The Sea of Monsters (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 2)

Book Description

Percy Jackson's seventh-grade year has been surprisingly quiet. Not a single monster has set foot on his New York prep-school campus. But when an innocent game of dodgeball among Percy and his classmates turns into a death match against an ugly gang of cannibal giants, things get . . . well, ugly. And the unexpected arrival of Percy's friend Annabeth brings more bad news: the magical borders that protect Camp Half-Blood have been poisoned by a mysterious enemy, and unless a cure is found, the only safe haven for demigods will be destroyed.In this fresh, funny, and hugely anticipated follow up to The Lightning Thief, Percy and his friends must journey into the Sea of Monsters to save their beloved camp. But first, Percy will discover a stunning new secret about his family -- one that makes him question whether being claimed as Poseidon's son is an honor or simply a cruel joke.

Customer Reviews:

The Sea of Monsters.......2007-10-10

This book is a winner. My nine year old daughter loved this whole series and wouldn't leave me alone until I got her the 2nd (and ultimately the 3rd) book. She loved the hidden twists and turns to the story. She thought the book was quite exciting. She reads one to two 100+ books a week and this is her Favorite series, by far, of all the books she has read. She likes the mix of ancient mythology and action.

THE SEA OF MONSTERS.......2007-10-06

The Sea of Monster's was a thrilling book that is appropriate for young adults and adults. It was action packed and clever.:)Anyone who is interested in greek mythology would thoroughly enjoy this book. I'm looking forward to reading the 3rd book, and have already ordered it!!!!

Wow. . .what an ending!.......2007-09-28

This is a fabulous sequel to Riordan's first book. It is full of action, adventure, and it sparks some curiosity about future events. . . not to mention the ending will wow you!

Percy's Odyssey is another fantastic trip into modern Greek myth.......2007-09-13

In the second book of the modern Greek-mythological Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, Percy discovers that Camp Half-Blood is in danger as their borders are weakening. Even worse, his cross-dressing satyr best friend Grover is in danger of getting married. Percy, his friend and daughter of Athena, go on a quest to save Grover and retrieve the Golden Fleece, doing a great impression of Odysseus along the way. While the book isn't as imaginative and strong as the first in the series, it continues Riordan's witty prose and clever updating of Greek mythology and Greek hero quests (I just go geek for that stuff). Percy's issues with his absent father are compounded with the discovery and shame of his half-brother. Percy's father-issues reflect a very grown up issue: that of feeling abandoned by our God. At heart, this intelligent series isn't just about the greater and universal truths of Greek mythology and the problems of identity and growing up, but about family and the bonds of blood, even the most dysfunctional family in history: that of the ancient Greek divinity. Grade: A-

The series continues with the fun where it left off.........2007-08-29

The next edition of the Percy Jackson series, picks up a few months after the first book The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 1)left us. This time Percy, our young half-god hero, has to deal with even more problems then ever.

The half-blood camp is now in danger of being attacked and over run by monsters who were once held out of it's grounds by a tree. The tree has been poisoned and time is running out before the camp will be over run for good. It's up to Percy and his friend Annabeth to get the golden fleece from an evil cyclops who has also captured Grover, his satyr friend.

Joining Percy this time is a young cyclops, Tyson who turns out to be more then he seems, much to Percy's surprise. His great strength and immunity to fire will come in more then handy for Percy on his quest to stop things before they even get worse. Now with Charon banned from camp, his rival daughter of Ares being put on the quest instead of him and Luke, his former friend still out there causing trouble things have gone from bad to worse over the short summer break.

The follow up is pretty good and continues the story nicely. It was lacking in a few places that the first book did deliver on. Like the variety of monsters and fun that seemed to flow through the first adventure. This time it was mostly focused on cyclops and lacking of the character development that was fun the first go around. But that is minor problems if anything. The book delievers the same fun and situations that we fell in love with the first time around. The action is constant as are the refernces to mythology that Rick Riordan uses nicely in a cute and fun twist to relate it to modern times. The explanation for why there are so many Starbucks around was just one of many weird notions that Riordan came up with and for some reason in this universe as we are reading it, we don't question the logic we accept it and want more of it.

If you enjoyed the first, this is must get. It picks up the characters and adventure where it left us and adds in even more twists and turns then we were left with the first go around. Its a never ending story that keeps building up to more and more to look to and figure out. Slight bits of info are leaked to us in this book that will come into play later but are still left open for interpretation.

I can't say this book is better then the first but it is just as good and will most certainly leave you wanting more. Riordan seemed to plan everything out quite well and the reader will also realize that this is getting quite good and deep. As an older reader I can say this book is fun for people of all ages. Check it out, its an adventure you will love to continue on gladly.

Heroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths

Average customer rating:

great little book
Especially great book for those young readers, interested in Greek Mythology
Imagination grabber
Greek Mythology
greek

Heroes, Gods and Monsters of the Greek Myths
Bernard Evslin
Manufacturer: Laurel Leaf
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0553259202
Release Date: 1984-09-01

Book Description

The earth breeds giants and ogres of indescribable horror -- the heavens hold omnipotent gods and goddesses, abounding in courage, strength and wisdom.

Zeus, the almighty king of the gods, who cannot resist feminine beauty -- mortal or divine, and his jealous and vengeful wife, Hera.

