“Interesting and thought-provoking” ―School Library Journal

“Professional storyteller Deedy retells this legend in unadorned, effective language that lends currency to history…. The spare but resonant storytelling is given an authoritative setting in Danish illustrator Sorensen’s paintings; his formal style and balanced compositions reinforce the mood and dignity of the story…. this tale will find heavy use as a readaloud and discussion starter, whether the topic is truth, history, heroism, or moral dilemmas.” ―Bulletin for the Center for Children’s Books

“The book was written for elementary students as an introduction to the Nazi occupation of Denmark during World War II. The book is based on a legend, but more interesting are the true facts about Denmark during the war. Be sure to read the Author’s Note at the end of the book.” ―ACS Readers Haven

[show_more more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]

“Delightful… a perfect introduction for young readers to the difficult story of the Holocaust. The story is surprisingly moving because it is told so simply…. suspenseful and inspiring…. and excellent addition to the many recent books on tolerance and human rights.” ―Five Owls

“A beautiful and moving tale about one of the few glimmers of humanity to emerge from the Holocaust…it reminds us all of the power of the individual against injustice as well as the lasting effects of kindness” ―Herreras

“An excellent book for teachers, librarians and children to add to their bookshelf” ―It’s About Time MaMaw

“I loved this picture book. The story is simple, yet powerful. The message of peace and unity is very clear… I would call this a “5 star” book.” ―Maestra-Amanda

[/show_more]

Bologna Ragazzi Award for Children’s Non-Fiction – Bologna Fiere, Children’s Book Fair, 2001

Christopher Award (Books for Young People) – Christophers, 2001

Jane Addams Peace Prize (Honor Book) – Jane Addams Peace Association, 2003

ABC Children’s Booksellers’ Choices (Non-fiction) – Association of Booksellers for Children, 2001

[show_more more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]

Children’s Booksellers’ Choices – Association of Booksellers for Children, 2001

Notable Books for a Global Society – International Reading Association, 2001

Teachers’ Choices (Intermediate) – International Reading Association, 2001

Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People (Selector’s Choice) – National Council for the Social Studies, Children’s Book Council, 2001

Wow! Award – National Literacy Association, 2002

Parents’ Choice Gold Award – Parents’ Choice Foundation, 2000

Children’s Literature Choice List (Short Books) – Children’s Literature, 2001

Children’s Books Mean Business – American Booksellers Association, Children’s Book Council Joint Committee, 2001, 2003

Texas Bluebonnet Award (Master List) – Texas Library Association, 2002-2003

California Young Reader Medal (Nominee, Picture Book for Older Readers) – California Reading Association, CLA, CATE, CSLA, 2003-2004

Children’s Book Award (Nominee) – Florida Reading Association, 2002-2003

Georgia Children’s Picture Storybook Award (Nominee) – University of Georgia, 2005-2006

Great Lakes’ Great Books Award (Nominee, Grades 4-5) – Michigan Reading Association, 2003

Land of Enchantment Book Awards (Children’s Master List) – New Mexico Library Association, New Mexico Council of IRA, 2003-2004

Prairie Pasque Children’s Book Award (Nominee) – South Dakota Library Association, South Dakota Reading Council, South Dakota State Library, South Dakota Elementary School Principals, 2002-2003

Best Bets for the Classroom (Picture Books) – Virginia Center for the Book, 2000

Book Sense 76 – Book Sense, 2001

Book Sense 76 (Children’s, Young Readers) – Book Sense, 2001

Children’s Media Award – Parent’s Guide to Children’s Media, Inc., 2000

Notable Children’s Books of Jewish Content: the Best of the Bunch (Older Readers) – Association of Jewish Libraries, 2000

Read Alouds too Good to Miss ―AIME, 2001

Storytelling World Resource Awards (Winner, Stories for Adolescent Listeners) – Storytelling World, 2001

Living the Dream Children’s Book Award (Nominee) – Manhattan Country School, 2002

[/show_more]

Carmen Agra Deedy, a New York Times bestselling author, has been writing and traveling around the world telling stories for more than twenty years. Her books have received numerous awards and honors. Carmen has performed in many prestigious venues, but children are her favorite audience. Born in Havana, Cuba, she came to the United States as a refugee and like most immigrants sees the world from multiple perspectives. She lives in Georgia. You can visit her website here.

