Aaron Shepard

Why not give more?Van Amsterdam the baker was well known for his honesty as well as for his fine Saint Nicholas cookies. He always gave his customers exactly what they paid for -- not more and not less. So, he was not about to give in when a mysterious old woman comes to him on Saint Nicholas Day and insists that a dozen is thirteen The woman's curse puts an end to the baker's business, and he believes it would take Saint Nicholas to help him. But if he receives that help, will it be exactly what he imagined? Find out in this inspiring legend from Dutch colonial New York about the birth of an honored American custom. TEACHERS AND LIBRARIANS -- A READER'S THEATER SCRIPT OF THIS BOOK IS AVAILABLE IN AARON'S BOOK "FOLKTALES ON STAGE," OR FREE ON AARON'S WEB SITE./////////////////////////////////////////////////Aaron Shepard's many books for young people have won honors from the American Library Association, the New York Public Library, the Bank Street College of Education, the American Folklore Society, and the National Council for the Social Studies. Once a professional storyteller, he specializes in lively retellings of folktales and other traditional literature. Wendy Edelson has been honored with the Pacific Northwest Book Award, the Moonbeam Children's Book Award, and the Mom's Choice Award. Besides illustrating numerous picture books, she has provided art for Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo, the Seattle Aquarium, Pacific Northwest Ballet, the U.S. Postal Service, Cricket Magazine, McGraw-Hill Education, and the American Library Association. /////////////////////////////////////////////////HONORSAmerican Bookseller Pick of the Lists Trumpet Book Club selection Valerie and Walter's Best Books for Children "The good will of legendary Saint Nick resonates in this tale about the origin of the term 'baker's dozen.' . . . Shepard's easy-to-follow retelling has an appropriate Old World flavor." -- Publishers Weekly, Sept. 18, 1995"A particularly nice holiday story accented by paintings full of detail. . . . Well-paced and a good length for groups or individuals, this is right on target for audiences. Edelson's artwork is filled with marvelously alive characters who almost step from the pages." -- Ilene Cooper, Booklist, Sept. 15, 1995"A lush new version of a traditional tale. . . . Well-chosen words and a nicely paced text that begs to be told aloud. A treat for the holiday season." -- School Library Journal, Oct. 1995"Aaron Shepard retells a favorite colonial legend with the voice of the storyteller." -- Jan Lieberman, TNT, Fall 1995"A fine tale of generosity for St. Nicholas Day or any day." -- Marilyn McPhie, Storybag, Special Review Issue 1997"A story with a message to be heard during the holidays and all year long." -- Children's Book Review

"I want shoes that are spiffy, not iffy." Katie is tired of her same old shoes, so she goes to the store to buy new ones. But with so many wondrous choices, how can she ever decide? In this fun story told in lively verse, a young girl gets a peek at the many possibilities open to her in life and embraces them with joy. For ages 2 to 8. ////////////////////////////////////////////// Aaron Shepard is the award-winning author of "The Baker's Dozen," "The Legend of Lightning Larry," "The Sea King's Daughter," and many more children's books. Once a professional storyteller, Aaron specializes in lively retellings of folktales and other traditional literature, which have won him honors from the American Library Association, the New York Public Library, the Bank Street College of Education, the National Council for the Social Studies, and the American Folklore Society. Wendy Edelson is the award-winning illustrator of "The Baker's Dozen," "Christmas Truce," "Quackling," and many more children's books. She has applied her talent to a wide range of illustration projects, including picture books, pet portraits, posters, and puzzles. Among her clients have been Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo, the Seattle Aquarium, Pacific Northwest Ballet, the U.S. Postal Service, Cricket Magazine, McGraw-Hill Education, and the American Library Association. ////////////////////////////////////////////// FULL TEXT Katie was tired of her same old shoes. "I want shoes I choose " she said. She went to the store to buy new ones. The sales clerk asked, "Which shoes do you choose?" Katie said, "I want shoes that are braggy, not baggy." "Let me see," said the clerk. "We have small shoes, and tall shoes, and walk-on-the-wall shoes. "We have red shoes, and head shoes, and down-the-hill-sled shoes. "We have blue shoes, and BOO shoes, and paddle-canoe shoes. "Which shoes do you choose?" Katie said, "I want shoes that are slicky, not sticky." "Let me see," said the clerk. "We have jog shoes, and log shoes, and hop-like-a-frog shoes. "We have tied shoes, and wide shoes, and carnival-ride shoes. "We have trail shoes, and snail shoes, and wind-in-your-sail shoes. "Which shoes do you choose?" Katie said, "I want shoes that are spiffy, not iffy." "Let me see," said the clerk. "We have black shoes, and snack shoes, and ride-on-a-track shoes. "We have wet shoes, and pet shoes, and super-speed-jet shoes. "We have moon shoes, and goon shoes, and hot-air-balloon shoes. "Which shoes do you choose?" Katie said, "I choose ALL these shoes." She bought the shoes and took them home. Now Katie chooses ALL her shoes with ALL THOSE SHOES TO CHOOSE.

Writing books for children is both art and business. If you dream of becoming a children's author -- or even if you're well on your way -- this handbook can help you in writing sellable stories, getting them published, and promoting your books. Topics include common myths about children's writing, children's book categories, elements of successful stories, manuscript format, submission strategies, contract negotiation, the publishing process, career building, and children's writer resources. Also included are specialized subjects such as querying for multiple manuscripts, promoting a first book, and self publishing. Read "The Business of Writing for Children" to learn the secrets you might spend years discovering for yourself./////////////////////////////////////////////////Aaron Shepard is the author of "The Baker's Dozen," "The Sea King's Daughter," and sixteen more picture books and early readers, along with several chapter books for middle grades, extensive resources for storytelling and reader's theater, and a graphic novel. His publishers have included Atheneum, Scribners, Clarion, Lothrop, Dial, and HarperCollins, as well as Cricket and Australia's School Magazine. Aaron's work has been honored by the American Library Association, the National Council for the Social Studies, the American Folklore Society, The New York Public Library, and the Bank Street College of Education. He has been a judge for the Golden Kite Awards of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators./////////////////////////////////////////////////"BRAVO I thought it had pretty much all been said, but I was wrong. All the nuts and bolts are here as well as rules that bear repeating, PLUS insights not usually found in how-to books. Clearly and concisely written, this is an invaluable resource for both beginning and more accomplished writers." -- Susan Pearson, Editor-in-Chief, Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books"Aaron Shepard has written one of the most comprehensive guides available to anyone wishing to enter the competitive field of children's books. It's all here, from initial idea to successful sale, and then beyond to the essentials of contracts, promotion, and the ABCs of building a successful career. If you're starting out, start out here." -- Stephen Mooser, children's author"Here's clearly-written, no-nonsense help for children's writers by a craftsman. Every fledgling author should own this book." -- Stephen Fraser, Executive Editor, Aladdin Paperbacks"Aaron Shepard's The Business of Writing for Children is a wonderful resource. His experience-based insights into the art and business of children's writing will save beginning writers years of wasted effort -- and help published writers achieve long-term success." -- Kathleen Duey, children's author"The Business of Writing for Children is a one-stop shopping center, a complete how-to-do-it guide for the writer who wants a jump-start on looking professional even though he/she may be turning out a first book. Editors will love you if you do it Shepard's way." -- Audrey Baird, Editor, Once Upon A Time"A clear, concise, straight-ahead starting place for a new writer or a newly-published writer. Shepard knows his stuff " -- Jane Yolen, children's author and editor

One night of peace in a world of war."Christmas Day, 1914 . . . My dear sister Janet . . . It is 2:00 in the morning and most of our men are asleep in their dugouts -- yet I could not sleep myself before writing to you of the wonderful events of Christmas Eve. In truth, what happened seems almost like a fairy tale, and if I hadn't been through it myself, I would scarce believe it. Just imagine: While you and the family sang carols before the fire there in London, I did the same with enemy soldiers here on the battlefields of France "The Christmas Truce of 1914 is one of the most extraordinary incidents not only of World War I but of all history. Providing inspiration for songs, books, plays, and movies, it has endured as an archetypal image of peace. Yet much about the historic event remains shrouded in myth and legend.In this fictional letter -- illustrated in authentic detail by Wendy Edelson -- award-winning author Aaron Shepard draws from firsthand accounts of soldiers at the front to portray the truce in its true nature and spirit.TEACHERS AND LIBRARIANS -- A READER'S THEATER SCRIPT FOR THIS BOOK IS AVAILABLE ON AARON'S WEB SITE./////////////////////////////////////////////////Aaron Shepard's many books for young people have won honors from the American Library Association, the New York Public Library, the Bank Street College of Education, the American Folklore Society, and the National Council for the Social Studies. Wendy Edelson has been honored with the Pacific Northwest Book Award, the Moonbeam Children's Book Award, and the Mom's Choice Award. Her other illustrated books include Aaron's "The Baker's Dozen: A Saint Nicholas