Perseus, fearless mortal warrior, who takes on an impossible challenge: slaying the monstrous Medusa, whose glance turns men to stone.

The Minotaur, half-man and half-bull, the horrible fruit of a queen's unspeakable desire, who annually destroys the young victims sacrificed to his terrifying power.

A fantastic world of spells and curses, magic and mystery, forces that create and destroy at will.

Customer Reviews:

great little book.......2007-06-08

If you like greek mytholoy, but you're not an expert, this is good staring point. it is very clear, and the histories are very fun to read

Especially great book for those young readers, interested in Greek Mythology.......2007-05-13

This book is full of stories of Heroes, Gods and Monsters, wonderfully written for easy reading and comprehension. A great book for anyone, especially young readers looking for stories that will open their minds to a world of magic and mystery.

Imagination grabber.......2007-05-08

Great book to get your childs imagination going. The information on Greek Mythology is addictive where you wont want to put the book down, until you've read the whole thing.

Greek Mythology.......2007-03-15

I found this book quite informing. If anyone has an interest in Greek Mythology, this book has it all. The stories are detailed and wonderfully written.

greek.......2007-01-12

the book was ok but i think there was alot left out the god of war, ares and the hero,hercules, which is the most famous of all. i think there could of been more added.

The Wrath of Mulgarath (The Spiderwick Chronicles, Book 5)

Average customer rating:

Excellent book
The Wrath of Mulgareth(Spiderwick Chronicles #5
SpideWick Book Review
not about spiders
My son loves this book

The Wrath of Mulgarath (The Spiderwick Chronicles, Book 5)
Holly Black
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0689859406
Release Date: 2004-09-07

Amazon.com

Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi pull off an impressive five for five with Wrath of Mulgarath, the satisfyingly dramatic conclusion to their series, The Spiderwick Chronicles. After the gory conclusion of the The Ironwood Tree, we don't get even a moment's reprieve before the action picks up again, in a starting chapter entitled, fittingly, "IN WHICH the World Is Turned Upside Down." Thirteen-year-old Mallory and nine-year-old twins Jared and Simon return to the Spiderwick Estate only to find their home in shambles, with trash and broken furniture scattered across the lawn and Simon's griffin chasing a "goblin" across the roof. The faerie world that the Grace kids have so slowly probed in this series has finally come home to roost. Black and DiTerlizzi pack a lot into the finale of this beautifully produced series, with dragons and goblins and elves--and even a magical cameo by Arthur Spiderwick (the long-lost author of the disappearing-reappearing Field Guide to the Fantastical World Around You). We get a dramatic rescue, a clever end to a fearsome foe (with some thanks to Hogsqueal from book two), and a long denouement that leads to a final cryptic note from the author and illustrator: "Are there more ogres / and dragons to slay? / Is there more mayhem, / perhaps, on the way? / Ask Tony and Holly. / They'll swear that it's true. / But you still won't believe / what's coming for you!" (Ages 6 to 10) --Paul Hughes

Book Description

Three ordinary kids, Jared, Simon, and Wallory Grace, have entered another world -- without leaving this one! Two remarkable talents, New York Times best-sellers Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black, have risked everything to bring this remarkable account to light. Five books -- one thrilling adventure -- the Spiderwick Chronicles!

Their world is closer than you think.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent book.......2007-09-29

My son loves the series of this book and was so glad to hear it came out with a new one. I bought it for his birthday and he actually loved getting this book as a gift.

The Wrath of Mulgareth(Spiderwick Chronicles #5.......2007-08-10

I think the ending to this book was very good. I love the entire series and I'm looking forward to seeing the movie when it comes out next year.

SpideWick Book Review.......2007-04-17

Spiderwick Book
By: Tony DiTerlizzi

This book is called Spiderwick. It is about a single mom raising twin boys and a daughter. They have just moved into their new house on the edge of the forest. They start to encounter weird and strange things in the house, such as fairies, goblins, and horrible creatures.
They find a secret attic that has strange items, and they find a fairy. He helps them on there journeys and explains what they are encountering.
Eventually the twins get kidnapped so there sister goes out and tries to find them. But will she succeed? It is a great book for kids in about fourth to fifth grade. If you like surprise, adventure and suspense than read Spiderwick and find out if the brothers get saved or experience their worst nightmare.
I like this book because every time you think that everything is ok something bad happens and it keeps you thinking. I also like it because of the reaction of the characters when something strange happens. I know I like this book and you will too.

[...]

not about spiders.......2007-03-13

3 Kids save the Day
This is a book review on the book of Spiderwick The Wrath of Mulgarath, by Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi. The story mostly takes place in the town of Spiderwick Estates.
Mom Dad We Are Home!
"Mom dad we are home" is what the main characters said in my book when they got home from school. But there was no answer. Then they ran upstairs, and saw that the place was trashed. And all they found was a little rhyming guy on the table, his name was Hogsqueal. And Hogsqeal told them their parents had been taken by the goblin army of Mulgarath. Then they go to the junk yard where Mulgarath's lair is. And fight for their mom and dad to be free. On the way they fight tons of goblins.
Favorite Book
I loved this book! It was really action packed. I think it is a great book for boys, maybe girls too. I loved this book because you can learn lots of lessons. For example, always go for what you want. And the kids don't care if something seems impossible, they will just do the best they can. They are not scared if it looks like they don't stand a chance against goblins, the will either figure out how to beat them or get out of it. Another thing I like was that when the authors put the pictures on the side, I felt like I was in the book with them.
Lost Someone
I can really relate to the characters in my book because they only lost their parents and found them but I lost my great uncle Lloyd for ever. So if you feel like you have ever lost someone go to the nearest bookshelf and read it.
Read It
If you like to travel to different imaginary places, would be a great book for you

My son loves this book.......2007-02-17

This book is part of a set that I purchased for my son. He read it in one sitting so I know he enjoyed it. The illustrations are fun.

Average customer rating:

Faery Fantastic!
Pure Glamour
A wonderous journey . . . .
Faeries Forever
Fair Faeries

Faeries (25th Anniversary Edition)

Manufacturer: Harry N. Abrams
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0810932741

Book Description

It has been 25 years since Brian Froud and Alan Lee created the delightful, imaginative, and surprising Faeries-a book that quickly became a massive international bestseller and went on to sell more than a million copies. Readers continue to offer praise: "This is the most influential book I have ever read." "This book is-where are the words to describe it? Magnificent / Fabulous / Beautiful / Moving / Terrifying / Fantastic. . . ."

In celebration of Faeries' 25th anniversary, Abrams is delighted to publish a special edition featuring eight new pages and 20 new pieces of art by Froud and Lee. The artists have also contributed new introductions. Since Faeries first appeared, both men have become tremendously successful and respected figures in the worlds of film, art, and publishing. But Faeries remains perhaps their most enduring work, a superb exploration of the myths, legends, folklore, and fantasy of the world of the faeries.

Customer Reviews:

Faery Fantastic!.......2007-04-26

I ordered this book from amazon not to long ago, I also enjoy the work of Brian Froud's enchanting but bewitching faeries. This book by Brian Froud and Allan Lee is wonderful, not only does it contain Brian Froud's strange yet wonderful art work, but it also contains Folk Lore, Myth, and Fantasy stories along with the art work to keep you entertained.

Pure Glamour.......2007-04-05

Each and every page positively shimmers with magic. This is the book that made Brian Froud famous and has yet to be surpassed. Alan Lee's ethereal watercolors are just as breathtaking and provide a lovely counterpoint to Froud's more dramatic drawings. But don't let the glowing images fool you into thinking this is just another "art" book. The folklore contained therein is just as sound. The flora and fauna sections are especially worthwhile. There is also a dangerous aspect to this work, which adds a fascinating spicyness. Not all faeries are the shining winged beings that the Victorians were so fond of. Some are sharp toothed and clawed monsters that come creeping out of the shadows and muck to drag the unsuspecting to their dooms.

One of the previous reviewers wrote that this book isn't for adults but not quite suitable for children either. I agree. IMHO it is a book for the inbetween people: young adults, serious children, and adults who have maintained some of their childhood innocence.

Regardless how you look at it FAERIES is a classic.

A wonderous journey . . . ........2007-02-27

As you progress through the pages of this peek into the lore of this mystical land, let your imagination run free while you allow Brian Froud and Alan Lee to weave a mystical spell of enchanted wonder, enveloping you with a sense of surreal, fantastical imaginings. This is the most fun I've had between the pages of a book in a long time!

A word to the wise for anyone expecting a sketch book full of dainty little girls with gossamer wings: the nightmares are not relegated to the back of a dusty shelf here. From Faerie Flora to the hideous Jenny Greenteeth, all the Fae folk are portrayed, both good and bad, pretty and ugly, helpful and mischievous. The stunning artwork is visionary in capturing the intrinsic mystery of this egnimatic, unseen world and its phantasmic population. The handwritten notes add to the captivating essence of the stories in an informal and comfortable way.

If I could change anything at all, I would wish that the pages were numbered and included a table of contents, so I could more easily flip to my favorites.

I would recommend this book to anyone who still wants to believe in magic, and to anyone who wants to reconnect with their childlike sense of wonder. You may be left with the belief that anything is possible . . . .

Faeries Forever.......2006-09-20

If I could give this book 10 stars I would! Brian Frouds'"Faeries" is the most amazing book I have ever read. I found this book when I was young and fell in love with faeries instantly. The illustrations are astonishing for a lack of better word. Alan Lee and Brian Froud not only draw the most realistic and imaginitive faeries, but the stories included in the pagess really makes you believe that faeries are real. Brian Froud is the original faerie author and has influenced an whole new genre with his artwork.

Fair Faeries.......2006-03-11

This was a gift for a dear friend who is quite Faery-like herself. I've given several of Mr. Froud's faery books to people, and they are inevitably very pleased. Mr. Froud is a sensitive artist and captures the "Shining Folk" or "Lords and Ladies" very impressively, almost as though he were in touch with the Elemental Kingdoms himself, consciously or unconciously. These are splendid gifts for the imaginative, whether child or adult, and I recommend them very highly.

Tales from the Odyssey: Sirens and Sea Monsters - Book #3 (Tales from the Odyssey)

Average customer rating:

Tales of odyssous
tbreading@warsaw.k12.in.us
The best in the series!

