In Progress

Every now and then, I'll blog about my "in progress" reads, rather than wait to give a full review (in the interest of keeping the blog up to date on a regular basis).







Missing on Superstition Mountain


If you need a boy-friendly mystery, pick up Missing on Superstition Mountain. The Barker boys have been warned time and time again to STAY AWAY from Superstition Mountain (too little, too late). What happens when they climb Superstition Mountain in pursuit of their runaway cat? Oh, not much....they just come across a small collection of skulls, that's all. Of course, they must investigate, which they do thanks to the help of a terrific girl character named Delilah. First in a series, this is a classic whodunit mixed with enough creepy elements to satisfy middle-grade readers.











Welcome to Your Child's Brain


Brain development is endlessly fascinating; it's one of my favorite non-fiction subjects. This information-packed but immensely readable guide to child/teen brain development is a fantastic journey into the awesome and mysterious workings of the developing brain. This includes the latest research into brain development, which has definitely changed in the years since I studied it in depth as a Family, Child, and Consumer Sciences student (most notably in terms of adolescent brain development). This is an exciting and amazing read; the human brain is a mighty instrument.

(I also recommend reading National Geographic's October cover story on the adolescent brain. Actually, I recommend the entire magazine; I've recently started to read NG again, and I love it. While you're at it, The New Yorker's article last week about Taylor Swift is also an intriguing read; many teen girls loooove Taylor Swift, so it's kinda sorta related. We have so many awesome magazines here at the library; I should blog about them more.)

Media Matters: Ballet Shoes

Ballet Shoes


Here's a review for you: I enjoyed this much, much more than I anticipated I would. Ballet Shoes, based upon the book by Noel Streatfeild, is the story of three former orphans studying at a prestigious London performing arts academy. Pauline (played by Emma Watson, otherwise known as Hermione from the Harry Potter movies) has acting talent, Posy has ballet talent, and Petrova would rather take flying lessons and cars than tap lessons.

It's been some time since I've read the novel, but I know that some liberties were taken from the book. Pauline and Posy are a bit unlikeable at times, yet their behavior is due to their sudden successes getting to their head. The three young actresses (as well as the young girl playing their rival) give convincing and natural performances. I loved the way the 1930s era came alive through the costumes, hairstyles, and music. Also--quite a bit of smoking (by the adult characters, but that's also in tune with the era)! In fact, that's why it's rated PG (I laughed when the parental guidance information was flashed before the movie started, but yes, the smoking is prominent in several scenes).

This is a children's movie, but children who need a lot of action and excitement in their movies (and who aren't interested in dance) might find this quiet movie boring (I would have loved it when I was ten or so, but I would have found the orphans' lives very exciting and glamorous!).

'Tis the Season

...for holiday reading!


Ah, the holidays will soon be upon us like a freight train. Our new Thanksgiving and Christmas books will be on our shelves soon. Here's a sneak peek at some tasty titles for Thanksgiving (winter holiday books will be featured in a later post):







10 Turkeys in the Road


A Thanksgiving read aloud? Yes! 10 turkeys are blocking the road of a busy and impatient farmer. One by one, they fly off; finally, the farmer can go on his way! Or, can he? Finding Thanksgiving read alouds suitable for my toddler story time is challenging (I don't think kids really get Thanksgiving until they are in a school setting), so I am super excited about including this in a November story time.








Annie and Snowball and the Thankful Friends


Cynthia Rylant's easy readers are so irresistibly cute; it's always a good day when she debuts a new one. Annie (cousin to Henry in the Henry and Mudge series) loves Thanksgiving and wants to celebrate it with a big crowd. That's a bit hard to do when it's only you, your father, and your rabbit, Snowball. Who can she invite in order to fill the chairs around the table?







Balloons Over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy's Parade


Like many families, watching (or having it on in the background while getting ready for the big meal) the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade is a tradition in my family. Naturally, I'm delighted about this picture book biography of Tony Sarg, the inventor of the parade's iconic balloons. I'm not so delighted about the fact that it's not being released until November 1 (seriously--holiday books should be released at the beginning of the month prior to the actual holiday). Oh well...I think this will remain popular after Thanksgiving. It's been receiving stellar reviews (since August!).







I Spy Thanksgiving


How genius is this? I Spy books in easy reader format! Just the thing to entice beginning or struggling readers and build their confidence. I Spy books and other picture puzzle books are terrific for beginning readers; they help to develop tracking and critical thinking skills, which are necessary for reading development. Jean Marzollo has written new clues designed for early readers, so it's not just a repackaged format.



