MY

I bought this book for my grandchildren, ages 4 and 7. Both of them enjoyed the stories (there are 12 in the book) and the well drawn illustrations. I was pleased to see that the characters in the book were from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Reminded me of the old Dr. Suess stories. Bravo, Mr. Liput!

The rhyming and cadence style of Dr. Seuss has been too long gone from the children's book line up. Liput's book about the Snarfdoodle provides a new character, not unlike the Cat on the Hat or the Lorax, who has a special relationship with kids. The stories are written in song-song quality lyrical verse that captured my kids' attention and left them wanting more, and more. Very impressive effort by the author--hope we'll see more.

I have read this children's book to my son Adam along with a few of his darling little friends. What a delightful book for an adult who reads to his or her child over and over again. Sometimes we actually have to do this depending on how much your child enjoys the book. Thank you Mr. Liput. Now please write us another!

Using a question-and-answer format with mundane cartoon illustrations, the authors deal with typical questions young readers ask about hardware, software, the Internet, computer manners, and the "hard to predict" future of computers. Aside from a few geeky projects (a CD-ROM mobile), the book has things fun to know, such as a list of emoticons, many interesting websites arranged by topic to try, and a helpful glossary for those who have trouble separating an FAQ from a CPU. Some answers are pretty technical for younger readers but this is the kind of book you read in rather than through, and computer users from the most naive to the above-average in skills will find something of use here.

Reviewed by Susan Hepler. Copyright @ 2000 Children's Literature. All Rights Reserved.

Publishers Weekly:

May 24, 1999

The anchors of the CompuDudes NPR radio show answer kids' computer questions in Why Doesn't My Floppy Disk Flop? by Peter Cook and Scott Manning, illus. by Ed Murrow. From definitions of words such as "bug" and "hyperlink" to tips about how to get peanut butter off a keyboard, the book provides comprehensible and useful answers to a wide range of queries.

From The Union-Tribune - (San Diego, CA):

May 11, 1999

by Suzanne A. Smith

Why Doesn't My Floppy Disk Flop? is an excellent first book about computers for children ages 8 and up. The authors, Cook and Manning, are better known as the "CompuDudes," hosts of a popular computing show for kids on National Public Radio. This book is a compilation of the most frequently asked questions they have received on the show.

Cook and Manning answer questions, from the simple ("what is my computer doing when I first turn it on?") to the more complicated ("what is a cable modem?"), to the humorous ("why don't they make computers in colors?"). The answers to these questions are technically accurate and written in a casual, patient style that is easy for kids to read.

The book also includes some fun, computer-related activities, such as making a CD-ROM mobile, writing a simple program in BASIC, and helping Mom and Dad plan the family summer vacation using the Internet.

A useful chapter at the end of the book is titled, "Good Computer Habits." Here, kids learn how to considerately share a computer with others, back up the hard drive, safely participate in chat rooms, and even how to clean the computer monitor.

This book is good for young children who have expressed an interest in learning more about computers. Mom and Dad may even learn a few things as well.

Forecast - (Bridgewater, NJ):

May 1999

Discusses the history of computers and explains their various parts and uses, hardware, software, the Internet, good computer etiquette, and their future, and includes sidebars which answer questions that were asked on the author's radio show. Original. Grades 3-4.

From the St. Paul (Minnesota) Pioneer Press newspaper:

Monday, April 12, 1999

JEFFREY C. KUMMER STAFF WRITER

"......For a fun guide to computers in general, try, ``Why Doesn't My Floppy Disk Flop: and Other Kids' Computer Questions,'' by Peter Cook and Scott Manning, John Wiley & Sons. Besides being a handy reference for the kinds of computer questions that baffle kids (and adults, too), the book is packed with activities to help children learn more about computers."

Though I am not finished reading this book, I am already so impressed with the story telling ability and humor of the author that I feel like I have to recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well-told funny story.

Kwame Teague, brings a beguiling adventure about Sam Black who in the middle of New York @ 3 in the morning meets a Honey, and ends up in a world of trouble! No matter how the odds are stacked up against "Ghetto Sam" (our ghetto superhero) he on the face of it finds a window of opportunity in order to advance to the next opponent. Sam kicks it to you straight from the heart with a keen social insight, awareness and an ill sense of humor. (SAY WORD)

My mind is still spinning on how vivid Kwame is on how America and their alliances/enemies role and how destructive it is to our communities, our people, and our way of life. (SAY WORD)

This book, 2 inside of 1 is "THE WHAT'S UP" here and now.