Tales from the Odyssey: Sirens and Sea Monsters - Book #3 (Tales from the Odyssey)
Mary Pope Osborne
Manufacturer: Hyperion
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0786809302

Book Description

Odysseus and his men have done what no other mortals have done: returned alive from the terrifying Land of the Dead.Armed with warnings and advice from the ghosts of the prophet Tiresias, Odysseus is determined to finally sail home to Ithaca.But the enchantress Circe tells him that the Greeks will face even more horrors on their journey, including an encounter with Scylla, the six-headed monster, and Charybdis, the deadly whirlpool.Who will survive these terrors-and how?In this third of six books based on episodes from Homer's Odyssey, Mary Pope Osborne continues the exciting adventures of one of the greatest heroes of all time.

Customer Reviews:

Tales of odyssous.......2005-11-17

The Odyssey is about this man named Odysseus and his adventure to the island of the Sun God. It's based on the original book, Homer's Odyssey. He's got to go through some amazing things to get to the Sun God. He also has to keep his men safe, plus he has to deal with his men, because they want to slay and eat the cattle of the sun god.
Odysseus had to fight 3 monsters on his way to the Sun God. He had to fight the Charybidis, which is a giant whirlpool. He has to fight the three-headed monster that killed six of his men. The last thing he had to fight was the lady merchants that led you to their island and killed you or you drowned on the way before you got there.
Then Odysseus got to the land of the Sun God and he told his men that if they slayed and ate the cattle that the sun god owned their families would be cursed. Then when he goes to sleep they eat the cattle because they haven't eaten for a very long time.
The reason that I recommend this book is because it's a fun book for all ages and it is a pretty fast read. Another reason I recommend this book is because it's a fast paced historic fiction story. The last reason I recommend this book is because if you've read the other Mary Pope Osborn books, like the Magic Tree House books, you'll love it.

tbreading@warsaw.k12.in.us.......2005-10-21

I use this book for an ESL English class. It's much more comprehensible than reading the poetic version. The kids seem to enjoy it, where I think they would be lost with the poetic translation in our textbook. All of the students in this class are low level English speakers, so this gives them something interesting to read without a huge comprehension challenge.

The best in the series!.......2004-07-04

We read all these books in the series together as a family. This one was our favorite. My boys couldn't wait for bedtime so they could hear what would happen next in the story. These books offer enough action to keep one's interest, young and old. I recommend all the books in the series. We can't wait for #6!

Average customer rating:

Not for children under twelve
My kids 7 and 13 love this book.
Good book, but not for young children
Awesome Gruesome Guide!!!!!
A nice introduction to dozens of monsters from around the world

Gruesome Guide to World Monsters
Judy Sierra
Manufacturer: Candlewick
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 076361727X
Release Date: 2005-07-12

Book Description

Make room in your suitcase for this monstrously entertaining guide to fantastic creatures around the world — and how to elude them.

I did not make any of this up.

Do you know why you should have baby teeth handy when visiting the Midwest? Or why you should bring a cucumber with you when swimming in Japan? How good are you at solving Russian riddles? From Boston to Bejing, from Moscow to Mali, any place you visit has its own terrifying tales of very real creatures. Complete with handy "gruesomeness ratings," this guide offers all the important facts on some sixty-three folkloric monsters and how (if possible!) to survive an encounter with them. Meticulously researched by Judy Sierra and illustrated in grotesque detail by Henrik Drescher, here is the ultimate resource for any world traveler, armchair or otherwise, hoping to make it home alive.

Customer Reviews:

Not for children under twelve.......2007-01-22

I think the overall idea of this book is great- children learn different geographic folklore- and the presentation of it "What you should do if you run into this monster" is fun. I also think I am pretty lenient with what I let my children read, and likewise my son who is nine is a tough cookie-that loves scary stuff. At the age of six he went on every scary ride he was tall enough to get on at Disneyworld and didn't blink twice-he was never spooked by anything- and loves gory masks at Halloween.
So I thought this would be the perfect book and gave it to him for Christmas last year. I ended up returning the book. It scared the pants off of him especially the monster that disembowels people-I think it has some pretty evil undertones and think it could have been written a little more child friendly.

My kids 7 and 13 love this book........2006-11-10

The book is like an encyclopedia of mythical monsters. Good drawings and imaginative descriptions. It is fun, but not like a novel.

Good book, but not for young children.......2006-08-15

My six year old son is very into Halloween and anything spooky. So when we saw this book at the library we just had to check it out! The very first monster in the book is one that lives behind mirrors and grabs people. This freaked my son out and now he will not go into the bathroom by himself. After that, we had to pick and choose which monsters to read to him about and even then we had to leave a few words out. It says on the back of the book that this book is for age 6 and up. That surprises me and I would not recommend this book for a 6 year old. But, I still give it a three star rating because, as an adult, I find it very interesting reading about these monsters that live in folklore.

Awesome Gruesome Guide!!!!!.......2006-07-30

This book is extremely interesting to me because it talks about the locations of each monster and what each monster does to unsuspecting travelers. Also, this book talks about how to survive each encounter with each monster in great detail. The monsters are rated as (1) Frightening, (2) Dangerous, (3) Very Dangerous, (4) Usually Fatal, and (5) Fatal, with the fatal monsters usually having no survival tips for the travelers.