Tale." /////////////////////////////////////////////////"Among the many entries celebrating this event's centennial, librarians and teachers should welcome this historically accurate telling for ages 9 and up." -- Kirkus Reviews (Web site), Aug. 11, 2014"Beautifully and realistically illustrated." -- Alex Baugh, The Children's War (blog)"Short but intense, heart-warming, full of hope, love, brotherhood, and friendship." -- Veronica Marzini, LibriAmoriMiei (blog), Nov. 8, 2014"A beautiful (and true) tale, with lovely illustrations . . . Great for a readaloud to children " -- Beth Nolan Conners, Beth's Book-Nook Blog (blog), Nov. 12, 2014"Delightful . . . A really beautiful rendition of those fantastic events when, in the midst of war, the spirit of Christmas overruled the fighting and peace reigned on the battlefields." -- Elaine Brent, Splashes Into Books (blog), Dec. 7, 2014"Lovely . . . It evokes the time and place with vivid description and will certainly spark talk of why there is war . . . The artwork is stunning." -- Lynne Vanderveen Smith, children's librarian "Great to use with readers of various ages, especially in a social studies or American history curriculum." -- Karen Biggs-Tucker, co-author, "Transforming Literacy Teaching for the Era of Higher Standards""I would recommend this for any school library . . . Includes facts about life in the trenches of World War I -- but without making it too frightening for young readers. Descriptions add realism to the scenes. Other things might surprise students and cause them to rethink their assumptions that all Germans were 'bad guys' . . . An excellent addition to a unit on WWI. It could start a class discussion or even be used as a model text for students who are writing up their own narratives based on research into the war." -- Suzanne Costner, school librarian"What a wonderful way to show children that, even though there are differences between people, there are also similarities that can tie us together, even in a war zone." -- Kim Napier, teacher

Sadko the musician loved his city of Novgorod, the richest and most free in all Russia. With its great feasts, its white stone churches, its merchant visitors from many lands, Sadko felt there was no better place to be. Yet he was lonely too, for the rich young ladies who danced to his music would never favor anyone so poor.One night he takes his twelve-string gusli and goes alone to play by the River Volkhov. Suddenly from the water rises the Sea King, who invites the astonished musician to play at his underwater palace. But how will Sadko get there? And how will he get back? And will he want to return at all, when he meets the Sea King's lovely daughter?One of the most popular legends of Russia, Sadko's story is found in medieval epic ballads, as well as in a popular opera by Rimsky-Korsakov. It is retold here in elegant prose, complemented by the entrancing illustrations of a modern Russian master.TEACHERS AND LIBRARIANS -- A READER'S THEATER SCRIPT FOR THIS BOOK IS AVAILABLE IN AARON'S BOOK "FOLKTALES ON STAGE" OR ON AARON'S WEB SITE./////////////////////////////////////////////////Aaron Shepard is the award-winning author of "The Baker's Dozen," "The Sea King's Daughter," "The Monkey King," and many more children's books. His stories have appeared often in Cricket magazine, while his Web site is known internationally as a prime resource for folktales, storytelling, and reader's theater. Once a professional storyteller, Aaron specializes in lively retellings of folktales and other traditional literature, which have won him honors from the American Library Association, the New York Public Library, the Bank Street College of Education, the National Council for the Social Studies, and the American Folklore Society.Gennady Spirin, with a style he describes as "fairy-tale realism," is one of the world's most esteemed children's illustrators. His honors include five gold medals from the Society of Illustrators, the Golden Apple from the Bratislava International Biennial, First Prize at the Bologna and Barcelona international book fairs, and four appearances on the New York Times list of Ten Best Illustrated Books of the Year. Born and trained in Russia before moving to the United States, Gennady already knew well the legend of Sadko and welcomed the chance to contribute his sumptuous art to this retelling. /////////////////////////////////////////////////HONORS1997 New York Times Ten Best Illustrated Books of the Year 1998 American Library Association Notable Children's Books 1998 NCSS/CBC Notable Trade Books in the Field of Social Studies 1997 Aesop Accolade, American Folklore Society 1998 Honor Title, Storytelling World Awards 1997 Cincinnati Enquirer Best Illustrated Children's Books American Bookseller Pick of the Lists Starred review, Publishers Weekly Featured on "CBS This Morning"