The Glory of my Demise, which is the "Truth," wakes you up! The writer walks you through life from one person through another with both voices, and both outlooks. From one stand point you're listening as he describes in detail how he chose his life and all that being a young black man entails, and in the mist you get to see what someone from the outside eyes see for the first time up close and personal.

This walk of "Truth" opens up one's mind to different things in the "HOOD" that sociologists, psychoanalysts, and psuedo-liberals believe is just some type of wasted lab where left over unwanted people and things are thrown into and they mix and match whatever.

Can you hear Spike standing on the corner screaming...

WAKE UP!!!...(SAY WORD)
I need more stars to add to this joint. This is truly what's popping. All you avid readers need to cop this book and fast!

If a book ever deserved five stars, this book does! It is a rare blend of frankness, humor and social insight. It is written in the vernacular of the ghetto, with a potent appeal to the hip hop generation. The language -- though strong -- is indispensable to the portrayal of the concepts and realism that constitute Teague's objectives. Teague doesn't gloss over the imperfections of ghetto life. Neither did Langston Hughes. Neither is Teague a poet, as Hughes was -- although he accomplishes through prose many of the things that Hughes did with poetry, as he often captures the rhythm and symbolism of poetry. Teague does not attempt to romanticize ghetto existence. He presents it as it is: the good and the bad. The bad is notorious. The good is usually overlooked. But not by Teague. He paints a vivid picture of the culture of the ghetto, of the interpersonal ties and loyalites, the intrinsic morality -- yes, I said morality. This book -- actually two books in one -- should have immense appeal to a brand new audience: the hip hop generation who starve for literature geared to their needs. In addition, however, the book should be read by those who think they know the ghetto, but don't live there and have never lived there. Let them 'live' a ghetto existence through Kwame Teague, and be awaken to the human beauty of the ghetto, juxtaposed against the ugliness of the deteriorated physical environment.

I couldn't put it down. The stories are without exception warm and meaningful. I am giving this book to my grandchildren. Sharing these stories is sharing the best of Christmas with them.

This is a great Christmas Book to add to your Christmas book collection. The stories in this book are inspirational and full of the Christmas spirit. This is a book that the entire family will enjoy!!

Most collections of stories, Christmas or otherwise, have a bunch of mediocre selections, a few good ones, and one or two great ones--but this book manages to have ALL great ones. Plus, they're not those sappy ones that make you roll your eyes; they're touching without being obnoxious. Maybe it's because almost all of the stories are true experiences, told in a straightforward way. My personal favorites are "The Gold and Ivory Tablecloth" by Howard Schade, "A Christmas Gift I'll Never Forget" by L.D. Hummel, and "My Christmas Miracle" by Taylor Caldwell. Okay, also "How Santa Spread Cheer Without Eight Tiny Reindeer," by Rip Rense. (I'm a school teacher, and I'm going to read some of these to my third graders in December.) Enjoy the joy!

This is an excellent book for anyone who loves All My Children. I bought mine used and it was in excellent condition. As a long time All My Children viewer (from the beginning) this was a trip down memory lane for me. It covered all the years from 1970 to 1995. The color pictures were beautiful and the trivia section in the back was wonderful. This is a must have book for all serious and long time viewers of All My Children.

Have you ever had a question about AMC? What actor played what role or who married who? You will find answers to your questions in this big AMC book. What I loved about this book is that it has a thorough plot summary of every year since it's debut in 1970. The book includes family photos, wedding photos, behind the scenes info, AMC trivia, actor quotes, interesting facts, a complete cast list and much more. This is a wonderful coffee table book!

This is the GREATEST AMC Book ever written.Very informative and entertaining, and filled with memories that I have cherished and will now be able to cherish forever!!!As a 20+year fan of the show, I can only say I can't wait for the 50th anniversary scrapbook!

I give this book a four star rating because it talks about four kids who did something that they wanted to do. These four kids are Sunny,Salem,Eddie,and Pickles. Eddie has gone for football and has made the only touchdown in Plumstead Middle School.Sunny has finally become a cheerleader that she wanted to be. Salem is managing the football team with a suitcase of snacks and treats. And Pickles is leader of the pathetic marhing band of Plumstead Middle School. You'd find more information if you read the book, which I highly recommend.

