the day, we could open an Easter candy boutique!

If you, too, want to limit the candy consumption on Easter day, here are some of my best non-candy gifts for Easter! (Maybe I'll even take my own advice for once....)

(1) Do not substitute JUNKY toys that you will just throw away in a day. That is a complete waste of money. Just had to get that one out of the way. We've all done it!

(2) Do stock up on plastic eggs that you can reuse year after year. Sure, they're great for jellybeans, but get creative about other treasures to put inside. Hint: A dollar bill can put a big smile on a child's face and help them save toward a more valuable purchase later.

(3) Do not turn Easter into a mini version of Christmas. Sometimes parents feel guilty about limiting candy, so we substitute more lavish presents on our children to compensate. I don't think you need me to list the reasons why this is a bad idea. I've done it and paid the consequences. Keep the bar low and your kids will learn to appreciate their Peeps.

(4) Do put in a bunny. If your kid likes chocolate, go to town and find the biggest, most embellished hare on the shelf. There is nothing better than munching on a big bunny ear or the sickly-sweet candied facial features.

(5) Do not be afraid to toss in a great Easter book. In fact, make it a tradition to include a new book about the holiday every year with a note from the Easter bunny inside. Here are some great non-candy Easter gifts ...books from The Lollipop Book Club!

(6) Do read this article about other fantastic Easter gifts for kids! It is full of ideas on how to make your child's holiday extra special this year.

Easter Gifts for Kids from The Lollipop Book Club

2011-03-21T11:18:00.018-04:00

Send some sweet Easter cheer to all of your little bunnies from The Lollipop Book Club! Each Easter gift for kids will arrive in a cheerful package delivered to the child's home.

Inside the child will find a wonderful Easter book, an adorable Easter lollipop, and a special note from you for inside the book.

Here are just a few of the best Easter books that make wonderful Easter gifts for children from The Lollipop Book Club:

Everyone knows that the Easter Bunny comes every year with a basket of painted eggs and chocolates. But who is the Easter Bunny, and what is his story? At last, the famous bunny's secrets are revealed in this delightful tale perfect for springtime.

In this version of Clement Moores's classic poem, two siblings witness the nighttime arrival of the Easter Bunny.

Pauline the hen lays unusual eggs, but Mrs. Pennywort, her owner, thinks they're beautiful, and she and Pauline work together to open an Easter egg farm.

Just as a little boy named Sam and an old man named Henry remind the town of Easterville, best-selling author Melody Carlson reminds us as well that the true meaning of Easter is not Easter bonnets, baskets, colored eggs, candy, or decorations, but the story of the Cross.

Two stories in one book While grandmother prepares for Easter above ground, the rabbit family below pesters their father, who they are quite convinced is the Easter bunny. By the end, he's not so sure he isn't.

A Sick Day for Amos McGee- 2011 Caldecott Medal Winner

2011-01-26T09:49:00.005-05:00

Each year a new children’s picture book earns the highly distinguished Caldecott medal. This golden stamp that adorns the jacket cover is an award for the illustrator’s captivating work of art.

The recipient of the 2011 Caldecott medal is a simple, endearing book called A Sick Day for Amos McGee. Erin Stead is the talented illustrator who created this book in cooperation with author/husband, Philip Stead.

The story is about a zookeeper named Amos who lovingly cares for the animals day in and day out. But what happens when Amos is sick and needs a caretaker himself? Well, the elephant, rhinoceros, turtle and other zoo creatures step up to the plate and deliver a heartwarming display of friendship and compassion.

When sharing this story with your kids, take your time and soak in the details of the woodblock and hand drawing illustrations. The delicate sketches and hints of color complement the storyline perfectly.

To read more about Erin Stead and her process in creating the pictures for this year’s Caldecott winner, you will want to hop over to her website for a visit- http://blog.erinstead.com/2009/04/here-is-how-i-make-picture-slightly.html.

Only then will you truly appreciate the amount of thought and hours of work that go into each and every page of this year’s worthy winner.

The Reindeer Keeper by Barbara Briggs Ward

2010-12-13T22:04:00.003-05:00

For those of you who follow my blog and are familiar with my website- The Lollipop Book Club- you understand that I adore well written and illustrated children's books. My business and passion are wrapped into one, and for this I am fortunate.

Truth be told, you can catch me reading an actual novel from time to time. I cannot imagine a cozier day than to settle into my couch by the fireplace with a cup of coffee and a book that will take me away to another place or into someone else's life for awhile.

I am quite particular about what I will read but not because I am a book snob. Simply put, I do not have a lot of free time with three active kids under age 9 and a business to run.

I can tell you that this holiday season, The Reindeer Keeper will be waiting for me on the table by my favorite couch in the den. The cover alone is the perfect invitation on a cold winter day.

The storyline alludes to something magical -we must Believe Again. Reminds me of The Polar Express and I have a feeling it will touch me in the same way. If you have a few moments, visit the website for The Reindeer Keeper and enjoy the video introducing this enticing holiday novel.

You may find this book to be the perfect gift for many on your list this season! The book is available for purchase on the website and through Amazon.

Quotes for Kids

2010-10-16T16:10:00.007-04:00

The Lollipop Book Club connects children and adults through the gift of books. What makes our service so special is the way in which we package and deliver the gifts to the child's doorstep. We carry baby book gifts, chapter books like Newbery Medal Winners, and a huge selection of the best picture books for girls and boys of every age in between.

Each book includes a bookplate with a special message from the gift-giver. Our customers cherish this opportunity to wish a Happy Birthday, offer a Congratulations, and impart words of wisdom kids will read every time they pick up a favorite book.

Here is a list of our absolutely favorite quotes for kids, famous and not-so-famous alike, that we have imprinted on notes for those very special Lollipop Book Club gifts:

"There is more treasure in books than in all the pirates’ loot on the Treasure Island."
- Walt Disney

"You will do foolish things, but do them with enthusiasm."
-French novelist Colette’s advice to her daughter

"Study while others are sleeping; work while others are loafing; prepare while others are playing; and dream while others are wishing."
- William Arthur Ward

"I don’t know who my grandfather was; I’m much more concerned to know what his grandson will be."
- Abraham Lincoln

"Fall seven times, stand up eight."
-Japanese saying

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
-Chinese saying

"Whether you think you can or think you can't, you're right."
-Henry Ford

"It doesn't matter how slowly you go- as long as you don't stop!"
-Confucious

"You always pass failure on the way to success."
-Mickey Rooney

"Only surround yourself with people who will lift you higher."
-Oprah Winfrey

"Make each day your masterpiece."
-John Wooden

"It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters."
- Epictetus

"Because life is a gift, all of us are gifted."
- Noah benShea

New Halloween Books for Kids- Perfectly Spooky Gifts!

2010-10-16T10:43:00.021-04:00

Send a spooktacular Halloween book from The Lollipop Book Club. Each Halloween package includes a book of your choice, a Halloween lollipop, and a message on a bookplate, making this gift the creepiest keepsake ever. Here are some of the best new Halloween books for 2010.

Zen Ghosts by Jon J. Muth

From the publisher:

It's Halloween.

The trees are ablaze in fiery reds. Excited children don colorful costumes. And there's mystery and fun around every corner

When Addy, Michael, and Karl finish trick-or-treating, their bags are brimming with treats. But the fun isn't over yet. Their good friend Stillwater the panda has one more special surprise in store for them. A mysterious visitor is about to tell them a spine-tingling story -- one that will fill each and every reader with wonder.

Scaredy-Cat, Splat! by Rob Scotton

From the publisher:

It's Halloween, and Splat is determined to be the scariest cat in the class. Unfortunately he's just too much of a scaredy-cat. He's afraid of a little spider, and everyone says his costume looks more silly than scary. And when Mrs. Wimpydimple tells a ghost story in the dark, Splat gets so frightened that he tips over his jack-o'-lantern. But when the lights go back on, the entire class is scared silly by a small, black, furry creature with a big pumpkin head. "Whooooo" can it be?

The Curious Little Witch by Lieve Baeten

From the publisher:

What happens when a little witch gets curious? An international bestseller comes to the US! Lizzy is a curious little witch. Late one night she spots an old house all lit up when everyone else is asleep, and she can't help herself. She just "has "to investigate. The Little Witch books have been favorites around the world for years. Now, at last, the irresistible Little Witch comes to America!

Vampire Boy's Good by Lisa Brown

From the publisher:

When the sun goes down and everything is wonderfully cold and dark, a vampire boy and a little witch go searching for children in the night.

But this is no ordinary night. It is Halloween, and what they find may surprise them. . . .

Alpha Oops! H is for Halloween by Alethea Contis & Bob Kolar

From the publisher:

H gets top billing -- but a stubborn B has something scary to say -- as the inside-out alphabet gives a howl-arious Halloween performance.
Ack It's time for the show, and A isn't ready. But then again, Halloween can only start with one letter, no matter how the A-B-Cs normally go The misbehaving alphabet is back, and there's no telling who will take the stage next. Z for zombie? P for pirate? Will X think of something good in time? Neon-bright, comically detailed illustrations show a cacophony of costumed letters, each with a mind and personality all its own. Along the bottom, tiny pumpkins arrange the players in proper order, making this alphabet story letter-perfect for Halloween.

The Halloween Kid by Rhode Montijo

From the publisher:

The Halloween Kid is capable of wranglin' all manner of halloween hoodlums to keep the night safe for trick-or-treaters...

That is until a band of greedy goodie goblins gallop onto the scene - then even the Halloween Kid can use a helpin' hand.

Graduation Quotes and Books

2010-05-27T12:03:00.004-04:00

It's that time of year when graduates of every age are celebrating their recent accomplishments and preparing for their next endeavors. So whether you are attending a ceremony for preschool or medical school graduates, you may want to send a poignant message to that special person who is ready for a new challenge.

Here are some of the best graduation quotes we could find that will touch and inspire your graduate. Think about sending your special message along with a fabulous graduation book from The Lollipop Book Club!

"Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

"All our dreams can come true...if we have the courage to pursue them." -Walt Disney

"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. You are the guy who'll decide where to go." -Dr. Seuss

"Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm." -Winston Churchill

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." -Nelson Mandela

"The horizon leans forward, offering you space to place new steps of change." -Maya Angelou

"A man who has never gone to school may steal from a freight car; but if he has a university education, he may steal the whole railroad." -Theodore Roosevelt

"It is clear the future holds great opportunities. It also holds pitfalls. The trick will be to avoid the pitfalls, seize the opportunities, and get back home by six o'clock." -Woody Allen
"Hitch your wagon to a star." -Ralph Waldo Emerson
"Wherever you go, go with all your heart." -Confucius

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." -Attributed to Mark Twain

"Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else." -Judy Garland

"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." -Dr. Seuss

"If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door." -Milton Berle

"How many cares one loses when one decides not to be something but to be someone." - Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel
"Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal." -Henry Ford

"To the uneducated, an A is just three sticks." -A.A. Milne

Autism Books for Children

2010-05-26T15:40:00.014-04:00

The number of children diagnosed with autism or otherwise falling on the autistic spectrum is staggering. And chances are very high that you know someone who has a child affected by this disorder. For adults, it can be difficult to fully comprehend the complexity of autism and the social ramifications. So you can only imagine how hard it is for kids to try and understand what is going on with their autistic siblings, schoolmates or neighbors.

