Dragonwings Bookstore - Fun for Kids Activities, Books and Toys Waupaca, WI

2010-10-23T13:45:00.000-05:00

Scaredy-Cat, Splat!
Written by Rob Scotton

This Halloween, Splat the cat is hoping to win the title of the scariest cat in his class. However, he is sure his chances are low after being scared by a tiny spider and told that his costume and jack-o'-lantern are not that scary. Will Splat go home disappointed, or end up winning the scariest cat award after an interesting turn of events? Swing by Dragonwings to pick up a copy of this adorable Halloween picture book!

2010-10-23T13:03:00.001-05:00

The Sandwich Swap
Written by Rania Al Abdullah with Kelly DiPucchio
Illustrated by Tricia Tusa

Enter the world of best friends Lily and Salma. They do all of their school activities together. They draw pictures together, play on the swings together, jump rope together, and even eat their lunches together. However, the girls do have one dissimilarity: their sandwiches. Lily loves her peanut butter and jelly sandwich, but Salma has a soft spot for her hummus and pita sandwich. Will the resulting food fight continue, or will the girls be able to resolve the conflict? Stop by Dragonwings to find out!

2010-10-23T12:13:00.001-05:00

Rubia and the Three Osos
Written by Susan Middleton Elya
Illustrated by Melissa Sweet

Join Rubia and the Three Osos for a retelling of the classic tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. When Rubia stumbles across a cute little casa (house), she finds it necessary to try out la sopa (the soup), las sillas (the chairs), and las camas (the beds). When los osos (the bears) return, they chase Rubia away. Can you guess what happens next? I'll leave it as una sorpresa (a surprise)! Stop by Dragonwings today to pick up your copy of this cute English/Spanish twist of a classic story.

John Green at the Waupaca Book Festival Oct. 1-2

2010-09-28T20:57:00.007-05:00

JOHN GREEN IS COMING TO WAUPACA!

Waupaca Book Festival Oct. 1-2

John Green - Keynote Speaker

Friday Oct. 1 Waupaca High School 3:30PM

John Green with Amy Krouse Rosenthal

Saturday Oct. 2 Waupaca Rec Center 9:00AM

Waupaca Book Festival

Can you believe it? John Green, the bestselling author of Looking for Alaska, An Abundance of Katherines, Paper Towns, and Will Grayson, Will Grayson, will be the keynote speaker for the Waupaca Book Festival this weekend! This is an author who usually speaks to huge crowds at conferences and conventions in big cities across the country, and you can see him for free right here in Waupaca. No traffic jams, conference fees, plane fare, or vacation time necessary. You won't even need binoculars to see him.

John's novels have received many awards, including both the Printz Medal and a Printz Honor. And his popular video blog Brotherhood 2.0 has been watched more than 30 million times.

He will be speaking at 3:30 at the Waupaca High School on Friday, October 1. The event is free and open to the public. I guarantee it will be one of the funniest and most intelligent presentations you've ever seen. John is young, relaxed, naturally hilarious, and speaks to teens through his novels better than almost any other author writing today.

His books will be for sale in the lobby before and after the program, and he will be signing books after he speaks. You can socialize with John, and nearly all of the authors coming to the Festival, on Friday evening at the Green Fountain Inn. Then, on Saturday morning, John will join his friend and fellow author, Amy Krouse Rosenthal, at the Rec Center at 9:00 AM for a joint presentation, which could be about almost anything, but will definitely be entertaining.

John's books are available at Dragonwings right now; they will be sold at the events, at the autograph garden at the library, and after the event at Dragonwings, in case you missed them everywhere else. Here they are:

Eight Spinning Planets

2010-09-14T16:24:00.000-05:00

8 Spinning Planets
by Brian James illustrated by Russell Benfanti
$9.99 (Scholastic)

This appealing book is a perfect introduction to the planets for the younger set (ages 3-5). Each planet is described in four lines of simple rhyming text, a photo detail with a single fact, and the planets spread across the sky as shiny, colorful spheres appearing through cut-outs in each exciting double page illustration. This book grabs your attention and holds it all the way to Neptune (little Pluto is identified in the background). I'm finding it hard to describe well, but this book is awesome!

Puppies and Kittens

2010-09-14T16:05:00.000-05:00

Magic Flip Book

Puppies and Kittens Now You See It! by Nicole Corse
$5.99 (Scholastic)

Every other page compares how kittens and puppies are the same or different, whether they are sleeping, eating, or playing. Each two page spread has facts on one side and a full page photo on the other. The surprise is that when you flip it from the top you see all kittens, and when you flip it from the bottom you only see puppies! How can that be? Come in and try it for yourself. Amazing.

3-D Thrillers!

2010-09-14T15:39:00.000-05:00

Wow! Jungle animals leap off the pages in our 3-D Thrillers!

The latest addition to the 3-D Thrillers series is Big Cats and Amazing Jungle Animals. Learn about the jungle from gorgeous to terrifying in this action packed book. The detailed photos come alive when you look at them through the special tiger-framed 3-D glasses included in this dynamic book! ($4.99 Scholastic)

100 Most Dangerous/Disgusting Things on the Planet

2010-09-14T15:17:00.000-05:00

One of our bestselling science books over the past year has been 100 Most Dangerous Things on the Planet by Anna Claybourne (Scholastic $7.99). Do you know what to do if you are sinking in quicksand, lost in a cave, or attacked by a lion? This is a survival guidebook that could save you from over 100 possible disasters and dangers. Loaded with scary photos, risk ratings, and practical tips, this book could save your life!

Only one book could compete with dangerous things for popularity and that would be 100 Most Disgusting Things on the Planet, also by Anna Claybourne (I wonder about her). Giving a yuck rating to everything from rotten eggs, sweaty feet, and roasted spiders to maggot cheese and pond slime, this guidebook is ready to prepare you for the truly gross things in the world or in your fridge! (Scholastic $7.99)

Mockingjay

2010-09-14T14:13:00.001-05:00

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

$17.99 Scholastic

If you haven't read Mockingjay, the third book in the Hunger Games trilogy, STOP HERE.

Okay, I warned you. So, now...aside from how glad I was to get back to the Districts and find out what was happening to everyone, I have a few questions. Why was it necessary to the plot to have Katniss and her team break away and try to get to the City Circle on their own? They wasted days in hiding, and lost the lives of members of the team, (like Finnick!) for no particular reason that I could see. They didn't blaze a trail, clear a path, or cause a diversion. The rebels and even the medics ended up reaching the Circle at the same time that they did. Was their solo effort foreseen and figured into Coin's master plan? Also, what was Peeta doing after they separated and were trying to reach the Circle? And later, why did Gale receive a fancy job in District 2, when his tactics were the ones used to kill the children and the medics? Lastly, when Coin proposed one last round of Hunger Games, what was Katniss hoping that Haymitch would understand about her vote? Was she already thinking seriously about betraying Coin, and trying not to tip her off?

I loved the Hunger Games trilogy; I thought that it ended well and that the relationships between Katniss and Gale and Peeta evolved as they did for clear reasons, but there is still lots of room for discussion. I think it's a mark of a good book, when you care enough to want to know more. - Ellen

A Curse Dark as Gold

2010-09-14T12:32:00.000-05:00

A Curse Dark as Gold

by Elizabeth C. Bunce

Bunce builds this incredible young adult novel around the tale of Rumplestiltskin, creating a believable 18th century world. Charlotte Miller and her sister, Rosie are overwhelmed with loss when their father passes away. Faced with debts they must repay and a mill that seems to have a mind of its own, the girls must decide how to move forward. Everyone is telling the girls they must sell the mill and move on, but young Charlotte has other ideas, and with a stubborn nature, she fights to keep the woolen mill she loves. The challenges she faces, however, matched with her determination, force Charlotte into dark deals that later threaten more than just the mill. This novel is a successful blend of fairy tale, dark mystery, and historical fiction and was awarded the William C. Morris YA Debut Award. Readers of this book might also enjoy What I Saw and How I Lied by Judy Blundell, another excellent young adult story.

Stranded

2010-09-14T12:24:00.000-05:00

Stranded

by J. T. Dutton

Kelly Louise's mom is sweeping them off to Heaven. No, not that Heaven, but Heaven, Iowa, where Kelly's grandma, Nana, and her weirdo cousin, Natalie, live. Kelly's mom has whisked them off from time to time before, so that's nothing new, but Kelly wonders what the reason is this time. Kelly gets off to a rough start spilling orange soda on Nana's white carpet and getting ditched by Natalie on her first day at Carrie Nation High. The extra strange thing about Heaven is the recent discovery of an abandoned infant in a cornfield, which has the whole town in a frenzy. When mom eventually clues Kelly in to why they happen to be in Heaven just now, she begins to realize just how deceptive people can be. Honesty forces you into the past, a place that is not always heavenly. Visit J. T. Dutton here.

Keeper

2010-09-14T12:22:00.000-05:00

Keeper

by Kathi Appelt

What would lead a ten-year old girl to set out into the Gulf of Mexico in a small boat in the middle of the night? A day ruined by 10 snapping crabs, that's what! She was certain they had called to her, begged her to keep them safe from the boiling pot, but now everyone was angry with her. Keeper has decided that it is time to find her mother - a mermaid who left Keeper at the age of three. Keeper takes her dog, named BD (Best Dog), and a seagull named Captain (who is addicted to watermelons). As new troubles start to mount, Keeper begins to question if the stories that swept her out to sea are real. Maybe the blue moon isn't magic and she won't find her mother sparkling on the sandbar with the other mermaids. But then what? How will Keeper make it back home, and back to those she's known all her life?