Henri Sorensen has illustrated over twenty books for children, including The Yellow Star, The Printer, and Christmas in the Trenches. He is also the author-illustrator of two children’s books, New Hope and Your First Step. Sorensen lives in Denmark.

“This finely crafted collection abounds with information and whimsy. It also teems with puns and wordplay…. A ducky book.” ―Publishers Weekly

“Offbeat, provocative, well crafted.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“The illustrations in this book are wonderful – they’re detailed, busy, full of activity and you can easily do a ‘seek and find’ with your child. I strongly recommend Carmen Agra Deedy’s books for any family, school or library – they’ll be well read and loved by all!” ―Family Literacy

International Latino Book Awards (Honorable Mention, Best Children’s Picture Book, Spanish) ―Latino Literacy Now, 2008

UMW Reading Program ―United Methodist Women, 2013

Carmen Agra Deedy, a New York Times bestselling author, has been writing and traveling around the world telling stories for more than twenty years. Her books have received numerous awards and honors. Carmen has performed in many prestigious venues, but children are her favorite audience. Born in Havana, Cuba, she came to the United States as a refugee and like most immigrants sees the world from multiple perspectives. She lives in Georgia. You can visit her website here.

Laura L. Seeley holds a degree in fine arts from the Rochester Institute of Technology. She has written and illustrated numerous children’s books. She lives in California. You can visit her website here.

“The ‘follow your dream’ moral is prevalent throughout the text and reinforced by the dreamlike quality of the illustrations. Behind the talk of adventuring is a reassurance that even though adults have their own dreams and adventures, they still love and return to their children.” ―School Library Journal

“Cuban storyteller Carmen Agra Deedy has crafted a dashing tale packed with skullduggery, schooners and galleons. Wise guys will especially like young Walter’s witty narration and his sly (but never snide) asides.” ―Miami Herald

Southern Book Competition Award of Merit ―Southeastern Library Association, 1997-1998

Carmen Agra Deedy, a New York Times bestselling author, has been writing and traveling around the world telling stories for more than twenty years. Her books have received numerous awards and honors. Carmen has performed in many prestigious venues, but children are her favorite audience. Born in Havana, Cuba, she came to the United States as a refugee and like most immigrants sees the world from multiple perspectives. She lives in Georgia. You can visit her website here.

Michael P. White is an award-winning fine artist and the illustrator of several children’s books. He lives in Georgia. You can visit his website here.

“Eye-catching airbrush art…allows readers to enjoy additional searches for humor in twisted book titles, spoofs on tech terminology, and plot or text similarities with the fiery original. Written with a love for the printed word that spreads to quotes on endpapers, this title will find a following with Miss Lotty’s fans.” ―School Library Journal

“An entertaining read… White’s brightly colored, squashed and squiggly full-bleed illustrations match the tale for good goofiness. Pro-book and library quotes on the endpapers and multiple punny book titles in the illustrations add an extra touch of fun.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“The airbrushed illustrations are filled with rich colors and provide wonderful perspectives…The book is pun-filled as a result of the characters’ names and some of the book titles that appear in the colorful images. Bibliophiles who prefer to read books the old fashioned way rather than on Nooks or Kindles are likely to smile at all the tributes from children about the merits of real books” ―Reading Today

[show_more more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]

“Carmen Agra Deedy’s books are hilarious and fun for all library-loving kids! This protective library goddess, who encourages her students to read and love books, reminds me of my former school librarian–and I can’t give a higher compliment than that!” ―Parents’ Teachers Magazine

“Carmen Agra Deedy’s sequel to ‘The Library Dragon’ is just as fiery when someone wants to mess with beloved books. Michael P. White’s airbrush watercolors explode upon each page with vibrant detail and color. The end papers are filled with quotes about the love of books, reading, and learning” ―The Wichita Eagle