I like this book because it is funny. It was kind of fantasy to me. The underpants was rolled up the flagpole with 5 of somebody's friends. They were riding a skateboard together and threw their homework out the street. This book is about 5 students in the same class that didn't like school. Many times they didn't do their homework. They also got in trouble by doing wrong things. One of them ran somebody's underpants up the flagpole. But at last they didn't get in trouble. This book is likely a troublesome school.

Have you ever ran to class in your underwear? Well in my book Eddie Mott did. The Social Studies teacher was 15 minutes late for class. So all the kids went to gym. They were getting dressed when the Social Studies teacher came in. He told all the kids to go to class, because it wasn't over yet. Eddie wanting to be the first person in class ran out of the locker room without putting his pants, and forgetting his books. Then Eddie and all his friends had to go to the principles office. Then he principle asked Eddie why he ran to class in his undrwear. My favorite part of the book was when Eddie ran out of the locker room in his underwear. I encourage you to read this book.If you are in 6th grade you will enjoy this, because Eddie was in 6th grade. The lesson of this book was not to make fun of your friends. At first I did not want to read the book, but when I got to the 2nd chapter it was interesting. Eddie had no weaknesses in the book Who Ran my Underwear up the Flagpole. Some personal traits of Eddie are that he is a good worker, nice, and funny. If you want to find out what happens you should read this book.

This is the most comprehensive easy-to-read book on rabbit behavior I have found. I've had rabbits for five years and read a lot about their behavior. However, this book taught me so much more. I now have a much better understanding of why my rabbits do the things they do. What I especially like about this book is that it addresses issues for both indoor and outdoor rabbits. I didn't realize how many mistakes I was making when I let my rabbits "roam free" outside in nice weather. For example, I did not realize that vast, open spaces in the outdoors are frightening for rabbits, especially if they don't have some enclosure in which to hide. I will not make that mistake again.

Overall, this is an excellent book. It has given me much deeper insight into my rabbits' behaviors.

Rabbits can be irresistible. It is not uncommon for people to visit a pet store or go to a county fair and come home with a rabbit. How much trouble can such a cute critter be? Plenty! Rabbits are curious creatures that seem to get themselves in trouble all of the time. Since rabbits are "prey" rather than predators, they act quite differently from dogs and cats, which often requires a different approach to care. Rabbits also have very distinct personalities. The personality of a rabbit needs to be taken into consideration when owning a rabbit. With know legible advice, rabbits can be fantastic pets. Books such as Why Does My Rabbit...? can be indispensable in caring and loving a pet rabbit.

The book is divided into three parts. The first part deals with care of the rabbit, the second part discusses scientific information about the rabbit. The third portion of the book is probably most helpful. It is an alphabetical listing of just about any imaginable aspect of caring for a pet rabbit. The book is enjoyable to read because the author is not only an expert on animals as pets, she is also a rabbit lover. This book will be very helpful for people considering a rabbit as a pet and a true gift for those who have acquired a rabbit, have fallen in love with it, but don't know what to do with this adorable little rascal that seems to find mischief in every possible place.

it is a wonderful book for new rabbit owners!

When McDonough was still writing her book, she came to speak to my businesswomen's group about it--and gradually dressed, as she spoke, in the clothes she wore when she was homeless. There was a powerful impact in noting differences in how we "heard" her then, from how we'd "heard" her when she was seen to be "like us," minutes before. We averted our eyes. One member said it was one of the most memorable talks we'd heard in 15 years of monthly programs.

The book does that too; it makes it uncomfortable to see street people as "them" rather than "us." "There, but for a good break, go I"--not to mention the realigning of one's perception of "there but for the grace of God," for there are many excerpts in the book (from her journal at the time) that address the painful spiritual growth that results from such a wrenching experience. I no longer think that I could survive even a few days, if I suddenly found myself to be a baglady, yet I'd always thought of myself as resourceful, resilient, frugal, educated, middle class. Think again. I'd need a lot of help.

This country cannot afford to pretend that Americans who are (usually temporarily) indisposed far enough to have lost their living quarters for the moment are somehow different or "un-American." They are us. What we do about those of us with these problems--including the elderly and the ill--may someday become very personally relevant and (if we don't do better, faster) could become a big national problem. The housing situation in Minneapolis at the moment is veering sharply away from keeping some of us in affordable housing who used to be "the working poor" rather than "the homeless." The situation needs to be addressed by those in legislatures, healthcare, social services, volunteer groups. This book can help them to understand better. Very often the real view from the street is not understood by those who "help" them, as when the physician who treats the understandably ulcerated feet of those who have no place to sit down, let alone a sink with warm water, tells the patient to "soak her feet." Right. How?