A good autism book for children is a tool that adults can use to help explain the disorder. Through compelling illustrations and simple text, children can gain better insight into the behavior of their autistic peers. Reading these books about with your kids also opens the door to a conversation and invites questions that may otherwise go unanswered.

Since We're Friends: An Autism Picture Book
by Celeste Shally and David Harrington

This sweet story offers a nice message for anyone who has the opportunity to befriend a highly functioning autistic child. Two boys, one autistic and one not, form a friendship that withstands some challenges. This is a good story for normally developing children who can learn to overlook quirky behavior and develop an invaluable bond with an autistic child.

I Am Utterly Unique: Celebrating the Strengths of Children with Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism
By Elaine Marie Larson and Vivian Strand

Children with Asperger Syndrome and highly functioning autism are the focus of this adorable book focusing on the gifts they have to offer. This book is the perfect read-aloud to children with an autistic-spectrum disorder as it embraces their talents in a fun A-Z format.

Different Like Me: My Book of Autism Heroes

by Jennifer Elder and Marc Thomas

A little boy with Asberger’s Syndrome introduces children to amazing people who have made a significant impact in various fields of study. A common thread among all of these heroes is their autism, making it difficult for them to relate to others. This is an inspirational book for autistic children and their families.

All About My Brother: An Eight-Year-Old Sister's Introduction to Her Brother Who Has Autism

by Sarah Peralta

The sister of an autistic child provides a heartfelt viewpoint of her brother and what is really important about him. Children will learn that while autism can be a dominating characteristic, there are many other interesting things about that person as well. This book is a valuable resource for aunts who want to talk about autism with the other siblings.

Everybody is Different: A Book for Young People with Brothers or Sisters with Autism
by Fiona Bleach

This book is a perfectly inviting resource for siblings of autistic children. Everybody Is Different offers an explanation of autism in kid-friendly language. In addition to educating children about the disorder, the author provides guidance on how to make life a little bit easier with an autistic child.

Sweet Reading!
Karen Gallagher

Book Review: My Brother Charlie by Holly Robinson Peete

2010-05-20T13:48:00.004-04:00

An honest and moving picture book, My Brother Charlie, captures the essence of autism from the perspective of a twin sister. The authors, Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete, wrote the story based on their personal experience. This mother-daughter team offers a realistic depiction of autism, highlighting the gifts an affected child has to offer without glossing over the challenges.

Like many twins, Charlie and Callie have a lot in common, but they also are very different in some very significant ways. While Callie loves to talk, Charlie is often quiet. Also, Callie has a loving nature but Charlie’s does not display outward signs of affection. Loving words are “…locked deep inside my brother.”

Many mothers of autistic children sense that their child is different, often from the time of infancy. Such is the case with Charlie’s mom, despite the fact that a diagnosis does not follow for quite some time. Having an official name for his disorder doesn’t really change what Charlie’s sister and his mother have already come to understand about him.

Charlie is a bright, active and inquisitive child. He has many talents and interests like other little kids his age. He loves to climb, swim, and collect things. But sadly, he lacks the ability to socialize and connect with people most of the time. Laughing, making friends, communicating--these are all things Charlie wishes he could do. Often he seems disconnected and far away in his mind, and he can “ruin the best playdates.”

But then there are the times when Charlie does demonstrate love for his sister through his actions, and even conjures up the words to match. Those special moments are among the many blessings Callie counts when she thinks about her twin brother Charlie.

My Brother Charlie is a beautifully written story about life with an autistic sibling. The book is highly effective as told through the words of a young child. The story does not get lost in complex terminology, nor is there any focus on trying to “fix” Charlie. Rather, it is an endearing tale of acceptance, love, and recognition of a loving soul who has so much to give the world around him. If you have an autistic child in your life, I highly recommend that you share this book with his or her brothers, sisters, cousins, and other children who are affected by autism.

Sweet Reading!Karen Gallagher

Fantastic St. Patrick's Day Books For Kids

2010-03-11T22:45:00.010-05:00

St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner! So now is the perfect time to start thinking about how to celebrate this fun holiday with your kids. A great way is to read a good book together about leprechauns, shamrocks, and everything green.

Here is a list of our top 5 picks to get you started:

#1: Tim O’Toole and the Wee Folk
by Gerald McDermott

This is a very funny tale about poor Tim O’Toole, ostracized by the townspeople for his misfortune. One day he comes across a group of Little People and demands some of their treasure. The evil McGoons in turn rob Tim of his fortune, until he utilizes the help of ten tiny men with clubs to retrieve the goods. This whimsical story is full of Irish humor, making it an enjoyable St. Patty’s Day read for kids.

#2: The Leprechaun’s Gold
by Pamela Duncan Edwards

There is a contest to find the best harpist in Ireland, and it comes down to two musicians- Tom and Pat. Pat is clearly the more talented of the two, so Tom relies on a sneaky scheme to try to win the title. His attempt fails miserably, thanks to the assistance of a leprechaun Pat befriended. Children will enjoy the moral of this suspenseful little story, and will have fun searching for the shamrocks hidden through the book.

#3: That’s What Leprechauns Do

by Eve Bunting

Ari, Col, and Boo set out to find their pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, but like most leprechauns, they find themselves creating quite a bit of mischief along the way. Their antics will tickle the funny bone of every child as the endearing trio creates havoc throughout the beautiful Irish countryside.

#4: The Luckiest St. Patrick’s Day Ever

by Teddy Slater

Sit back and enjoy this lighthearted rhyming romp with a group of leprechauns celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. The day is filled with music, dancing and a fun parade. Young children will enjoy the colorful illustrations and simple story about a day full of cheerful little people.

#5: O’Sullivan Stew

by Hudson Talbott

Mix things up a bit with a story about an Irish girl who takes it upon herself to restore peace to her Irish village. Kate O’Sullivan is a clever heroine who, despite her good intentions, gets into trouble. She manages to outwit the king and saves the day in a funny tale full of subtle humor and vibrant illustrations.

Sweet Reading!
Karen Gallagher

The Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney: 2010 Caldecott Medal Winner

2010-02-17T14:52:00.009-05:00

A picture is worth a thousand words. There is no better expression to describe Jerry Pinkney’s latest children’s book, The Lion and the Mouse. Winner of the prestigious Caldecott Medal for 2010, The Lion and the Mouse is a beautiful and practically wordless retelling of the classic Aesop’s fable.

The Caldecott Medal is awarded annually to one children’s book based on the illustrative depiction of a story. The cover alone of this magnificent work will convince you that the book is worthy of this recognition.

For those of you unfamiliar with the story, The Lion and the Mouse is a classic tale about the unusual friendship these two creatures form. Set in the African Serengeti, a tiny mouse escapes the grip of a hungry owl but lands in the paws of a ferocious lion. The lion inexplicably lets the mouse go, but in time she returns the favor by chewing through the ropes of a trap and sets the lion free. The unlikely bond between these very different animals is one that can be appreciated by children and adults alike.

But the story alone, no matter how remarkable, is not what makes this book so magnificent. The gripping illustrations, done in watercolor and colored pencils, will have you pouring over every detail. Pinkney’s animals are both realistic and expressive, an important yet difficult feat given the scope of their emotions throughout the book.

The sparse text, really just animal noises, allows the reader to focus on the amazing illustrations. Words would be nothing more than a distraction in this story that is so masterfully told through pictures.

The Lion and the Mouse would make a wonderful gift for children of every age. The pictures offer something for everyone and the story itself is a gentle reminder that friendships come in every shape and size.

Sweet Reading!
Karen Gallagher

Book Review: Felicity Floo Visits the Zoo

2009-12-12T20:14:00.004-05:00

Aaaachoo! Bless you, Felicity Floo! This adorable story about a little girl with a bad case of the sniffles should be read to every child this flu season.

No matter how many times you tell your kids to wash their hands, it often seems like the message never gets through. They can’t see the pesky germs, so why bother with the soap and warm water….

Such is the mentality of most kids. But that sentiment will soon change after they read about the havoc Felicity wreaks on the animals at the zoo. This story is effective because of the highly visible green goo Felicity deposits on every creature she touches. Finally, these germs we talk about so frequently are disgustingly tangible on every single page of this whimsical book.

The message this book delivers is timely as we head into flu season full speed ahead. Told in entertaining rhyme, both kids and their aunties will enjoy following a sick little girl who manages to forget everything she is expected to know about good hygiene.

So next time you have to remind your children to cover their mouths when they sneeze, just tell them to think about Felicity Floo and the poor, sick animals she left in her wake!

Sweet Reading!
Karen Gallagher

Thanksgiving Books Make the Best Thanksgiving Gifts for Kids!

2009-11-10T10:44:00.010-05:00

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of the year. I love everything about it. The crisp fall air, the extended break from work (i.e. my husband is home to help out with the kids), and the delicious food! But alas! I am afraid I will think twice about biting into a delectable piece of turkey this year after reading these tales of turkey woes.

Here are some of my absolute favorite Thanksgiving Books about the birds at the center of our feast and their clever antics to avoid the chopping block...at least until next year! Coupled with an adorable Thanksgiving lollipop, they make wonderful Thanksgiving Gift for Kids!

Thelonius Turkey Lives! by Lynn Rowe Reed

Thelonius is one determined turkey who refuses to follow in the footsteps of the others who previously disappeared on Thanksgiving Day. Watch out because this adorable story of one spunky turkey may just change your mind about digging into a delicious Thanksgiving dinner! But not to worry because a twist at the end will leave readers surprised and relieved for the bird whose personality shines through.

Over the River: A Turkey’s Tale by Derek Anderson

Over the river and through the woods, a family of turkeys set out for an appropriately meatless Thanksgiving dinner. In the midst of their journey, they must avoid the trap of those out to make THEM the center of the feast. Vibrant artwork and humorous pictures make this a highly entertaining Thanksgiving read.

Ten Fat Turkeys by Tony Johnston

Little kids learning to count will love this colorful book about ten very silly turkeys. Our feathered friends drop in numbers (think 10 Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed) with each daring and utterly preposterous feat. A perfect Thanksgiving read-aloud for toddlers!

Turk and Runt: A Thanksgiving Comedy by Lisa Wheeler

In a turkey’s world, being an over-achiever is a surefire way to land your rump in the roaster. Unfortunately, the only one who can clearly see talented Turk’s future is his little brother Runt, whose predictions are ignored time and again. While Mom and Dad are busy boasting about their eldest son’s accomplishments, the younger one is hard at work trying to save his brother’s life. Kids love this hysterical story about turkeys oblivious of their Thanksgiving Day fate. Gobble, gobble!

A Plump and Perky Turkey by Teresa Bateman

Finally, a gaggle of turkeys that have learned a lesson or two from their predecessors! The witty birds of Squawk Valley have made it difficult for its residents to enjoy a succulent Thanksgiving Day feast. And so, in an effort to catch the most attractive turkey, the people advertise for an “artist’s model” for a local fair. Vanity almost gets the plumpest victim into deep water, but the clever turkey manages to outwit the townsfolk and avoid the chopping block.

