Socks Books

Great book for young children. Especially useful for teachers to use as examples in a reading workshop.

I work in a public library so am always interested in stories set in libraries. Which this technically isn't, as it is the bears' home, but it's close enough. There's hundreds of children's picture books relating to libraries but Hopkins has come up with a good idea by putting a unique spin on a classic fairytale as well.

Drawings by John Manders are pretty well drawn. The basic plot of Goldie Socks is a young blond girl takes a shortcut to school through the woods and comes across a weird building which is constructed of giant books. Being a huge book fan she forgets all about being late for school and checks it out. No one is home so she goes inside and picking up books finds one is too heavy, one too little but one was just right. Actually she gets two books a non fiction and a chapter book which the author seems to have included to promote a five finger rule (no not the shoplifting one but easily to be confused when reading a book about an intruder) that I'm guessing is their idea as it's not used in any library I've been in but well may be an American thing, (feel free to comment and tell me). The same select three until last is "just right" charade is done with finding a comfortable place to read. Disappointingly they didn't do a third 3 things like in the original fairytale and we also don't have the standard bears catch her and eat her ending I have no problem with a different ending but thought the one included was a bit weak and certainly not the result of what a family would do if they came home and found an intruder in their house.

It's a good tale, that doesn't reach the peak of the books in either library fiction or fairy tale spins genres but it is a good read and one most kids would enjoy.

The best two library themed picture books I've come across are Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen and Library Mouse by Daniel Kirk.

The best fairytale parodies or sequels/prequels picture books are Porkenstein, Sequel to the Three Little Pigs where the remaining and now very lonely pig decides to make a new friend, using poetic licence the big bad wolf who died in the original also makes an appearance. The True Story of the Three Little Pigs where told from the wolf's own mouth the reader finds out what really occurred surrounding the events of the destruction of the houses of straw and twigs and the demise of their occupants.

Teachers...you will never believe it...this book puts it all together... the five finger rule, choosing a "just right book," putting books and furniture away properly. It is simply amazing! My students could not believe their ears as I read all of those little rules that we talk about all of the time for reading independently. Finally a great story that teaches such great reading rules.

Excellent book to use in the primary classroom. Especially when teaching children the 5 finger rule for selecting a just right book.

This is a keeper! Wonderful spin off from Little Red Riding Hood! Reiterates the best book is one that is just right ---- for YOU!

This is such a great idea, since there's not a lot out there in the way of dress-up toys for little boys. However, one problem we had with ours... the velcro wore out WAY too quick. It won't stick together anymore and my son gets annoyed as it keeps falling off. It is inconvenient to have to replace the velcro so soon.

Bought this book for 2 grandsons ages 6 and 3 and they love it. It is very clever and funny!

I bought this item for my two grandsons. They really liked it. I had two little superheros running around my house shrieking with glee.

My two sons live in their superhero capes and masks. This is a pretty all-encompassing gift b/c it includes not only the cape, but a selection of very cool colorful masks (you have to supply your own string) and wristbands. My 2- and 6-year olds wear them daily and the masks are still holding up weeks later. Makes a great gift for friends, too.

I have a boy who is on the autistic spectrum. He absolutely loves this book. He wakes up each morning and put on the cape, mask,, and wristbands. It has been great for his pretend play skills!

Okay ladies, and guys for that matter, this book is a must! It was a quick one night read and I learned a lot of great techniques for better sex with my husband. Mullen spent years learning about every last nerve in the female body--and every sex toy under the sun. She interviewed sex educators, doctors, and therapists. The book features tips such as how to find the elusive G-spot, how to feel sexually stimulated from head to toe, how to tell your partner exactly what turns you on in bed, how to achieve knock-your-socks-off orgasms whenever you want them and so much more.

What I also liked about the book was that Mullen shares stories from different women that I could definitely relate to. The writing is witty and clever and the information, diagrams and pictures are not at all crass or offensive. I've already been reaping the rewards of picking this book up and you should too.