Let the holiday reading begin!

New Books For October

Ready to settle in for some fall reading?








Bunheads


The success of Glee, the High School Musical franchise, Black Swan, and the like have undoubtedly inspired an uptake in arts-themed YA literature. Fine by me. Bunheads seems to be in the "there's more to life than tutus and toe shoes" vein. Fine by me, too. However, it would be nice to have some performing-arts oriented YA novels in which the main character...I don't know....finds some kind of balance and continues her studies? As much as I loved Revolution and Four Seasons, it would be great to have a character that doesn't have a nervous breakdown or chucks her studies because of the pressure and expectations (and don't get me wrong-those are awesome, awesome reads). Yes, this creates drama, and yes, kids who are in intense performing arts prep programs are under enormous pressure, but can we have...another perspective? Not to knock Bunheads (because I don't even know if this is the case--I'm just speculating), because I adore any novel with a performing arts theme (more, more! especially in adult fiction! circuses are cool, too!), so I can't wait to get my paws on this book and find out what Hannah loves more--a normal life or the stage? I have a hunch.








Drink, Slay, Love

OhNoNotAnotherTeenVampireNovel. Wait, wait, wait. Reviews are praising this as a clever take on the teen vampire rage. VOYA digs it: "This book will likely appeal to young horror fans who enjoy a snarkier, smarter, distinctly less sparkly brand of vampires." All I know is that a unicorn stabs her, which develops her conscience (before that, she quite enjoyed sucking people's blood). And the unicorn won't give up on her. Actually, the unicorn is a "were-unicorn." Yeah, I'm not sure how that works either. Gotta read the book.









The Last Musketeer


I'm fond of books that use a classic as a jumping-off point; if they're really good, they may inspire the reader to seek out the original text. School Library Journal seems to think so: "Full of jovial humor, narrow escapes, sorcery, and intrigue, this novel will likely generate interest in the classic."









Liesl and Po


I've heard some late Newbery excitement about this one. Lauren Oliver is well known to YA readers; Liesl and Po is her first foray into children's literature. Liesl is locked away by her mean stepmother in a bedroom attic. Po is the ghost who (that?) visits her. They get together with an alchemist's apprentice and have many adventures. That's pretty much what I know. Kirkus loves it so much, it should marry it: "wonderfully imaginative," "startingly moving," "wickedly funny," "quietly lyrical philosophical passages" and "laugh-out-loud broad comedy/farce." Publishers Weekly thinks it's pretty cool, too: "invigorating and hopeful." Nice. Very nice.








My Life as a Stuntboy


Janet Tashjian usually knocks it out of the ballpark every time she has a new book out; I wish her books received more attention. They are grade A and just the right size for reluctant middle school readers and boys who want funny realistic fiction. 12 year old Derek has been given what any 12 year old boy would deem a dream opportunity: the chance to be a stunt performer. (Yeah, OK.) There's shenanigans with his pet capuchin monkey, issues with schoolwork and a suddenly jealous best friend, and parents that tend to turn everything into a "teachable moment." Kirkus praised this "fun, emotionally resonant" companion to My Life as a Book (which I loved).








National Geographic Kids Beginner World's Atlas


We needed a new atlas (each branch is receiving a copy). Yes, there are excellent databases and apps (I bought a nifty atlas app from National Geographic myself just yesterday), but I think there's still a need for print atlases and map skills. National Geographic Kids' books are excellent, so I'm confident that this will be a worthwhile and attractive atlas.








Secrets at Sea


People, what is the deal with mice novels this year? Richard Peck's first animal fantasy is centered around a mice family living with an upper crust family determined to make a splendid match for their eldest daughter (looks like it's set during the Victorian times?). School Library Journal calls it "fast paced", while Publishers Weekly praises its "dry wit."








Swirl By Swirl: Spirals in Nature


I adore Dark Emperor of the Night, so I'm anxious to read Joyce Sidman's newest collection of poems. One of a kind.








Treasury of Greek Mythology


Donna Jo Napoli's Greek mythology book is receiving tremendous acclaim. School Library Journal recently hailed it: "Wise, witty, and thoroughly entrancing."








