children's reading corner

I realized recently I haven't put up a new post in this category in over a month! For this month, I recommend the book listed to the left, Crossing by Philip Booth. With beautiful illustrations, reminiscent of the 1940s, and delightful rhyme, the book displays a train crossing, people watching, counting cars, and making mental notes of what the train is hauling. I enjoy this book, too, because it's not a typical book I would buy for Maggie, and yet, I like to introduce her to things we don't normally have around the house (i.e. we are not train aficionados). Although it might be geared more toward boys, I still say buy it if you have a girl; M seems genuinely captivated by it each time we read it. I think one reason I am drawn to this book is because in some ways it reminds me of the book my mother read us in childhood, The Huff and Puff Express.

As a side note, I love bargain book hunting and find Ross and Marshall's great stores to purchase children's books at discount prices. However, for hardbacks that are in *pristine* (and I do mean pristine) condition I recommend Tuesday Morning. Their selection is diverse and you can easy grab several books for the price of one hardback at say, Barnes and Noble. No book is over $5.99.