This book is about a well educated and capable adult woman and her children, who was literally forced to be homeless by the court system. Given a similar set of circumstances, we could all be in her shoes! This book tells a straight forward story of how the author became homeless, what she did to cope, and how she dragged her family out of this overwhelming situation.

This book should be read by anyone, adult or teen, who has become too familier with the good things that many Americans feel entitled to.

This book is a fifteen-week diary of the author's life experiences while she was homeless and living in shelters. It is easy reading and it grabs your attention so that you do not want to put the book down. It is a must read.

In the final months of the Civil War, Virginia, now 10, and her family move to Washington, D.C., where the cold winter brings uncertainty and hardship. But just as things start to improve ­ her father gets a job and the war finally comes to an end ­ the tragic assassination of Ginny's beloved President Lincoln occurs. In this, her second diary chronicling the Civil War, Ginny learns that life is constantly changing.

This "My America" diary of ten-year-old Virginia Dickens gives us a glimpse of the nation's capital during the Lincoln presidency--the joy at his election, the despair when he dies; the challenges of finding work for newcomers like Virginia's father and even Virginia herself. The book is easy to read with large text and a diary format, as well as historical notes and pictures at the end. It is a touching though not adventurous story that gives life to the Civil War era off the battlefield.

Also recomended: All the other Dear America books

Hi,I am doing a book review on After The Rain.The author of After The Rain is Mary Pope Osborne.There are 98 pages if you want to know.The genre of my book is realistic fiction.
The setting of this book is the Civil War around the 1800's.
This book is about this young girl who has envy(which means jealousy)See what all of this means by After The rain.
The 3 reasons I like this book are because it is exciting and it is about a Virgina's Civil War diary.2 The girl's father plays at Fords New Theatre.3 There lives turn around when she changes her live.I all like these reasons because this book has many changes And excitement.I would only recommend this book to people who like historical fiction and My America books.If you want to read this book go to your library or your local library.
Go and read After The Rain.See you later !!!! bye!!!!

Ten-year-old Virginia Dickens, her father, brother Jed, and Jed's wife Jane Ellen, have left Gettysburg to move to Washington, D.C. There they hope to start a new more prosperous life. Jed hopes to find a nice job but ends up with a low-paying job that he hates. After Ginny's dad gets injured during work the family finds themselves no even being able to send Ginny to school because they need her to work too to make ends meet. So Ginny finds herself having to work as a house servant in a wealthy family. To the Dickens winter seems very bleak and long. The only bright spot is the baby Jed and Jane Ellen are expecting. Finally when the war finally comes to an end and thing seem to be getting better Ginny must face the awful news that her hero President Abraham Lincoln had been assasinated. Ginny learns that life is constantly changing and you have to take both the sweet and the bitter.

THIS BOOK MADE ME WONDER HOW MANY PEOPLE DO CHOSE BETWEEN LOVE AND A CARREER? AND HEART BREAKS FROM LOVE ARE THE MOST PAINFUL OF LIFE'S PAINS . . .YOU WILL NEED KLEENES FOR THIS BOOK, BUT IT IS WELL WORTH THE READ . . .

I am a huge fan of Kayla Perrin's, and this book is just one reason why! For her novel, AGAIN, MY LOVE, Ms. Perrin chose to write about lovers who recieve the gift of a second chance. I love the theme of this book! When Gavin comes back into Marcia's life, she gets the opportunity to be with the man she once loved, a man who severely broke her heart by making her choose between him and her career. I felt her pain as I read this novel, and the way Ms. Perrin brings the characters of Gavin and Marcia together again, makes for a tale worth reading twice! Settle back in your favorite reading chair, and enjoy this book again and again!!

Marcia Robertson thought she left her past behind her. She was living with a handsome rising actor Jackson Reid. Her own acting career was trying to go somewhere.

One day she receives a letter from her ex-fiance' Gavin Williams. He wants to meet with her. Marcia's world starts to spin. She doesn't want to see him, until she finds out that Jackson had been having an affair. She is now faced with the fact that he probably had more than one, Marcia seeks the arms of Gavin.

Years before, Gavin gave Marcia an ultimatium. It was either him or her career. She chose her career. It took her a while to get over the hurt he caused. Now here he comes again. Gavin wanted Marcia and knew he made a mistake when he let her go some year before.

Reading this story, I rejoiced and became sad. This is a wonderful second chance story. This is a good first novel for Ms. Perrin. I have read all of her other books, and I have found that they all are just as good.