The Lost Children

2010-09-14T12:19:00.000-05:00

The Lost Children

by Carolyn Cohagan

Josephine is a misfit of a girl who is mostly ignored by her father (except for the new pair of gloves he gives her each week) and left out at school. One day a boy shows up on Josephine's property where he wonders into the tool shed and disappears. Josephine follows and is swept away to the land of Gulm, where an evil boy-tyrant whose bodyguards live off the energy of stolen children. While being faced with new unimaginable challenges, Josephine also creates some friends and together they desperately try to find away to get themselves, and the other children of Glum, back home.

Where the Sunrise Begins

2010-09-14T12:18:00.000-05:00

Where the Sunrise Begins

words by Douglas Wood

art by Wendy Popp

The question of where the sunrise begins is asked with simple poetic words and elegant illustrations? The colors are are soft but striking in their beauty and Popp builds upon small details to give the reader various world views, some as close as a bird's egg in its nest, another as wide as the universe. Wood's words travel to various parts of the globe and back in a cyclical search for a seemingly basic question.

The 39 Clues: Into The Gauntlet Coming Soon!!!

2010-08-28T12:37:00.003-05:00

The tenth and final book of The 39 Clues series is coming out Tuesday, August 31st. The bestselling author Margaret Peterson Haddix wrote this final installment. Haddix has written several bestselling children's books, including The Shadow Children and The Missing series. Stop in on Tuesday to pick up your copy!

Click here to read the first chapter of Into the Gauntlet...

Click here to go to the official The 39 Clues website...

SUZANNE COLLINS READING MOCKINGJAY!

2010-08-24T10:13:00.001-05:00

True, I was at a reception for Suzanne Collins in New York at the end of May, and she read to us - enthralled and silent as Katniss walked through the ashes of District 12 - from Chapter One of Mockingjay. Here is your chance:

Mockingjay Coming Tomorrow!

2010-08-23T15:40:00.009-05:00

Only available at independent book sellers!

Hey Suzanne Collins fans! Mockingjay is being released tomorrow. Dragonwings will be opening at 9AM so you can start reading your copy early tomorrow morning. Everyone who purchases a copy will receive a free Mockingjay tattoo. Mockingjay buttons will be given out to customers who pre-ordered their copy. After purchasing your copy, sign up for a drawing to win a bookplate signed by Suzanne Collins, a Mockingjay key chain (only available at independent book stores!), tote bag, or pin.

We hope to see you tomorrow!

The Adventures of Ook and Gluk

2010-08-18T18:29:00.004-05:00

The Adventures of Ook and Gluk
Kung-Fu Cavemen from the Future
by George Beard and Harold Hutchins

The creators of Captain Underpants come together again for their second graphic novel. We are introduced to Ook and Gluk, two cavemen who travel between the stone age and the year 2222. Follow their adventures as they try to defeat their enemy, Chief Goppernopper, and save their friends and community from the evil Goppernopper Enterprise. Ook and Gluk are helped on their way by Master Wong. Master Wong teaches the cavemen the philosophy and technique of Kong-fu, providing Ook and Gluk with the means to take on the Goppernoppers. It's a tale of friendship and heroism, accompanied by a large dose of laughs.

For more Ook and Gluk fun click here

Mockingjay Coming Soon!

2010-08-17T16:11:00.006-05:00

Attention Suzanne Collins fans! Mockingjay, the third and final book of the Hunger Games trilogy, is coming out on August 24th. Stop in to Dragonwings today to reserve your copy! Dragonwings also has copies of both The Hunger Games and Catching Fire in stock if you need to catch up before the big release. Dragonwings has several prizes including Mockingjay bags, tatoos, pins, and note cards signed by Suzanne Collins. We will enter everyone who pre-orders a copy or purchases Mockingjay on August 24th into a drawing for these great prizes. Check out the links below for more information on the coming release...

Hunger Games Official Facebook Page

Mockingjay Book Trailer

"Chalking about Art" and "Wau-King Art" Events

2010-08-12T15:42:00.001-05:00

Dragonwings will be participating in the "Chalking about Art" event August 13th-20th. Stop by to help us decorate our sidewalk with a fiery dragon design anytime on August 18th. We will also be staying open until 8:00 PM on the 18th for the "Wau-King Art" evening art walk event.

Branch Weavings

2010-08-05T16:27:00.000-05:00

We made whimsical branch weavings during this week's grandparent-grandchild workshop. Don't miss our last grandparent-grandchild workshop of the summer on August 12th from 9-10AM. Give us a call or stop by to register for next week's activity!
Click Here For Pictures Of Our Branch Weavings!

Upcoming Summer Camp Workshop

2010-07-31T13:11:00.000-05:00

This Tuesday, August 3rd, stop by at 3PM for our weekly summer camp workshop. This week we will be doing nature crafts. We are also having a special guest who is bringing along their rabbits. Join us for the activities!

Fairy Houses

2010-07-31T13:06:00.004-05:00

Last Thursday for our weekly Grandparent-Grandchild activity, we made fairy houses. Our designers used all natural materials including sticks, leaves, flowers and trees to build their beautiful new fairy homes. Check out the pictures of the finished houses on our Facebook page. Don't miss our last two Grandparent-Grandchild activity days, coming up Thursday, August 5th and Thursday, August 12th from 9-10AM. Grandparents can sign up with or without a grandchild. Stop by the store or call in for more information.
Click Here To See The Fairy House Photos!

Dragonwings Summer Camp Activities for Kids Fun for Kids at Dragonwings, Waupaca WI

2010-07-19T13:24:00.001-05:00

RACING PLANES AND CARS

Cars and planes will be racing at Dragonwings Summer Camp workshop on Tuesday, July 20th. Campers will choose and assemble their own balsa wood airplanes and balloon car racers, then construct an obstacle course and start racing! Camp begins at 3:00PM and ends at 4:00PM. For ages 8-12 (ages 4-7 with a parent).

To register call 715-256-9186 or e-mail us at dragonwingsbookstore@gmail.com. Fee: $7.50 each. All supplies included.

Camp Dragonwings Summertime Activities for Kids Fun for Kids at Dragonwings Waupaca, WI

2010-06-29T16:22:00.002-05:00

Darts and Spinners Challenge - Test Your Skills
Our new summer camp series of workshops starts next week! At this first session we will give each camper their very own safety dart set and a dueling spinners set. We will give a demonstration of our amazing skills (yikes!), then everyone gets to practice, and after that, we have a competition. Registration fee is $7.50. For ages 5 to 10. Tuesday July 6th 3:00PM.

Eco-friendly Grandparenting Workshops
Before Sharon Lovejoy came in May, I sat down and read her new book Toad Cottages and Shooting Stars from cover to cover. Wow! I was so inspired, I immediately decided to plan a summer workshop series for grandparents (with or without their grandchildren). Each of the workshops in this new series will include a long-distance project, an at-home project, and an outdoor project. We won't just tell you about good ideas; this is a hands-on program with both indoor and outdoor projects. The first class will include memory nature cards, a mad basket, leaf place cards and more. Registration fee is $7.50 for grandparents, $2.50 for each grandchild. Thursday July 8th 9:00AM.

To register for summer camp or our grandparent workshops call Dragonwings Bookstore at (715)256-9186 or e-mail us.

We have autographed copies of Sharon Lovejoy's books for sale at Dragonwings!

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Our Dragon Friends Are Missing!

2010-06-22T21:08:00.000-05:00

Help!
We have a problem here at Dragonwings. Our dragon friends Stripe, Flame, and Scales are missing! The last time we saw the mischievous threesome they were reading My Father's Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett. My Father's Dragon is the story of a young boy named Elmer Elevator who goes on an adventure to save a young dragon, who is being held hostage in a faraway land called Wild Island. Before we knew it, Stripe, Flame, and Scales were gone. We think they may have gotten lost in the store while on an adventure of their own. Will you stop in and help us find our dragons? A small treasure awaits anyone who helps us locate our wayward group...

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI The Lonely Hearts Club

2010-06-22T20:41:00.000-05:00

The Lonely Hearts Club

by Elizabeth Eulberg

"Yesterday, love was such and easy game to play..." but now Penny Lane Bloom knows better. As Penny puts it, guys are "lying, cheating scum of the earth." Rather than looking for romance, she swearing it off, for good (or at least for the next ten years or so.) She creates the Lonely Hearts Club (initial membership: one) as her defense against junior year heart ache. As word on about the Club spreads, Penny is surprised just how many girls are there to join her. Each girl is looking for their own individuality without the boys Their social club gains power and popularity but then Penny is torn: stick to the no-guys vow she made, or give in to the advances of a seemingly nice guy whom she can't help but like? Penny's funny easy voice make this a entertaining read.

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer

2010-06-22T20:40:00.000-05:00

Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer

by John Grisham

While Theodore might not be old enough to take the bar exam or even drive a car, his legal knowledge earns him the respect of his classmates as well as many adults in the legal system. Both of Theodore's parents are lawyers, allowing Theodore access to the courtroom where he develops his dream of being a great trial lawyer. During a certain murder trial Theodore finds himself caught in the middle. The killer is about to go free but Theodore knows the truth, which if revealed may cause serious troubles for someone else. Young Theodore must decide what to do.

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Shoot-Out by Mike Lupica

2010-06-22T20:38:00.001-05:00

Shoot-Out

by Mike Lupica

There is one sport Jake loves to play: soccer. As the star center mid fielder, he's exactly where he wants to be. The problem is this star player has ended up on the worst team ever. It's not that he doesn't like the other kids on his team, is just that they don't have the skills to pull together a win. It was humiliating to have other teams hang back just so they wouldn't beat Jake's team by too much. Jake must get used to losing or give up on the game he loves. He must learn what it means to be a good player and good leader on and off the field.