Por qu no dar m s? Van Amsterdam, el panadero, era bien conocido por su honestidad, al igual que por sus extraordinarias galletas de San Nicol s. l siempre les daba a sus clientes exactamente lo que ellos pagaban: ni m s ni menos. Entonces, no estaba dispuesto a ceder cuando una misteriosa se ora mayor viene a su tienda el D a de San Nicol s e insiste que una docena son trece El hechizo de la se ora termina con el negocio del panadero, y l cree que har a falta que San Nicol s lo ayude. Pero si recibe esa ayuda, ser exactamente la que l imagin ? Aver gualo en esta inspiradora leyenda de la Nueva York colonial holandesa sobre el nacimiento de una costumbre tradicional estadounidense. T TULO ORIGINAL: The Baker's Dozen: A Saint Nicholas Tale MAESTROS Y BIBLIOTECARIOS: Un guion de teatro de lectores de este libro est disponible tanto en ingl s como en espa ol de forma gratuita en el sitio web de Aaron. ///////////////////////////////////////////////// Aaron Shepard y su gran cantidad de libros para j venes han recibido honores de la American Library Association, la New York Public Library, el Bank Street College of Education, la American Folklore Society y el National Council for the Social Studies. Habiendo ejercido anta o como cuentacuentos profesional, l se especializa en animadas renarraciones de cuentos populares y de otras creaciones de literatura tradicional. Wendy Edelson ha recibido honores del Pacific Northwest Book Award, del Moonbeam Children's Book Award y del Mom's Choice Award. Adem s de ilustrar numerosos libros de cuentos para ni os, ha proporcionado el arte para el Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo, el Seattle Aquarium, el Pacific Northwest Ballet, el U.S. Postal Service, la Cricket Magazine, McGraw-Hill Education y la American Library Association. Annette Granat les ha traducido m s de cien libros para ni os a diversas editoriales. Sus traducciones se han presentado en el Blanton Museum of Art y han sido publicadas digitalmente por la galardonada compa a EarthSky Communications como parte de su programa EarthSky en Espa ol. Tambi n ha traducido para el Estado de Texas, la University of Texas at Austin y el International Center for the Enhancement of Learning Potential (ICELP). ///////////////////////////////////////////////// "La buena voluntad del legendario San Nicol s reverbera en este cuento sobre el origen de la expresi n: 'la docena del panadero'. ...] La f cil de seguir renarraci n de Shepard tiene un sabor apropiado de Viejo Mundo".Publishers Weekly "Una historia navide a particularmente bonita, realzada por ilustraciones llenas de detalles. ...] De ritmo constante y con un buen largo para grupos o individuos, acierta perfectamente en el blanco con el p blico de lectores. La obra de arte de Edelson est repleta de personajes maravillosamente vivos, que casi se salen de las p ginas".Ilene Cooper, Booklist "Una nueva versi n sensorial de un cuento tradicional. ...] Con palabras bien elegidas y un texto de ritmo agradablemente constante que exige ser contado en voz alta. Un regalo para la poca navide a".School Library Journal "Un cuento con un mensaje que debe ser escuchado durante las Navidades y todo el a o".Children's Book Review

Por qu no dar m s? Van Amsterdam, el panadero, era bien conocido por su honestidad, al igual que por sus extraordinarias galletas de San Nicol s. l siempre les daba a sus clientes exactamente lo que ellos pagaban: ni m s ni menos. Entonces, no estaba dispuesto a ceder cuando una misteriosa se ora mayor viene a su tienda el D a de San Nicol s e insiste que una docena son trece El hechizo de la se ora termina con el negocio del panadero, y l cree que har a falta que San Nicol s lo ayude. Pero si recibe esa ayuda, ser exactamente la que l imagin ? Aver gualo en esta inspiradora leyenda de la Nueva York colonial holandesa sobre el nacimiento de una costumbre tradicional estadounidense. T TULO ORIGINAL: The Baker's Dozen: A Saint Nicholas Tale MAESTROS Y BIBLIOTECARIOS: Un guion de teatro de lectores de este libro est disponible tanto en ingl s como en espa ol de forma gratuita en el sitio web de Aaron. ///////////////////////////////////////////////// Aaron Shepard y su gran cantidad de libros para j venes han recibido honores de la American Library Association, la New York Public Library, el Bank Street College of Education, la American Folklore Society y el National Council for the Social Studies. Habiendo ejercido anta o como cuentacuentos profesional, l se especializa en animadas renarraciones de cuentos populares y de otras creaciones de literatura tradicional. Wendy Edelson ha recibido honores del Pacific Northwest Book Award, del Moonbeam Children's Book Award y del Mom's Choice Award. Adem s de ilustrar numerosos libros de cuentos para ni os, ha proporcionado el arte para el Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo, el Seattle Aquarium, el Pacific Northwest Ballet, el U.S. Postal Service, la Cricket Magazine, McGraw-Hill Education y la American Library