In a time of sexual freedom and supposed sexual equality, it's amazing how many women still don't know their bodies. Ms. Mullen's frank, clearly written and empowering book explains the real deal to today's modern woman.

I had a great time reading this book. I found it to be very well written. Her style is refreshing and totally cool. I read the whole book in one day. She presents her knowledge in an informative and easy to read format. This book is part jokebook and part girlfriends bonding book and part illustrative textbook all rolled into one. I can't wait for the sequel!

I found this book very compelling reading. It was writen quite well and I basically finished it in one sitting. I appreciated Ms. Mullen's treatment of sensitive sexual issues and will be referring some of my counseling patients to this book. Her mature and clever take on a variety of sexual behaviors will be useful to many people who find it difficult to communicate with their partners regarding their sexual wants and needs. Oh, by the way, I learned some interesting new things for myself.

Mullen's writing style makes one feel like they are talking to an old friend. I feel like Shannon is now a friend of mine. This book is great to read cover to cover or to simply pick up and flip to certain sections. This will be a resource that I keep around for a long time.

This is the story of ten-year-old cousins Jesse and Daisy, who look every day for something magical to happen to them.

They find what they believe is a geode called a Thunder egg. The "Thunder egg," though, turns out to be a dragon egg - and thus begins the story of two young Dragon Keepers.

I thoroughly enjoyed THE DRAGON IN THE SOCK DRAWER from beginning to end. Jesse and Daisy learn as the days pass how to take care of their new charge. The story flowed very well and I can't wait to read more about the Dragon Keepers.

I think this story would be good for any child, although it is recommended for 9-12 year olds. I was very happy to see two characters this young stand up for themselves and their dragon.

I highly recommend this book, as it will capture the attention of kids and adults alike.

Reviewed by: Breia "The Brain" Brickey

I think this is the best book in the whole world. I think that everyone should read it. I read it in one day because it's so awesome and I can't wait `till the second one comes out. If I could, I would rate this a ten star book.
Dear Kate kilmo,
You are the best author I have ever known.
I hope you finish the second book very soon and
Know that I'm your biggest fan.
-Rachel Collier =]

My dragon-loving 10 yr old granddaughter loved this book as we read it together at bedtime. It had humor and suspense, but was not at all "scary". One of the neat facets was she learned a bit of the St. George/Dragon legend on the way. We both thought the ending was a little weak. Perhaps there will be a #2 that will explain some of the hanging chads, but that material should have been included in this tale. Overall, though, a winner.

I bought this book for my seven-year-old and it came in the mail yesterday afternoon. She finished it by bedtime, same day!!! She read it on her own and giggled the entire time!!! Fantastic!!!

Ten-year-old cousins Jesse and Daisy have always dreamed of having a magical adventure, so when a thunder egg hatches and a baby dragon appears, the two kids are entranced. Soon they discover the task of being a Dragon Keeper is demanding - and they are charged with keeping Emmy safe from the villainous Saint George, who drinks dragon's blood. THE DRAGON IN THE SOCK DRAWER is a fun story middle-grade fantasy readers will find compelling.

The author displays a refreshing and extremely creative tale of a Scottish terrier and her 'King' Simon. A delightful story, beautifully illustrated, captivating children's attention from early ages through adulthood. Leaves you waiting for another episode!! A must-have for children of ALL ages! I gave it to all the children I know for Christmas.

Lisa McClafferty gives readers a witty, charming look into the good-hearted and "innocently" mischievous nature of Scottish Terriers. In this story, Matilda's investigation of missing socks leads the enthusiastic private eye into a magical adventure with a surprising revelation for the Scottish lass. A delightful tale, with beautifully drawn illustrations by Diane Aines; "Matilda" is sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of children and adults alike! I'm very pleased to add this first edition to my nephew's storybook collection (and send copies to friends) and hope to read more of Matilda's "antics" in the future! I highly recommend picking up this gem!!!