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Ladybug Girl at the Beach

2010-06-22T20:36:00.000-05:00

Ladybug Girl at the Beach

by David Soman and Jacky Davis

Ladybug Girl, Lulu, and her dog, Bingo, are back and this time they are on the way to the beach - which Lulu knows she'll love! When she gets there, however, she's not so sure about those big waves and those huge roaring sounds. Bingo barks at the wave because he's not so sure about the water any more, either. That's ok since they really came to the beach to build sand castles, fly Lulu's kite, and eat ice cream. But then the ocean tries to steal her favorite purple pail! This a job for Ladybug Girl! A fun story about a beautiful day at the beach as well as over coming your fears. Lula and Bingo are wonderful characters to meet if you've never been introduced before. Happy reading!

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Sharon Lovejoy Event...

2010-06-08T15:58:00.005-05:00

Hey Everyone!
The Sharon Lovejoy book signing event last Saturday was a great success! Check out Sharon Lovejoy's blog to see what she thought of the event...
http://sharonlovejoy.blogspot.com/2010/06/dandelion-wishes-to-you.html

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Waggit Forever!

2010-05-30T13:05:00.001-05:00

Waggit Forever

by Peter Howe

Waggit is back with a new story in his familiar city park, but new problems are threatening his pack. Uprights (humans) are making changes in the park that are also making it harder for Waggit and his friends to stay safe and to find food. The rival dog pack wants to fight the Uprights, which Waggit and pack leader, Tazar realize will just cause more problems. In the middle of it all, Waggit commits a heroic feat which brings him unwanted attention. Faced with problems on all fronts, Waggit must work to save his pack and himself. Waggit Forever is a book for current Waggit fans, dog and animal lovers, or those readers looking for a good read-a-like to follow Erin Hunter’s Warriors series.

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Spells

2010-05-26T09:30:00.001-05:00

Spells

By Aprilynne Pike

Laurel has been summoned to the Academy of Avalon, a place that had once been her home but which she no longer remembers. She’s been happy to live with her human parents, but after the last troll attacks and the looming threat of more, the time has come to learn more about who and what she is: a faerie. In fact, Laurel is one of the rarer Fall faeries, not as rare as the Winter ones, but important nonetheless, and she must learn all she can to save her family, her friends, and all of Avalon. Throughout the story Laurel is faced with tough choices about being true to who she is, what she values, and whom she loves. Although Spells is the sequel to the Pike’s New York Times bestselling novel Wings, it can be enjoyed as a story on its own.

Author Sharon Lovejoy to visit the Jensen Community Center in Amherst

2010-05-25T10:36:00.002-05:00

Come hear author Sharon Lovejoy

on Saturday June 5th at 10:00am

at the Jensen Community Center in Amherst

Lovejoy will be presenting and signing her newest book Toad Cottages and Shooting Stars, which includes 130 wonderful nature and garden inspired activities for grandparents to share with their grandchildren. Ideas include creating a tabletop nature museum, an underwater viewer, and faerie home furnishing. This book also includes plenty of gardening and planting tips, as well as many yummy recipes. Lovejoy's other books include Roots, Shoots, Buckets, and Boots (gardening together with children); Sunflower Houses (garden book for children and their grown-ups); and Trowel & Error (shortcuts, tips and remedies for the garden). An author, illustrator, lecturer, and teacher, Lovejoy is also the children's garden adviser to the American Horticultural Society. She has been a guest on Today at NBC, PBS's Victory Garden, and The Discovery Channel.

The Sky is Everywhere

2010-05-25T09:30:00.000-05:00

The Sky is Everywhere

by Jandy Nelson

Lennie has always stayed safely in her older sister's shadow, but Bailey's sudden death brings on changes Lennie never imagined. She must deal with her grief as well as the attention that her sister once had, but which is now focused on Lennie. Connected by grief to her sister's boyfriend, and connected by happiness to the new boy at school, Lennie works to find herself in what her sister has left behind. This book will be enjoyed by fans of Sarah Dessen or by those looking for a believable teen story. Sample the first two chapters at http://www.theskyiseverywhere.com/

Deep Down Popular

2010-05-22T09:15:00.000-05:00

Deep Down Popular

by Phoebe Stone

Jessie Lou Ferguson has loved Conrad since the second grade. Back then she loved him so much she would hide in the bushes on the playground and jump out to give him a big kiss when he walked by! She may have outgrown that sort of behavior but Jessie Lou has not outgrown her love for Conrad. Not that she's alone in her obsession, Conrad enjoys a popularity that is "astounding, outstanding, overwhelming". All this attention dwindles, however, when Conrad has to deal with a hurt leg. The shiny metal leg brace he must wear spells doom for Conrad's popularity, but gives Jessie Lou her "in" to friendship and maybe even something more, as long as she can think of something to say without falling into a million pieces.

How You Got So Smart

2010-05-20T16:10:00.000-05:00

How You Got So Smart

by David Milgrim

Here's another great book for the graduate in your life. Following the adventure of growing up, this book takes a look at How You Got so Smart. Milgrim's bright pictures, which often include a pet dog and a doughnut, compliment the upbeat, sometimes humorous text. A good gift for anyone celebrating an accomplishment or moving on to a new adventure in life.

Paper Towns

2010-05-19T14:25:00.000-05:00

Paper Towns
by John Green - the author of An Abundance of Katherines and the Printz award-winning book Looking for Alaska

Margo and Quentin have been neighbors forever, but long ago she ditched him for the cool crowd. Of course Quentin is thrilled with Margo (whom he's loved from afar all these years) shows up at his window three weeks before the end of high school, and the pair sneak out for a night of adventure and pranks. Then just as abruptly, Margo disappears. While Margo's parents seem unconcerned with what they consider typical Margo behavior, Quentin decides to determine whether Margo has truly just run away or if she is gone forever. Green's Paper Towns is set in the Florida he knows so well, which creates a great setting for his most recent young adult novel. Paper Towns received starred reviews in Booklist and School Library Journal.

Brown Rabbit in the City

2010-05-15T12:46:00.004-05:00

Brown Rabbit in the City

by Natalie Russell

Brown Rabbit is excited to go visit his friend Little Rabbit in the city. It's his first time in the city, but Little Rabbit is waiting for him as he hops off the bus. Little Rabbit is glad her friend has come to visit; there is so much in the city she wants to show him! But after a whole day of running through the city, Brown Rabbit is very tired and has hardly had any time to see what he really came to visit - his friend! Little Rabbit realizes her mistake and makes a change of pace to be sure Brown Rabbit is happy. Beautiful screen prints using soft, gentle colors help to tell this endearing story of friendship.

Getting Ready for Summer - Golf

2010-05-15T09:15:00.001-05:00

The Miniature Book of Miniature Golf

by Mike Vago

This book is more about playing than reading. After all, how many books come with a putter and two tiny golf balls? Vago's creation presents a nine hole course complete with landscaping and water hazards. Prefect for a distraction at the office or as entertainment on rainy days that are less than ideal for heading outside to the green. The hole in each page drops the ball in the exact spot to tee off for the next hole. Give as a great gift or challenge your co-workers and family to a round of miniature-miniature golf! It's about time to brush-up on your putting game and there's no better way to do it than The Miniature Book of Miniature Golf.

LMNO Peas

2010-05-13T15:50:00.001-05:00

LMNO Peas

by Keith Baker

Let these wonderful and adventurous green peas lead you through the ABCs. These little peas are busy! They are acrobats, artists, and astronauts. They are kickers, kayakers, and kings. They are scientists, swimmers, and sailors on the seas. They are the LMNO peas! A fun ABCs book with colorful and cute illustrations. An entertaining read-along for those learning the ABCs and those who already know them by heart!

Star Wars - A Scanimation Book

2010-05-08T15:18:00.007-05:00

Star Wars: A Scanimation Book

by Rufus Butler Seder

"Destroy the Sith we must" reads the Yoda quote while the image of Yoda appears to move across the opposite page, wielding his green lightsaber. Using an optical illusion technology that he invented, Rufus Butler Seder (the creator of Gallop! and Waddle!) presents readers with 11 scenes along with classic quotes from the ever-popular Star Wars series. As you turn each page, the pictures move - C-3PO crosses the desert with his friend R2-D2, Luke and Leia swing to safety, Darth Vader reveals the truth, and Lando escapes the exploding Death Star.

Magic Tree House Passport Program

2010-05-08T13:32:00.009-05:00

For fans of the Magic Tree House series:

There is now a way to keep track of your adventures by using the new Magic Tree House passport. Get your passport started at Dragonwings or at the Magic Tree House website (click here). Answer a few questions about the stories you've read to print off your official passport stamps.

The Magic Tree House series is a fun set of books for young readers that involve Jack and Annie, who travel back in time on great adventures. Each book focuses on a new time period and new challenges. These engaging stories will help your reader grow and learn!

Welcome to May!

2010-05-08T09:10:00.000-05:00

Welcome to May!

Firehouse!
by Mark Teague

Edward wants to be a firefighter but learns that it can be hard work! While nothing seems to quite go right during his training, Edward learns what he needs to. When it comes time for getting down to business, Edward is ready. Teague is an award-winning author/illustrator whose books include Funny Farm - a 2009 Parents' Choice Silver Honor Picture Book; Dear Mrs. LaRue - the 2003 Book Sense Illustrated Book of the Year, Detective LaRue, and Pigsty. He is also the illustrator for Jane Yolen's How Do Dinosaurs series.

My Mother is So Smart!
by Tomie DePaola

Mothers are wonderful things and Mothers' day is almost here. This great book is celebration of all the amazing things mothers can do from making the best cookies, to driving grandfather's old truck, to the surprising skill at the end of the book. This loving book shows the marvelous things a mother's love can bring.