My favorite monsters in this book were the Sigbin, a beagle monster whose intestinal gas is deadly, the Kishi, who has half a handsome face and half a hyena face, the Rolling Head, who ate his whole body and goes after travelers and eat them, the cannibal baby, who sucks up the flesh of unsuspecting travelers, and the Curupira, who sucks out all the organs of hunters who harm the animals in Brazil.

This book is great for people who want to know more about the monsters of the world and how to survive them. This book is extremely entertaining for both children and adults. The adults will enjoy the book because of it description of all the monsters and the children will enjoy the book for Henrik Drescher's childish yet detailed drawings of the monsters.

A nice introduction to dozens of monsters from around the world.......2006-03-04

"The Gruesome Guide to World Monsters" is presented as a travel guide that will help you plan how to meet (and how to flee) the various monsters of the world. But you have to understand going in that the advice given here are only proven methods for escaping or overcoming SOME of these monsters, SOME of the time. So forget about a money back guarantee that you will come back from your vacation alive, because with some of these survival tips I am pretty sure they are just making things up to give young readers a false sense of hope. All of the monsters that Judy Sierra writes about and which are illustrated by Henrik Drescher are "real" in the sense that they are a genuine part of the world's folklore and have been around for thousands of years.

The book is divided geographically so that you learn about the monsters closest to home in North America before moving on to Central and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia and the Pacific. For each we are told the location where you can find the monster (e.g., watch out for the Cannibal Baby in the Rocky Mountains). Then there is the five point scale of the Gruesomeness Ratings: (1) Frightening, are monsters that are scary but not life-threatening, of which there is only one example, the Baku of Japan that comes into your bedroom at night and eats your bad dreams; (2) Dangerous, are monsters that smart travelers can avoid or overcome, such as Zombis; (3) Very Dangerous, are those monsters where you chances of surviving a meeting are 50-50 at best, such as Bloody Mary, the evil spectre who lives on the other side of mirrors; (4) Usually Fatal, are monsters to avoid at all costs, such as the Vukodlak of Serbia, a wicked person who lives on after death; and then (5) Fatal, where once the monster sees you it is too late, which includes the Jinn of North and Central Africa that kidnap people and cause diseases.

For each monster there is also a brief description, and most importantly the Survival Tip (e.g., the Ovda of Finland will apparently become powerless if you touch its left armpit). The illustrations should be appealing to younger readers because, quite frankly, they often look like something kids would draw. The exception that proves the rule would be the wicked painting of the Aniwye, a giant skunk that inhabits the Great Lakes region, which means that living here on the shore of Lake Superior if I hear the sound of giant teeth crunching the roof above my bed, I need to exit immediately. In her afterword Sierra explains some of the necessary roles that these monsters have played in the lives of people, from making sure children stay away from caves and forests to preserving the balance of nature. "The Gruesome Guide to World Monsters" is a nice little introduction to the monsters that people have been talking about for centuries, and if a young reader wants to find out more about the Kishi of Zimbabwe or the Nakk of Sweden, there is certainly enough here for them to be able to look elsewhere for more information.

Giants, Monsters, and Dragons: An Encyclopedia of Folklore, Legend, and Myth

Average customer rating:

A very concise source of information.
Monsters
Fun -and- educational.
very nice
A Very Good Encyclopedia

Giants, Monsters, and Dragons: An Encyclopedia of Folklore, Legend, and Myth
Carol Rose
Manufacturer: W. W. Norton & Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0393322114

Book Description

We have always conjured up creatures never seen in nature, from flying horses and two-headed birds to fire-breathing dragons and enormous killer skunks, as well as fantastic distortions of our own image, from giants to nubile maidens. In these pages you will meet extraordinary beings from Hindu and Navajo religions, Scandinavian tales, Russian folklore, Lithuanian stories, Irish oral history, American tall tales, and Aztec myth. Just some of the monstrous entourage:

• Baku, a benevolent Japanese monster with the body of a horse, the head of a lion, and the legs of a tiger, who helps people by devouring their nightmares.

• Kurma, the giant tortoise of Hindu myth, whose upper shell forms the heavens and lower part the earth.

• Missipissy, the feared fish serpent of North America's Great Lakes region.

This illustrated encyclopedia not only identifies and describes individual beasts in their cultural context but also groups them together across cultures and discusses common mythological strands and conceits. 60 b/w illustrations.

Customer Reviews:

A very concise source of information........2007-09-14

I was surprised with the extensive amount of listings within the book. There is a lot of otherwise hard to find information. I would have given this book 5 stars if it weren't for one thing; there is no index. A book like this should really contain an index for those looking for particular traits, or words within a creature's definition. However there are listings in the back based on different characteristics it is not as exhaustive or all around helpful as a simple index would be. Don't get me wrong though, this book is still well worth the purchase. Besides you can search through the book for keywords on this webpage by clicking "Search Inside".

Monsters.......2007-02-22

I was really pleased with this book. You could get lost for hours just reading about each creature. I would reccommend this book to any person who likes to read about monsters.

Fun -and- educational........2006-10-06

This is one for both the scholar who needs a quick reference and the casual enthusiast looking to impress friends with mythical trivia (not that many people have friends who are so easily impressed).

If you have any interest, academic or casual, in the mythical beasts of yore, I highly recommend Rose's encyclopedias (this, and the "sequel," which contains more benign beings). It's fascinating to see icons from ancient Mesopotamian myth, Japanese legend, Native American religion and contemporary American folklore all on the same page.

In addition to thorough explanations of the origins and significance of each beastie, Rose goes one step further by explaining parallels to other cultural icons, common heritages and even manifestations in modern popular culture (for instance, there are numerous entries about creatures from J.R.R. Tolkien's world, which, while not strictly mythical themselves, do draw their inspiration from real-world mythology).

There are a number of similar cyclopedic works available, but this one differs from the masses in that it is both thoroughly academic (unlike many of the recent pop-culture anthologies), -and- thoroughly enjoyable. Highly recommended.

very nice.......2006-03-02

As others have mentioned, this book is an encyclopedia and as such contains mostly facts. The stories and legends mentioned in the book are briefly surmised. The pictures are all in black and white. Most beings mentioned in the book are not pictured. Having no other similar book to compare this to, I'd say it's pretty complete. I've never heard of most of the creatures listed. I did find a few beings missing that I think are important and sometimes there are multiple entries for the same subject, under different and sometimes very similar names.
This book would be useful as a reference for a research paper and is a nice addition to anyone's library.

A Very Good Encyclopedia.......2005-12-12

Carol Rose has produced an amazing book with loads of fun information, however, it is an encyclopedia as it says. Although very helpful, it can be a tedious read at times.

Average customer rating:

One Two Three
The funest book in a long time, Great Pictures!
WOW!
He Loves It
Excellent

The Story of Frog Belly Rat Bone

Manufacturer: Candlewick
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Humorous | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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Picture Books | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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Monsters | Obsessions | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0763613827
Release Date: 2003-04-01

Book Description

"FROG BELLY . . . plants the idea that with some strategy, good communication and goodwill, you can grow wonderful things." —PORTLAND PRESS HERALD

"Frog Belly Rat Bone,
one, two, three . . .
the specks in the earth
are protected by me.
You must be patient and
then you will see. . . ."

Once upon a time, in a dull, gray endless place called Cementland,
there lived a very special boy who wished to find a treasure. After much searching among piles of greasy toaster ovens and wet smelly socks, he
spies a box filled with specks and a wrinkled note that says, "Put these
wondrous riches in the earth and enjoy." Horrified to learn that thieves
are after his treasure, the boy scrounges the junkyard and conjures a creature to stand guard - a scarecrowlike gardener with crooked bony arms, a giant belly, a jaunty crown, and preternatural wisdom: Frog Belly Rat Bone, king and protector of the specks.

With subtle, delicate tones, fantastical figures, and bursts of glowing color, the surreal artwork and hand-lettered text of Tim Ering’s picture book debut exude all the whimsy of an inspired imagination - and the wonders of a natural world that awaits discovery, even in Cementland.

Included with each book: a whimsical full-color bookmark offering a
behind-the-scenes glimpse at the artist, his technique - and his inspiration!

Customer Reviews:

One Two Three.......2007-04-26

This book is terrific. My 5 and 3 year old children equally love it. They like the transformation of Cementland, they enjoy the little thieves and laugh at the ingredients that make up Frog Belly Rat Bone. My kids will repeat the Frog Belly Rat Bone chant as well. Great job!

The funest book in a long time, Great Pictures!.......2007-01-04

I had heard of this book from a friend, and thank goodness I did. The book is not only fun for my almost 5 year old, but is fun for an adult too. The story line flows for easy reading with funny parts, and lessens to be learned. Take time to look at each drawing, every time you look you see something new. As a parent I always look for books with a good vocabulary and this book meets that and then some. I give Frog bell rat bone 5 Stars. It is truly one of the wondrous riches to our book collection.
Connie

WOW!.......2006-08-30

Absolutely amazing in its story and creativity. My girls love this book. We ordered this for the local library so everyone could enjoy. My three year old has really bonded with frog belly and chants the funny saying. This is a simple but beautiful story.

He Loves It.......2006-04-12

I picked this up one day when I was wasting time at a book store purely because I thought it looked interesting. When I got it home I stuck it on the shelf and completly forgot about it. Then one day my three year old found it, and asked me to read it to him. That was about 3 months ago and we've read it almost every night. It's gotten to the point that I'll screw up the story just so my son can correct me. He's memorized every word.
The story is fun, in an odd way, and the illustrations are a welcome break from the sickingly saccharine illustrations most children's books are saturated with.
I wish Mr. Ering would publish another story soon, I'm getting tired of reading this book over and over...of course my son doesn't seem like he will ever tire of it.

Excellent.......2005-09-14

The artwork is incomparable. Really, that alone is reason enough to buy the book. It's not your typical cutesie kids' book pictures, but something much more. I pulled out my newly arrived copy to show my sister, who paints (and sells) some pieces in a local gallery, and she paged through it again and again. The artwork has that much depth. And the story is very good too, making the book well worth buying. I'm sure I'll be back to look for more from this author/illustrator.