Association. Annette Granat les ha traducido m s de cien libros para ni os a diversas editoriales. Sus traducciones se han presentado en el Blanton Museum of Art y han sido publicadas digitalmente por la galardonada compa a EarthSky Communications como parte de su programa EarthSky en Espa ol. Tambi n ha traducido para el Estado de Texas, la University of Texas at Austin y el International Center for the Enhancement of Learning Potential (ICELP). ///////////////////////////////////////////////// "La buena voluntad del legendario San Nicol s reverbera en este cuento sobre el origen de la expresi n: 'la docena del panadero'. ...] La f cil de seguir renarraci n de Shepard tiene un sabor apropiado de Viejo Mundo".Publishers Weekly "Una historia navide a particularmente bonita, realzada por ilustraciones llenas de detalles. ...] De ritmo constante y con un buen largo para grupos o individuos, acierta perfectamente en el blanco con el p blico de lectores. La obra de arte de Edelson est repleta de personajes maravillosamente vivos, que casi se salen de las p ginas".Ilene Cooper, Booklist "Una nueva versi n sensorial de un cuento tradicional. ...] Con palabras bien elegidas y un texto de ritmo agradablemente constante que exige ser contado en voz alta. Un regalo para la poca navide a".School Library Journal "Un cuento con un mensaje que debe ser escuchado durante las Navidades y todo el a o".Children's Book Review

Many parts make a whole, in this short concept book for the very young. For ages 0 to 5. ///////////////////////////////////////////////// Aaron Shepard -- besides being Anne's loving husband -- is the award-winning author of "The Baker's Dozen," "The Legend of Lightning Larry," "The Sea King's Daughter," and many more children's books. This is his first concept book. Anne L. Watson is the author and/or illustrator of a number of children's books, including the Katie Mouse and Coco Mouse books, as well as the author of numerous craft books and novels for adults. Her illustrations are imaginative collages assembled and manipulated in Photoshop. ///////////////////////////////////////////////// COMPLETE TEXT Many fingers, one hand. Many beads, one necklace. Many pieces, one puzzle. Many trees, one forest. Many colors, one rainbow. Many people, one world.

Beauty and intelligence were the princess Savitri's, and eyes that shone like the sun. So splendid was she that people thought her a goddess. When at last she found a man worthy to wed her, no one could sway her from her heart's path -- not even the god of death. This lovely retelling, now in a 30th Anniversary Edition, presents a classic tale of devotion, courage, wit, and will from India's national epic, the Mahabharata. (Original picture book title: "Savitri: A Tale of Ancient India.") TEACHERS AND LIBRARIANS -- A READER'S THEATER SCRIPT OF THIS BOOK IS AVAILABLE IN AARON'S BOOK "FOLKTALES ON STAGE," OR FREE ON AARON'S WEB SITE. ///////////////////////////////////////////////// Aaron Shepard is the award-winning author of "The Baker's Dozen," "The Sea King's Daughter," the Skyhook World Classics series, and many more children's books. Once a professional storyteller, Aaron specializes in lively retellings of folktales and other traditional literature, which have won him honors from the American Library Association, the New York Public Library, the Bank Street College of Education, the National Council for the Social Studies, and the American Folklore Society. Vera Rosenberry has written and/or illustrated over 30 children's books, including eight "Vera" books about her own childhood experiences. She was especially eager to work on "Savitri" as her husband is from India and grew up with tales from the Mahabharata. Also, she has always been fascinated by Indian miniature paintings--especially those of the Akbar period, which were produced as illustrations but, with their beautiful colors and intricate detail, stand on their own as works of art. ///////////////////////////////////////////////// 1997 & 2000 California Collection Selection "Unique and noteworthy . . . Shepard breathes new life into the sleeping archetype of the Indian heroine. Like ancient heroic myth, Shepard's interpretation] renews deep strains of potential within the reader." -- Publishers Weekly, Mar. 9, 1992 "A smooth retelling." -- Kirkus Reviews "Delicately rendered in both adaptation and illustration . . . A book that will open children's eyes and ears to an unfamiliar lore, and provide rich contrast to Western parallels." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "Profoundly moving." -- Children's Bookwatch "Will enhance the social studies curriculum." -- Children's Book Review Service "Reads aloud very well . . . Readers will enjoy the perspicacity and tenacity of this feisty heroine and] be fascinated by the uniquely Indian cultural details." -- School Library Journal "Portrays a woman of great intelligence and courage, as well as virtue . . . The story and pictures show great sensitivity to Hindu lore and culture." -- Deva and Gayatri Rajan, Hinduism Today "Powerfully told, with a magic all its own. Savitri's purity of spirit will touch the hearts of all readers, young and old." -- Meera Lester, India West "Fresh and respectful . . . Could be useful as an introduction to Indian classics for young adult readers, in a course on ancient cultures, or in any broad-based collection." -- Fran Stallings, Territorial Tattler "Looking for a painless dose of Hindu mythology? Here it is, with beautiful illustrations to boot." -- Ours (Adoptive Families of America