“A hilarious book with a cautionary message about the value of making sure electronics don’t replace physical books, this story is awesome.” ―”Books to Borrow, Books to Buy”

“This is a fun book for kids of all ages” ―Sally’s Bookshelf

[/show_more]

Society of School Librarians International Book Awards (Honor Book, Language Arts Picture Books) ―Society of School Librarians International, 2013

Kansas State Reading Circle Recommended Reading List (Starred, Intermediate) ―Kansas National Education Association, 2013

Alabama Camellia Awards (Nominee, Grades 2-3) ―Alabama Department of Education, 2013-2014

[show_more more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]

Colorado Children’s Book Award (Nominee, Picture Book) ―Colorado Council of the International Reading Association, 2014

Storytelling World Resource Awards (Winner, Stories for Young Listeners) ―Storytelling World, 2014

[/show_more]

Carmen Agra Deedy, a New York Times bestselling author, has been writing and traveling around the world telling stories for more than twenty years. Her books have received numerous awards and honors. Carmen has performed in many prestigious venues, but children are her favorite audience. Born in Havana, Cuba, she came to the United States as a refugee and like most immigrants sees the world from multiple perspectives. She lives in Georgia. You can visit her website here.

Michael P. White is an award-winning fine artist and the illustrator of several children’s books. He lives in Georgia. You can visit his website here.

“Deedy lovingly lulls readers into the intimacy of the reminiscence… Santini’s watercolors, sometimes vague, mostly dreamy, enhance the feeling of events recalled through time…. Use this with older readers as a fine example of what family history can be. It’s like a full cloth made from the remnants of people’s lives, with all the humor, pathos, and drama that’s necessary for a very effective, personal sort of storytelling.” ―Booklist

“My young jury asked to have [The Last Dance] read to them again-and they got the point: ‘Those we love are never really gone as long as their stories are told.’ Debrah Santini’s masterful sketches and watercolors tell as much as the text.” ―Robert D. Hale, Horn Book Magazine

“This tale of love and memory, spun on illustrations as light and rich as gossamer, is a beautiful reminder that picture books are truly a form of art that speaks to the heart no matter one’s age… The Last Dance is a book for anyone who wants to remember and to rejoice in the enduring powers of love.” ―Children’s Book Review

“This traditional tale could be used in an elementary classroom for literacy or art.” ―For the Love of Reading

Not Just for Children Anymore! ―Children’s Book Council, 1999

Best Books for Young Teen Readers ―R. R. Bowker

Carmen Agra Deedy, a New York Times bestselling author, has been writing and traveling around the world telling stories for more than twenty years. Her books have received numerous awards and honors. Carmen has performed in many prestigious venues, but children are her favorite audience. Born in Havana, Cuba, she came to the United States as a refugee and like most immigrants sees the world from multiple perspectives. She lives in Georgia. You can visit her website here.

Debrah Santini has illustrated a number of children’s books. She holds an MFA from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and is a faculty member of the art department at West Georgia College.

“Deedy’s text sparkles with sly humor… The stunning acrylic illustrations are full of color, light, and humor… This wonderful book will delight children.” ―School Library Journal

“Austin’s cockroach dwelling is a desirable piece of real estate, with its stairs made of gum wrappers, its wrought-plastic comb railing, and its exclusive mid-Havana address (it’s a lamppost). A friendly sprinkling of Spanish words, warmly drawn relationships and a lot of puns all widen the audience for this spirited story.” ―Publishers Weekly

“Lively and funny… Fun to compare with other versions, this telling has magic all its own.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“Deedy’s masterful retelling of this Latino folktale has a rollicking voice imbued with sly tongue-in-cheek humor. The acrylic illustrations, in a hyper-realistic style reminiscent of a softer William Joyce, are rendered in a vivid tropical palette. Shifting perspectives and points of view add vitality to the compositions, and facial expressions reveal both emotions and character traits. A scattering of Spanish words adds zest to this fine read-aloud.” ―Booklist

[show_more more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]

“The skillfully crafted acrylic illustrations capture the island’s ambience… The text flows easily.” ―Criticas, Starred Review