Book Reading at Dragonwings with the Humane Society of Waupaca County

2010-04-24T12:43:00.010-05:00

May 6th

6:00-7:00pm

Join us at Dragonwings Bookstore for book reading with the Humane Society of Waupaca County.

May 2-8 is Be Kind to Animals Week. Meet kittens, read a few good books, and learn about taking care of pets. Stop by and join Dragonwings in showing your support for our furry friends. Twenty percent of the Dragonwing's sales during the event will be donated to the Humane Society of Waupaca County.

Radiant Shadows and the Wicked Lovely series

2010-04-24T11:00:00.000-05:00

Radiant Shadows
by Melissa Marr

The newest release in the Wicked Lovely series, Radiant Shadows is the fourth book set in the world of the faeries. The Wicked Lovely books are filled with shifting romances, danger, and the magic of the courts of the fey people. In Radiant Shadows Ani, half-human - half faery, deals with her longing to belong and lead the Wild Hunt. She attracts the attention of the beautiful and dangerous Delvin, a faery who was created by the powerful High Queen and her chaotic twin sister, Bananach. These young adult books are the perfect read for those readers who enjoy losing themselves in a magical world that is filled with wonderfully complicated relationships.

I Knew You Could - a great gift for graduates

2010-04-24T10:53:00.005-05:00

I Knew You Could!
by Craig Dorfman

In the style of the traditional "I think I can" train, Dorfman writes a new story about a train setting out on life's journey. This book gives advice perfect to new graduates or anyone setting out on a new adventure of life. Advice includes sticking to the track you choose, enjoying your travels, and seeking the help of good friends when you need it.

Zoomer

2010-04-24T10:47:00.000-05:00

Zoomer
by Ned Young

His brothers, Hooper and Cooper, may be getting ready for a day at school but Zoomer has other plans for the day. Ned Young tells a fun family story with bright, cheerful illustrations and great details. While the puppies play a game of baseball in their father's bedroom, the birds have started an early morning bowling game. While Zoomer builds the world's biggest sand brontosaurus, the birds play croquet. This funny book with its humorous ending and great illustrations would be just perfect for shared reading time.

The Last Summer of the Death Warriors

2010-04-23T15:50:00.000-05:00

The Last Summer of the Death Warriors
by Francisco X. Stork

Pancho's life has been filled with death: his mother died when he was five, his father died in an all too recent accident, and his older sister, Rosa, was recently murdered. The police try to claim that Rosa died of natural causes, but Pancho disagrees and makes plans for revenge. Without any family, Pancho is sent to the orphanage St. Anthony where he meets, D.Q., who is dying from brain cancer. As their friendship grows, Pancho remains focused on death while D.Q. holds on to life.

Frankie Works the Night Shift

2010-04-22T10:38:00.000-05:00

Frankie Works the Night Shift
by Lisa Westberg Peters
Illustrated by Jennifer Taylor

What do you mean Frankie is a naughty kitty? He's just doing his job and doing his best. The hardware store may be closed for the night, but Frankie has a lot to get done: emptying the waste basket, cleaning the counters, and keeping out intruders! Don't worry, Frankie gets it all done, and just in time to start the day. In a combination of digital photography and illustrations, the pictures for this book have a wonderful realistic feel mixed with the fun of collage and found art pieces.

Fever Crumb

2010-04-20T12:11:00.001-05:00

Fever Crumb
by Philip Reeve

Fever is no ordinary girl; she never has been. As a baby, she was found by Dr. Crumb, a man of rational thought and reason, as are all members of the Order of the Engineers. The only thing Dr. Crumb knows for certain about Fever is her name from the note tied around her wrist when she was found: "Her name is Fever". While in this time and place girls are viewed as highly irrational, Dr. Crumb believes that perhaps if raised by the Order, she could become a useful Engineer after all. After fourteen years in Dr. Crumb's care and as apprentice in the Order, Fever's assistance has been requested. Fever must venture away from the place she has known and into a world that views her eyes of different colors and shaved head as things to be feared. This book is instantly engaging with its imperfect characters and eerily familiar yet strange setting. Fever's world is a mix of futuristic problems and bits of technology only partially remembered in a harsh society. Fever Crumb received deserved starred reviews in both School Library Journal and Booklist. More on Fever Crumb here: http://www.scholastic.com/fevercrumb/

Positively Pooh

2010-04-15T12:49:00.000-05:00

Positively Pooh:
Timeless Wisdom from Pooh
by A. A. Milne
Illustrated by Ernest H. Shepard

An endearing book filled with classic Pooh wisdom of how best to live a happy life. Four sweet chapters: "For your inner bear", "For those bothersome days", "For when you're in a tight place", and "For those hummy sort of days" give lessons that can only be learned from Pooh and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood. This book would make a great give idea for a dear friend, a friend in need of a pick-me-up, or for the new graduate. As the inscription from Pooh reads, "For someone spechal, with hums from a dear friend."

Dying to Meet You

2010-04-13T15:00:00.000-05:00

Dying to Meet You: 43 Old Cemetery Road
by Kate Klise

In this uniquely written book by Kate Klise is the story of writer I. B. Grumply who m0ves into the old mansion at 43 Old Cemetery Road for the summer. He's looking for some peace and quiet so he can finally overcome his case of writer's block and finish his book. Instead he finds an 11-year old boy named Seymour Hope, his cat Shadow, and ghost Olive C. Spence. Their story is told through a series of letter, drawings, newspaper clippings, and private investigator reports. Enjoyable story for mid-level readers (or older ones, too, who want a fun book!)

Crunch

2010-04-10T11:55:00.000-05:00

Crunch
by Leslie Connor

Connor has created a world where the oil has finally diminished to such a low supply that it must be carefully rationed to those who need it most. Dewey Mariss’s father is a truck driver so he gets ration tickets in order to make deliveries. Even ration tickets won’t help, however, when there is a gas crunch and no one is going anywhere, at least not under gas power. Just so happens when the crunch hits, Dewey’s father and mother are away on vacation. Dewey and his four siblings must make it on their own while they wait for their parents return. Dewey’s part: running his dad’s bike shop, which is suddenly busy with business, while also keeping an eye on the two young twins and dealing with a rash of small robberies. Crunch provides an interesting summer story for younger readers who have advanced reading skills but are not yet ready for the material covered in some young adult books.

Another Great Dragonwings Deal!

2010-04-07T11:05:00.000-05:00

Select Sarah Dessen titles are currently buy 2 get, 1 Free!

Dragonswings is offering buy two get, get one free deal for several select Sarah Dessen titles including Just Listen, The Truth About Forever, Dreamland, and several others. Dessen's books target the young female adult audience and feature topics of friendship, family, romance, and learning about oneself.

To learn about all of Dessen's books visit her website here. The site includes information about each of her books; Dessen writes about where she gets her ideas and how she developed each story. If they sound like something you might enjoy, you can even sample the books by downloading the first chapter with just a single click.

Big Nate (for Wimpy Kid fans)

2010-04-07T11:00:00.000-05:00

Big Nate: In a Class by Himself

By Lincoln Peirce

Let’s face it, middle school can be rough at times, just ask Big Nate. You could get yelled at by a teacher for no reason, roughed up by the bully, or get nailed with a test. (Wait: Do we have a test today?!) But Nate’s not worried because today in his fortune cookie he got the best fortune ever: “Today you will surpass all others.” So, Nate sets out to do just that. Peirce uses a blend of humorous writing, illustrations, and Nate-drawn comics to navigate the sixth grade world. Big Nate is sure to please fans of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid who are looking for more humor from a kid who just can get it right!

Welcome to April!

2010-04-02T11:10:00.014-05:00

Welcome to April!

At Dragonwings we have been enjoying the wonderful spring weather and enjoying the new books that have been blossoming in the store.

My Garden

by Kevin Henkes

What would you grow in your garden? The girl in this book would grow color changing flowers, chocolate rabbits, seashells, jelly beans, tomatoes the size of beach balls, and morning glories that stayed open all night. (And by the way, there are no weeds in this garden!)

Farm
by Elisha Cooper

With pencil and watercolor illustrations, Cooper follows farm life with the changing seasons from March to November. He tells of the animals, the land, and the farmers. For more Elisha Cooper visit him here.

April banner (C) 2010 by Elisha Cooper

More great Easter ideas - books!

2010-03-27T11:30:00.020-05:00

Here are some of the great Easter books available at Dragonwings:

This gift set includes four of Beatrix Potter's classic little books:
The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck, The Tale of Mr. Jeremy Fisher,
The Tale of Tom Kitten, and The Tale of Peter Rabbit.

This not classic (but very funny) Easter tale finds T. Rex filling in for his friend the Easter Bunny, who has gotten a cold. After a rough start, T. Rex gets a little help from his friends to make sure he doesn't let down the Easter Bunny, or all the kids!

In a new take on an old story, an old woman swallows a chick! She follows up the chick with a bunch of other Easter themed items until she runs into the Easter Bunny. (We don't know why she swallows the chick, but at least she doesn't get sick!)

Everyone knows the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, but have you heard about Goldilocks and the Three Hares? Same great storyline but with fun illustrations and a running commentary by the mice and weasels.

You can also celebrate Easter with Max & Ruby, Fancy Nancy, Strawberry Shortcake, or Thomas the Train.

Hoppy Reading!

Egg-cellent Easter Basket Treats

2010-03-19T13:28:00.005-05:00

Dragonwings offers many great Easter gift ideas that go beyond (and last longer) than the candy!

Let us show you some of the Easter Bunny's favorites:

Wind-up Chicks and Bunnies

Magic Cards!