This is a delightful book for kids and all terrier lovers. I think the "9-12 years old" rating may be a big high. My 8-year-old adored it and it is a "just right" book for her to read herself. I think younger kids would love to have it read to them; by the 'tween years they may be a bit old for it.

Great story of a Scottish Lass and her King Simon - Great for the Child in your life or the child in you :)

Matilda Private Eye: The Case of the Missing Socks

Absolutely wonderful tale of a lovely Scottish lass! Loved it!

As a young woman is cleaning a church, the pastor's widow arrives for a last look around. They find a jar filled with little trinkets from previous church members. The widow explained the jar was "a story jar" and that each item had a special story behind it. Thus three stories emerge about some of the items.

*** A special book just in time for Mother's Day! In between each novella are poems and short true tales from various other people. Many of them are author names I recognize. However, several are not. I saw some poems from children about their mothers. It was so special and gave me such a warm feeling. The stories are inspirational. I found myself near tears of sadness at times, joy at others, and a few times a feeling of awe and wonder that only another mother could understand. Fabulous! ***

A collection of heartwarming stories that honors mothers of all ages can be found in "The Story Jar." Top inspirational writers Robin Lee Hatcher, Deborah Bedford and Angela Elwell Hunt team up to produce a continuity story about an ordinary jar that holds an extraordinary power to encourage and heal the heart. The story jar was placed on the alter of a small country church each Mother's Day, and the mothers of the church would each contribute some small memento that has meant something to them during the previous year. Those mementos are the basis for a tale that weaves through several generations of women, and how they drew strength and encouragement from the lessons learned. Also included in "The Story Jar" are tributes from some of the country's top inspirational writers to their mothers including Lori Copeland, Linda Windsor and Jerry Jenkins. This book will inspire women everywhere to rejoice in the gift of children, and after all, this is the reason behind Mother's Day! Now, go get your mom a present!

As a young woman is cleaning a church, the pastor's widow arrives for a last look around. They find a jar filled with little trinkets from previous church members. The widow explained the jar was "a story jar" and that each item had a special story behind it. Thus three stories emerge about some of the items.

*** A special book just in time for Mother's Day! In between each novella are poems and short true tales from various other people. Many of them are author names I recognize. However, several are not. I saw some poems from children about their mothers. It was so special and gave me such a warm feeling. The stories are inspirational. I found myself near tears of sadness at times, joy at others, and a few times a feeling of awe and wonder that only another mother could understand. Fabulous! ***

You won't be disappointed in these tender stories of motherhood. The Story Jar truly celebrates the joys, the heartaches, the fulfillment of being a woman. --Lisa Samson, author of The Church Ladies

This book isn't just for Mother's Day--if you are a mother, have a mother, or would like to BE a mother, this book is for you. The three authors have given us such different stories--they cover all aspects of motherhood, including the desperate wanting to be a mother an infertile woman feels. A lovely book that's as honest as anything I've read lately. There are no easy answers, but God is faithful. I highly recommend!

Falling somewhere between graphic novel and comic book, this is some of the best art and cool weirdness I've seen in a long time. The story is the least of it; like most of Mr. Millionaire's work, it all ends in mayhem. The exquisite artwork, with its vintage look and dense and imaginative attention to detail, along with the quaint dialogue makes this a cult classic. Great fun!

Lynn Flewelling

This book is too dark and violent for young kids, but grownups will appreciate the nostalgic and melancholy, yet sometimes silly, stories. The drawings are exquisite. An unusual work of art.

This book is a compilation of the four "Sock Monkey" comic books. I am not a true comic book afficianado, but really enjoyed this unusual book. The illustrations are superbly executed, and the stories are truly unique. Throughout the tales runs an underlying theme ....that catastrophes can result from unsolicited attempts to 'fix' the problems of others. The humor is a bit grim but spirited, the characters beyond unique. An added treat are the single page pieces at the end of each story..as entertaining as the stories themselves: "Daddy Long Legs Went on a cruise, He drank some booze, Got hit by a squall 'But I'm so small The sharks aren't Eating me at all' He was eaten by a sardine"

An instant classic, Tony Millionaire's collection of Sock Monkey comics is ideal for adults who have not become too sensible and for children who are too good for the usual antiseptic, focus-group oriented fare that passes as children's entertainment these days.