“Every page crackles with funny rhymes, silly sound effects, and wordplay that even adults will find irresistible.” ―Atlanta Magazine

“Gorgeously illustrated” ―Fort Worth Star-Telegram

“The humorous use of language, Cuban setting, and beautiful illustrations add to the book’s cultural authenticity.” ―REFORMA Newsletter

“Beauty and charm are not what we expect in a cockroach, but author Carmen Agra Deedy creates a sweet maiden in her re-telling of a Cuban folk tale about selecting a husband.” ―The Sacramento Bee

“It is an excellent way to introduce youngsters to the beauty of insects…” ―Sun Herald

“Children love the animals… The illustrations are WONDERFUL… Great for teaching a lesson on puns, whether for reading OR writing. Also has a great character development component to it about acceptance, kindness, and understanding. Also great to include in a folktale unit…” ―Write Wild

“Audio books have also gained acceptance as a type of reading, thanks to great recordings like ‘Martina the Beautiful Cockroach,’ written and narrated by Carmen Agra Deedy…” ―Jon Scieszka, Ambassador for Children’s Literature

[/show_more]

Carmen Agra Deedy, a New York Times bestselling author, has been writing and traveling around the world telling stories for more than twenty years. Her books have received numerous awards and honors. Carmen has performed in many prestigious venues, but children are her favorite audience. Born in Havana, Cuba, she came to the United States as a refugee and like most immigrants sees the world from multiple perspectives. She lives in Georgia. You can visit her website here.

Michael Austin is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi, a creative director, and the illustrator of several books. He lives in Georgia. You can visit his website here.

“Deedy’s text sparkles with sly humor… The stunning acrylic illustrations are full of color, light, and humor… This wonderful book will delight children.” ―School Library Journal

“Austin’s cockroach dwelling is a desirable piece of real estate, with its stairs made of gum wrappers, its wrought-plastic comb railing, and its exclusive mid-Havana address (it’s a lamppost). A friendly sprinkling of Spanish words, warmly drawn relationships and a lot of puns all widen the audience for this spirited story.” ―Publishers Weekly

“Lively and funny… Fun to compare with other versions, this telling has magic all its own.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“Deedy’s masterful retelling of this Latino folktale has a rollicking voice imbued with sly tongue-in-cheek humor. The acrylic illustrations, in a hyper-realistic style reminiscent of a softer William Joyce, are rendered in a vivid tropical palette. Shifting perspectives and points of view add vitality to the compositions, and facial expressions reveal both emotions and character traits. A scattering of Spanish words adds zest to this fine read-aloud.” ―Booklist

[show_more more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]

“The skillfully crafted acrylic illustrations capture the island’s ambience… The text flows easily.” ―Criticas, Starred Review

“Every page crackles with funny rhymes, silly sound effects, and wordplay that even adults will find irresistible.” ―Atlanta Magazine

“Gorgeously illustrated” ―Fort Worth Star-Telegram

“The humorous use of language, Cuban setting, and beautiful illustrations add to the book’s cultural authenticity.” ―REFORMA Newsletter

“Beauty and charm are not what we expect in a cockroach, but author Carmen Agra Deedy creates a sweet maiden in her re-telling of a Cuban folk tale about selecting a husband.” ―The Sacramento Bee

“It is an excellent way to introduce youngsters to the beauty of insects…” ―Sun Herald

“Children love the animals… The illustrations are WONDERFUL… Great for teaching a lesson on puns, whether for reading OR writing. Also has a great character development component to it about acceptance, kindness, and understanding. Also great to include in a folktale unit…” ―Write Wild

“Audio books have also gained acceptance as a type of reading, thanks to great recordings like ‘Martina the Beautiful Cockroach,’ written and narrated by Carmen Agra Deedy…” ―Jon Scieszka, Ambassador for Children’s Literature

[/show_more]

Pura Belpre Medal (Honor Book) ―American Library Association, Association for Library Service to Children, REFORMA, National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos, 2008

