Mrs. Noodlekugel – A quick and easy read which could have packed a little bit
more than it does. Two children discover a charming home in the middle of where
they least expected it – right in the middle of a whole block of high rise buildings.  The kids find out that it belongs to Mrs.Noodlekugel, a kind old woman who lives there with a talking cat along with not three, but four blind mice.

The story moved and ended rather abruptly for me and was a little confusing and not seeming so right as well at certain points – which is one too many times for this short a story. That said, it is still a quick and easy read with entertaining
characters that can be developed into more stories. The cat was truly the favorite character with both me and my nine-year old son. One line I liked reading in this: “Cats have trouble with consonants, you see.”

Rating: C- (the kids decide to do something the parents specifically told them not to; is confusing why the parents told them that though)

Reading Level: 8 to 10 years

Publication date: March 13, 2012

 A cute book with wonderful illustrations and story told in verse. The story gives the reader a peek into life on a farm while keeping it modern and current.  The illustrations are used well to show farm
life as well as to highlight the imagination of the child’s mind – you will love this when you see it.

The little boy is told by his grandfather that there is a secret for him when he comes to the farm for a visit. The boy tries to find the secret, asking everyone (thing) and looking everywhere and when he discovers it, it is delightful and he learns that the secret can be kept!

My favorite lines: “Could it be in Grampa’s cornfield? It must have heard the secret you know it is all ears.” And “A secret is for keeping.” (in this book, definitely, a delightful secret kept)

Rating: B

Reading Level: 4 – 7 years

Publication date: April 1, 2012

The Bremen Town Musicians – a fresh take on a classic – this story tells the story of the four friends teaming up to find a better life for themselves in Bremen – the twists in this story are all in the journey to Bremen. The illustrations are vivid, colorful and bright. I especially loved the butterflies that stand out even brighter than the rest of the illustrations
on most of the pages.

A charming retelling overall and love the illustrations

Rating: B-

Reading level: 4 – 8 years

Publication date: April 15, 2012

Valentino Finds a Home – I loved this story – Valentino is super cute and I would definitely adopt him as a pet (but don’t let my kids know yet!). Valentino seeks to find a secure home for himself where he will not be eaten and his attempts to do that lead him across oceans and on adventures (for him).

My favorite lines:”Valentino jumped and danced and whistled loud with glee. “At last! At last!” he cried, “Someone recognizes me!!””

Rating: B+

Reading Level: 4 – 7 years

Publication date: April 15, 2012

Disclaimer:Thank you to NetGalley for sending me a digital review copy of all the four books reviewed above. I was not compensated for my review. My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist. They are my personal opinions formed when I read this book.All four books go toward the  Read-to-Me Picture Book Challenge

Monday Memes: