Showing posts with label England. Show all posts
Showing posts with label England. Show all posts

And To All A Good Knight


About The Barefoot Book of Knights
 
You will read of tales about Knights from seven different countries, connected by the story of Tom, the Page. Tom learns values and skills of becoming a knight and is mentored by Master William, who tells him the stories in this book. Each story is adventurous, clever and highlights the good values and chivalry of the knights, especially bravery.


Book w/ CD editions include stories read by actor Anthony Stewart Head. Paperback w CD costs $15.99

For Ages 8 and up
It's retold by: John Matthews
Beautifully illustrated by: Giovanni Manna
Narrated by: Anthony Head

Recently I received a note from William of hazardousplayers.com
I had a fun-time on the site and spent lots of time there. It's good for kids and young adults.



KNIGHTTIME
"Each week The Hazardous Players offers up a new chapter in the adventures of good Sir Cottington and Sir Bratwurst.  Listen as they reluctantly stumble their way through the land of Udenland, while trying to avoid being eaten by any number of terrifying beasts. Along the way they meet several of the eccentric members of Udenland society who more often than not, prove a greater challenge than the terrifying beasts.
Fortunately for the knights they have with them the Henchwoods Guides, the essential guides for identifying the myriad of creatures and plants which pose a threat to their safety and generally well being.  Regularly the guide is updated with illustrations and facts about new discoveries, including everything from migration habits to the best way to avoid being eaten (usually involves running)."
                                                photo credit: KNIGHTTIME

You might want to stop by and listen to an interview  Finding Wonderland

photo credit: KNIGHTTIME

If you enjoy a good twisted tale, please visit the world of Knighttime, where things can get weird. You'll meet so many characters, like this one.

Sheriff Dogberry
And visit them on FaceBook:
Best,  

LadyD 

The Gift by Carol Ann Duffy



I received this beautiful book from one of my daughters on Mother's Day. It is an elegant hardcover book for all ages, written exquisitely by Carol Ann Duffy and delightfully decorated with doily-like illustrations that remind me of powdered sugar designs (snowflakes) on top of a cake. The pictures are so dainty and airy as you can see from the photos below. I love this book. Guaranteed, this story will make you cry. If you love life and family then the book is a must for you. We just had a 4 generation family reunion and this book, The Gift, is the perfect present... "Give me your flower necklace and you shall have your wish."


Here's an excerpt from the jacket flap:


"In a quiet town, of a sort not found nowadays, lives a beautiful young girl. One summer day, she visits the woods with her mother and father. While her parents prepare the picnic, she seeks out buttercups and daisies for a flower necklace. As she does so, a wish forms in her mind - and to her surprise, a silver-haired woman appears, ready to grant it.


Carol Ann Duffy's story of a girl's journey through life, and the desires that shape it, will speak to everyone who wonders about the mysteries that lie at the heart of the human experience."

The Gift is available for purchase at http://ladyd.barefootbooks.com

The Gift

The exceptional talents of Carol Ann Duffy and papercut artist Rob Ryan combine to present the story of a girl’s journey through life and the desires that shape it. With a kind of magic that is timeless, The Gift speaks to everyone who wonders about the mysteries that lie at the heart of the human experience.

Mother Goose Day - May 1st


Although primarily celebrated in the US, Mother Goose Day on Sunday, 1st May celebrates the poems and rhymes that have delighted children across the globe. A growing understanding of the importance of rhythm and rhyme in reading development means it is never too early to share classics like 'Little Bo Peep' and 'Baa, Baa, Black Sheep.' An anthology of favorite Mother Goose selections, Mother Goose Remembers, is the perfect collection to celebrate the nursery rhymes that have become a literary staple for children. 

About The Book:

Mother Goose Remembers

Enjoy the rhythms and cozy warmth of the forty-six nursery rhymes in this nostalgic collection. This treasured gift book features a feather from the plumage of Mother Goose hidden on every page, waiting to be found by youngsters. Book with CD edition includes songs and rhymes performed by Caroline Butler, Charles Spicer, Nick Hooper and Dave Townsend.
For babies to 5 years
Illustrated By: Clare Beaton
Sung By: Caroline Butler


Purchase this hardcover book for $19.99 at
http://ladyd.barefootbooks.com
 
So, what's Mother Goose Day all about?


Purpose: To re-appreciate the old nursery rhymes.
Motto: "Either alone or in sharing, read childhood nursery favorites and feel the warmth of Mother Goose's embrace."
 
Mother Goose Day was founded in 1987 by Gloria T. Delamar in tandem with the publication of her book, Mother Goose; From Nursery to Literature (MFarland Pub.). The day is now listed in many calendars of events and celebrated throughout the United States. It has been noted by municipalities, a cereal producer, banks, etc. and has a particular appeal to Kindergarten-Primary grades, libraries, and nursing homes.


Visit the official Mother Goose Society Website, filled with information on the 'real' Mother Goose and some fun ways to celebrate Mother Goose Day.

Here's an example of what you'll find.

"Fingerplays have traditionally played an important role in education: they help teach rhythm, muscle control, and language. They can also teach good character, provide information about certain subjects, and even be useful as subtle disciplinary diversions.
This truly is "talking with your hands," for the story is illustrated by hand positions and movements.
The most basic form of fingerplay is the familiar counting-off of fingers (or toes!); others engage the hands more fully, and some even involve the whole body."

So, how will you celebrate Mother Goose Day? 


1. Will you go to a parade?

As a child, I have fond memories of attending the Mother Goose Parade. What joy to see the floats and marching bands. Here's some info on that.
Mother Goose Parade: El Cajon, California is traditionally held the Sunday before Thanksgiving and is the second largest parade in the state. Attended annually by half a million people, the three mile parade route spans a two-hour period. El Cajon celebrated its 47th annual "gift to children" in November of 1993. For information call the Mother Goose Parade Association at 619-444-8712. 

2. Will you eat curds and whey? 


Boil: 12 cups fresh water, 6 cups instant dry milk powder, 1 to 1 and 1/2 cups white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt. Let stand. Pour the mixture over a bowl with a paper towel on top. Curds are the cheese part and whey is the milky part. 

3. Will you draw Mother goose pictures? 


Nursery Rhyme and Fairy Tale Coloring Pages

 Do you have a favorite nursery rhyme? Here's a few:










All the best,
-- LadyD


How To Make Princess Crowns and Tiaras

As Britain's own Prince William marries this Friday, the world will be watching a truly happy beginning come to life. Read the poem that UK Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy, who authored The Gift, wrote for the Royal Wedding here.

With princes and princesses on many people's minds, I can't help but share some of Barefoot Books favorite royal stories:

Although many parents are tiring of the over-commercialized princess trend, princesses never seem to go out of style with children. With The Barefoot Book of Princesses, these seven stories go beyond the standardized norm and feature unique princesses from across the globe. A few familiar tales like 'The Sleeping Beauty' are mixed in with lesser-known gems, such as 'The Princess Who Lost Her Hair' from the Akamba tradition, and are paired with Olwyn Whelan's distinctive illustrations. 

The happily-ever-after ending is well-deserved in The Princess and the White Bear King. Author Tanya Robyn Batt blended elements of three classically-rooted folk tales from Northern Europe to create this lovely story about a princess who, in a unique deviation, must rescue the prince she loves from an evil Troll Queen. Batt's princess combats stereotypes about bland, weak princesses by demonstrating compassion, strength, and perseverance, and Miranda Richardson's narration sparks the story to life.

For the younger crowd, the rhyming text and whimsical illustrations of The Prince's Bedtime is perfect. Children will giggle at the humorous lengths that the King and Queen go to in order to make the prince sleep, and with a great rhythm and multiple speaking characters, the story makes an engaging read-aloud and has universal appeal. Fun trivia! This title is available at the Buckingham Palace shop!
  
If you are looking for gift ideas, any of our royal titles paired with crowns or head garlands produced by Sarah's Silks, or the Folkmanis princess and prince puppets would be splendid! Visit http://ladyd.barefootbooks.com








So, I have a new granddaughter and I started thinking about her future, including Princess Parties.
I found these very cool sites:


How To Make Sugarpaste Crowns
http://sugarteachers.blogspot.com/2008/12/how-to-make-sugarpaste-crown-by-sharon.html

How To Make Princess Tiara's
http://www.lubirdbaby.com/2011/01/princess-tiara-tutorial.html


So, will you be watching the Royal Wedding?






“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me.” — C. S. Lewis

My Family from WiddlyTinks.com

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Princesses and Faeries

 I am headed over to the Friday Farmer's Market in our local town to set up my display for fairies, fairy books, princess puppets and more. I love meeting new people, and talking with talented craftsmen.






 I was pleasantly surprised to see this gorgeous card! I found it at this very cute blog
My Cardz




Another wonderful blog from an author - illustrator that offers tons of free stuff and images :
Elizabeth O. Dulemba 


Barefoot Books offers many wonderful children's books for princesses. Here are a few:




The Barefoot Book of Faeries

Delight in the wonder of faerie lands with the poems, stories and legends in this colorful collection. Humor, fantasy, magic and wit all come together to introduce readers to the faerie realm. Book with CD editions include stories and poems read by Tanya Robyn Batt.
Ages 4 to 9 years
Retold By: Tanya Robyn Batt
Illustrated By: Gail Newey
You'll enjoy reading and hearing stories and poems from England and Ireland




The Barefoot Book of Fairy Tales

Awake with Sleeping Beauty in the faraway land of fairy tales. The twelve classic stories in this exquisite book are teeming with magic, wonder, action and drama, as new life is breathed into some of the world's favorite tales.
Ages 5 to 11 years
Retold By: Malachy Doyle
Illustrated By: Nicoletta Ceccoli
You will enjoy the artistry and classic storytelling.

The Barefoot Book of Princesses

Meet seven very strong and special princesses in this collection drawn from sources from around the world. Each faces challenges and trials, and each finds a way to triumph with bravery, compassion, ingenuity and a little bit of luck. Book with CD editions include stories read by Margaret Wolfson.
Ages 4 to 9 years
Retold By: Caitlín Matthews
Illustrated By: Olwyn Whelan
Narrated By: Margaret Wolfson
This book is a compilation of seven classic tales about princesses. Children of all ages will delight in these bedtime stories with colorful illustrations.


View pages from these books to see more colorful illustrations at
LadyD's Market Place
Thanks for stopping by.
I hope you enjoy your stay at Barefoot Books-LadyD
Take off your shoes and go barefoot!
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Listen, Listen Book Review


Listen carefully to all the wonderful sounds of the different seasons, from summer's sizzling sun to winter's crunching snow. I am delighted to share with you a new lap book I've discovered. Phillis Gershator is the author of Listen, Listen and you'll find breath taking illustrations by Alison Jay. This book will open your child's eyes and ears to the world around them!
When I look at the magnificent artwork throughout the book, I am immediately transported to Italy. There is such a European country charm woven throughout this wonderful book. You will learn about all the animals that come with summer. Then there's the sounds of birds and squirrels with fall approaching. We go into the winter season with mistletoe and a mouse but then once again spring arrives with flower bulbs, bunnies and rainbows. A wonderful, educational and very visual book for $14.99 I highly recommend this book. 5+stars!


Phillis Gershator has written more than twenty-five books for children. She has worked as a children's librarian and enjoys cooking, gardening, and especially reading. Phillis lives in the U.S. Virgin Islands with her husband and frequent co-author, David.

You can visit her website at

http://www.phillisgershator.com


"Listen, listen...what's that sound? Insects singing all around!"--Listen, Listen
* Product Details:
Written by: Phillis Gershator
Illustrated by: Alison Jay
Read Alone: Ages 4-7
Read Together: Ages 0-4
Hardcover; Jacketed; full-color illustrations; 32pp;
10 x 10 inches
Item No. 9781846860843

* Alison Jay
Alison Jay lives and works in London, England. A graduate in illustration from the London College of Printing, Alison has been illustrating children's books for ten years. To create her unique style, she uses alkyd oil paint on paper with a crackling varnish, which gives her illustrations an antique, nostalgic quality.
Recent praise:
"Jay’s stylized pictures, with the texture of ancient frescos, are a window into a world in which the buzz of an insect and the whoosh of the wind lend surprising emotion. Illustrations filled with snowmen, anthropomorphized animals, and people running through a leaf-swept field will make children long to discover what is just over a hill or around the next bend. Capturing a summer idyll reading in a hammock with the same care as a warm evening by the fireplace, Jay invests each image with both joy and melancholy. This jewel of a book will draw children back again and again"—Booklist, STARRED REVIEW
"In this ode to the seasons, the sights and sounds of a picturesque country village are artfully evoked. Under the summer sun, 'Leaves rustle, hammocks sway. Splish, splash, children play.' In autumn, 'Pumpkins ripen, quick, quick. Apples, corn—pick, pick.' During winter, 'Crunch, crunch, boots clomp. Grown-ups shovel, children romp./Skaters spin, skiers glide. Zip, zoom, slip, slide.' When spring arrives, 'Pop, pop, bulbs sprout. Leaves grow, flowers shout.' Jay's crackled-varnish paintings have a nostalgic, folk-art quality. The rhyming, onomatopoeic text wraps around the busy scenes, and the words and art together provide a smooth transition between the seasons: 'summer's gone' is illustrated with a swarm of insects buzzing off the page. An appended 'can you see' game encourages close examination of the changing landscapes. Children will be inspired to 'listen, listen' in their own environments."—School Library Journal

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All Because of Her Little Store



Once upon a time, a soft spoken lady from England, Nancy Traversy in 1993 along with Tessa Strickland started a home business called "Barefoot Books". Hear their story:

If ever you are in Cambridge, Massachusetts, you're in for a delightful treat upon visiting Nancy's little book store! It is quaint, full of charm and magical when you step inside! Directions and a calender to download can be found here:
http://www.barefoot-books.com/us/site/pages/752_generic_.php

And so the good news and new chapter for Children's Books Publisher, Nancy Traversy, the CEO of Barefoot Books, has landed a deal to open a boutique in FAO Schwarz in New York. Read more of this wonderful step forward, from a little store that didn't make any profit, to a fabulous partnership of 50-50 sales with this fantastic store, FAO SCHWARZ in which Nancy got to design the book section.

http://www.boston.com/ae/books/articles/2008/08/26/a_new_chapter_for_children_publisher_barefoot_books


Barefoot Books provide creativity and good living for the child. To own a beautiful Barefoot Book is a must!
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