Sweet Reading!
Karen Gallagher

Thanksgiving Gifts for Kids

2009-11-03T22:30:00.006-05:00

Thanksgiving is the time of year when we take stock of our lives and appreciate what is most important- our children! You may want to give them a Thanksgiving gift- a token of thanks by which they will remember you for years to come.

We have brainstormed and come up with a list of the best Thanksgiving gift ideas for kids:

A Thanksgiving Gift of Books from The Lollipop Book Club: Take a few moments to write a special note for a child. Then pick a wonderful Thanksgiving children’s book. We will top it off with a Thanksgiving lollipop and send it off to the child in a bright package. This is truly a Thanksgiving gift for kids that will never be forgotten!

A Day Out on the Town: Cities and towns are wonderful to visit right around Thanksgiving time. There is a spirited energy in the air and decorations for the upcoming holidays adorn the storefronts. Walk through the streets, take your child to lunch, and treat him or her to something special in a small toy or gift shop. The entire experience and your time is the best Thanksgiving gift you can give to a child.

Basket of Turkey Day Crafts: Another great Thanksgiving gift idea is a big basket full of festive crafts. Fill the basket with construction paper, markers, scissors, glue, pompoms, feathers, googly eyes, and crayons. Pick up some inexpensive Thanksgiving craft kits at the craft store and toss those in as well. You will be all set to enjoy some creative time with your child- what a perfect Thanksgiving gift!

A Pre-Thanksgiving Day Dinner: Many households are extremely busy with all of the Thanksgiving dinner preparations that children sometimes miss the whole point of the celebration. By the time you are done cleaning, cooking, baking, setting the table, etc., you are exhausted and the dinner has not even begun. Throw a pile of guests into the mix and things get just plain hectic. So here’s a Thanksgiving gift you can give to your child- a pre-Thanksgiving Day Dinner! Keep it simple- just buy some thick turkey slices from the deli, whip up some mashed potatoes, pick up a frozen veggie, roles, and bakery pie! Voila! There’s your dinner. Sit down with your child and talk about all of the reasons you are thankful.

Sweet Reading!
Karen Gallagher

Spooktacular Halloween Books for Kids!

2009-10-11T16:22:00.003-04:00

With Halloween right around the corner, a fantastic way to get into the spirit is to read a Halloween book with your children. The best Halloween picture books mix vibrant colors with spooky tales, sparking little imaginations and stirring up big excitement for a fun night of trick-or-treating. There are so many wonderful books you and your children will appreciate reading together. Here are just a few Halloween books to get you started:

Willa is not your ordinary scary witch. In fact, she is quite the opposite. She quivers in fright at the sight of every creepy, crawly critter, much to the chagrin of her beloved cat Kitch. But the endearing witch learns face her fears head-on when she finds Kitch in danger. A happy ending to a not-so-scary story is perfect for little ones who get the Halloween jitters.

Goodnight Moon may be the quintessential bedtime story, but you may want to read the parody, Goodnight Goon, earlier in the day. A cold grey tomb with a black lagoon replaces the cozy green room and all of its creature comforts. And then enters the Goon who does everything in his power to prevent the werewolf from falling asleep. You and your little ones who are familiar with the original will especially enjoy this spooky take on a classic tale.

Spanish words and phrases are interjected throughout this rhyming Halloween story. Las brujas, los monstruos, and many other creepy Halloween creatures attend a

Halloween Ball not meant for the easily frightened. So snuggle up and enjoy this delightful Halloween story and teach your nieces and nephews a new language along the way.

After a comical mishap, Rebecca Estelle finds it impossible to rid her property of the pumpkins she so despises. Yet not wanting to waste the (albeit annoying) abundance, she finds a creative way to turn the situation into a positive experience for the whole town. This colorfully illustrated tale has a good moral and offers lots of great recipe ideas for pumpkins.

True to his humorous form, Dav Pilkey tickles the funny bone of young readers with his story about Oscar the dachshund. The poor dog is subject to incessant teasing due to his short stature, and the situation is further exacerbated with his ridiculous Halloween costume. When Oscar rises to a challenge by performing a heroic deed, children learn that they can overcome any shortfall.

A great Halloween Gift for Kids is a gift of books from The Lollipop Book Club. We offer the Halloween books reviewed above as well as numerous other popular books for this spooktacular holiday!

Sweet Reading!
Karen Gallagher

Just a Blog Hop Away from a Free Gift!

2009-10-07T15:31:00.004-04:00

The Lollipop Book Club is participating in its first ever blog hop sponsored by My SEO Gal! We invite you to join in the fun and take a stab at winning some fantastic prizes from the many wonderful boutiques and specialty stores. Just visit the blogs listed below and enter their individual contests. The blog hop goes until 10/21/09.

The Lollipop Book Club will be giving away a prize as well to a very lucky winner! The gift will consist of a Halloween book, a Halloween lollipop, and a gift note printed on a sticker. This Halloween treat will be delivered in a bright red envelope to the doorstep of a special child of your choosing.

To enter The Lollipop Book Club giveaway, you can do one or more of the following. Each step you take below counts as a separate entry, so you have a chance to enter 5 times. After completing each one, post a comment back here. Make sure to include your email address so that we can contact the winner, who will be chosen randomly. The contest ends on October 21, 2009.

(1) Visit The Lollipop Book Club and find your favorite picture book!
(2) Tweet about The Lollipop Book Club giveaway.
(3) Post a comment on your Facebook page about the giveaway.
(4) Follow our blog.
(5) Sign up for the newsletter at The Lollipop Book Club.

Sweet Reading!
Karen Gallagher

Book Review: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

2009-09-18T15:23:00.007-04:00

When a book skillfully taps into the imagination of a child, it can break all worldly rules and take readers on a journey out of a dream. Such picture books stand the test of time and are now reaping the benefits of advanced technology that translate them into amazing movie experiences.

Two examples include Horton Hears a Who! and Where the Wild Things Are.

Most recently, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs is receiving rave reviews after making its debut on the big screen. The book, published in 1978, originally captured the attention of children.

The story begins with a grandfather’s bedtime story about a curious town called Chewandswallow.

By all accounts, the place looks like quaint small-town America, complete with Main Street, tidy homes, and bucolic surroundings. But three times a day, storms move in like clockwork delivering a strange mix. Instead of rain, sleet, or snow, this sky drops juice, eggs, pancakes, hamburgers, hot dogs, and other dietary objects.

At first, Chewandswallow represents recycling at its best.

Fresh food without plastic wrap and wasted packaging drops onto the plates of townspeople who consume what they need. Excess food is fed to the animals on land and at sea, and the remaining leftovers are placed back into the earth to make rich soil for flowers.

Then one day the once predictable weather system goes off course. Pea soup fog paralyzes the town, bizarre food combinations upset the palates, and a jumbo sized pancake envelopes the school. The onslaught of food worsens, forcing the residents to build boats, (using monster-size toast for the base and Swiss cheese for the sail), and flee to a strange new land.

The new town had a grocery store that sold raw food in packages that required refrigeration (how odd!). When clouds rolled in, wet drops simply saturated the ground. And the people lived happily ever after, never again fearing an attack of edibles on steroids.

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs could have easily been written by a child as part of a creative story assignment. This comment is meant as a compliment of the highest order. Of course, the grammar and story sequence is clearly that of an accomplished author.

But it’s the premise itself that feels like the product of a child’s boundless imagination. The book is funny, preposterous, thought-provoking, and action-packed all at the same time, keeping little ones tuned in from start to finish.

The illustrations humorously depict the lives and fate of the sated folks from Chewandswallow. Details galore pack the pages and can practically tell the whole story independent of the text.

If you don’t have a copy, grab a copy at the bookstore or library and snuggle up with a little one to enjoy. Then off to the theatre with a bag of popcorn to see this fantastic story come to animated life!

Sweet Reading!
Karen Gallagher

Rosh Hashanah Books for Kids

2009-09-16T16:40:00.016-04:00

The Jewish New Year is right around the corner, so we have picked the best Rosh Hashanah books for you to share with a little one. These wonderful stories cover the traditions and values celebrated on this special holiday.

Engineer Ari and the Rosh Hashanah Ride: This colorful story about the first train ride from Jaffa to Jerusalem in 1892 teaches an important lesson about Rosh Hashanah. When Ari is selected as engineer of this historic train, his ego takes over, he brags to his friends, and he fails to say farewell. Along the journey, the train stops to pick up items to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, and Ari learns about the true meaning of the holiday.

Even Higher! A Rosh Hashanah Story: In this retelling of a classic Rosh Hashanah story, a rabbi disappears every year right before the New Year. The congregation assumes he has gone to speak with God about the fate of the townspeople. One particular naysayer doubts that such a miracle could happen, so he decides to investigate. When he uncovers a touching secret involving human compassion, even this biggest of doubters changes his mind.

Gershon's Monster: A Story for the Jewish New Year: This tale, based on a Hasidic legend of the Jewish New Year, is about a baker named Gershon who refuses to take responsibility for his mistakes. Instead, he stuffs his bad deeds into a bag and dumps them into the Black Sea. Gershon ignores his rabbi, who urges him to make amends each year. He ultimately finds resolution when his collective errors come back to haunt him in this foreboding story.

Sammy Spider's First Rosh Hashanah: Sammy Spider learns all about the traditions and symbols of the Jewish New Year. His mother teaches him all about challah, apples and honey, and the special services at his synagogue. Sammy’s mischievous behavior will delight small children as they read about how he learns to celebrate Rosh Hashanah in his own special way.

New Year at the Pier: A Rosh Hashanah Story: Izzy is a little boy who especially enjoys Tashlich, a ceremony performed at Rosh Hashanah whereby people confess their wrongdoings and begin the New Year with a fresh start. Nieces and nephews will relate to Izzy as he grows upset about revealing his long list of “mistakes”, but realizes the value in making amends. Overall, this is a touching, humorous story that entertains and teaches young ones a lot about the holiday along the way.

Sweet Reading!
Karen Gallagher

Halloween Gifts for Kids

2009-09-16T16:29:00.004-04:00

Add a little extra fun to the holiday by giving a sweet Halloween gift to a child. This time of year is chock full of festivities in anticipation of the Big Night! So if your child is invited to a Halloween party or if you simply want to give something special, here are some Halloween Gift Ideas that are sure to delight:

Halloween Gift of Books from The Lollipop Book Club: We offer a spooky collection of the best Halloween books around! Each Halloween gift includes a Halloween book of your choice and a delicious Halloween lollipop, complete with a scary gift note from you.

Halloween Window Decals: A great Halloween gift idea is a set of Halloween window decals perfect for adding some Halloween spirit to a child’s bedroom.

Halloween Craft Supplies: Another fun Halloween gift idea is a box of craft supplies to get a child’s creative juices flowing. Visit your local craft store and pick up Halloween stickers, foam kits, glitter, markers, and more!

Halloween Cookie Kit: There is no better way to celebrate Halloween than by baking some festive cookies with a child. A fabulous Halloween gift idea would include cookie cutters, Halloween sprinkles, and other decorative candy all wrapped up in orange & black cellophane.

Tickets to a Halloween Ghost Walk: An eerily perfect Halloween gift idea is a pair of tickets to a Halloween ghost tour in your local town!