Odyssey Award (Honor) ―American Library Association, Booklist, Young Adult Library Services Association, 2009

Best Children’s Books of the Year ―Bank Street College of Education, 2008

Notable Children’s Recordings ―American Library Association, 2009

[show_more more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]

Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People ―National Council for the Social Studies, Children’s Book Council, 2008

Amelia Bloomer Project (Nominee) ―ALA Booklist, Feminist Task Force, 2008

B. White Award (Nominee) ―Association of Booksellers for Children, 2008

Irma Simonton and James H. Black Award for the Best Picture Book of the Year (Honor Book) ―Bank Street College of Education, 2008

Society of School Librarians International Book Awards (Honor Book, Language Arts, Picture Books) ―Society of School Librarians International, 2008

International Latino Book Awards (Best Children’s Picture Book, English) ―Latino Book and Family Festival, Latino Literacy Now, 2008

Americas Award for Children’s and Young Adult Literature (Commended Title) ―National Consortium of Latin American Studies Programs (CLASP), 2008

California Young Reader Medal (Primary) ―California Reading Association, CATE, CLA, CSLA 2010-2011

Children’s Book Award ―Florida Reading Association, 2008-2009

Young Hoosier Book Award (Nominee, Picture Book) ―Association for Indiana Media Educators, 2009-2010

Texas Bluebonnet Award (Master List) ―Texas Library Association, 2009-2010

Kansas State Reading Circle Recommended Reading List (Starred, Primary) ―Kansas National Education Association, 2008

Monarch Award (Master List) ―Illinois School Library Media Association, 2011

Virginia Readers’ Choice Awards (Master List) ―Virginia State Reading Association, 2010-2011

Black-Eyed Susan Book Award (Nominee, Picture Book) ―Maryland Educational Media Organization, 2008-2009

Charlotte Award (Nominee, Primary) ―New York State Reading Association, 2010

Georgia Children’s Picture Storybook Award (Nominee) ―University of Georgia, 2010-2011

Golden Sower Award (Nominee, Primary) ―Nebraska Library Association, 2010-2011

Louisiana Young Readers’ Choice Award (Nominee, Grades 3-5) ―State Library of Louisiana and Louisiana Center for the Book, 2010

North Carolina Children’s Book Award (Nominee, Junior Book) ―North Carolina Reading Association, 2009

Patricia Gallagher Picture Book Award (Nominee) ―Oregon Reading Association, 2015-2016

Pennsylvania Young Reader’s Choice Awards (Nominee, Grades K-3) ―Pennsylvania School Librarians Association, 2009-2010

South Carolina Picture Book Award (Nominee) ―South Carolina Association of School Librarians, 2009-2010

Treasure State Award (Nominee) ―Montana State Reading Council, 2010

Volunteer State Book Awards (Master List, Grades K-3) ―Tennessee Association of School Librarians, 2009-2010

Anne Izard Storytellers’ Choice Award ―Westchester Library System, 2008

Books All Young Georgians Should Read ―Georgia Center for the Book, 2014

Hispanic Heritage Month Recommended Reading List ―Just Read, Florida!, 2013

Read On Wisconsin! (Primary) ―Read On Wisconsin!, 2009

Storytelling World Resource Awards (Winner, Stories for Young Listeners) ―Storytelling World, 2009

Mockingbird Award (Nominee) ―Abilene Independent School District, 2008-2009

[/show_more]

Carmen Agra Deedy, a New York Times bestselling author, has been writing and traveling around the world telling stories for more than twenty years. Her books have received numerous awards and honors. Carmen has performed in many prestigious venues, but children are her favorite audience. Born in Havana, Cuba, she came to the United States as a refugee and like most immigrants sees the world from multiple perspectives. She lives in Georgia. You can visit her website here.

Michael Austin is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi, a creative director, and the illustrator of several books. He lives in Georgia. You can visit his website here.