Under the Mesquite


I'm thrilled to see more Latino-oriented YA novels (would like to see more YA novels set outside of Texas, but since I'm guessing that's where many of these authors live or grew up, it's understandable). When her mother is diagnosed with cancer, Lupita must take on more responsibility for childcare and household chores. Although I don't particularly care for novels in verse, this one will probably make sense because Lupita is an aspiring poet. This debut novel is receiving lovely praise for its depiction of an immigrant family.


It's still tooooo soon to blog about Thanksgiving and Christmas books; that will come later!

Liebster Award

What a lovely surprise I received today! Ms. Yingling of the fabulous Ms. Yingling Reads blog gave me a Liebster blog award. What's a Liebster blog award?

The Criteria: The Liebster Blog Award is meant to showcase bloggers who have fewer than 200 followers. This is all done in the spirit of pay-it-forward.

The Rules: You must mention and link to the person who awarded you the Liebster, and mention 5 other blogs with fewer than 200 followers you think worthy of the Liebster. You have to leave a comment in their blogs telling them about the award.


Awww, thank you, Ms. Yingling!

OK...here are my picks:


Mr. H Reads: Mr. H is a 5th grade teacher in Iowa. Engaging, opinionated, and a frequent participant over at the Heavy Medal blog.


The Miss Rumphius Effect: Miss Rumphius and I served on a Cybils committee back in the day. Not only that--she also lives and works in our great state (at the University of Richmond). Strong on poetry and nonfiction reviews.

The Brown Bookshelf: A terrific resource for multicultural literature. Creators of the 28 Days Later campaign, held every February in honor of African-American authors and illustrators.

Age 30+....A Lifetime of Books: Heather J. began her blog in order to keep track of one year's reading. She enjoyed the experience so much that she's continued her blog to this day. Heather blogs about her personal reading (and listening) choices, which includes adult fiction/nonfiction and children's books that she reads with her young son. Heather lives in Maryland and has done a great job of connecting MD/DC/VA bloggers.

The Goddess of YA Literature: The Goddess of YA Literature (or, Professor Nana) teaches children's/YA literature at Sam Houston State University. Her blog is packed with fantastic reviews of YA literature. Always fun to read.


Spreading the blog love around the kidlitosphere! Thanks again, Ms. Yingling.

Media Matters: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs


Today starts a new little feature on the Kiddosphere: Media Matters. Every week, I'll try to highlight a DVD or audiobook (mostly from the children's/YA collection, but I'll include material from the adult collection as well).


Let's begin with the one that started it all for Disney and animation movies in general. Called "Walt's Folly" when it was announced that Disney was planning the first animated feature, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was an instant smash hit when it debuted. This tale of a princess, dwarfs, and a poison apple has remained a classic.

Point #1: Wow. The evil queen is really, really creepy. Not as frightening, in my opinion, as Maleficent in Sleeping Beauty, but this is a character that plans to have her stepdaughter's heart cut out and cackles about Snow White being buried alive after eating the poison apple (as well as cackling "Thirsty?" when she passes a skeleton reaching out for a jug).

Point #2: Out of all the dull as dishwater princes in Disney films, the Prince in Snow White takes the cake. Prince Philip in Sleeping Beauty has more presence and personality (and has a really cool battle scene with a dragon), the Prince in Cinderella has a mission that makes him a bit more interesting, but this dude sings a little song at the beginning and rides up on his horse at the end, kisses Snow White, and takes her away. Big ol' snooze. It's been a long, long time since I've seen Snow White (and I don't remember it being a childhood favorite like Sleeping Beauty), but I was expecting him to have to battle the witch or go through a test before finding Snow White. But, no. This guy hears rumors about a sleeping girl in a glass coffin and decides to take a little trip into the woods. Big deal, Prince Charming.


Point #3: Someday My Prince Will Come. Yes, yes, roll your eyes. But, let's consider. This is a girl who grew up with a stepmother who wanted her heart cut out, is forced to flee into the woods, and in exchange for room and board, has to keep house for a bunch of weird little men with filthy living habits. Wouldn't you want someone, anyone, to rescue you? Give the girl a break. And secondly, this film was released in
1937. Wasn't everyone wishing that someone would just sweep in and make all the misery go away? It makes sense, people! Don't hate, relate.

Point #4: Heigh-ho! Heigh-ho! It's off to work we go! Isn't that the best? I was singing it on my way to work this morning.


If you have time, watch the "making of" documentary.

Tomorrow-look for a post on new books for October.