Halloween is one of the most exciting and festive holidays for children. Any one of these Halloween gift ideas will add the right amount of spookiness to the Halloween experience and create fond memories for years to come!

Sweet Reading!
Karen Gallagher

Graduation Books: Beyond "Oh, The Places You'll Go!"

2009-05-23T22:12:00.017-04:00

When I graduation from high school, one of my very closest friends gave me a book called Polar Express, beautifully written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg. It is no surprise that this book was a New York Times Best Seller and was translated into an equally intriguing movie.

The thing I remember most about this gift, however, was the inscription that Jeannine wrote inside- Never stop believing. Her pithy message was so meaningful given that point in my life 19 years ago. I'm sure I received many other graduation gifts, but I cannot remember a single one of them. And if my friend had not inscribed a note, I may not have remembered this one either.

So if you are unsure of what to give someone graduating from kindergarten through college...stop wondering. Give a picure book but don't forget to personalize it! Here are some other favorite children's picture books that make wonderful graduation gifts.

Forever Young

By Bob Dylan, Illustrated by Paul Rogers

This inspirational book is based on the lyrics and life of Bob Dylan, one of the most beloved songwriters of all time. Brilliant illustrations provide insight into many memorable events older generations will appreciate, while a nifty guide in back brings the younger folks up to speed. But most important of all is the overriding message for all readers, young and old, who are embarking on a new chapter- stay Forever Young.

The Three Questions

By Jon J. Muth and Leo Tolstoy

For graduates striving to be the best that they can be, this intriguing story is one they must read. A little boy wants to make sure he is doing the right thing, so he asks a wise turtle what he believes to be three very important questions. He learns invaluable lessons not through the answers, but in helping someone in need along the way.

Free to Be You and Me

By Marlo Thomas and Friends
Designed by Peter H. Reynolds

The whimsical pictures perfectly complement this collection of poems and stories encouraging children to follow their dreams. The book is as relevant today as it was when first published 35 years ago. Graduates will learn to shun stereotypes, embrace others who are different, and enjoy the freedom to be exactly who they want to be.

Curious You: On Your Way!

By H.A. Rey

Graduates of every age will appreciate this inspiring book about their favorite monkey. A compilation of scenes from the original Curious George books accompanied by words of encouragement make this an endearingly nostalgic gift for graduates from kindergarten through college.

Hooray for You!
By Marianne Richmond

While this may be a “children’s book,” the message is one that appeals to every graduate. Through simple rhyming versus, this touching book celebrates the unique qualities every person possesses. The author communicates the importance of individuality in a way that will resonate with anyone moving on in life.

Send one of these special graduation books to someone very special from The Lollipop Book Club!

John Lithgow- Children's Author Extraordinaire

2009-05-22T22:23:00.013-04:00

Let's face it. Celebrity sells. A no-name author with a brilliant book may struggle for years without a nibble of interest from agents or publishers.

And yet an "author" who has already established a reputation in another field (acting, athletics, politics, you name it) can publish a book that is mediocre at best with far less effort. It may not be well-received by the critics, but it sure gets into print, on the shelves, and in our faces with lightning speed (which is, admittedly, a relative term when we're talking about publishing).

There has been a surge of children's books to hit the market in recent years written by all kinds of famous people. Some are forgettable...and others are unforgettable. John Lithgow's books, for the most part, are the latter. A master wordsmith and creative storyteller are descriptives that come to mind when I think of his contributions to children's literature.

Here's a list of his titles to date:

The Remarkable Farkle McBride:

NY Times Bestseller about a boy who can't quench his musical thirst until he finds the one job that allows him to enjoy every instrument at the same time- conductor of an orchestra!

Micawber

An squirrel with an artistic flair lives above an art museum. He paints by night creating his own collection of brilliant art to rival the masterpieces that are housed below.

Mahalia Mouse Goes to College

A surprising college graduate, Harvard to boot, is the subject of this story sure to inspire anyone pursuing higher education. This book was incorporated into John Lithgow's commencement speech at Harvard in 2005. It comes with a nice CD where you can enjoy listening to the author himself tell the story of his beloved mouse.

I'm a Manatee

Your kids will sound super-smart when they shout Manatee! when all the others are stuck on dolphins, sharks and whales. But the real point in this story is the wondrous imagination of a little boy who goes on an adventure with his sea life friends.

I Got Two Dogs

Calling all dog-lovers! You must add this sweet book to your collection. It even comes with a CD featuring an upbeat song about man's best friend. Based on his own two dogs, this story will appeal to everyone who has experienced the love and loyalty of an ill-behaved, not so bright canine companion.

Other books to check out by John Lithgow: Marsupial Sue, Marsupial Sue Presents "The Runaway Pancake", Carnival of the Animals

Book Review: Love You Forever by Robert Munsch

2009-04-14T22:01:00.003-04:00

I cannot quite remember how this book became part of my collection. Perhaps it was a gift. I know for certain that I did not purchase it. It's simply not one that would have captured my interest upon a quick glance at the bookstore. Judging it by the cover, the book appears to be just another corny, sappy, not particularly creative or well-written story about loving a baby. (No offense to Robert Munsch, who is an extremely accomplished, well-regarded author.) In fact, it sat on my bookshelf for at least three years before I bothered reading it to my firstborn.

And when I finally did....well, I broke down crying uncontrollably about half way through. The lump in my throat and tears in my eyes that surprisingly appeared within the first couple of pages developed into a full-blown meltdown that prevented me from reading the entire story aloud to my very confused little boy.

Attributing my behavior to exhaustion, the book was shelved for a couple of years only to reappear this afternoon when my second child asked me to read it. Once again, feeling unenthusiastic about his choice and expecting a boring story, the same wave of emotion took over. And I happened to be very well-rested today.

So what's the hook with this book? As a mom, it's the thought that my children will grow up one day. A big revelation? Of course not. Here's the thing....I find myself often wishing for the next phase when things will (hopefully) get easier with my kids. Kind of like the Adam Sandler movie "Click" whereby a dad possesses a remote control he uses to fast forward through all of the challenging moments in his life.

It's those tender moments when they are asleep that I fully appreciate my children. And though some days begin with a mental countdown until bedtime...here's the rub....I can't bear the thought of them growing up and leaving me. And that is exactly where this gem of a book tugs at my heart.

A simple theme is repeated from the very start to the very end of the story. A baby boy moves through different stages of his life, leaving an exhausted and frustrated mom in his wake. Every night while he is asleep, his mother enters his room and cradles her "baby" well beyond his young childhood years. She whispers a sweet poem over and over again.

At the very end, when the mother is old and frail, they reverse positions and the son lovingly cradles his mom. Then he returns home to hold his own daughter and recite the familiar poem.

If you have read this book to your child, I would appreciate a comment! I'm not an overly emotional person...but this book has touched upon something deep within. A fear of my children moving on, of not needing me anymore (I've got to be more careful what I wish for!), of the intense love I have for them.

Okay, off to quietly slip into three little bedrooms and watch my babies sleep for awhile.

Building a Child's Book Collection

2009-04-11T22:34:00.005-04:00

Reading good books with your child is instrumental in building your relationship and cultivating a love for reading. The hours of quality time are invaluable, and the developmental benefits to the child are numerous. For these reasons, it is especially important to build a large collection of good children’s books.

If your child already has a bookshelf stocked with some favorite titles, then you have made a good start. Here are some tips to continue building your child’s library into a source of entertainment that will give video games and television some serious competition-

Humor: Add books that make your child laugh. Seek out books that have funny illustrations and silly stories that will tickle your child. Laughter increases the entertainment value of the reading experience and engages the child in the story.

Variety: A wide variety of books is extremely important. Highly esteemed Caldecott Medal winners are wonderful to read. The illustrations are beautiful and the stories can be appreciated on many levels for years to come. Keep in mind that it is just as important to add some lightweight choices, such as those featuring favorite cartoon characters or movie stars. Just like adults, kids need diverse reading material to select from depending on their mood.

Reading Level: Be sensitive to your child’s reading level. Forcing a child to sit through a book that is too difficult can lead to frustration and turn your child against reading. While there are benefits to reading slightly above a child’s level, time is best spent when the book is on par with the child’s reading comprehension. Here are some pointers for finding books at the right level for your child:

Quantity of written content: Take into account your child’s attention span. If there are too many words on a page, a restless child may tune out before the story is over.

Vocabulary: Reading books is an excellent way to build a child’s vocabulary. However, too many unfamiliar words may cause the child to lose interest in the story. A good rule of thumb is that for a content-rich story, there should be no more than 5 new words per page.

Storyline: Make sure that the story itself is appropriate for your child’s age. If the story is too advanced, even if the vocabulary is easy, a young child will lose interest. Stick with more concrete books early on and save the abstract stories for later.

Let Your Child Pick: Engage your child in the process of selecting new books. Take your child to the bookstore and spend time in the children’s section looking at all of the choices. Try not to steer your child toward your preference; rather, let your child take the lead and seek out titles that seem interesting to him or her.

Give Books as Gifts: Books are the single best present you can give a child. Though toys win the popularity contest at gift-opening time, books have staying power long after all the plastic has been forgotten. So think about ways you can inject fun into giving a book. Here’s an idea- make it the last present he or she opens…and then send your child on a scavenger hunt around the house to find it. Or, establish a tradition in your family where the child gets a new book the day before his or her birthday. Find ways to make it memorable and exciting.

Send a gift of books from The Lollipop Book Club!

Dr. Seuss Quotes- Words to Live By

2009-04-11T21:42:00.014-04:00

Some authors have the ability to make profound statements with a very few, easily understandable words. Their remarks can be appreciated by the young, the old, and everyone in between.

Dr. Seuss is one of the most quoted children's authors, and rightfully so. I'd like to share with you my favorite words of wisdom that this brilliant man has shared with the world.

“Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened.”

“Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.”

“How did it get so late so soon?”

“I meant what I said and I said what I meant.”

“Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.”

“You can get help from teachers, but you are going to have to learn a lot by yourself, sitting alone in a room.”

“Adults are just obsolete children and the hell with them.”

“You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.”

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not.”

“I have heard there are troubles of more than one kind. Some come from ahead and some come from behind. But I've bought a big bat. I'm all ready you see. Now my troubles are going to have troubles with me!”

“And will you succeed? Yes! You will indeed! (98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed)”

"Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.”

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.”

"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself, any direction you choose."

"So the writer who breeds more words than he needs, is making a chore for the reader who reads."

“Don’t give up. I believe in you all. A person’s a person no matter how small.”

"I speak for the trees, for the trees have no tongues."

“Young cat, if you keep your eyes open enough, oh, the stuff you would learn! The most wonderful stuff!”

“Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So…get on your way.”

“I know up on top you are seeing great sights, but down on the bottom we, too, should have rights.”

“My alphabet starts with this letter called yuzz. It’s the letter I use to spell yuzz-a-matuzz. You’ll be sort of surprised what there is to be found once you go beyond ‘Z’ and start poking around!”

“I’m sorry to say so but, sadly it’s true that bang-ups and hang-ups can happen to you.”

“If you never did, you should. These things are fun, and fun is good.”