Foundling (Monster Blood Tattoo, Book 1)

Average customer rating:

Hats off to D.M.Cornish so far...
Move over, Harry Potter!
A new series perfect for readers looking for something a little out of the ordinary
Amazing!
Great world-building

Foundling (Monster Blood Tattoo, Book 1)
D.M. Cornish
Manufacturer: Putnam Juvenile
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Monsters | Obsessions | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 039924638X

Book Description

Set in the world of the Half-Continent—a land of tri-corner hats and flintlock pistols—the Monster Blood Tattoo trilogy is a world of predatory monsters, chemical potions and surgically altered people. Foundling begins the journey of Rossamund, a boy with a girl's name, who is just about to begin a dangerous life in the service of the Emperor. What starts as a simple journey is threatened by encounters with monsters—and people, who may be worse. Learning who to trust and who to fear is neither easy nor without its perils, and Rossamund must choose his path carefully.

Complete with appendices, maps, illustrations, and a glossary, Monster Blood Tattoo grabs readers from the first sentence and immerses them in an entirely original fantasy world with its own language and lore.

Customer Reviews:

Hats off to D.M.Cornish so far..........2007-06-13

I am a Library Media Specialist who oversees two K-4th elementary school libraries. Though not appropriate for the K-4 age range, it is a must have for a middle/highschool library. The title may seem misleading for some, it's a book I'd definitely classify as fantasy not horror.

The book's editor, Timothy Travaglini, seems to put it best, "If Charles Dickens was in a writers' group with Mary Shelley, Philip Pullman, Lloyd Alexander, and Clive Barker, and if he took it upon himself to write a fantasy novel, allowing his fellow writers open opportunity for input, I think this is close to what he would have created- a sophisticated, intelligent, deeply detailed, obsessively compelling, utterly engaging tale-at turns gripping, poignant, always exciting, and wholly original." I couldn't agree more. I can't wait to read Book Two.

Move over, Harry Potter!.......2007-06-05

(This Monster Blood Tattoo series is also available in a CD)

Watch out, Harry Potter; there's a new kid in town. He's got a girl's name, a heart of gold, and a mighty streak of bravery considering he's just a poor foundling. Yes, a foundling is an orphan, but, unlike Potter, Rossamund Bookchild grew up in a school for foundlings, surrounded by others seemingly like him. Yet Rossamund is different from the others: he's largely introspective and he harbors a soft spot for many of the monsters that stalk the Half-Continent.

Okay, so there isn't really a new kid in town because Foundling's Rossamund doesn't live in the UK or Hogsmeade, but the Half-Continent has its own thrills. A semi-medieval world full of pirates trading child slaves on the vinegar seas and electrified warriors, or fulgars, fighting monsters in the name of the Emperor, Rossamund's land is intriguing indeed.

During his eventful journey from Madam Opera's Estimable Marine Society for Foundling Boys and Girls to his first job as a lamplighter in High Vesting, Rossamund falls in with a particularly adept fulgar, Europe, and a jolly, quick-thinking postman, Fouracres. Undoubtedly, it will be the adventures of this trio that D.M. Cornish explores in the following books, as Foundling is the first in the Monster Blood Tattoo series. But Rossamund has left behind dear friends at school-all adults, the only ones mature enough to appreciate the boy's heart-who are bound to show up again with their own troubles.

Aside from the exciting plot and lovable characters, what really makes this book is the fact that Cornish is an illustrator. Sketches of characters in fantastic costumes and intricately detailed maps of the empire show up occasionally. Plus, the book contains a glossary of words peculiar to the Half-Continent, charts explaining the imperial calendar, and drawings of the many types of boats.

As you say cheerio to Harry Potter and his friends this summer, hop into a landaulet and get ready to explore the threwdish woods because Rossamund Bookchild is waiting.

Armchair Interviews says: If you want to know what those words mean? Get a copy of Foundling and start reading.

A new series perfect for readers looking for something a little out of the ordinary.......2007-02-10

Rossamund Bookchild --- a boy with a girl's name --- is a foundling who has lived in Madam Opera's Estimable Marine Society for Foundling Boys and Girls ever since he was discovered as a newborn abandoned on Madam Opera's doorstep. Rossamund's early beginnings are unique but hardly uncommon as he lives with several other orphaned or unwanted kids. The children are given a quality education ---- which includes defense against monsters --- and are trained to lead productive careers, often in the navy.

While he has many promising opportunities, living in the Society isn't always easy for Rossamund. The boy is often teased by other children and tormented by a notorious bully named Gosling, who believes he's better than everyone else because of his manor-born childhood. Although Rossamund is given extra attention by his aging Dormitory Master Fransitart, the marine society's dispensurist Master Craumpalin and the beautiful parlour maid Verline, he anxiously waits to leave the crowded orphanage and get the chance to explore the rest of the wide, mysterious Half-Continent.

Then an agent named Sebastipole makes an unexpected visit and offers Rossamund an apprenticeship as a lamplighter. Rossamund is disappointed as he looked forward to a career like that of his mentor Fransitart but nonetheless takes the agent's offer as his great opportunity to leave the marine society and begin the next chapter of his life. After much preparation and anxious waiting, the day arrives and Rossamund sets out on his journey to High Vesting. He is given instructions to take a ship that will bring him to his destination. Unfortunately luck is not on his side and he is lured onto a run-down cromster called the Hogshead manned by the cunning Rivermaster Poundinch, who deals in the gruesome dark trades. However, Rossamund's fate is yet to be sealed and he makes his grand escape under a hail of cannon fire a few days later.