Warp Speed

Warp Speed


Marley is having a tough time in middle school. Bullies are his main problem; one gang in particular gets a lot of fun out of chasing him and beating him up, and another kid forces him to share his homework and test answers. Not only that, he mistakens a new girl in the AV Club for a boy. Things start to brighten when a new girl befriends him, but his ex-best friend, basketball jock Stanford, soon throws a wrench into the relationship.

Although this is part of Lisa Yee's Millie Trilly trilogy, it's not necessary to have read its predecessor, Stanford Wong Flunks Big Time, in order to enjoy and understand the story. Although Warp Speed covers serious issues-bullying and, later, child abuse-it's not written in a heavy-handed and preachy way.

Lisa Yee gets middle school culture like few middle grade authors do. Her portrayal of the dorky teacher who thinks she's cool (by composing groan-inducing raps), cheesy issues-oriented (and carefully diversified) videos that the students are forced to watch, and the bullying campaign that's long on message but short on action (created by the PTA in a scene that's worth the price of the book) are sharp, hilarious, and truthful. Child abuse rears its painful head later in the story; it is handled appropriately, realistically, and honestly. Marley's mother is blind, which adds an important dimension to the story; in this subplot, Yee paints a realistic picture of the assumptions and condescending attitudes (in a brilliant scene at the putting range) that many have toward the legally blind. Yee's depiction of geek culture (the AV club fights over the various merits of superheros) is also spot on. As you can see, there are several heavy issues addressed within the story, but Yee juggles them expertly and with plenty doses of humor and wry commentary in order to lighten the mood. Marley is a fantastic character; readers will cheer him wholeheartedly along the way.

Spooky Reads

Ah, Halloween! Of course, the stores have had their Halloween candy since, I don't know, the Fourth of July? Nevertheless, costumes are being prepared and Halloween books are flying off the shelves. Here are a few of my favorites:







Piper Reed, Campfire Girl

Piper Reed is a lovely series for young elementary students. You don't really need to read them in order (but many kids are fussy about that, and sometimes, especially in fantasy series, you really do need to read them in order). In this fourth book of the Piper Reed series, Piper goes on a camping trip at Halloween (which she's not too thrilled about!). Not only is Piper Reed a cute series, it also features the everyday life of a military (Navy) family, which we don't often see in children's books.







If You're a Monster and You Know It

This isn't specifically Halloween-oriented, but it works if you need a read aloud for toddlers or preschoolers. As you can guess, it's a takeoff on "If You're Happy and You Know It." Rebecca and Ed Emberley's picture book contributions are fun and clever; this is no exception.






Ant and Honeybee: A Pair of Friends at Halloween

The Ant and Honeybee books are perfect for beginning readers (the books are a little over 40 pages). Ant and Honeybee decide to dress as appliances for Halloween.








And Then Comes Halloween

And Then Comes Halloween isn't just about trick-or-treating; it's also about the fun of creating costumes and decorating for Halloween. A good emphasis on the creative side of the holiday!






A Creepy Countdown


If you want something that's a little shivery but not too scary, check out A Creepy Countdown. This Halloween counting book has deliciously spooky illustrations.


I'm looking for a really good scary audiobook. Adult fiction. I'm thinking about Carrie (oooh, narrated by Sissy Spacek....I do have a cassette player) or something else by Stephen King (listening to Christine while driving might be interesting). Or maybe Interview With the Vampire. There's also this Classic Tales of Terror that I have my eye on. Any recommendations?

Wowbrary Wednesday

I received a new Wowbrary notice in my email this Tuesday morning. Click. Click. Click. Here's what caught my eye:





Steve Jobs


Actually, I put in a request for this before the latest Wowbrary came out (as did several others). I believe this was originally set for publication early next year. When Jobs announced his retirement, it was pushed to November; with his recent death, publication was rushed to late October. Jobs was an extremely private man, yet he consented to many interviews for this biography (he did not ask to approve or even read the book before publication, and he encouraged friends and associates to speak honestly). Should be a fascinating read.









Jack Kennedy, Elusive Hero


Another JFK biography? Some may say that, but I'm looking forward to reading it (I've never read much about the Kennedys, but the recent Jacqueline Kennedy book/CD release intrigued me). The author interviewed Kennedy's closest associates during his research.








Then Again


From what I've read, Diane Keaton's memoir is not only a memoir of her acclaimed Hollywood career, but also a loving tribute to her mother. How refreshing. (I've avoided much of the "my family is so dysfunctional" memoir craze.)