Five Favorite Passover Books

2009-04-08T16:03:00.003-04:00

Looking for a great Passover gift for your child? Send a gift of Passover books from The Lollipop Book Club. A book about Passover that you can enjoy together is a fabulous idea. Here are five of our favorites that both entertain and educate kids about the importance of this holiday:

Five Little Gefiltes

Based on the story Five Little Ducks, five little gefilte fish escape their jar and go off to explore New York City. Leaving a worried Mama Gefilte behind, the fish manage to survive their adventure and eventually return safely home. This hilarious rhyming story is packed with Yiddish with a handy glossary to study just in time for Passover.

The Matzah Man: A Passover Story

A highly-energized matzah man leaps out of the oven and leads a chase throughout an entire village in the midst of Passover preparations. Children will giggle at the Matzah Man’s chutzpah as he teases the very townspeople who would love to eat him at their Seder. He successfully eludes almost everyone but ultimately falls prey to a sly fox in this satisfying tale that ends with a creative twist.

Only Nine Chairs- A Tall Tale for Passover

Children will laugh at this silly story about a family who is unprepared for the ten extra guests who show up to celebrate Passover. With only nine chairs, each family member takes it upon himself to find a solution for the seating dilemma. The cartoon drawings add further appeal in this funny, rhyming tale of about a jam-packed Seder celebration.

Matzo Ball Moon

Eleanor and her Bubbe together make the yummiest matzo balls for the chicken soup on Passover. One by one, the matzo balls disappear as various family members sneak into the kitchen and sample the delicious creation. When everyone finally sits down to eat, there are not enough Matzo balls to go around, until Eleanor solves the problem. The warmth of a family coming together in a Passover celebration is at the heart of this enjoyable story.

The Secret Seder

In a serious, realistic portrait about Passover, a young boy and his family are masquerading as Catholics in France during WWII. They bravely slip under the radar of the Nazi soldiers and join other Jews in a special Seder celebration. Despite limited supplies, the resilient group engages in a traditional ceremony, while remembering and praying for those who have suffered major atrocities.

Top 10 Gifts for Kids

2009-04-08T14:53:00.004-04:00

You will not be surprised to hear me say that "Book" should be listed next to every line from 1 to 10 on the Top 10 Gifts for Kids. But even the most fervent book-giver understands that kids do indeed enjoy other gifts from time to time.

There are lots of lists out there proclaiming to reveal the Top 10 Gifts for Kids. Many of them highlight the latest toys to hit the market, usually backed by a tremendous amount of advertising. Just put your kids in front of the television for a few minutes, and you will soon hear them chiming “I want that” after every commercial.

After awhile you question whether you have a spoiled brat in the making, some brilliant advertisers, or maybe a bit of both.

Here is a list of the Top 10 Gifts for Kids compiled by one mom’s observations of the things that provide lasting value:

(1) Nintendo DS: Let’s just get this one out of the way first. If you have a little boy 6 years old or older, a DS is all the rage. You will have to put severe restrictions on its use, however, because boys can get sucked in for hours, barely emerging for mealtime or anything else without firm prodding.

(2) Leapster: Talk to any parent about the Leapster, and they will agree that this is one toy that provides consistent entertainment. It is also a portable game system, but with an educational nature. It’s great for children as young as four, but I also find my seven-year-old sneaking in a couple of games in lieu of his DS.

(3) Legos: For boys, Legos are a universal and timeless gift that can be easily incorporated into an existing collection. Following the instructions for the model is enormously educational, but the real beauty of this toy is that the pieces can then be used to create alternative structures and ships. You’ll be amazed by what children can build when left to their own devices.

(4) American Girl: If you have not heard of American Girl, it’s time to get with the program. These dolls are based on pre-teen girl characters from different points in history. Their enormous popularity has spurred successful doll clothing lines, an American Girl Place in New York (complete with a café, a photo studio, a salon, and store).

(5) A Box of Costumes: Boys and girls love to dress up and immerse themselves into the various roles they find in a box of costumes. You can find bargains right after Halloween. Also, be on the lookout for fun accessories throughout the year, like scarves, aprons, hats, sunglasses, and costume jewelry to add to the mix.

(6) Art Supplies: Crayons, markers, stickers, glue sticks, chalk, etc…Find a good teacher supply store for some unique craft supplies to jazz things up. Put it all in a fun container with a bow on top. Kids go through supplies like crazy and it’s always good to have a stock on hand for rainy days.

(7) Umbrellas, Backpacks, Tents and Sleeping Bags: These items are always much better received by children than you would expect, especially when they are decorated with a favorite character.

(8) A Bulletin Board: A plain old brown bulletin board and some push pins make a great gift for kids of all ages. They can make a decorative mark on their bedrooms by showcasing favorite art projects and special photos.

(9) Tickets: To the movies, to a museum, to a play, to a sporting event. You will never have to worry about giving a duplicate, and the experience will be remembered long after most toys have lost their appeal.

(10) Books, Books, and More Books: Enough said! This list of the Top 10 Gifts for Kids applies to boys and girls across various age groups. Spend your money wisely next time by seeking out a gift with lasting entertainment and educational value to boot. Send a gift of books from The Lollipop Book Club!

Book Review: Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney

2009-04-07T19:56:00.003-04:00

Winner of the American Book Award and a New York Times Best Book of the Year

The single most poignant book you can give to a child is the beautifully written and illustrated Miss Rumphius. Told through the voice of her great-niece, the story of Alice Rumphius and her quest to make the world a better place is inspirational.

As a little girl, Alice’s admiration for her grandfather is apparent as she dreams of living in faraway places and growing old by the sea, just like he did. But her grandfather presents Alice with an even greater challenge- to leave the world a more beautiful place than she found it.

And so Miss Rumphius, as Alice is now called, begins her travels across land and sea. She visits a tropical island, climbs mountains, explores the jungle, and traverses the desert. Miss Rumphius makes lifelong friends along the way and leaves an indelible mark upon everyone she encounters.

In the course of her journey, Miss Rumphius is injured and finally decides to return to her home by the sea. She scatters a few lupine seeds around the stony, infertile land – a seemingly futile attempt to make the world a better place- but her injury soon forces her to retire to bed.

Miss Rumphius spends the winter ruminating about her inability to plant more seeds, and she fears she will fail at beautifying the world before she departs it. When the spring arrives, she regains her strength and makes her way over a nearby hill. There she discovers that her seeds had spread and grown into a magnificent patch of blue, purple, and pink lupines.

Now Miss Rumphius knows what she must do. She spends the last stretch of her life spreading lupine seed along roads, around the school house, along stone walls, and everywhere she goes. The little town by the sea is soon covered with the most beautiful flowers that bloom year after year.

As the children from the town gather around an elderly Miss Rumphius, intently listening to stories about worldly travels, her great-niece promises to mimic her life. Miss Rumphius responds with a very special challenge, passed down from her own grandfather, that the little girl must make the world more beautiful along the way. And so the story ends.

It is a noteworthy accomplishment when an author delivers a powerful message in a book that young children can understand. Barbara Cooney has achieved this feat in her masterpiece Miss Rumphius. She uses simple language making this book appropriate for children as young as four. And yet the artful rendering of a woman’s life journey, the powerful message, and the legacy an aunt leaves behind are all themes appreciated by much older children.

No one with a special child in his or her life should miss the opportunity to share Miss Rumphius.. It is a remarkable book that should have a place on every child’s bookshelf for life.

Best Easter Books For Kids

2009-04-06T23:06:00.005-04:00

The Easter Bunny is on his way, so now is the perfect time to give a sweet Easter gift for children about this very special holiday. Here is a list of some favorite books from The Lollipop Book Club:

The Easterville Miracle: (My personal favorite!)

A little boy named Sam cannot understand all of the fuss that occurs in his town every year at Easter. The new outfits, the colorful decorations, the chick-shaped candies all seem so silly to him, especially since no one in his town of Easterville can answer his question as to what it is all about. With the help of an ancient man who live atop a hill, Sam finally learns the meaning of the holiday.

The Dumb Bunnies' Easter:

Laugh out loud with the dumb bunny family as they decorate their tree, prepare the turkey, and wait in anticipation of the Easter Bunny’s arrival…on December 24^th! The silly illustrations and the ridiculous behavior of the confused bunnies will tickle the funny bone of every niece and nephew.

The Bunny Who Found Easter:

A sad, lonely bunny is in search of other creatures like himself. An owl informs him that there are always lots of rabbits at Easter, so he embarks on a journey that takes him through summer, fall, and winter in search of this place. Both the bunny and a mouse who has been following his every step ultimately find love and companionship when the special time of year finally arrives.

Humbug Rabbit:

While Granny Rabbit is aboveground busily decorating eggs for Easter, Father Rabbit is down below in the burrow informing his little bunnies that there is no such thing as the Easter Bunny. An unwitting cat turns Father Rabbit into a believer again after he sneakily hides the decorated eggs in the rabbits’ underground home. The little bunnies have fun discovering the beautiful eggs on Easter day.

Rechenka's Eggs:

Every year, old lady Babushka wins first place in an Easter festival for her beautifully painted Ukrainian eggs. After many hours of labor, she is ready to showcase her artwork again. Then she discovers an injured goose near her home. She takes in the animal and nurses it back to health, but the bird accidentally breaks her eggs when it spreads its wings to fly. Babushka is devastated until the goose miraculously lays colorful eggs, winning another prize for her caregiver on Easter.

Birthday Gifts for Children

2009-04-06T21:55:00.004-04:00

Looking for affordable birthday gifts for children? Once your child reaches preschool age, the birthday party invitations start flowing, and you will find your wallet is quite a bit lighter. Add a second or third child into the social circuit and you may need a calendar on your refrigerator just to manage trips to the toy store. While some parents stick with a girl-only or boy-only theme, others extend a hearty birthday invite to every child in the classroom. Either way, it can seem like there is a party every single weekend. And with that comes a hefty credit card bill attributed to birthday gifts.

When your child received the very first invitation, you probably spent some time looking for the most adorable, unique birthday gift. You possibly had a budget in mind…and chances are you went a little over your mark. Then throw in the cute gift bag, the matching tissue wrap, and the $3.99 card that took you several minutes to find (and a lot less time to find the trash can), and you have surely spent way too much on the birthday present.

To lighten the load on your wallet, keep these tips in mind before you buy the next round of birthday gifts for children:

Send a Birthday Gift for Children from The Lollipop Book Club- You can send a book, an adorable lollipop, and a personal gift card for $15. This price includes everything, even shipping. It is a gift that will not get lost in the birthday party shuffle because it is mailed to the child. It’s a gift experience the birthday child will always remember.

Stock Up- Create a small stockpile of gifts that you can stow away. Watch for sale items and grab the deals when you see them. This way you will always have a small supply of inexpensive birthday gifts for children to choose from when you don’t have time to get to the store.

Avoid Last-Minute Purchases- Do not stop at the store on your way to the party (we’ve all done it), because, in your haste, you will definitely spend too much money. If you followed the previous tip, you’ll be able to choose a reasonable birthday gift from your closet.

Re-Gift- Please don’t think of this as a tacky tactic; rather, it’s a responsible way of recycling items your child does not need. So, if your child receives a birthday present that is identical (or close enough) to one already in the toy box, it is completely appropriate to give this item as a gift to another child. I am not suggesting that you pass along junk. But if the packaging is still intact and the toy is up to your standards, just a duplicate, then pass it along to someone else who may enjoy it.