“Youngsters will enjoy the funny touches and librarians may feel the good-humored tap of a reminder that books are for kids.” ―School Library Journal

“Deedy is an accomplished storyteller, and kids will likely enjoy her frequent puns and wordplay and [Michael White’s] droll, stylized illustrations, filled with vibrant color and lots of comical details.” ―Publishers Weekly

“Full of witty word-play and double meanings, this fun read about a dragon librarian who guards the books and thinks ‘storytime is simply medieval’ is sure to make you ‘on fire with enthusiasm.’” ―Book for that Kids

[show_more more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]

“I love the story. I love the images. I love the humor. I love the language. I love it as a parent, a teacher, and a writer. I could read it over and over and over because the humor and the language and the story and the pictures are just that engaging…” ―Christie Write Wild

“The illustrations are colorful and the creation of the dragon librarian and her antics will entice children to find the Library Dragon in their own school library.” ―It’s About Time MaMaw

“There’s plenty of wordplay to keep both parent and child entertained. Miss Scales ‘smoulders’ and is so tired after all her anger that she is simply ‘draggin’ near the end of the story. These examples, and many others, give readers opportunities to place emphasis on the words as they’re being read and stop to give context or discuss the rich vocabulary. It’s a terrific way to teach children about words, homophones and puns…” ―Kid Book Doctor

“Somehow, I had missed out on reading this book! We picked up the book with the audio cd at the public library and it’s now my new favorite book about Librarians. I will definitely be using it and recommending it for elementary librarians. Classic! The audio is a must because the author, Carmen Agra Deedy, gives the dragon a “I just smoked a carton of cigarettes” voice and it is hilarious!” ―Mrs. Library Fanatic

“This book has to rank right up there as one of my ‘most delighting’ kids’ books to listen to one of my tribe read. Just look at the grin on my boy’s face!!! I’d listen to his giggles as he’d sound out one of the harder, very tongue in cheek phrases and caught their silly meaning.” ―Our Wrighting Pad

“Clever wordplay, rich vocabulary and brightly colored illustrations make The Library Dragon a sharp, humorous commentary on children’s department librarians-be they dragons or dragonmasters!” ―A Page in a Book

“This is probably my favorite picture book of all. I first read it to my children when I checked it out from the library a few years ago. We’ve gotten it several times since. We all love it!” ―Write Wild

“The wordplay in this book is tops, and the illustrations are as funny as the words – pay close attention so you don’t miss a joke. The moral is nice, too…” ―The State Journal Register

[/show_more]

Notable Children’s Recordings ―Association for Library Service to Children, 2013

Children’s Book Award (Nominee) ―Florida Reading Association, 1997-1998

Young Hoosier Book Award (Nominee, Grades K-3) ―Association for Indiana Media Educators, 1999-2000

[show_more more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]

Flicker Tale Children’s Book Award (Picture Book) ―North Dakota Library Association, 1997

Georgia Top 25 Reading List ―Georgia Center for the Book, 2002

Buckaroo Book Award (Nominee) ―Wyoming Library Association, Wyoming State Reading Council, 1999

Colorado Children’s Book Award (Nominee) ―Colorado Council of the International Reading Association, 1997

Volunteer State Book Awards (Master List, Grades K-3) ―Tennessee Association of School Librarians, 1997-1998

Read Alouds too Good to Miss ―AIME, 1998

Storytelling World Resource Awards (Winner, Special Storytelling Resources) ―Storytelling World, 2013

[/show_more]

Carmen Agra Deedy, a New York Times bestselling author, has been writing and traveling around the world telling stories for more than twenty years. Her books have received numerous awards and honors. Carmen has performed in many prestigious venues, but children are her favorite audience. Born in Havana, Cuba, she came to the United States as a refugee and like most immigrants sees the world from multiple perspectives. She lives in Georgia. You can visit her website here.

Michael P. White is an award-winning fine artist and the illustrator of several children’s books. He lives in Georgia. You can visit his website here.