The excitement is far from over for Rossamund when he crosses paths with an infamous fulgar (an electrifying type of monster hunter) named Miss Europe --- known for her numerous monster-blood tattoos --- and her creepy factotum (personal servant) Licurius. What is supposed to be a simple ride-along leads to another part of what is already turning out to be an epic adventure for the young foundling as he figures out his place in the world.

MONSTER BLOOD TATTOO is a well-crafted original new series by up-and-coming writer D.M. Cornish that is sure to create buzz among fans of fantasy and those who like to read something a little out of the ordinary. With a detailed Explicarium (a glossary of terms and explanations including appendices), Cornish brings to life the compelling Dickens-like story of a boy making his way in a complex, wildly imaginative world.

--- Reviewed by Sarah Sawtelle ([...])

Amazing!.......2006-12-29

Finally, a fantasy book I can get into! I'm so sick of the Tolkien-style fantasy being regurgitated again and again and again and again and it was so wonderfully refreshing to have someone with the same level of passion, concept, and world-building skills as Tolkien, but a world that is all his own. I have always been more of a monster hunter fan and I knew I had to have this book once I learned that montser hunters - or bogle-fighters, if you will - were going to play such a key role in this. I love this world and this series. So, thank you, D.M. Cornish for telling us your story and revealing to us your world!

Great world-building.......2006-12-04

This novel was a pleasant surprise for me. From the rather awful title and cover, I pictured an intense horror story filled with evil, haunting monsters . . . but thank goodness it was nothing like that.

Rossamund, a boy at Madame Opera's Marine Society for Foundling Boys and Girls, longs for adventure. When a man comes looking for a boy to hire, he sets off at last on a journey to become a lamplighter for the Emperor.

At times Rossamund seemed a little too simple of a character, but the other characters definitely made up for that. I especially liked Europe and Freckles. The different monsters and bogles were interesting to read about as well. Most of the descriptions were very cool, making you picture the scene perfectly, but some were a little overdone.

I was deeply impressed by the author's hugely in-depth world-building skills. One third of the book is an appendix, with the meanings of different terms he's invented for the world of the "Half Continent". I loved the author's illustrations in each chapter as well.

All-in-all this was a fun tale of adventure that will amuse and intrigue readers of fantasy. I most likely will pick up the sequel. ***1/2

Serendipity and Her Friends (Serendipity Books)

Average customer rating:

If you like the Serendipity books this is a great starter!
Excellent, Engaging, and Enlightening
Not really classics, but a good collection all the same.
love serendipity collection

Serendipity and Her Friends (Serendipity Books)
Stephen Cosgrove
Manufacturer: Price Stern Sloan
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Short Story Collections | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0843106042

Book Description

Sharing life lessons and memorable morals, the Serendipity books are a seasoned favorite with children and parents alike. So, journey to the magical, mystical land of Serendipity with seven of your favorite Serendipity stories gathered together in one charming hardcover edition.

Illustrated by Robin James.

Customer Reviews:

If you like the Serendipity books this is a great starter!.......2007-01-10

My 5yo dd loves this little collection. And it is nice to not have a half dozen skinny paperbacks cluttering her bookshelf. The pictures are charming, as always, and the stories cute. If you like Serendipity stories this is a good way to go.

Excellent, Engaging, and Enlightening.......2006-05-26

These stories are wonderful. Full of imagintion, it's been able to draw my very active [...] into the stories. Every story has a moral and it's great for the children to learn them and is a great reminder for adults too (especially when you get caught up in the everyday grind and forget the simple things in life)!!! The moral of each story is stated in the beginning of the tale and reiterated at the end of the story. Great stories, great illustrations, and just TERRIFIC!

Not really classics, but a good collection all the same........2004-11-30

'The Serendipity Collection' includes Zippity Zoom, Ming Ling, Butterwing, Serendipity, Sassafras, Rhubarb and Memily.

Cosgrove is a brilliant childrens' author. His books are definitely worth your time if you haven't checked them out yet.

I grew up reading some of his ealier works and always looked foward to getting the newest edition to the series at the bookstore. The illustrations in particular are consistently well-drawn and enchanting.

Hopefully there will be more Cosgrove collections released in the future. This one is a good start and very enjoyable, but not quite full of what I'd call classics. Maybe the next time we'll see Leo the Lop or Trafalgar True.

love serendipity collection.......2003-12-01

I have read the Serendipity books to my daughter when she was young, she had almost the entire collection, but being in the military and moving from place to place, we lost a lot of the collection. I found the Serendipity Collection, in hard bound, with 7 wonderful stories in it, purchased it, and now I read it to my grandchildren. Once again Serendipity is being read in my house again. My grandchildren, which are 6 and 5 yrs. old, love the stories. They turn the tv OFF when it is bedtime and grab the book and wait for me to come to read the stories to them. When a child will turn the Disney Channel off, for a story book reading, that alone says a lot about the book. My grandchildren love this book, and yes, I will be buying more and more of this series. The pictures in the book are so fantastic and life like, I really am glad to find this book, and the morals in the book are just what we try to teach our children and grandchildren. This book will be a joy to anyone that loves to read to children and watch their faces as they see the darling pictures.

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