Resist Accessories- We have all done it. We pick out a perfectly respectable toy for a birthday gift for a child. And then we decide that it just doesn’t look like enough. So we grab something else to go along with it. The other thing may be a smaller item along the same theme. Or it may be a little knick knack to tie around the bow to make the package look cute. Whatever it is, don’t do it. It may make you feel a little better about your gift but its value is quickly lost on the birthday child. This kind of wasted money adds up quickly.

Gift Bags- Avoid buying your gift bags, tissue paper, and gift wrap at expensive card stores. You can easily spend another five dollars just to wrap the birthday present. Instead, you should visit a dollar store and build a small inventory of solid gift bags you can use for any gender and any occasion. Also, always reuse the gift bags given to you, even if they are a little wrinkled. Once you add the toy and tissue, they’ll hardly notice.

Birthday Cards- I cannot think of a bigger waste of money than birthday cards bought at a store, especially when they are attached to a birthday gift you are taking to a party.(It is different if you are mailing a card, especially if you take the time to write a special message in it.) Instead, you can save some money and give a more memorable card by making it yourself, with your child’s help. I am not talking about anything time-consuming or requiring artistic ability. You can simply use a piece of construction paper, have your child add some stickers, and then sign it. I always keep a supply of brightly colored blank note cards that I use for every occasion. It forces me to personalize the message. Plus I can usually buy 20 note cards for the price of 2 regular birthday cards.

Signature Gift- Come up with a signature birthday present that is flexible across ages and gender. And then watch for when those items are on sale so that you always have a handy gift at home. Art supplies are always a good one. Crayons, markers, paints, paper, colored pencils…the list is endless. Buy them up when they are on sale at the big box stores during the back-to-school shopping season. Books also make great birthday presents. Think about personalizing it with a special note inside so that the book stands out. Find your “signature gift” for every birthday present and save yourself the hassle of searching for yet another unique something-or-other.

By following these guidelines, you will greatly reduce the time and money you spend shopping for children’s birthday gifts. You’ll welcome the next round of birthday parties and feel good about giving quality gifts without breaking the bank.

Easter Gifts for Kids

2009-04-06T19:00:00.005-04:00

The Easter Bunny is on his way bringing baskets full of treats for lots of girls and boys. Lots of moms, dads, grandparents and others enjoy spreading their own Easter joy with unique Easter gifts for kids.

Here are some tips for picking out the perfect Easter gifts for kids:

•Give an Easter basket full of books: Skip the chocolate bunnies and jelly beans (leave those to the Easter bunny) and fill an Easter basket with a variety of good children’s books.

•Give an Easter craft: Egg dying has expanded well beyond the simple pastel dip and dye kits of the past, so be on the look-out for some really neat kits. You may also visit a local craft store for some other Easter craft supplies which make a great Easter gift for kids.

•Give a piece of jewelry: A piece of jewelry is a wonderful Easter gift for little girls. You may look for a necklace with a cross or a pretty bracelet with charms symbolic of the Easter holiday.

•Give a keepsake box: A personalized box makes a really unique Easter gift for kids, both girls and boys. Kids love to store their keepsakes in special places, so a little box is the perfect Easter treat.

•Take your kids to an Easter show: Many time local theatres put on productions around Easter. The time you spend with your children by taking them to a special show is an invaluable Easter gift.

•Send a Gift of Books from The Lollipop Book Club: Pick out an adorable Easter book, write a special message, and we’ll send it along with a lollipop handcrafted just for Easter. This is the best gift you can give, especially when you do not live close enough to deliver an Easter gift for kids in person.

Easter is a special time of year when families come together to celebrate. It is especially fun for children who eagerly anticipate the Easter Bunny’s arrival. If you have a special child in your life, follow these tips to give the best Easter gifts for kids ever.

Sweet Giveaway: Share Your Act of Kindness

2009-03-18T15:00:00.004-04:00

I was recently contacted by Nick Katsoris, author of an award-winning series of books featuring an adorable lamb who learns some of life's most valuable lessons. Nick asked me to review his latest work- Loukoumi's Good Deeds- which will be released in April, 2009. See prior blog entry for the book summary and review.

I enjoyed the book and the message of kindness so much that I wanted to share it with one of my lucky readers! Here is the scoop on the giveaway.

The Package Will Include:

A hardcopy version of Loukoumi's Good Deeds
An adorable handcrafted lollipop
A special note from you to the child, printed on a sticker for the inside of the book
All delivered in a red envelope to the child's doorstep!

How to Enter:
You have five chances to enter the contest. Each option below is considered a separate entry and must be posted as individual comments here:

(1) Post a comment about an act of kindness you will never forget.

(2) Post about our giveaway on Twitter and leave a comment here with the link.

(3) Post about our giveaway on your Facebook homepage status (What are you doing?) and comment here when you have done so.

(4) Sign up for The Lollipop Book Club newsletter and leave a comment here.

(5) Announce our giveaway on your blog, and then leave a comment here with the link.

Who is Eligible:
You must have a US address and a valid email address.

When Contest Ends:
The last date of the contest is Friday, May 1st. The winner will be randomly selected and contacted via email. If the winner does not respond within 5 days, then a new winner will be chosen. The winner's name will be posted once the contest is over.

Will There Be More?:
Yes, we are just getting started! We are so excited share The Lollipop Book Club experience with as many people as possible. The best way to truly appreciate what we do is to witness a child's reaction to the gift. Rather than spend our money on print or web advertising, we want to put our gifts into as many hands as possible. Thank you for helping us spread the word!

Book Review: Loukoumi's Good Deeds by Nick Katsoris

2009-03-16T14:39:00.018-04:00

Book Summary/Review:

“Make someone smile, Do a good deed, Lend a hand to a friend in need…”

These words of wisdom are passed along to Loukoumi from her friend Gus the Bear after he guides an elderly giraffe safely across the street. Putting this advice in motion, the adorable lamb goes about her day performing acts of kindness for everyone in her life.

Through deeds such as cleaning her room, helping her daddy wash the car, and providing a band aid to a friend, Loukoumi demonstrates that simple things go a long way in cheering up those around her.

Loukoumi’s Good Deeds is a refreshingly sweet story. It reinforces the message of being kind to others in a way that young children will easily understand. In today’s world, kids often associate “giving” with something material. Loukoumi shows that giving her time, her consideration, and her kind words are the most valuable gifts of all.

As a bonus, each book comes with a CD narrated by Jennifer Aniston & John Aniston, as well as other celebrity voices. This is a nice complement to a colorful story children will surely enjoy.

For every book purchased, $2 will be donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Release date: 4/1/2009

Why I Love This Book:

When my boys were toddlers, I hardly ever left the house. At least not without one or both of them strapped into a stroller. It was the only way I could assure my husband that they would still be intact when he arrived home from work that night. When I was pregnant with my daughter, managing the boys became increasingly difficult as I grew increasingly larger. Towards the end I felt like we were under house arrest because I simply did not have the stamina to take them anywhere.

One day when I was 8+ months along, I was going crazy and finally decided to make the trek to Chik-Fil-A. After an eventful lunch and more orneriness in the play area, I told the boys it was time to go home. It took upward of 20 minutes to convince them to come down from the ceiling tunnel (albeit missing various and sundry clothing), and another 15 to put on shoes, coats, etc. With both of them kicking and screaming as I held held them like footballs under each arm, I awkwardly made my way out to the busy parking lot.

And this is where I faced my biggest dilemma. I had to put one child down in order to strap the other into his carseat. But with both in full-blown tantrum mode and moving cars all around, this was not an option. So I set one boy down on the floor of the car, trying to keep him in place with my foot, while I attempted to strap the other one in. I was precariously balancing all my pregnancy weight on one foot and dangerously close to falling. And any second I was about to join my kids by having a tantrum of my own.

Then....from behind me.....a sweet lady asked if she could help. A feeling of relief like none I had ever felt before swept over me. I gratefully handed her a spastic child while I buckled one, and finally the other, safely inside the car. The woman quickly explained that she has three of her own, a bit older now, but remembers clear as day what life is like with toddlers. Then she went on her way.

I will never forget this act of kindness from a total stranger. It took only a couple minutes of her time, but the memory of her unsolicited help when I desperately needed it will stay with me for a long time. Just like in Loukoumi's Good Deeds, a simple act of kindness made a very lasting impression.

Book Review: Dog Heaven by Cynthia Rylant

2009-02-20T14:37:00.007-05:00

Why I Like This Book:
I have always snuffed out the thought of dying faster than you can blow out candle. It is as simple as this- while I am alive, I choose to focus on living. Now that I have children, I sometimes find myself going too far down the "what if" lane, and it's enough to bring me to a paralyzing halt. The scenarios often involve my own demise, but those thoughts are far easier to handle than the idea of anything happening to my kids.

Oftentimes I find myself happily driving, dragging the kids around on the usual errands, when someone in the backseat points out a graveyard. Then the questions. Is that where Great Pop-Pop is buried? Is that where Granny will go? (She's 97, so that's not an unrealistic inquiry.) How do you get to heaven? Will you be there with me? Oh God. Now I am about to lose it. I almost have to pull the car over to the side of the road, or we'll all find out the answers to these questions sooner rather than later.

And then I think about Dog Heaven. It's a fluffy, simplistic, peaceful tale about dogs who have moved on from their worldly homes to a better place high in the sky. This is how I like to think about a life-after for our canine friends. And it sure makes a good read for my kids who have way too many questions about the subject I avoid with all my might.

Book Summary/Review:
Sooner or later, children start to ask questions about what happens when a person dies. Whether a child experiences the death of a beloved pet, friend, or family member, or just starts to inquire in general terms, it is rarely an easy topic to talk about with someone so young. Dog Heaven by Cynthia Rylant is a wonderful book that many parents will find helpful and children will find reassuring.

It’s important to mention that the book addresses the role god and angels play in creating a heaven that is perfect for dogs. Otherwise, there are no specific religious overtones or beliefs. In fact, the heaven described in the story sounds almost like a child’s description of the best imaginary playground for dogs.

Dog Heaven is full of fields, lakes, and biscuits falling like raindrops, shaped like the kitty-cats and squirrels dogs love to chase. Fluffy of clouds make the perfect pillows for resting after a long day of playing. And when the dogs miss their owners, they pay a secret visit just to make sure their previous home and family members are doing well.

Reading Cynthia Rylant’s whimsical depiction of a dog’s life after Earth is a pleasant way to address the questions of inquisitive young minds. The author’s first endeavor as a picture-book painter is also a successful one. The child-like illustrations in primary colors create a light, playful tone. Children and adults alike will also appreciate the gentle, upward-sloping pictures which give the reader a sense of floating or rising above.

Overall, Dog Heaven is a great book that parents can use to address death in positive terms. It portrays a fun-filled eternal life for dogs, perfect for assuaging children who are upset, anxious or simply curious about death.

Book Review: The House in the Night by Susan Marie Swanson, Beth Krommes

2009-02-11T22:21:00.006-05:00

Book Summary/Review:

The prestigious Caldecott Medal is awarded at the beginning of each year to one amazing picture book. The winning book is selected based upon the illustrative representation of the story, not the written content itself. For 2009, Beth Krommes’ earned this much coveted award for her artistic work in The House in the Night.