Pull Cars

Art Supplies

Wind-up Caterpillars and Dinos

Super cute Finger Puppets

Bamboo Racing Cars

Friendly Duckies

Wooly Worms

The Atom Ball

Fun Games

and as always...

Lots of Great books!

Hop on by!

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Redwall

2010-03-19T09:17:00.000-05:00

Redwall - buy two Redwall series books and get a third free!
by Brain Jacques

Currently consisting of 20 books, the Redwall series by Brain Jacques begins when the mice's abbey is threatened by Cluny, the evil rat. They believe one of the few things that can save them is the legendary sword of Martin the Warrior, but its whereabouts have been lost to history. Matthias, a young, clumsy mouse sets out to see what he can do to help his fellow mice and save their abbey. In his second book, Mossflower, Jacques takes the reader back in time to learn the story of Martin the Warrior and his struggle against the wildcat Queen, Tsarmina.

Dragonwings has a great selection of this exciting series and is currently offering: buy two get a third free!

2010 Caldecott Medal Winner

2010-03-11T12:28:00.003-06:00

The Lion and the Mouse
illustrated by Jerry Pinkney

This classic Aesop fable of kindness being rewarded with kindness, is told without words through the wonderful pencil and watercolor illustrations of Jerry Pinkney. The king of the jungle decides to let a small mouse, who has disrupted his nap, go free. Later when the lion is caught in a net, it is the mouse that is able to safely free the lion. The movement, actions, and emotions of the animals are all perfectly clear without words. The very few words that do appear in the illustrations are those of sounds: an owl's haunted call, the mouse's tiny squeak, and the lion's angry roar. Pinkney's illustrations are very much deserving of the Caldecott Medal this book received.

Visit Jerry Pinkney's studio here.

Araminta Spookie series

2010-03-11T11:51:00.005-06:00

Araminta Spookie: My Haunted House
by Angie Sage

Araminta Spookie is a nice young girl who lives in a wonderful old house. In fact, she loves her home; it's haunted and that's just the way she likes it! She enjoys the haunted suit of armor known as Sir Horace, and she is fond of her Uncle Drac's bats. So, clearly, she has a big problem when Aunt Tabby announces that they are going to be selling the house! How could she do this! Araminta is not about to leave her home, so she hatches a plan to makes sure no one want to buy the house. As Araminta gets more desperate, Aunt Tabby becomes more determined. Araminta finds the help of a new friend, Edmund, the boy ghost, but will it be enough to make sure she doesn't have to move away?

While the topics of ghosts, bats, and haunted suits of armor may seem scary, My Haunted House and the other four books of the Araminta Spookie series are funny, clever, and entertaining. These titles would probably appeal most to kids between 7-10 years old, or for anyone who understands that Spookie topics are fun year round.

Araminta Spookie's Website

Great 3-D bookmarks!

2010-03-05T13:07:00.006-06:00

Dragonwings recently restocked on the great 3-D bookmarks and they look incredible. There are bookmarks featuring tigers, sharks, planets, fish, and more, including hot air balloons. They have been very popular and customers have been impressed with illusion of depth created in the pictures. It does feel like you could reach out and really pet the tiger (if you wanted to!) Be sure to come take a look.

[Easter Bunny approved.]

Dragonbreath by Ursula Vernon

2010-02-25T13:27:00.006-06:00

Dragonbreath
by Ursula Vernon

Poor Danny. He goes to a school of reptiles and amphibians but he's a dragon, which also makes him the only mythical creature. On top of that Danny can't even breathe fire (at least that would make him cool!) Not that he's not trying to learn to breathe fire, which his parents do quite naturally. (In fact what else is math class good for but practicing this un-mastered skill?) At least he has his best friend, Wendell, an iguana to keep him company. Danny's adventures begin in Dragonbreath and continue in Dragonbreath: Attack of the Ninja Frogs. Both books have a unique style that is part graphic novel and part regular book, which combine to make a fun story for the late-elementary reader.

Enjoy Board Books!

2010-02-25T12:04:00.006-06:00

So sometimes the youngest ones can be the hardest to find gifts for, but don't worry, Dragonwings has you covered. Board books are not your typical picture books, but rather have thicker, more durable pages. They are able to stand up to more "love" from our little "readers". They are like picture books, though, in the fact that they cover all sorts of fun topics and feature great illustrations or even photographs. We have classics like Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown and The Napping House by Audrey Wood, in addition to newer favorites like 10 Little Rubber Ducks by Eric Carle. The books also tend to be small - perfect for Easter baskets!

Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks

2010-02-25T11:16:00.005-06:00

The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks
by E. Lockhart
National Book Award Finalist
Printz Award Honor Book

Frankie manages to transform from geeky girl, to attractive young woman in the summer between her freshman and sophomore years at Alabaster Prep. This change attracts the attention of senior, Matthew, who also happens to be a member of an all-boys secret society. Frankie doesn't accept, this exclusion, however, and makes plans to infiltrate. Lockhart provides the reader with a empowered female hero who seeks change and stirs up trouble in the process.

Click the link below to visit E. Lockhart's website:
E. Lockhart's website

Leprechaun in Late Winter

2010-02-19T09:35:00.005-06:00

Leprechaun in Late Winter
A Magic Tree House book
by Mary Pope Osborne

For anyone not already familiar with this highly popular series, the Magic Tree House books are great for readers of mid to late elementary age. They cover a wide range of cultures and historical times and Mary Pope Osborne has recently added Leprechaun in Late Winter to the collection. In this adventure Jack and Annie end up in the Ireland of 1862 with a mission to help a girl named Augusta. As problems arise, the two siblings must rely on the help of a leprechaun. Of course my favorite part is that Kathleen gives the two adventurers a magic whistle to help them on their way.

Bunny's Easter Egg

2010-02-13T15:55:00.004-06:00

Bunny's Easter Egg
Written and Illustrated by
Anne Mortimer

Bunny's been up all night, busy with hiding all the Easter eggs. Now the only thing she wants is to take a nap and get some rest! Each place she tries to nap, however, has something wrong and she cannot get to sleep. In her quest to find somewhere just right, she runs into many different animals, until at last she finds exactly what she is looking for. The details of Mortimer's drawings make the textures of nature easy to see, from Bunny's fluffy fur to hedgehog's prickly quills to the flowers' soft petals. Bunny's Easter Egg is a cute story with wonderful illustrations.

Caldecott Honor Book: Marshmallow

2010-02-13T15:33:00.010-06:00

Marshmallow
Written and Illustrated by Clare Turlay Newberry

Oliver the cat has a simple, easy life, and that is just the way he likes it. So what is he suppose to do when his human, Miss Tilly brings home a baby rabbit! While Miss Tilly writes in her first rabbit poem that, "No home's complete without a rabbit," Oliver thinks he can hardly agree with that. Clare Turlay Newberry created a cute and humorous story with soft, two-toned illustrations. Great as an Easter story or for any animal lover.

Jan Brett's new Easter book: The Easter Egg

2010-02-13T14:53:00.005-06:00

Jan Brett has a beautiful new book out for this year's Easter. The Easter Egg contains Brett's signature detailed drawings that show a true understanding of nature. In this story Hoppi is hoping to decorate the winning egg so that he can help Easter Rabbit hide the eggs on Easter morning. It turns out that it is quite a challenge to make a special egg! In addition to the main story illustrations, the reader sees many rabbits in the process of decorating their eggs on the side of each page.

Get Ready for Groundhog Day on Feb. 2nd!

2010-01-13T13:38:00.005-06:00

Ten Grouchy Groundhogs
Written by Kathryn Heling and Deborah Hembrook
Illustrated by Jay Johnson

"Ten grouchy groundhogs
Crowded in their den,
They squirmed and they stretched
And then...then...then..."

Join ten grouchy groundhogs for a hilarious countdown to Groundhog Day! This amusing story is about a den of ten grouchy, grubby, graceful, gabby, goofy, groovy, gobbling, glitzy, giggle, and grumpy groundhogs who are growing restless while waiting for spring to arrive. What better way to celebrate Groundhog Day than with a great book?

New Book Reviews!

2010-01-13T12:33:00.005-06:00

WOW It's a Cow!
Written by Trudy and Jay Harris
Illustrated by Paige Keiser
WOW It's a Cow! takes readers on a journey through a farm in search of a cow. Young children will love the playful rhyming and guessing the animals beneath the lift-the-flap illustrations. This durable cardboard bound book is sure to please!

How Do Dinosaurs Love Their Cats?
Written by Jane Yolen
Illustrated by Mark Teague
How Do Dinosaurs Love Their Cats? is a great addition to the New York Times bestselling How Do Dinosaurs...? collection. This warm and humorous board book shows young children how to care for their kitties. From emptying the litter box to making homemade cat toys, children will learn the purr-fect way to care for their pet cats. Meow!

How Do Dinosaurs Love Their Dogs?
Written by Jane Yolen
Illustrated by Mark Teague
How Do Dinosaurs Love Their Dogs? is yet another playful addition to Jane Yolen and Mark Teague's How Do Dinosaurs...? collection. This board book shows children the silliness of neglecting their pet dog through witty rhyming and amusing illustration. From bathing to walking their dog, children will learn the ins and outs of doggie care. Woof!

Impossible Now Out In Paperback!

2009-12-30T10:12:00.004-06:00

Impossible by Nancy Werlin Published by Dial of Penguin Group USA is now out in paperback!

This book was impossible to put down. Everything in my life went by the wayside until I finished it. Nancy Werlin is a master at writing chilling, suspenseful stories with layers of meaning that you think about long after you close the book.