“The fast-moving plot is a masterwork of intricate detail that will keep readers enthralled, and the characters are well-rounded and believable. Language is a highlight of the novel; words both elegant and colorful fill the pages… Combined with Moser’s precise pencil sketches of personality-filled characters, the book is a success in every way. It should be a first purchase for libraries interested in bringing young readers to the marvels of Dickens via the back – or, should I say tavern – door.” ―School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

“Readers with great expectations will find them fully satisfied by this tongue-in-cheek romp through a historic public House that is the very opposite of Bleak.” ―Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

“Moser’s graphite illustrations are realistic and wonderfully emotive, especially in combination with the novel’s fresh dialogue, typographical flights of fancy, and wordplay. Expertly realized characters and effervescent storytelling make this story of unlikely friendship, royal ravens, and ‘the finest cheese in London’ a delight.” ―Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW

[show_more more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]

“Whether you come to this book as an English major or as a cat lover, you will agree the first line of ‘The Cheshire Cheese Cat’ is pure genius…This joint effort from Carmen Agra Deedy and Randall Wright, illustrated charmingly by Barry Moser, might be best appreciated as a read-aloud. It is sure to spark dialogue about loyalty and bullying…and Anglophiles young and old will appreciate the tale of Maldwyn, an injured raven hiding out at the Cheese and plotting his return to this rightful role guarding the Tower of London…” ―The New York Times

“Alley cat Skilley finagles his way off the tough streets of London and into a life as a mouser at a local inn where he strikes up an unlikely alliance with the resident mouse and befriends Dickens. A zany scheme and high jinks ensue. Dickensian references pepper this playful, clever tale illustrated with pencil drawings.” ―School Library Journal Online

“With many likable characters, a couple of enjoyably despicable ones, and a lovingly depicted period setting, this eventful chapter book has plenty to offer young readers…” ―Booklist Online

“This is a true collaboration. One that mixes history, animals, mystery, and literary references in abundance. Kids of all ages, genders, and stripes will take to the book. It also happens to make for a handsome read-aloud. Recommend it to any child looking for just a good read. It is, precisely, that.” ―A Fuse #8 Production

“Wonderfully entertaining for readers of all ages, with charming illustrations…The story is accessible without being condescending, and frequently uses phrases or words that are quite advanced…The Cheshire Cheese Cat blends history, mysteries, animals, and literary references together wonderfully, and I recommend this read to children of all ages, genders, and interests. It is simply a good read with a little something for everyone.” ―Associated Content

“Solid messages about friendship, loyalty, and being true to oneself are nevertheless effectively conveyed, and readers will likely enjoy the primary animal story, while historical fiction fans will appreciate the Victorian atmosphere. Moser’s softly shaded graphite illustrations, appearing in vignette spot art throughout, offer personable portraits, especially strong in their depictions of the animal characters.” ―The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

“From the start ‘The Cheshire Cheese Cat: A Dickens of a Tale’ borrows from Charles Dickens to pull young readers into a story about an unlikely friendship between a cat and a mouse who share the secrets of an English pub…Readers new to Dickens will enjoy the twists in this lively tale, while those who’ve read the writer’s works will enjoy its Dickensian setting and spirit.” ―The Chicago Sun-Times

“’The Cheshire Cheese Cat’ is a fun read at any age, but quite the pick for cat lovers with a crossover into historical fiction.” ―Midwest Book Review

“Parent lit geeks take note: In a different spin on the classics, The Cheshire Cheese Cat: A Dickens of a Tale is a Dickensian labyrinth of a story following a cheese loving cat and his mouse friend Pip.” ―Parents’ Choice

“Any reader will devour this story of how an alley cat named Skilley moves into a popular London inn, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, and develops a highly unlikely friendship with a mouse name Pip…In short, punchy chapters, authors Carmen Agra Deedy and Randall Wright tell a rollicking tale of friendship and skullduggery. Another bonus: Barry Moser’s expressive line drawings, which are scattered throughout the book.” ―Scripps News

[/show_more]

Notable Children’s Books ―Association for Library Service to Children, 2012

Notable Children’s Recordings ―Association for Library Service to Children, 2013

E.B. White Read-Aloud Honor ―Association of Booksellers for Children, 2012

Notable Children’s Books in the Language Arts ―Children’s Literature Assembly, 2012

[show_more more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]