Imperfect Justice: Prosecuting Casey Anthony


Don't know why there's no picture in the catalog. Sorry. I've been waiting for this ever since the end of the Anthony trial (not surprisingly, so have several others, as there are already a handful of holds). I won't review it on this blog; just wanted to point out that it's been ordered.









The Pilgrim

Now, this looks really interesting. The Pilgrims don't figure that much...well, at all in modern historical fiction. Nice to see someone tackle something other than the usual suspects of kings and princesses. Charles Wentworth journeys to the Plymouth Colony in hopes of easing his heartbreak, where he discovers, of course, danger, excitement, and even new love. Awesome. Something for Thanksgiving vacation reading!








White Truffles in Winter

I don't know anything about culinary history, but I do love a good foodie novel. This is about the French chef Auguste Escofiier, who was torn between his wife and the famous actress Sarah Bernhardt. Food, theatre, and a love triangle? Oui, oui, oui!


Of course, this doesn't mean that I'll get to them all, but they sound pretty awesome!

Picture Book Roundup

We've received so many terrific picture books recently. Here are some standouts:





Kai-Mook


Kai-Mook would hate me saying this, but this book is SO CUTE. Who is Kai-Mook? Kai-Mook is the newborn baby elephant. Like all baby elephants, she is ridiculously cute. All the other animals think so, and gush that she is just SO CUTE. Eventually, Kai-Mook has enough of this SO CUTE nonsense that she rises up in protest. '"I I AM NOT CUTE," the baby elephant trumpets, staggering up onto her flobby flabby legs. "I AM KAI-MOOK!" Of course, the animals just think this is so cute. Kai-Mook can't win. This funny and darling read aloud should be a hit with most toddlers and preschoolers.







Maisy's Amazing Big Book of Learning

Maisy takes the reader through various concepts, making this a very interactive book. In this sizes section, we see a variety of animals. "Who is big? Who is tall? Who is thin?" And so on. Similar thing for colors: "Who is blue? Who is green? Who is brown?" Lift-the-flaps also engage the reader. This slightly oversize picture book makes it ideal for lap-sharing.







Miss Lina's Ballerinas and the Prince



Miss Lina's pretty-in-pink ballerinas are back! And this time, a boy is joining their ballet class. The girls think this is marvelous, and begin dreams of elegant pas de deux. Unfortunately, the new boy is a bit of a show off, and not too sure about being the only boy (he's not the typical ballet prince that they were expecting). Luckily, after a mad escapade, the class settles down and debuts an enchanting end-of-the-year recital. Lovely!



Coming soon: update on new books arriving for October, and holiday books!

The Night Circus and Rin Tin Tin

When books arrive with tons of advance publicity, my suspicions are raised a tad. Are they really all they are cracked up to be? Sometimes, they aren't.

Sometimes, they are.

Case in point: Example A.







Tons. TONS of hoopla over this book. Movie rights have already been sold.

Looking for a wild, evocative, and weird read? Check this one out. Actually, you'll need to get in line for this one. Lots of hold requests. It's a mysterious and romantic story set against the backdrop of a magical Victorian circus. I don't want to give away too much, so I'll stop right here.


Case in point: Example B.








Rin Tin Tin also arrived with a lot of publicity and advance praise, not surprising for a new book by Susan Orlean. Let me tell you: SO WORTH IT. This is an incredible read. It's a beautifully and movingly written story that intertwines the history of dogs and people in modern day peacetime and wartime, the rough and tumble years of early Hollywood and the awkward transition to sound, the rise and fall of television westerns, and the amazing and unbelievable story of the first Rin Tin Tin, his devoted owner, Lee Duncan, and Rin Tin Tin's descendants. Susan Orlean interjects herself into the story from time to time, which makes her writing more personal and intimate. I knew very, very little about Rin Tin Tin before reading this, so the depth of the original Rin Tin Tin's popularity and how seriously he was taken as a genuine actor and as an icon astounded me. This is narrative nonfiction at its best. Orlean is doing a big book tour and a good amount of publicity for her book; holds will probably increase (especially if it shows up on bestseller lists, which I'm sure it will, and on the "Best Of 2011" lists which will be out shortly) so I would request now if you think you want to read it. If you love dogs or if entertainment history interests you, trust me...you want to read this book.