Impossible was inspired by the old folk song “Scarborough Fair”, which in turn was based on one of the Child ballads from Scotland known as “The Elfin Knight.” In it a woman has to perform three impossible tasks to prove her true love, which sounds cruel, but in another version it is a devil who requires her to perform the tasks, which makes the ballad suddenly more sinister, and gave Nancy Werlin the idea for a story.

Lucy Scarborough is seventeen when her life begins to spin out of control manipulated by a curse that ruined her mother’s life and generations of grandmothers before her. A pregnancy following a date rape gives Lucy her timeline to perform three ancient, impossible tasks in order to break the curse. Unlike her ancestors, she is not abandoned and trying to complete the tasks alone – she has family and a true love, who believe her and help her. But even with help the tasks seem impossible, and the devil, angry and concerned that she could succeed, takes human form and beguiles those closest to her, insinuating himself into her family.

I couldn’t guess the ending as possible resolutions came and went, and no tricks or betrayals are too low, when a purely evil devil is waiting for you.

What a book, Child ballads are riches in Nancy Werlin’s magical hands.

Audrey, Wait! Now Out In Paperback!

2009-12-30T09:59:00.006-06:00

Audrey, Wait!
Written by Robin Benway

When Audrey breaks up with her musician boyfriend, he writes a song about it; by chance and the internet, the song becomes a hit making Audrey a reluctant, national celebrity. With paparazzi following her everywhere, Audrey’s private life is splashed across the internet and the fan magazines. How can she get her life back and maybe even fall in love again, when everyone who wants to be famous is trying to be her new best friend?

One Shoe Blues Pictures

2009-12-30T09:13:00.017-06:00

The One Shoe Blues event at dragonwings was a hit! The kids saw a music video with B.B. King himself singing the blues about his missing shoe, while receiving advice from Momsock and a chorus of sock puppets.

After the music we made socks into puppets, put on a little puppet shows, had photos taken with the sock puppets (SEE PICTURES!), won sock puppet tattoos playing Boynton Bingo, and generally had a good time.

Stay updated for news of future Dragonwings Bookstore Events!

2009-12-23T10:49:00.004-06:00

Hey Everyone!
Check out the Indie Bound Community at http://www.indiebound.org/indie-community
"The mission of the IndieBound Community is to help people across the United States share and find independently-owned businesses. By connecting indie-conscious people with local businesses, we're working to strengthen the health of Main Street ecosystems across the United States."

Book Reviews

2009-12-09T13:25:00.027-06:00

Max Spaniel Dinosaur Hunt
By David Catrow
Join Max Spaniel as he uses his superior hunting skills to track down dinosaurs. Watch him use his ears, eyes, and nose to locate real (or at least real to Max Spaniel) dinosaur artifacts in his own backyard. Young children will love this silly story along with the humorous illustration.

A Friend Like You
By Tanja Askani
Tanja Askani's A Friend Like You is a heartwarming story about friendship that young children are sure to love. Tanja Askani has been adopting animals that that were either orphaned or injured since she was a small child. She used pictures she has collected over the years to illustrate this story. For every sentence in the book there is an adorable matching picture of an unexpected pair of animals playing together. The story portrays the message that friendship comes in all shapes and sizes. As an added bonus, the author gives a mini biography of each of the featured animals at the end of the story.

The Mitten
Retold by Jim Aylesworth
Illustrated by Barbara McClintock
Readers young and old will enjoy this retelling of the classic winter story The Mitten. After a long day of fun playing out in the snow a little boy realizes that he lost one of the mittens knit for him by his grandmother. His grandmother tells him not to worry as they will go out to find the mitten the next day. Meanwhile, a squirrel, rabbit, fox, and even a bear have been using the mitten to warm up their frozen toes. What will come of the mitten when one more visitor asks the animals to share just a little more space?

Merry Christmas, Splat
By Rob Scotton
After writing his Christmas wish list to Santa, Splat the cat wonders if he has been good enough all year to deserve the really big present he is hoping for. He is pretty sure he has been good enough...but decides to help his mother get ready for Christmas just in case. After washing the already clean dishes and decorating the already decorated tree, Splat heads to bed and listens all night for Santa. When morning comes with no sign of Santa, Splat is sure he will not be receiving his big present. Did Santa skip over Splat, or will Splat get the present of his dreams after all...

Big Frog Can't Fit In
A Pop Out Book by Mo Willems
Paper Engineering by Bruce Foster
Big Frog is sad because she cannot fit into her book! Will her friends be able to come up with a solution to help her out? Children will love the large pop out images and pull out tabs in this creatively crafted book.

My Little Polar Bear
By Claudia Rueda
A new baby polar bear has arrived in the frozen Arctic. Little polar bear follows her mother over snow and melting ice, through the freezing ocean water, and into a blowing snowstorm. Little polar bear has doubts about whether she is a real polar bear, but feels much better after listening to her mother's reassuring words. My Little Polar Bear is a beautifully illustrated story about a mother's love for her child.

How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You?
By Jane Yolen and Mark Teague
Even after lots of moping, kicking, and making messes, the mothers and fathers of the little dinosaurs still love them. This humorous story will leave readers ready for some dinosaurs sized hugs. How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You? is a wonderful new edition to Jane Yolen and Mark Teague's award winning How Do Dinosaurs...? children's series.

Stagecoach Sal
By Deborah Hopkinson
Pictures by Carson Ellis
Sal loved riding around with her father and singing on his stagecoach, but the one thing she wanted more than anything else was to drive herself. After an unfortunate accident Pa needed a break from driving the stagecoach, and Sal finally received her chance to drive alone. However, with the infamous stagecoach robber Poetic Pete on the loose, Sal is bound to have an interesting night. Stagecoach Sal is a fictional story based on the life of Delia Haskett Rawson. Delia was the first, and possibly the only, female stagecoach mail deliverer in California. This book offers up a healthy dose of history for children ages four to seven.

Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol
Illustrated by Brett Helquist
Witness the story of Ebenezer Scrooge breathtakingly illustrated by Brett Helquist. Watch Scrooge transform from a stingy business man to a caring and Christmas loving citizen after visits from three Christmas ghosts. Brett Helquist's intricate art paired with this classic Christmas story is sure to please the entire family.

One Shoe Blues Event

2009-11-12T11:13:00.004-06:00

It's a BYOS (bring your own sock) Event at Dragonwings Bookstore on Saturday, November 21 at 3:00 PM. You'll get to see a music video with B.B. King himself singing the blues about his missing shoe, while he gets advice from Momsock and a chorus of sock puppets. See the post below for a "making of" One Shoe Blues video.

After the music we'll have stations around the store where you can make your sock into a puppet, put on a puppet show, have your photo taken with your sock puppet, get a sock puppet tattoo, play Boynton Bingo, and dance the Barnyard Dance.

Call 715-256-9186 for reservations. All ages are welcome. Parents are asked to take their little ones through the stations, and we always appreciate having you lend a hand here and there.

Admission fee: a new pair of socks or mittens for the Dragonwings Donation Box. We give seasonal donations of books and/or winter wear to the Family Crisis Center, Healthy Beginnings, and the Food Pantry.

Our Favorite New Books

2009-11-07T09:19:00.017-06:00

Stick Man by Julia Donaldson illustrated by Axel Scheffler

Early one spring morning Stick Man is carried away from his family tree by a passing dog. He has one narrow escape after another trying to find his way home and ends up in a fireplace. All seems lost until her meets a Stuck Man in the chimney, and his luck finally changes. I loved the sly humor in the illustrations, and hope there will be more adventures about the endearing Stick Man and his family. - Ellen

The Christmas Magic by Lauren Thompson illustrated by Jon J. Muth

Santa's house sits alone in a vast, snowy landscape under an endless night sky. As the magic draws closer, he calls the deer, buffs the sleigh, and polishes the bells. With a cundle of gifts, he waits quietly for the magic of the night to fill his heart and carry him off on a journey through the stars. Gentle prose and thriling illustrations will bring goose bumps to the readers of this timeless tale. - Ellen

Raiders' Ransom by Emily Diamand

Ages 9-12

In a futuristic England mostly submerged by water, people have long forgotten the power of technology, except for a dangerous few to whom it is worth any ransom - even the Prime Minister's daughter. Winner of the Chicken House/London Times Children's Fiction Competition, this tale has a swift-moving plot that will surprise readers over and over again. - Ellen

How The Grinch Stole Christmas Lacing Cards
This lacing card kit includes five silly lacing cards, five brightly-colored laces, and several activities. The lacing cards help children develop fine motor skills, learn to count, and improve hand-eye co-ordination. The front of the lace cards outlines favorite Grinch characters and the back of each card has a numbers and shapes lacing activity. The set includes a workbook with several brain stimulating activities such as a maze, search-and-find page, and a word scramble that are sure to please. - Angie

Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas
by Jane O'Connor Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
There is nothing Fancy Nancy loves more than Christmas. Decorating the Christmas tree with family heirlooms, wrapping presents with pretty paper, the aroma of delectable Christmas cookies with sprinkles, and all that tinsel! Ooh la la! Nancy has used her birthday money from last summer to buy a spinning, flashing, and color-changing tree topper. However, after things take a turn for the worse, a devastated Fancy Nancy learns a lesson in improvising that will help her Christmas day to turn out as splendiferous as ever. - Angie

How to Talk to Santa

By Alec Greven Illustrations by Kei Acedera

Ten-year-old Alec Greven’s How to Talk to Santa teaches kids that Christmas is about having fun, believing in magic, getting together with friends, and giving to others. He outlines each part of the Christmas season, beginning with Operation Christmas (OC), which transforms normal people into Christmas-crazed shoppers, decorators, and partyers. Alec explains the importance of being nice at least 75% of the time if you hope to receive any of the gifts from your carefully revised and edited wish list (Santa does not like greedy children). He reminds everyone to leave a thank-you letter and snacks for Santa and the reindeer for all of their hard work. If you hope to keep your parents happy on Christmas morning, don’t wake them until after 7 a.m. Most importantly, Alec reminds kids that you can be 100 and still believe in Santa. - Angie

Tyrannoclaus

By Janet Lawler Pictures by John Shroades

‘Twas the night before Christmas when Tyrannoclaus along with his helpers were hard at work wrapping gifts for all of the little dinosaurs of dinosaur land. Danger arose when the earth below the volcano-based workshop split open and began to erupt! Will the children of dinosaur land have a present-less Christmas morning, or will Tyrannoclaus be able to save the gifts? Read this colorfully illustrated children’s story to find out! - Angie

Art Class

2009-10-28T15:48:00.003-05:00

Take an Art Class with visiting artist Brian Strassburg!

