A Giraffe Goes to Paris: Just a Really Nice Book

In the unusual picture book, A Giraffe Goes to Paris by Mary Tavener Holmes and John Harris, illustrated by Jon Cannell, we learn the true story of Belle, a nineteenth century famous traveling giraffe. Belle, born in 1824, was an elegant gift from the pasha of Egypt, Muhammad Ali, to the king of France, Charles X. Belle's story is told by her loving caretaker, Atir. He answers our pressing questions: how does a giraffe, never before seen in France, get there from Egypt in 1826? What does she eat on her journey? What company does a single giraffe keep? Belle fascinated the people, who couldn't figure out what she was, and started a giraffe merchandising craze! I think that this is just a dear book, beautifully illustrated in watercolor and ink, with actual historical artifacts and art from Belle's heyday. A French pronunciation guide is included.

An adult book has also been written about Belle, Zarafa: A Giraffe's True Story, from Deep in Africa to the Heart of Paris by Michael Allin, which is now on my reading list. Interestingly, Mary Tavener Holmes has written another true picture book about a journeying animal, this time a hippo, My Travels With Clara. I can't wait to get my hands on it. Adults can also choose Clara's Grand Tour: Travels with a Rhinoceros in Eighteenth-Century Europe by Glynis Ridley, which I've been meaning to read for years. Pick up one of these titles and see our beautiful creatures through fresh and wondering eyes!

Gertrude Stein for kids!

Once a university professor announced to our class that Gertrude Stein wrote The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas, a book about an imaginary person. My friend John and I were completely horrified. I took for granted that Stein was widely known as a writer, Toklas as her partner and supporter in creative endeavors, and both as associates of such artistic greats as Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway and the like. Although the prof. meant it innocently enough, we were very disturbed by the invisibility of this important couple. Geez.

So, I was excited to see Gertrude is Gertrude is Gertrude is Gertrude written by Johah Winter and illustrated by Calef Brown. Intentionally written in a style suggestive of Stein, with bold and colorful art done in acrylics, this is a somewhat odd and pleasing little book. My favorite parts include Basket the "popular poodle," the car named Auntie, and the quiet cow that ends the book. According to the publisher, this book is targeted to 4 to 8 year olds, but it seems to me that it would be better enjoyed by elementary age kids who are learning about art and creative writing.

Even if you don't normally read picture books, you should check out this loving tribute to Stein, Toklas and their society. Then tell me what you think!

Before We Count Sheep: Pajamarama!

Last night at my library,

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Originally uploaded by solupine

I gave my first family bedtime storytime. I only had three takers, but they obligingly came dressed in jammies and with a special sleep friend. I say friend because there were two stuffed animals, and one rock named "Tree." :)

Here is our reading list:

• Harris, Peter. The Night Pirates.
• Kellogg, Steven. A-Hunting We Will Go.
• MacDonald, Margaret Read. The Squeaky Door.
• Numeroff, Laura. When Sheep Sleep.
• Rathman, Peggy. Good Night, Gorilla.
• Saltzberg, Barney. Cornelius P. Mud, Are You Ready For Bed?
• Schwartz, Viviane. Timothy and the Strong Pajamas.
• Willems, Mo. Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late!

The Squeaky Door was a huge hit. Every time Grandma kissed anyone, from the little boy to the pig, I made a big smacking sound and they giggled like crazy. They also liked the noise that the oil can made. We had a fine time.