A book trailer for The Night Circus:






Book trailer for Rin Tin Tin:






17 out of the original 23 Rin Tin Tin movies have been lost forever. Fortunately, you can see some clips on Youtube:

The Hills of Kentucky:



A movie starring Junior, Rinty's son. Like many second-generation entertainers, he was compared to his old man and found wanting:




The Rin Tin Tin television show. Hey, that dog's a bit blond, dontcha think? Oh, dear...better read the book. This is the brief opening:



Isn't Youtube the best? There are also terrific clips of Lassie, Rin Tin Tin's rival. Rin Tin Tin's folks would sometimes get a bit unhinged when the subject of Lassie came up.

And while we're on the subject of trailers and Youtube, a new trailer for Steven Spielberg's War Horse movie has been released:






Waah. Cannot wait. Read the book before the holds start stacking up.




Enjoy these wonderful stories!

Apples For All: A Toddler Story Time

Seasonal story times are my mainstays as a youth services librarian. It's easy enough to find general fall-related story times, but they tend to not be very captivating for a toddler story time (winter themed picture books are another matter).Apples, however, are another story. They can definitely relate to apple stories, and with pick-your-own farms and orchards so close by, many young Fauquier County patrons are familiar with apples orchards and apple trees.







The Apple Pie Tree


Through the narration of a preschooler, readers are introduced to the stages of an apple tree (featuring some lucky robins) in this cheerfully illustrated picture book perfect for reading aloud. "There's nothing as good as an apple pie you grew yourself." You said it, sister. A quick guideline on the importance of bees for an apple tree and an apple pie recipe are included in the back matter.








Apples and Pumpkins


Anne Rockwell is a master of concept and nonfiction books for very young children; Apples and Pumpkins is one of her classics. The experience of a young girl's trip to the pick-your-own apples and pumpkins farm is told through simple sentences and charming illustrations. Admittedly, the pumpkin is the real focus of the story, and the Halloween ending makes it appropriate for a Halloween-themed story time as well.









One Red Apple


Out of all my apple-themed picture books, Harriet Ziefert's One Red Apple is my favorite. It may be one of the simplest in terms of sentence structure and story line, but the illustrations by Karla Gudeon are absolutely gorgeous. A farmer and his farmhands pick delicious red apples and drive them to the market, where they are bought and enjoyed by customers. The birds even get a little taste of the action by nibbling on discarded apple cores. The apple seeds are scattered by the wind, land, and grow into apple trees. The visual evolution (through an opened flap) of a growing apple tree at the end of the story puts an enchanting end to this remarkable picture book.








The Seasons of Arnold's Apple Tree


Gail Gibbons's marvelous nonfiction picture books are usually suitable for older children, but I'm going to try out The Seasons of Arnold's Apple Tree on my toddler story time group tomorrow. This is a bit longer than the books that I normally read, but if I read this first, I may have some success. We'll see. Arnold's apple tree is busy throughout all seasons, making this a good choice for any seasonal story time; the inclusion of Halloween makes it suitable for a Halloween-themed story time.




Fingerplays

There are tons of apple-themed fingerplays that go great with this story time. Here are my standards:

Little Apples (Tune: 10 Little Indians)

Count on fingers while singing the song.

1 little, 2 little, 3 little apples
4 little, 5 little, 6 little apples
7 little, 8 little, 9 little apples
All fell to the ground.

For added emphasis and to provoke giggles, everyone can fall dramatically to the ground at the end. You may have to repeat this several times for full enjoyment.

Round the Apple Tree (Tune: Mulberry Bush)

Everyone stands in a circle. Holds hands and walk in a circle while singing the chorus. Mime the motions.

Chorus: Here we go round the apple tree, the apple tree, the apple tree/Here we go round the apple tree, so early in the morning

This is the way we plant the seeds...
This is the way the apples grow...(curl up and unfold, standing on tiptoe)
This is the way we pick the apples...
This is the way we wash the apples...
Thhis is the way we cut the apples...
This is the way we eat the apples....

If you're short on time, or if they get restless during the circle time, cut the chorus and just repeat at the end. Or, start the song at "pick the apples."

Apple Tree

This is the tree with leaves so green (wiggle fingers above head)
Here are the apples that hang in between (make fists)
When the wind blows (wave arms)
The apples will fall (arms down)
Here is the basket to gather them all (make a circle with arms, mime gathering)

10 Red Apples

10 red apples growing on a tree (show 10 fingers)
5 for you (show five fingers) and 5 for me (show other five)
Help me shake the tree just show (mime shaking)
And 10 red apples fall down below
(Count to 10 on fingers)

Coloring page: Apples 4 the Teacher is one of my favorite coloring page sites. The pictures are clear and big. Apple