On Saturday, November 7 Brian Strassburg will be in town for a gallery show of his unique art boxes at Originals Gallery. He will also bring some of his pieces to an Art Class at Dragonwings, where he will show us how he constructed them and share some techniques.

Each of Brian's art boxes uses mixed-media, 3-D elements, and collage to illustrate a theme, a story, a famous personality, or even a letter of the alphabet. Unique and quirky, unlike anything we've ever seen before, these boxes are guaranteed to inspire kids to create an amazing box filled with art from their own imagination. Once they know how, they could make art boxes for holiday decorations, for gifts, as a scout project etc.

Art Class with a Visiting Artist
Saturday, November 7
3:00 PM - 4:15 PM
Ages 9 and up
Fee: $7.50 includes all supplies
Registration: 715-256-9186
CLASS SIZE LIMITED!

Author Catherine Gilbert Murdock coming to Dragonwings

2009-09-24T12:40:00.003-05:00

Her books are winning awards, her character D.J. Schwenk is beloved by readers, the setting is a dairy farm in Wisconsin, and the best news of all is that book # 3 Front and Center arrived ahead of its scheduled release in October!

Get ready to meet popular author Catherine Murdock on Monday, September 28th. She will meet with creative writing students at Waupaca High School and Waupaca Middle School in the afternoon. Then she will be come to Dragonwings Bookstore for an informal, open house until 4:45 PM.

This is chance to ask your burning questions, buy all of her books, and get them signed and personalized! Have a cup of tea and munch on cookies with a well-known author. Ask her why Wisconsin, when she grew up on a farm in Connecticut? And how did she get it all so right? Also, where did Princess Ben, a really good fantasy, come from, right in the middle of her dairy queen books?

We'll find out on Monday. Hope you can come.

Fancy Nancy Party August 12

2009-08-05T06:36:00.006-05:00

It's time to dig through your closet, or better yet your mother's closet, to find the perfect items for an over-the-top fancy outfit to wear to Dragonwings Fancy Nancy Party.

At the party we will create fancy crafts, play Fancy Nancy games, and have a fancy snack. We'll read a few pages from Fancy Nancy's new book Explorer Extraordinaire and find out how Nancy is discovering fanciness in the world all around her. Party activities are designed for ages 3-8.

The party will be held at Dragonwings Bookstore at 3:00 PM on Wednesday August 12. Reservations are $7.50 and can be made by calling Dragonwings at 256-9186. Parents are always welcome, always free, and are usually asked to lend a hand with the crafts and games. Reservation fees include all craft supplies, snacks, party favors, and a Fancy Nancy easy reader.

If we have a waiting list for the 3:00 party, we may hold a second party at 4:00.

You can find out more about Fancy Nancy's joie de vivre by checking out Dragonwings' large selection of Fancy Nancy picture books, easy readers, sticker and activity books, games, and colorforms, all of which make perfect gifts for children who love the fancy side of life.

PUZZLEMANIA GAME

2009-08-01T13:12:00.007-05:00

Hands-on Puzzle Activities for All Ages

When you play Puzzlemania at Dragonwings this week, you can try puzzle activities that have sound, magnets, mazes, and even frogs. Puzzle stations are set up for three age groups around the store. When you come in, pick up a game card at the front desk, and get started. If you need help, just ask us. Once you've tried all of the puzzles at your station, report back to the front desk, tell us which were your worst or best puzzles, and get your prize.

At the puzzle station for ages 2-4 we have Vehicle Sound Blocks, Musical Instrument Sound Puzzle, Color Maze, Construction Sound Puzzle, and the Fishing Game.

The puzzle station for ages 5-7 has a Tow Truck Puzzle, Pattern Blocks, Magnetic Match Rings, and I Spy Circus Berzerkus.

The puzzle station for ages 8-100 has a Hoppers challenge (told you there would be frogs), a Set challenge with six possible sets, and two challenges from On the Dot - a new game that we love.

Puzzlemania will run through Friday August 7.

By the way, if you are wondering what the answers are to the World Record Quiz Questions from last week: b. Russia, b. beard, c. C-3PO.

World Records Quiz Game

2009-07-18T14:29:00.007-05:00

Challenge yourself with this week's summer game at Dragonwings Bookstore - the World Records Quiz Game. This is a stop-in-and-play-anytime all week game. Pick up a game card at the front desk, search for the quiz questions, guess the answers, and report back for prizes. The quiz questions come from one of our favorite books: Book of World Records Ultimate Quiz Challenge. Believe me, the answers will often surprise you.

Try these out, and then come in for more. If you can't wait, write your answers in comments and we'll let you know if your guesses are correct.

What country has the most forest area?
a. Canada
b. Russia
c. Brazil

What is the fastest growing hair on the body?
a. Eyelashes
b. Beard
c. leg hair

Who is the first character to speak in Star Wars?
a. Han Solo
b. R2D2
c. C-3PO

Why did the Wolf cross the road?

2009-07-12T11:18:00.003-05:00

Have you been wishing you knew some new chicken jokes? You'll find lots of them in this week's search and find game at Dragonwings. It's another stop in and play anytime game. Get the details at the front desk and start your search for jokes and activities around the store.

Bring in a chicken joke that we haven't heard before and earn 15% off any book in the store. (Offer good until we close the doors at 5:00 on Friday the 17th.)

New this week: Two new games from Melissa&Doug for ages 4 and up. Each has a booklet filled with ten different games and lots of variations for different ages. Ranging from Treasure Hunts to card games, both Puppy Pursuit and Funny Frogs have a lot of play value.

Have you figured out why the Wolf crossed the road?

He wanted to have chicken for dinner.

Dragonwings Summer Games

2009-06-26T13:03:00.004-05:00

Tricky Tricks

Dragonwings has five new challenges for you this week. We have the games set up around the store, so you can stop in any time to play. Pick up your game cards at the front desk and start your search. Each time you find one of the Tricky Tricks, stop and try the challenge. Keep going until you've tried (and mastered?) all five. Then return your game cards, tell us how you did, and a choose a prize.

The Tricky Tricks include: Impossitables Optical Illusion, Rubber Band Secret Messages, Pencil Athletics, Shape-by-Shape Pattern Puzzle, and Block-by-Block Building Game. The first three were created by Klutz Press, and the last two by Thinkfun Games.

Good luck and have fun!

Dragonwings Summer Games

2009-06-20T09:40:00.006-05:00

Jokes & Riddles Stop in any time this week to play the first Dragongame of the summer. Find the joke cards and Tricky Doodles hidden around the store and guess the answers. Don't forget to write down the secret letters, then unscramble them to find the missing word. Jokes & Riddles runs from June 20-26, followed by Tricky Tricks June 27 to July 3.

No TV Week Photos

2009-04-23T15:28:00.007-05:00

Over 50 people showed up to try our Jokes, Pranks, and Magic Tricks for Tuesday's No TV Week after school program. Thanks to the hundreds of inspiring activities in the Encyclopedia of Immaturity, we had a great time setting up funny experiments for everyone to try. Above a young student is attempting pencil athletic feats with her eyes closed.
In these photos a mother and daughter have success with the fake sneeze, while the big brother gets ready to shoot a two foot string out of a squirt bottle.
Another fake sneeze in progress. Ask us how to do this fake-out that gets everyone laughing.
More fun with the squeeze bottle and string - simple, but very effective.
"How to break your neck" was a big hit, and kids loved doing it again and again. All that you need for this gag is an empty water bottle.
On Earth Day kids started a Giant's Garden by planting seeds for two-foot long beans and yard-long cucumbers. Nearly twenty people stopped in to try their hand at gardening.
Ideas for this workshop came from Roots, Shoots, Buckets and Boots by Sharon Lovejoy. Mammoth Sunflowers, purple beans that turn green when cooked, colorful Easter Egg radishes and tiny jelly bean tomatoes will also be growing in these unusual gardens this summer. If you have questions about the seeds that you planted for your Giant's Garden, let me know. I also have extra seeds, if you need replacements.

If you are looking for some easy garden ideas that are truly fun for kids, stop in and ask me (Ellen) anytime. My son and I have grown name gardens, sunflower houses, rainbow gardens, mazes, butterfly gardens and many more.

Free Fun for No TV Week

2009-04-13T15:32:00.008-05:00

Yikes! No TV for a WEEK? Don't worry - Dragonwings, your public library, and even your teachers are making plans to help you get through this endless week. What will you do without TV? Well, you could spend your extra free time getting ahead on your homework and chores, or you could come to Dragonwings Bookstore on Tuesday and Wednesday for a little fun.

Tuesday April 21 - after school: Jokes, Pranks and Magic Tricks

Here's your chance to learn new ways to amaze and annoy your family and friends. We will crack some jokes and listen to your favorites. We will consult this famous encyclopedia for step-by-step instructions for ingenious, goofy pranks. And we will expose the trickery behind a few magic tricks. If you're interested, call 256-9186 to register.