Beauty and intelligence were the princess Savitri's, and eyes that shone like the sun. So splendid was she that people thought her a goddess. When at last she found a man worthy to wed her, no one could sway her from her heart's path -- not even the god of death. This lovely retelling, now in a 30th Anniversary Edition, presents a classic tale of devotion, courage, wit, and will from India's national epic, the Mahabharata. (Original picture book title: "Savitri: A Tale of Ancient India.") TEACHERS AND LIBRARIANS -- A READER'S THEATER SCRIPT OF THIS BOOK IS AVAILABLE IN AARON'S BOOK "FOLKTALES ON STAGE," OR FREE ON AARON'S WEB SITE. ///////////////////////////////////////////////// Aaron Shepard is the award-winning author of "The Baker's Dozen," "The Sea King's Daughter," the Skyhook World Classics series, and many more children's books. Once a professional storyteller, Aaron specializes in lively retellings of folktales and other traditional literature, which have won him honors from the American Library Association, the New York Public Library, the Bank Street College of Education, the National Council for the Social Studies, and the American Folklore Society. Vera Rosenberry has written and/or illustrated over 30 children's books, including eight "Vera" books about her own childhood experiences. She was especially eager to work on "Savitri" as her husband is from India and grew up with tales from the Mahabharata. Also, she has always been fascinated by Indian miniature paintings--especially those of the Akbar period, which were produced as illustrations but, with their beautiful colors and intricate detail, stand on their own as works of art. ///////////////////////////////////////////////// 1997 & 2000 California Collection Selection "Unique and noteworthy . . . Shepard breathes new life into the sleeping archetype of the Indian heroine. Like ancient heroic myth, Shepard's interpretation] renews deep strains of potential within the reader." -- Publishers Weekly, Mar. 9, 1992 "A smooth retelling." -- Kirkus Reviews "Delicately rendered in both adaptation and illustration . . . A book that will open children's eyes and ears to an unfamiliar lore, and provide rich contrast to Western parallels." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "Profoundly moving." -- Children's Bookwatch "Will enhance the social studies curriculum." -- Children's Book Review Service "Reads aloud very well . . . Readers will enjoy the perspicacity and tenacity of this feisty heroine and] be fascinated by the uniquely Indian cultural details." -- School Library Journal "Portrays a woman of great intelligence and courage, as well as virtue . . . The story and pictures show great sensitivity to Hindu lore and culture." -- Deva and Gayatri Rajan, Hinduism Today "Powerfully told, with a magic all its own. Savitri's purity of spirit will touch the hearts of all readers, young and old." -- Meera Lester, India West "Fresh and respectful . . . Could be useful as an introduction to Indian classics for young adult readers, in a course on ancient cultures, or in any broad-based collection." -- Fran Stallings, Territorial Tattler "Looking for a painless dose of Hindu mythology? Here it is, with beautiful illustrations to boot." -- Ours (Adoptive Families of America

Beauty and intelligence were the princess Savitri's, and eyes that shone like the sun. So splendid was she that people thought her a goddess. When at last she found a man worthy to wed her, no one could sway her from her heart's path -- not even the god of death. This lovely retelling, now in a 30th Anniversary Edition, presents a classic tale of devotion, courage, wit, and will from India's national epic, the Mahabharata. (Original picture book title: "Savitri: A Tale of Ancient India.") TEACHERS AND LIBRARIANS -- A READER'S THEATER SCRIPT OF THIS BOOK IS AVAILABLE IN AARON'S BOOK "FOLKTALES ON STAGE," OR FREE ON AARON'S WEB SITE. ///////////////////////////////////////////////// Aaron Shepard is the award-winning author of "The Baker's Dozen," "The Sea King's Daughter," the Skyhook World Classics series, and many more children's books. Once a professional storyteller, Aaron specializes in lively retellings of folktales and other traditional literature, which have won him honors from the