Parents’ Choice Gold Award ―Parents’ Choice Foundation, 2011

Best Children’s Books of the Year ―Bank Street College of Education, 2012

Best Children’s Books of 2011 ―Kirkus Reviews, 2011

Best Fiction Books of 2011 ―School Library Journal, 2011

Cybils (Middle Grade Fantasy and Science Fiction) ―Cybils, 2011

Texas Bluebonnet Award (Master List) ―Texas Library Association, 2012-2013

Best of the Best in Children’s Literature ―Pennsylvania School Librarians Association, 2011

Charlie May Simon Children’s Book Award ―Arkansas Department of Education, 2013-2014

Kansas State Reading Circle Recommended Reading List (Starred, Intermediate) ―Kansas National Education Association, 2012

Young Adult Top Forty ―Pennsylvania School Librarians Association, 2012

Delaware Diamonds (Nominee, Grades 3-5) ―Diamond State Reading Association, 2012-2013

Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children’s Book Award (Nominee) ―Vermont State PTA, Vermont Department of Libraries, 2012-2013

Flicker Tale Children’s Book Awards (Nominee, Juvenile Books) ―North Dakota Library Association, 2012-2013

Land of Enchantment Book Awards (Nominee, Children’s Books) ―New Mexico Library Association, New Mexico Council of IRA, 2013-2014

Nene Award (Nominee) ―Hawai’i Department of Education, Hawai’i State Public Library System, Hawai’i Association of School Librarians, 2014

Pennsylvania Young Reader’s Choice Awards (Nominee, Grades 3-6) ―Pennsylvania School Librarians Association, 2012-2013

Prairie Pasque Children’s Book Award (Nominee) ―South Dakota Library Association, South Dakota Reading Council, South Dakota State Library, South Dakota Elementary School Principals, 2013-2014

Rhode Island Children’s Book Award (Nominee) ―Rhode Island IRA Chapter, RILA, REIMA, 2012-2013

Volunteer State Book Awards (Master List, Grades 3-5) ―Tennessee Association of School Librarians, 2013-2014

Top Shelf Fiction for Middle School Readers ―VOYA, 2012

Georgia Children’s Book Award (Nominee) ―University of Georgia, 2014-2015

[/show_more]

Carmen Agra Deedy, a New York Times bestselling author, has been writing and traveling around the world telling stories for more than twenty years. Her books have received numerous awards and honors. Carmen has performed in many prestigious venues, but children are her favorite audience. Born in Havana, Cuba, she came to the United States as a refugee and like most immigrants sees the world from multiple perspectives. She lives in Georgia. You can visit her website here.

Randall Wright is the author of several novels for young readers, including a 2004 VOYA Top Shelf Award winner. He lives in Utah.

Barry Moser is one of today’s most celebrated illustrators of children’s books. He is also a printer, painter, printmaker, designer, author, essayist, and teacher. The books Moser has illustrated and/or designed form a list of over three hundred titles. He lives in Massachusetts. You can visit his website here.

“This finely crafted collection abounds with information and whimsy. It also teems with puns and wordplay…. A ducky book.” ―Publishers Weekly

“Offbeat, provocative, well crafted.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“The illustrations in this book are wonderful – they’re detailed, busy, full of activity and you can easily do a ‘seek and find’ with your child. I strongly recommend Carmen Agra Deedy’s books for any family, school or library – they’ll be well read and loved by all!” ―Family Literacy

International Latino Book Awards (Honorable Mention, Best Children’s Picture Book, Spanish) ―Latino Literacy Now, 2008

UMW Reading Program ―United Methodist Women, 2013

Carmen Agra Deedy, a New York Times bestselling author, has been writing and traveling around the world telling stories for more than twenty years. Her books have received numerous awards and honors. Carmen has performed in many prestigious venues, but children are her favorite audience. Born in Havana, Cuba, she came to the United States as a refugee and like most immigrants sees the world from multiple perspectives. She lives in Georgia. You can visit her website here.

Laura L. Seeley holds a degree in fine arts from the Rochester Institute of Technology. She has written and illustrated numerous children’s books. She lives in California. You can visit her website here.