About the Illustrations

Beth Krommes complements her luminous black and white sketches with traces of gold throughout the story. The effect is both captivating and magical. The pictures are so intertwined with the words, it is impossible to imagine either one standing alone.

About the Story

This poetic bedtime story will provide reassurance to any child who is scared of the dark. The sparse text focuses on the simple, comforting objects associated with home.

“Here is the key to the house. In the house burns a light. In that light rests a bed. On that bed waits a book.”

The book takes readers on a journey from a warm home to the starlit sky and back again, identifying the many familiar things along the way. Children will take comfort in knowing that light is the only difference between night and day.

Caldecott Honor Books

In addition to the Caldecott Medal winner, three books have been selected as Caldecott Honor books for 2009. The illustrations in these books are remarkable as well. You will enjoy exploring these works of art with your children.

A Couple of Boys Have the Best Week Ever, written and illustrated by Marla Frazee

How I Learned Geography, written and illustrated by Uri Shulevitz

A River of Words: The Story of William Carlos Williams, illustrated by Melissa Sweet, written by Jen Bryant

Now that the winners have been announced, you will see these Caldecott books prominently displayed in every bookstore and library. Share the joy of reading with your child by reading a Caldecott award book together.

Send The House in the Night to a child today from The Lollipop Book Club!

Book Review: Fancy Nancy by Jane O'Connor

2009-02-09T10:10:00.007-05:00

Why I Love This Book:

Clearly I am not alone in my adoration for Fancy Nancy. But let me tell you why this book appeals to me so much anyway. You see, I am not at all fancy. It's not that I can't be or don't enjoy it sometimes, but it's not at the core of who I am. Practical is more like it. Boring, I know, but it's just the way I'm made.

Just take a look at the contents in my jewelry box- that says it all. A few earrings missing their better halves and a couple of reasonably cute bracelets. Oh yeah, and my wedding and engagement rings. My fingers never returned to their originally slender size after I became pregnant with my first child...eight years ago. One day I'll take the time to have the rings re-sized, but for now they are resting safely on my dresser. I am very happily married. No need to flaunt it to the world with a lot of bling, right?

This is not to say that I never tap into my fancy side. I have to dig deep to find it, admittedly, but there is a part of me that enjoys the occasional indulgence in stylish clothing & accessories. My closet is surprisingly stocked with a decent wardrobe from my days in the corporate world. Lots of great shoes, bags, blouses, skirts, pants..with good labels to boot. Not exactly high end designers, but a good suburban mall Ann Taylor collection.

When my husband and I do occasionally sneak out for a nice dinner, I can become almost unrecognizable. As my good friend Amy says, "You clean up good." Amazing what a difference it makes when sneakers and old jeans are replaced with a good pair of high boots, a skirt with a good cut, and a cute, form-fitting sweater. And who knows, maybe I even find a matching pair of earrings that I bought long ago and forgot about in the midst of everything else. A little lipstick, a good blow dry, and voila! I am Fancy Nancy for one night.

Book Summary/Review:

There are a multitude of wonderful children’s books, but only every so often does a book enjoy such wildly popular success that it leads to toy lines and sequels galore. Fancy Nancy is one of those books. It deserves a place on every little girl’s bookshelf. Even boys (perhaps secretly) enjoy this delightful story about a girl who appreciates the frilly things in life.

So what is it about Fancy Nancy that appeals to so many girls? Robin Preiss Glasser’s illustrations, first and foremost, capture the whimsical imagination of a girl with a grand collection of tutus and tiaras. And the colorful accessories- flowing boas, frou-frou hats, golden bangles and snazzy shoes- are aplenty in the pictures that invite little girls to dress up and join Fancy Nancy in her quest for everything extravagant.

The story itself, written by Jane O’Connor, is equally adorable down to the fancy font. Fancy Nancy appreciates the finer way saying her favorite color (fuchsia is the new purple), and understands that presentation is everything by serving sandwiches with frilly toothpicks.

Fancy Nancy also has a talent for turning everyday occurrences into chichi events, and she decides that her family needs to follow suit. After giving them a lesson on elegance and providing wardrobe consultation akin to a Hollywood stylist, Fancy Nancy and her family head out to The Kings Crown (a local pizza joint) with unparalleled pretense. Nancy is pleased with their performance, from calling one another “darling” and ordering “parfaits.”

Then the unthinkable happens. Tripping on her fanciness, Nancy suffers an embarrassing fall and her glamorous evening is ruined. She returns home with her family and to their unadorned ways, comforted by the love and warmth all the frills in the world cannot provide.

Little girls, especially those with a little bit of Fancy Nancy inside, will enjoy reading this book again and again. Send some fanciness to a sweet girl today from The Lollipop Book Club.

The Very First Blog Giveaway!

2009-02-06T15:08:00.017-05:00

Congratulations to Mandy, lucky winner of the first giveaway sponsored by The Lollipop Book Club. Visit us again for future opportunities to win great prizes!

The Lollipop Book Club is giving away a very sweet book gift to one lucky winner!

Our company specializes in the gift of books for children, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply to celebrate a love of books.

See below for details on how to enter. This is just one of many contests to come, so please visit us often.

The Package Will Include:

Any paperback book of your choice on our site- The Lollipop Book Club
One adorable handcrafted lollipop
A special note from you to the child, printed on a sticker for the inside of the book
All delivered in a red envelope to the child's doorstep!

How to Enter:
You have five chances to enter the contest. Each option below is considered a separate entry and must be posted as individual comments here:

(1) Visit The Lollipop Book Club and pick out your favorite book. Come back here and post a comment with the name of the book and your email address.

(2) Post about our giveaway on Twitter and leave a comment here with the link.

(3) Post about our giveaway on your Facebook homepage status (What are you doing?) and comment here when you have done so.

(4) Sign up for The Lollipop Book Club newsletter and leave a comment here.

(5) Announce our giveaway on your blog, and then leave a comment here with the link.

Who is Eligible:
You must have a US address and a valid email address.

When Contest Ends:
The last date of the contest is Friday, March 6th. The winner will be randomly selected and contacted via email. If the winner does not respond within 5 days, then a new winner will be chosen. The winner's name will be posted once the contest is over.

Will There Be More?:
Yes, we are just getting started! We are so excited share The Lollipop Book Club experience with as many people as possible. The best way to truly appreciate what we do is to witness a child's reaction to the gift. Rather than spend our money on print or web advertising, we want to put our gifts into as many hands as possible. Thank you for helping us spread the word!

To Keep or Not To Keep

2009-02-06T13:04:00.002-05:00

My home is full of books- piled in corners, packed onto shelves, strewn across coffee tables, stacked on nightstands, and wherever else you look. I go on binges and buy more books than I'll probably ever have time to read. I am usually reading two or three at the same time- right now I'm working on Jodi Picoult and David Sedaris.

I also have an enormous collection of children's books that are spread throughout my kids' bedrooms and in baskets next to our favorite reading spots in the house. The really special ones are easy to pick out, broken in with all of the love they have seen over the years.

The question is....what do you do with all of your books once you have read them or your children have moved on? My friend Sandy, a self-described pack-rat, refuses to get rid of anything. She hangs on to every report card, note, newspaper clipping, and art project not only from her child, but from her own childhood.

This was a HUGE problem when she married her husband, a self-proclaimed minimalist. One day Sandy walked in the front door to find her husband leaning over the trash can in the kitchen. She watched him for a moment, trying to figure out what the heck he was doing. She quietly approached him and realized that he was reading the final pages of a book. When he finished the very last page, he dropped the book into the trash and started to walk away.

Absolutely dismayed, Sandy asked, "Why did you just throw that book away?" To which he replied, "Well, I finished it and it wasn't all that great."

Something about throwing a book in the trash just doesn't seem right, does it? No matter how terrible, boring, offensive you may find it...a book is a book is a book, and it must be of value to someone!

So, what do you do when you are done with your books? Take a quick poll on the right. I want to know!

Book Review: The Seven Silly Eaters by Mary Ann Hoberman

2009-02-05T22:27:00.004-05:00

Why I Love This Book:
Before I had my own kids, I would scoff at other mothers who bent over backwards to feed their children. Huh! Not me. I would just send them to bed hungry. That would teach 'em to clean their plates next time. When my first bundle of joy arrived, my maternal instincts kicked in and I obsessed over making certain my child was nourished properly. A fussy infant turned into a finicky toddler and finally a downright persnickety little boy. Too spicy. Too lumpy. Too yucky. Too chocolatey (what?). Too hot. Too cold. Too this. Too that. Times 3. Yes, my next two were the SAME way. The only difference between me and Mrs. Peters is in our number of offspring. When I read The Seven Silly Eaters for the first time, I was tickled to the core. For every mom who deals with the preposterous demands of picky eaters, kick back and enjoy this funny, funny book.

Book Summary/Review:

For every mom who has a picky eater at home, The Seven Silly Eaters is a must-read that will have you and your kids laughing out loud. As moms, we fully embrace our responsibility to nourish our children. But “short-order cook” is not necessarily what we had in mind when we signed up for this job. Despite valiant attempts at serving one meal to everyone at the table, some of us ultimately succumb to our finicky feeders and their special dietary requirements.

Such is the case with Mrs. Peters. With her first baby boy, she agreeably heats his milk to the perfect temperature- not too hot, not too cold. She is equally as obliging with the next child’s request for homemade lemonade. With her five subsequent children, the demands become increasingly ridiculous- applesauce only, triple-strained oatmeal, soft and squishy homemade bread, and yummy eggs for two (one poached, one fried!). All the while, she is careful never to allow any of these foods to touch or mix, for a gargantuan meltdown of seven silly eaters would ensue!

Then the night before Mrs. Peters’ birthday, she retires to bed exhausted. The children decide to make their respective food of choice for the next morning’s breakfast. This is to be a special surprise for their mom. Readers can easily predict the disastrous mess in the kitchen, but the final outcome is a clever twist that will put a smile on every mommy’s face. Maybe, just maybe, all of our culinary efforts are not in vain!

Mary Ann Hoberman never stretches her perfectly rhyming verse, making this book a delightfully fun read-aloud. The illustrations are equally as noteworthy, capturing the cluttered chaos of a very busy household. Bathroom doors ajar (with little occupants inside), topsy-turvy lampshades, and laundry galore are just some of the many accurate and funny details to explore.

The Seven Silly Eaters is a book that moms and their picky eaters will enjoy immensely!

Book Review: Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes

2009-02-04T12:10:00.003-05:00

Why I Love This Book:

Looking back on my childhood, I had my share of Chrysanthemum moments. I grew up on a street with two other girls. Well before the math lesson was taught in school, I learned that 3 is an odd number. Feeling a sense of belonging is so important to kids....and I had plenty of experience to the contrary on Beverly Road. I finally got smart and moved on to a whole new world one block over. Problem solved, until Middle School, that is.

The pressures were enormous and girls are cruel, plain and simple. I had entered into a whole new social strata and the rules had changed. Best friends swapped partners on a daily basis, and someone was always left out in the cold wondering what she had done wrong. Just like Chrysanthemum, I remember feeling anxious not knowing what the next day would bring.