American Library Association, the New York Public Library, the Bank Street College of Education, the National Council for the Social Studies, and the American Folklore Society. Vera Rosenberry has written and/or illustrated over 30 children's books, including eight "Vera" books about her own childhood experiences. She was especially eager to work on "Savitri" as her husband is from India and grew up with tales from the Mahabharata. Also, she has always been fascinated by Indian miniature paintings--especially those of the Akbar period, which were produced as illustrations but, with their beautiful colors and intricate detail, stand on their own as works of art. ///////////////////////////////////////////////// 1997 & 2000 California Collection Selection "Unique and noteworthy . . . Shepard breathes new life into the sleeping archetype of the Indian heroine. Like ancient heroic myth, Shepard's interpretation] renews deep strains of potential within the reader." -- Publishers Weekly, Mar. 9, 1992 "A smooth retelling." -- Kirkus Reviews "Delicately rendered in both adaptation and illustration . . . A book that will open children's eyes and ears to an unfamiliar lore, and provide rich contrast to Western parallels." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "Profoundly moving." -- Children's Bookwatch "Will enhance the social studies curriculum." -- Children's Book Review Service "Reads aloud very well . . . Readers will enjoy the perspicacity and tenacity of this feisty heroine and] be fascinated by the uniquely Indian cultural details." -- School Library Journal "Portrays a woman of great intelligence and courage, as well as virtue . . . The story and pictures show great sensitivity to Hindu lore and culture." -- Deva and Gayatri Rajan, Hinduism Today "Powerfully told, with a magic all its own. Savitri's purity of spirit will touch the hearts of all readers, young and old." -- Meera Lester, India West "Fresh and respectful . . . Could be useful as an introduction to Indian classics for young adult readers, in a course on ancient cultures, or in any broad-based collection." -- Fran Stallings, Territorial Tattler "Looking for a painless dose of Hindu mythology? Here it is, with beautiful illustrations to boot." -- Ours (Adoptive Families of America

"I want shoes that are spiffy, not iffy." Katie is tired of her same old shoes, so she goes to the store to buy new ones. But with so many wondrous choices, how can she ever decide? In this fun story told in lively verse, a young girl gets a peek at the many possibilities open to her in life and embraces them with joy. For ages 2 to 8. ///////////////////////////////////////////// Aaron Shepard is the award-winning author of "The Baker's Dozen," "The Legend of Lightning Larry," "The Sea King's Daughter," and many more children's books. Once a professional storyteller, Aaron specializes in lively retellings of folktales and other traditional literature, which have won him honors from the American Library Association, the New York Public Library, the Bank Street College of Education, the National Council for the Social Studies, and the American Folklore Society. Wendy Edelson is the award-winning illustrator of "The Baker's Dozen," "Christmas Truce," "Quackling," and many more children's books. She has applied her talent to a wide range of illustration projects, including picture books, pet portraits, posters, and puzzles. Among her clients have been Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo, the Seattle Aquarium, Pacific Northwest Ballet, the U.S. Postal Service, Cricket Magazine, McGraw-Hill Education, and the American Library Association. ///////////////////////////////////////////// FULL TEXT Katie was tired of her same old shoes. "I want shoes I choose " she said. She went to the store to buy new ones. The sales clerk asked, "Which shoes do you choose?" Katie said, "I want shoes that are braggy, not baggy." "Let me see," said the clerk. "We have small shoes, and tall shoes, and walk-on-the-wall shoes. "We have red shoes, and head shoes, and down-the-hill-sled shoes. "We have blue shoes, and BOO shoes, and paddle-canoe shoes. "Which shoes do you choose?" Katie said, "I want shoes that are slicky, not sticky." "Let me see," said the clerk. "We have jog shoes, and log shoes, and hop-like-a-frog shoes. "We have tied shoes, and wide shoes, and carnival-ride shoes. "We have trail shoes, and snail shoes, and wind-in-your-sail shoes. "Which shoes do you choose?" Katie said, "I want shoes that are spiffy, not iffy." "Let me see," said the clerk. "We have black shoes, and snack shoes, and ride-on-a-track shoes. "We have wet shoes, and pet shoes, and super-speed-jet shoes. "We have moon shoes, and goon shoes, and hot-air-balloon shoes. "Which shoes do you choose?" Katie said, "I choose ALL these shoes." She bought the shoes and took them home. Now Katie chooses ALL her shoes with ALL THOSE SHOES TO CHOOSE.