Do you remember John Bellairs' 'The House with a Clock in it's Walls'? Imagine that atmosphere meshed with pre-Disney Winnie the Pooh, with touches of 'The Wind in the Willows' in the dialogue. Filter that through an Edward Gorey illustrative sensibility (although Tony Millionaire is the better artist) and you have a good idea of what to expect here. Except it's also a comic book and its funny.

Buy this book for your children. It will delight them and scare them a little bit, which I assure you builds character.

This book is a collection of stories from Tony Millionaire's astounding comic book Sock Monkey. Disturbing, hilarious, and lovingly rendered in antiquey black and white are your favorite sock monkey, Uncle Gabby, and his oft drunken pal Mr. Crow. Together they "traipse the constellated wildreness" of a chandelier, attempt to return a shrunken head to it's home in "The Borneo," burn down the house, and much more. The illustrations are painstakingly realistic and quite beautiful, while the stories are charming, touching and surreal. Uncle Gabby and Mr Crow speak like refined 19th century gentlemen (quite quotable) and occaisionally come to existential revelations. Reads like an obscure 110-year old publication.

This is the next best thing in comic literature. If you like underground comix this is a must-read. Appropriate for kids, though there is some violence (you could say the same for The Brothers Grimm).

This is my favorite Christmas present to all the little ones in my life! This book is a must-buy!!!

This book is simply wonderful. The illustrations are fantastic and full of FUN. It's one of the BEST Christmas stories ever-revealing the TRUE meaning of CHRISTmas. We'll make it a tradition to read to our loved ones EVERY season.

This uplifting story is precious and should be included in every child's personal library. "Sampson" should be read by every ADULT as a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. The story reinforces a child's self esteem and demonstrates how everyone has importance in this world. The characters are adorable and the illustrations are classics to be cherished by generations to come.

This book has the feel of a classic Christmas story that can be read year after year without it ever growing old. The illustrations are fun, the characters are cute, and the story is a good one. I've purchased multiple copies to give as Christmas gifts over the past two years. Truth be told, I enjoy the book just as much as the kids.

This cleverly written and illustrated book is sure to touch the hearts of children and adults alike, as well as teach amazing truths of the value of oneself and the love of giving. A wonderful story that is fun, endearing, and delivers a powerful message of the meaning of Christmas.

I have always had trouble with interviews. After reading this book, I have more confidence and feel that I am better prepared to handle the interviewing process.

I was drawn to this book because it was short and easy to read. I've purchased a few other books in preparation for an upcoming interview, and I found that this was easier to skim through, because I was able to find what I was looking for without much effort. I am applying for pharmacy school soon, and my interview will play a large part in determining if I'm accepted. I can use all the help I can get, and I think this book has given me a great headstart!

Aa a retail manager I found this book to very helpful in learning how to conduct an interview. It should be must reading for anyone contemplating a job search. Very inciteful and practical advice is given in an " easy to read and understand " format.

This book is an easy to read, common sense approach to a problem everyone faces at one time or another in their life.

I loved reading "How to win the job interview battle.." it was easy reading, and it made sense for me. I loved the examples, it helped me to understand what the author was saying, and how to apply it in my interviews. With all of the layoffs happening around the US right now, this book could not have come at a better time. Thanks

After a year of mediocre (at best) knitting books in 2008, this is one of the few I felt was worth my money and time. I am not crazy about all the patterns, but there are several I will definitely make. There are more to choose from than in most books (22 in all). I also really appreciated the detailed explanation of handpainted yarns. So far I haven't run into issues like "pooling" but when I do, this will be a great reference.

