Friday, February 1, 2013

The Scrambled States on Picture Book Friday

Two, yes two - this week you get two books for the price of one!  Last week on Picture Book Friday I shared my love of author Amy Krouse Rosenthal.  Well this week I am spreading the adoration over to Laurie Keller and the two books that are beloved in our home.  I got so inspired when I saw that one of her picture books, Arnie the Doughnut, has been made into a chapter book that I can't keep this talented author/illustrator to myself any longer!!  Sadly her chapter book does not come out until June, but it gives you time to get acquainted with her wonderful work.

I also want to highlight that these picture books are ones that older kids will adore.  The Scrambled States of America is a great fit for fifth graders who are learning about the states and they will probably get quite a bit more of the humor than younger children.


Title:       The Scrambled States of America

Author:   Laurie Keller

Target:    Any age

Series:     Yes there is a sequel, The Scrambled States of America Talent Show

What this book is about:
One day Kansas gets bored.  He realizes that he never does anything new, he never goes anywhere.  After some deliberation with Nebraska, they decide to have a “get to know” you party with the other 48 states.  At the party the suggestion comes up to trade places for a while, to see different parts of the country - shake things up a bit.  Well it turns they are best suited for the original locations, but not without some funny adventures and of course a romance!

Why I love this book:
While the premise of this book is perfect, and the prose is funny, clever and home spun, the best part of this book are the illustrations and the small asides on every single page.  Those little side comments from just about every character or state pictured make the book hilarious, and as a parent, be rest assured that your child will not let you stop until you have read every single one!  But I promise, you really won’t mind.

Who this book is for:
This book is informative and clever enough for older kids, but younger kids will also love it.  This is one of the few picture books that will, without a doubt, be enjoyed by all age groups in a family.

Final thoughts:
Missouri and Nevada - talk about a long distance romance!

To purchase this book click on the following to connect to Amazon: The Scrambled States of America  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog.




Title:       Arnie the Doughnut


Author:   Laurie Keller

Target:    Any age

What this book is about:
Arnie the doughnut is having a fine time being cooked up and then socializing with all the other pastries at the bakery.  When he gets purchased, he looks forward to a new friend and a new adventure.  However, imagine his horror when he realizes that his new owner intends to EAT HIM!  What ensues is a discussion on how Arnie can fit into his new home, if he is not going to be consumed.  Just what can a doughnut do around the house?

Why I love this book:
Laurie Keller’s strength is in the wonderful asides throughout the book that add funny and endearing touches to the story.  Additionally, what kid isn’t going to feel for Arnie, just a good ol’ doughnut, whose world is turned upside down when he finds out he is someone’s snack!  Of course, as they try to find funny and ridiculous uses for Arnie around the house, kids will love the creativity and eventual solution!

Who this book is for:
Can’t imagine any kid not enjoying this book.

Final thoughts:
Arnie the Doughnut is one sweet story!

To purchase this book,click of the following link to connect to Amazon: Arnie, the Doughnut (Adventures of Arnie the Doughnut)  A portion of each purchase goes to support this blog.

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