Talking to friends now about those years, we realize that we ALL went through the same thing, and wonder why the heck kids put each other through this torturous period. It is what it is. Can't be avoided, so I am bucking up early and reading Chrysanthemum with my children to prepare them for the inevitable!

Book Summary/Review:

A little girl- a happy, secure, content, well-loved little girl- is thrust into that brutal, unfriendly place called SCHOOL. On her very first day, she skips all the way with a pretty smile on her face to match her equally beautiful name- Chrysanthemum.

At least she always thought it was beautiful. Until kids like Jo, Rita and Victoria change her mind. She’s a flower! Smell her! Pick her! Each day Chrysanthemum returns home more dejected; comfort foods and family time are no longer enough to restore her confidence.

And then one day a new music teacher with a magical voice joins the classroom, winning over all the children. She has a special secret to share about her first name and Chrysanthemum blossoms into a happy child once again.

A Flowery Story about Fitting In

The desire to fit in and make friends is present at the core of every child entering new social situations, especially school. Kevin Henkes’ story is a touching tale of a child who struggles to make friends simply because her name is so different. She ultimately learns to appreciate her uniqueness, after enduring some heavy-duty teasing, and comes out stronger for it.

At some point in every child’s life, he or she will undoubtedly experience feeling left out, sad, and insecure, just like Chrysanthemum. It is a rite of passage that no one can or should escape. The key is to overcome the situation relatively unscathed; preferably, with more strength and dignity of character. And that is exactly what Chrysanthemum demonstrates.

This book is one that must be read to every child. The story is extremely balanced- the teasers are not evil bullies and Chrysanthemum is not an overly sensitive victim. The teasing is very realistic and normal. However, the effects can be very devastating if the child on the receiving end does not have a strong support system of family and teachers behind him or her.

The valuable lessons learned in this endearing story should be shared with every child.

Book Review: The Umbrella by Jan Brett

2009-02-01T21:57:00.006-05:00

Why I Love This Book:
A world traveler I am not. I just learned that my sister-in-law traveled to Spain by herself after college, just to explore. And my close friend from high school quit her job, packed her bags, and moved to Italy for a long stint. Turns out that most people I encounter these days have seen a bit of the world.

I did spend 4 months in Spain when I was in college and, truthfully, I found the experience to be a little overwhelming. Maybe with a few more years under my belt, and my husband as a travel companion, I would fare better now.

Until the day comes when I go on an adventure, with kids in tow, I am perfectly happy to journey to exotic places through great picture books like The Umbrella. I get to learn all about life in a Costa Rican rain forest without leaving the comfort of my favorite reading spot. Maybe one day I'll explore it firsthand when my kids are older. I'll put it on the bucket list.

Book Summary/Review:

Explore the beauty of a tropical rain forest with your children.

Take a walk with Carlos as he takes off to explore a rain forest in Costa Rica and the exotic animals that call it home. His journey is captured in pictures framed by vines, creating a sense of peering into the depths of a beautiful, lustrous place.

When Carlos first enters the forest, he immediately climbs to the top of a giant fig tree for a better view. Unfortunately for Carlos, he misses all of the action that starts after the drip, drip dripping rain fills the upturned umbrella he left on the ground.

A tiny tree frog is the first to jump in with a happy “hola”. From there, curious creatures emerge to join him in the small puddle inside the umbrella. As each new animal (including Toucan, Kinkajou, Tapir, Quetzal, Monkey, and Jaguar) lands atop the umbrella, it is sure to tip! But it is not until tiny hummingbird joins the crew that the fun is spoiled.

Meanwhile, Carlos descends from the tree, disappointed that he has not seen a single exotic creature of the forest. He returns home with his umbrella with holding out hope for better luck tomorrow.

The Umbrella is an engaging story that offers a rich learning experience.

Children are transported to a tropical new place. They learn about the various animals that occupy the forest, some of which they probably have never heard of before. Throughout the story, Spanish phrases are injected adding a fun dimension to the Costa Rican experience.

The use of foreshadowing is effective in pulling children into the story. Each page has a small picture of a leaf with the next animal to join the umbrella inside. Children enjoy guessing the name of this new animal and anticipate what will happen when it jumps on top!

The irony is not lost on young readers as they get to experience the action on the ground while Carlos misses it all. This fact is sure to elicit a giggle or two from children who are privy to this secret gathering.

Jan Brett’s rich illustrations and humorous story make The Umbrella a wonderful addition to any child’s bookshelf.

Send a child The Umbrella from The Lollipop Book Club

Book of the Day: Roasted Peanuts by Tim Egan

2009-01-30T21:35:00.022-05:00

Why I Love This Book:
Let's face it...some of us are simply not athletes. This was something I learned about myself very early on. Tried 'em all. Softball. Tennis. Basketball. Field Hockey. Swimming. Diving. Gymnastics. Track & field. Golf. I wasn't just average at any of these sports. I stunk, plain and simple.

The most difficult for me was softball and for some reason I stuck with it for 5 years. The ball scared the living daylights out of me. And the few times I did manage to catch it, my hand always hurt. I mean, really hurt. I couldn't bat either. The coach finally taught me how to bunt. Every outfield knew to move in close when I came to the plate. And the glasses with the safety strap didn't help either. I am Jackson in Roasted Peanuts, except that I couldn't throw either.

Summary/Review:

Peanuts! Get your peanuts! Peanuts here! Any child who has been to a professional baseball game has surely witnessed the peanut vendors, many of them fixtures at the ballpark long after the players have moved on to other teams or retired from the game. And Roasted Peanuts accurately portrays the valuable role a peanut vendor can play in the baseball experience.

While this endearing story is wonderful for every baseball enthusiast, do not let the theme pigeon-hole this book for a particular audience. The storyline applies to the many challenges a child will encounter in life, whether on the winning or losing end.

It begins with Sam and Jackson- best friends, baseball fans, and vastly different athletes. Sam hits every pitch out of the park and catches every ball that comes his way. And then there’s Jackson. He has an uncanny ability to throw a ball with accuracy (though not hard enough to pitch), but it does not override his inability to run fast, swing the bat, or field even the easiest of balls.

After try-outs, it comes as no surprise who makes the team, and who leaves in defeat with the sound of laughter still ringing in his ears. So the two pals part ways. Sam pursues his dreams of playing ball, but his performance tanks and he is heckled mercilessly on the field. Jackson, meanwhile, stagnates in his apartment, feeling sorry for himself all day long.

And so the primary lesson of this touching story unfolds, as the two friends figure out how to work as a team and succeed together using their unique yet complementary talents. Without giving away every last detail, just know that both Jackson and Sam come out shining in their own right.

Roasted Peanuts is such an enjoyable read for parents and children alike. The story is told in a refreshingly simple, non-preachy, matter-of-fact kind of way. For this reason, children as young as four can grasp the message and those as old as eight can relate to the challenges Jackson and Sam face and overcome.

Send a child Roasted Peanuts from The Lollipop Book Club

25 Things About Me

2009-01-30T11:49:00.004-05:00

I am a Facebook junkie. When I should be cooking dinner or putting my kids to bed, I find myself engrossed in family vacation photos of a classmate from 1st grade. This past week, a new FB post has been spreading like wildfire. It's called "25 random things about me".

I have found it absolutely fascinating to read the quirky, interesting, and surprising tidbits about people I thought I knew pretty well. So I thought I would share my list with you as I start down this blogging journey.

(1) There are 1,000,000 other things I should be doing right now.

(2) I have an internet business and I compulsively check for new sales. If I received an order every time I looked, I'd be a rich woman.

(3) I am terribly afraid of heights, but only if I am not strapped in. I am fine with crossing bridges in the car, traveling on airplanes, and even riding roller coasters. But I can't walk on the second floor of the mall without hugging the wall. And forget about sky rides. Truth be told- I'm afraid I will jump.

(4) I always thought a cruise would make a nice vacation, but I have changed my mind in recent years. See #3.

(5) I spend 2 hours at the gym every day...but most of the time I work on the computer while my children play in Kids Club.

(6) I'm the daughter of a preacher, but I hardly ever go to church.

(7) If I ate as healthy as my children, I'd be 10 lbs. lighter, easy.

(8) I have had 1 manicure in my life- on my wedding day.

(9) Despite an inexcusable number of slips on my part, my 7 year old son believes he heard his first curse word the other day on the playground- whoopy ass.

(10) I mow the lawn (and it's pretty big) despite my husband's suggestion that we hire a service. Makes me feel better about #5.

(11) A massage is the ultimate indulgence for me, but unfortunately I am too ticklish to fully relax. Though one time when I was pregnant, I fell asleep and missed the whole thing.

(12) My husband is much more stylish than I am. I have an eye for good clothing & accessories, but I feel like it is too much work sometimes. Besides, my kids tend to ruin most of my nice things anyway, so why bother.

(13) I would have a few more kids if I was a few years younger- and if my husband was on board.

(14) After a number of decorating nightmares, I finally pulled together one room in my house that is magazine-worthy. Maybe one day I'll post a pic on FB.

(15) I don't worry about anything. I consider this to be one of my best traits.

(16) I often encourage my children to watch more television so that I can get work done.

(17) When I was 8, I walked to Holland Elementary and wrote Jason Lyons' name all over the pillars at the bus drop-off point. In chalk, fortunately. The next day he was called to the principal's office. This is my confession...I never told him or anyone else, but I felt bad for a long time.

(18) I truly believe our children inherited the best of us.

(19) My husband calls my car the ghetto mobile. It was a nice, new VW Passat that has, admittedly, seen better days. He has suggested a new car, but I refuse until the kids are less messy.

(20) My son told me the other day that he gets a headache in my car, but not in Daddy's. When I asked him why, he said it's because Daddy has rules and therefore his car is clean. "What rules?", I asked. He said, " No toys, no eating, no drinking, things like that." He will live to regret those words.

(21) I buy my sunglasses at the grocery store, and it seems like I replace them as often as I buy milk.

(22) If I won the lottery, there is not much I'd change about my life. And I wouldn't tell anybody, especially my children.

(23) I adore Neil Diamond.

(24) I am the worst athlete in the world. I played community softball for 5 years, and made the winning catch in a championship game. That is a moment I will never forget.

(25)When I was studying abroad in Spain, my 80-year old grandmother came to visit me. We laughed together for the entire week . That was the most memorable, worthwhile part of my experience.

Sweet Greetings

2009-01-09T14:45:00.004-05:00

Welcome! I am so happy that you have found my blog. It is my goal to bring you all kinds of fun and useful information about children's books. Children's books are my passion and I spend a tremendous amount of time searching for the most entertaining, enlightening, and touching stories.

But let me back up a little bit. First and foremost I'm a mom of Daniel (7), Jack (5), and Katelyn (21 months) and am happily married to their wonderful father, Brian. I adore our busy, hectic, noisy lifestyle- wouldn't trade it for the world.

Up until my daughter was born, I worked in the corporate world of benefits management & consulting. These were 14 very educational years, and the business skills I learned are proving invaluable as I grow my own business- The Lollipop Book Club.

As I discover wonderful new children's books and resources in my business venture, I will share the information with you here!

Sweet Reading!
Karen Gallagher