I thought "Oh, ho-hum, another sock book about stripey yarn" but...no, this book REALLY has a lot to offer the sock knitter as well as yarn dyer or spinner.

The book discusses handpainted or varigated yarns and the problem of "pooling" or when blotches of color show up rather than stripes. The patterns are coded by whether the pattern is suited for wild multi-colors, muted multi color, or almost solid. So when you look at a particular model, there is a symbol to tell you what yarn might work the best. Some patterns, by using short and long stitches to break up the pool of color or to camouflage the effect.

Many of the patterns are textured. There are braids, zig-zags, and other patterns. Some are color patterns--like a flame orwaves of color accented by embroidery. The flame is great--looks like a custom Harley paint job (gray and flame-orange, with flames rising up the cuffs.)

I have a stash of all kinds of shaded yarns and I can't wait to try a number of the patterns. These are sufficiently different that I could confidently recommend this book to any sock knitter, even one with a huge library. If you have a stubborn "pooling" yarn or just a stash of shaded sock yarns, you are sure to find a wonderful pattern here.

Socksters, this is a no-brainer. You NEED this book. Even if you haven't (yet) drunk the sock-knitting Kool-Aid, this book is worth your while for how it breaks down the world of handpainted yarns. She classifies them two ways--by contrast colors and by dye-run length--and explains how they work with different patterns and how to grapple with that bugbear of handpainted yarns--pooling.

The bad news is: part of the answer is, ya gotta swatch. Errrrgh. I know. But her advice is sound, and she offers a number of ways to cope, everything from directional knitting to knitting with two skeins to certain stitch patterns.

Each of the 21 patterns in this book is rated according to which brightness of yarn you have to work with, everything from almost solid (those luscious kettle dyes), to moderate to brightly painted (which she at one point jokingly calls 'clown barf'). That means once you identify what type of yarn you've yanked out of your stash, you can find a pattern to work.

The patterns are from well known designers (Ann Budd, Charlene Schurch, etc) and look challenging enough to be interesting, but not too intimidating. (Maybe don't knit while watching your favorite TV show, but when it's not your own personal Must See TV, you can knit away with confidence). The patterns feature everything from directional knitting (but, strangely, no mitered squares) to color stranding to a teeny bit of intarsia to lace. It presumes basic knitting knowledge and a good bit of the basics of sock construction as well, but I wouldn't put it above an 'intermediate' knitter. Beginners might hold off to get a sock or two under their needles first, but none of these patterns have complicated massive charts or anything else too intimdating.

If, like me, you've bought a bucket of handpaints but dread knitting them up into a pattern where either the stitch pattern gets lost in the color, the colors muddy up, or you're plagued with pooling, this book is just what you need. Do NOT have any socks on your needles when this book arrives.

This book has made me feel good about my somewhat largish stash in that it presents a wonderful variety of socks to knit up. I will knit them confidently in that I will use the valuable info on what to expect from the yarn styles I have and the socks will turn out great. Explanations presented about how yarns are painted, how to use those yarn types, the stitches and sock styles make sense to me - so much I am already wanting for the second book on this subject!

Seriously, no hyperbole there. I know of few sock knitters who don't love sock candy, but it really is a pain sometimes to get it to look as good as a sock compared to its skeined up loveliness. Short of fiddling with stitch count or using the same old standby's over and over, what's a sock knitter to do?

This book is absolutely jam packed with great alternatives for feisty yarn. No matter if your taste runs from subtle to wild, you will be able to match your yarn up with a suitable pattern that will allow it to shine. I am extremely impressed with the range here. While there are a couple I just shake my head at, the vast majority are very well thought out and quite lovely.

This book is not for beginners, and for that I am also thankful. Why waste pages on 'how to' when there are so many other good resources out there, some of them free. I'm getting more patterns for my dollar here, or rather my brother did since he's the one who bought it for me for an early Christmas present. The book is a treat just for the gorgeous patterns and photos alone!

This book will hold a place of honor on my shelf, it has truly addressed a need in the sock knitting world.