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discover that book

a blog about usborne books & more

blue whale blues

12/31/2017

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"I've got the Blue Whale Blues, I've got the Blue Whale, Blue Whale Blues." Have you ever seen a sad blue whale? How about a blue whale riding a bike? ... How about a blue whale who thinks he's riding a bike, but actually he's riding a shopping cart?

The premise of Peter Carnavas' whimsical Blue Whale Blues is just that: Blue Whale is trying to ride his bike, but it's not working, and that's making him sad. His friend Penguin is there to help, and together, they try to solve the problem. But something's still not quite right, and Blue Whale gets sad all over again. 

When Blue Whale and Penguin finally realize that what Blue Whale has been trying to ride wasn't a bike all along, this breaks the sadness, and they both explode in laughter. This is a simple book of friendship, problem solving, and getting out of a funk. 

Besides the content of the story - and the visual humor as the two animals try to ride a shopping cart, dry it off (under the ocean, that is), and attach helmets that are actually cooking pans - this is a delightful story to read because of the clever, mixed-media illustrations. It adds another layer of whimsy to objects that aren't what you think they are but are doing just fine in their new roles. 

Oh, and also, your kids will love hearing you sing the blues as you portray Blue Whale's laments!

It's that book that illustrates the power of whimsy and friendship in a dull situation. 

Book benefits: 
  • Lighthearted story reinforces the power of friendship to pull you out of a slump
  • Story gives voice to a fresh musical genre: the blues!
  • Illustrations are playful and highlight the beauty of mixed media (and would be a fun project to imitate!)

Buy Blue Whale Blues here! ($11.99, hardcover)
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slot-together victorian dollhouse

12/30/2017

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"Mom, can you get the little house down?" My boys were won over instantly with this dollhouse! Three story building, eight rooms, six people, two pets, and a whole collection of furniture... a world of play awaits with the Slot-Together Victorian Dollhouse from Usborne.

Ever since joining Usborne Books & More, I have been curious about the little slot-together kits - this dollhouse and a theater. I have always love little things, and I've loved constructing my own toys. But would my two boys? Would they destroy it? Would they get bored?

I decided to take the risk and invite my boys (3.5 and 5) to help me put together this house. They were so excited! All the pieces come on foam boards and just need to be popped out, so no extra tools required. The enclosed book gives step-by-step instructions for building first the house, then the people and furniture. 

And my boys were enchanted for the whole two hours we spent constructing everything from start to finish! They were eager to help, followed directions as I handed them down, and were careful with the little foam pieces. That's a win in my book! And, once construction was completed, the boys loved moving the pieces around and opening and closing the front wall to see everything inside. ("We have to close it now, the house is sleeping!")

There is so much to love about this kit: it's a great project, the pieces are well-made and so beautifully detailed (though some pieces benefit from Elmer's Glue reinforcement), you can tell your own stories as you play, and you can learn fun tidbits of historical info from the accompanying book.

It's that book that turns into a toy to be played with again and again!

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"Book" benefits:
  • Hands on constructing experience will engage kids young and old
  • History meets contemporary playtime with the book for added reference
  • Info pages in book contain Victorian tips, tricks, and games to enhance creative play
  • Lots of little accessories make for detailed imaginative play (and can be stored in the sturdy box as needed)
  • This would make a creative and well-loved gift!

Buy the Slot-Together Victorian Dollhouse here! ($41.99, foam pieces in box with book)
  • Want more? Check out the Slot-Together Theater, too! 
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    author

    Hi there! I'm Christine - Usborne Books & More independent consultant, kids' book fan, English teacher, mom of two boys. 


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