What is a "coloring storybook"? It's a coloring book, a storybook, and more You can color just the pages you want, and enjoy it like any fine coloring book. Or finish them all and create a wonderful storybook, a keepsake all your own, or one to lovingly share with children and grandchildren. Imagine their excitement and delight -- and yours too -- when you read to them from a book you helped illustrate yourself It's a gift your loved ones can treasure forever, a true family heirloom. This coloring storybook from Skyhook Press, based on a lovely Russian legend, tells of a poor musician invited to play in the Sea King's palace, where he's offered more than riches. *************Please note: This "grayscale coloring book" (or "greyscale colouring book") has pictures already shaded in gray, calling for a different kind of coloring. But that doesn't make it harder -- in fact, it makes it easier to get stunning results For tips, search online for "grayscale coloring." ///////////////////////////////////////////////// ABOUT THE CHILDREN'S BOOK This coloring book is adapted from the children's picture book "The Sea King's Daughter: A Russian Legend," retold by Aaron Shepard and illustrated by Gennady Spirin. The book was published in 1997 by Atheneum Books for Young Children, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, and received numerous honors, including listing in the 1997 New York Times Ten Best Illustrated Books of the Year. It is still available, in a new edition from Skyhook Press. The legend is one of the most popular of Russia, and was made known internationally by Rimsky-Korsakov's opera "Sadko." ABOUT THE ARTIST Gennady Spirin, with a style he describes as "fairy-tale realism," is one of the world's most esteemed children's illustrators. His honors include five gold medals from the Society of Illustrators, the Golden Apple from the Bratislava International Biennial, First Prize at the Bologna and Barcelona international book fairs, and four appearances on the New York Times list of Ten Best Illustrated Books of the Year. Born and trained in Russia before moving to the United States, Gennady already knew well the legend of Sadko and welcomed the chance to contribute his sumptuous art to Aaron's retelling. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Aaron Shepard is the award-winning author of many children's books from publishers large and small. Once a professional storyteller, Aaron specializes in lively retellings of folktales and other traditional literature, which have won him honors from the American Library Association, the New York Public Library, the Bank Street College of Education, the National Council for the Social Studies, and the American Folklore Society.

What is a "coloring storybook"? It's a coloring book, a storybook, and more You can color just the pages you want, and enjoy it like any fine coloring book. Or finish them all and create a wonderful storybook, a keepsake all your own, or one to lovingly share with children and grandchildren. Imagine their excitement and delight -- and yours too -- when you read to them from a book you helped illustrate yourself It's a gift your loved ones can treasure forever, a true family heirloom. This coloring storybook from Skyhook Press, based on a lovely Russian legend, tells of a poor musician invited to play in the Sea King's palace, where he's offered more than riches. *************Please note: This "grayscale coloring book" (or "greyscale colouring book") has pictures already shaded in gray, calling for a different kind of coloring. But that doesn't make it harder -- in fact, it makes it easier to get stunning results For tips, search online for "grayscale coloring." ///////////////////////////////////////////////// ABOUT THE CHILDREN'S BOOK This coloring book is adapted from the children's picture book "The Sea King's Daughter: A Russian Legend," retold by Aaron Shepard and illustrated by Gennady Spirin. The book was published in 1997 by Atheneum Books for Young Children, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, and received numerous honors, including listing in the 1997 New York Times Ten Best Illustrated Books of the Year. It is still available, in a new edition from Skyhook Press. The legend is one of the most popular of Russia, and was made known internationally by Rimsky-Korsakov's opera "Sadko." ABOUT THE ARTIST Gennady Spirin, with a style he describes as "fairy-tale realism," is one of the world's most esteemed children's illustrators. His honors include five gold medals from the Society of Illustrators, the Golden Apple from the Bratislava International Biennial, First Prize at the Bologna and Barcelona international book fairs, and four appearances on the New York Times list of Ten Best Illustrated Books of the Year. Born and trained in Russia before moving to the United States, Gennady already knew well the legend of Sadko and welcomed the chance to contribute his sumptuous art to Aaron's retelling. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Aaron Shepard is the award-winning author of many children's books from publishers large and small. Once a professional storyteller, Aaron specializes in lively retellings of folktales and other traditional literature, which have won him honors from the American Library Association, the New York Public Library, the Bank Street College of Education, the National Council for the Social Studies, and the American Folklore Society.