Wednesday April 22 - after school
Magic Beans for Earth Day

Celebrate Earth Day in a BIG way by growing a Giant's Garden. We have the magic beans, more mammoth seeds and all of the supplies that you need. Once the leaves have sprouted, you can transplant your baby giants into the ground, or a pot, an old boot or pail. Find out what the top twenty plants are for kids, how to hear tomatoes gurgle, and lots more. If you are interested, call 256-9186 to register.

EASTER BASKET TREATS

2009-03-24T15:17:00.013-05:00

Kids know that every spring the Easter Bunny shops at Dragonwings. That's because we have lots of basket-size treats that are more fun than a mound of candy. Pictured below are a few of this year's treats. Mix in some of our ladybug or sunflower German chocolates and your baskets will be ready to go.

Look Who's Reading...

2009-02-24T14:40:00.007-06:00

Staff member Joanne showed me these photos of her grandsons, which I couldn't resist sharing. Above they are reading a Horrible Harry chapter book by Suzy Kline.

Below they are reading When Dinosaurs Came With Everything by Elise Broach, which won the 2008 E.B. White Read-Aloud Award.

Eon: Dragoneye Reborn by Alison Goodman

2009-01-05T21:10:00.004-06:00

It’s true that Alison Goodman’s new book may be labeled as “fantasy” but Eon: Dragoneye Reborn gives the reader so much more than just a fantasy story. As someone who likes historical fiction, I greatly enjoyed the historical flavor of this book. Goodman notes that Empire of this book is not based on any certain country or culture but it is hard for the reader to notice. The rituals and political tension make the country in which Eon lives seem very real. In addition to the fantasy and historical fiction feel of this book, there is also a heavy dose of adventure. Eon is the last hope for his master to have a candidate chosen to be an apprentice to one of the eleven Dragoneyes. Eon’s master is out of money and out of time and Eon’s failure would mean the lost of his home and the home of the people on whom he relies most. There are serious risks in the challenge which Eon faces and danger is made even more complete by the continually lies that must be maintained to ensure success. This book goes truly beyond its “young adult fantasy” label and provides a great story with an unlikely heroin. The only bad thing about reading this book is that now I must wait for the sequel! - Kathleen Lehman

Planet Earth and Universe Favorites

2008-11-11T15:06:00.012-06:00

Kids of all ages love books about world records, planets and stars, and amazing animal facts. Books like these are often put in a category called non-fiction, a strange name, which sounds boring, vaguely negative, and generally meaningless. This is odd, because the following books are actually dynamic, interactive, and addictive to read; and we have many more that have similarly exciting formats. See what you think...

Ultimate Interactive Atlas of Space by Robin Scagell

The title says it all. This cleverly designed and excitingly visual tour of our solar system will provide hours of learning and fun for your young astronomer. It is filled with remarkable illustrations and NASA photos that will take your breath away with their beauty. Each topic has interactive features - pop-ups, pull-outs, sliders, and flaps - to capture and hold your child's attention. This title will be under the Christmas tree for my seven year old grandson. I know he and his dad are going to love it! Ages 7 and up. - Joanne Kennedy

The Ultimate Interactive Atlas of the World by Elaine Jackson

This atlas will take your child on an exciting tour of the world, continent by continent. Each section is filled with facts, illustrations and photos to teach and entertain. The interactive features - flaps, pull-outs, and sliders - give your child a hands-on adventure in learning. We live in a small world which is becoming more interconnected every day; this atlas will give your child an understanding of and appreciation for this wonderful planet in all its diversity. For ages 7 and up. - Joanne Kennedy

Zany Miscellany: A Mixed-Up Encyclopedia of Fun Facts! by Tom Jackson

This crazy book has snippets of information about anything under the sun. You might find whales, minarets, cable cars and latitude all explained on the same page, and who knows what on the next page. It isn't linear learning, but it is fun especially because of all of the extras like Flop Ten lists of mistakes, question marks that lead you to answers, seesaw boxes telling how things have changed, wanted posters of notorious people through the ages, goof-a-thons describing accidental inventions, strange factoids, and wormholes that lead to related information if you want to know more. It's a nutty kind of encyclopedia, but likely to get read more thoroughly than the dusty volumes on your shelf. Great for curious minds ages 8-12.

Favorite Books continued...

2008-11-06T11:12:00.017-06:00

The Youngest Templar Book One: Keeper of the Grail by Michael Spradlin

Young Tristan, an orphan brought up in an abbey, is swept off to war when he joins a group of Crusaders passing through on their way to distant lands. He becomes the trusted squire of Sir Thomas, who asks him to escape from the Holy Land with a sacred object and carry it to safety. Tristan now has Saracens, corrupt knights, and secret agents of the King on his trail, because the object he has to protect is none other than the Holy Grail. This is the first in an exciting new series for ages 10 and up.

Let It Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle

These three holiday romances, written by award-winning young adult authors, all take place during one Christmas Eve snowstorm that stalls trains and closes roads. As the snow piles up, a chain of events begins to unfold that changes the lives of several teens in unexpected ways. Part of the fun is discovering how the stories crisscross each other and how random events in one story have unintended consequences in another story. A perfect story to read over holiday break while sipping a big mug of hot chocolate.

Alcatraz versus The Scrivener's Bones by Brandon Sanderson

On a mission to meet up with his grandfather, Alcatraz Smedry becomes the unlikely and reluctant leader of an even more unlikely crew. Alcatraz, along with Kazan, Bastille, and Australia, faces the most frightening enemy yet in the constant struggle against the Evil Librarians who control the Hushlands. In an adventure that leads to the dangerous Library of Alexandria (where the cost of checking out a book is your soul!), Alcatraz must use his rare Talent, along with luck and wit, to save the lives of those for whom he cares. If he fails, they all could perish and the Librarians would rule the Free Kingdoms. Set aside all you've learned in school and all you think you know about the way the world works and step into the real world of Alcatraz Smedry! - Kathleen Lehman

The Gate of Days by Guillaume Prevost The Book of Time II

Sam has a problem. Well, actually, Sam has many problems, but the one that worries him the most is that his dad, Allan Faulkner, is being held captive by Vlad Tepes, the historical torturer and inspiration for the dark character Dracula. Not that Sam or his father belongs in the 1400's, that just happens to be the time to which Allan travels and in which he was captured. Sam must now use an ancient stone statue to follow his father's path through time in an effort to save his dad form certain death. Not only will facing Vlad Tepes be tricky, and dangerous, but without being able to control the destination of his travels through time, Sam's chances of reaching his dad may be just near impossible. With the help of his cousin, a few coins, and a whole lot of luck, Sam just might find his dad in time. - Kathleen Lehman

What I Saw and How I Lied by Judy Blundell

Evie and her mother have always stuck together "like glue" and when Joe returned from the war and married her mother, Evie got the father she always wanted. With another summer coming to an end, Evie's stepfather suddenly decides to take the family for a trip to Florida. What begins as a carefree vacation quickly turns to something else. With a a new business deal and an intriguing romance mixed with lies and deception, the mess begins even before the storm hits. In the heat of Palm Beach Evie learns the skills of a woman and must make an important decision about loyalty and betrayal. The family will never be the same, but it is Evie who will be the most dramatically changed. - Kathleen Lehman

Come Back, Cat by Joan L. Nodset illustrated by Steven Kellogg

Making friends with a cat isn't easy for the young girl in this simple story. Gradually she learns how to be gentle, how to hold a cat, and how to sit quietly letting the cat come to her. Soon the cat settles in her lap, and she is rewarded for her patience with the sound of purring. Kellogg's lovely autumn colors and swirling leaves complement the story beautifully. This would be a perfect introduction for a family getting a new pet or a toddler learning to be gentle with the family pet. Ages 3-6.

Old Bear by Kevin Henkes

Old Bear falls asleep as the first snowflakes begin to drift in the air. He dreams about being a cub wandering through spring flowers, summer butterflies, autumn leaves and winter stars. When he wakes up expecting snow, he finds a world filled with flowers and wonders if he is still dreaming. The illustrations are inviting and comforting, and the simple story flows in a reassuring cadence, adding up to a perfect bedtime book for sleepy, little ones ages birth to 4.

Big Words for Little People by Jamie Lee Curtis illustrated by Laura Cornell

A new, winning collaboration by this #1 national best-selling team. Lots of words like Stupendous, Consequence, Co-operate, Patience, and Celebrate are explained in Curtis' rollicking rhymes with underlying themes of self-esteem and respect. Cornell gives each word a familiar with a lovable cast of characters in silly scenes and lots of details to laugh about. Definitely meant to be read aloud to ages 3-6.

Our Favorite New Books for All Ages

2008-11-04T11:38:00.014-06:00

Louise the Adventures of a Chicken by Kate DiCamillo and Harry Bliss

Talk about adventures! Louise leaves the farm to find excitement and soon meets up with pirates, gets shipwrecked, joins the circus, is chased by a lion, gets kidnapped and imprisoned in a foreign bazaar and survives to tell the tale back on the farm. The illustrations make the most of each adventure adding humor and thrills to Louise's daring escapades. For ages 3-6.

I Completely Know About Guinea Pigs by Lauren Child

A new Charlie and Lola book is always a hit. In this new adventure Lola gets to bring Bert, the class pet, home after learning all about guinea pigs from her classmates and her teacher. Unfortunately, Bert gets lost, and Charlie and Lola search frantically all over the house for him, finally hearing a tell-tale squeak that leads them to a surprise, which Lola says she knew all along. Lots of fun for kids who love animals - ages 4-7.

If You Give a Cat a Cupcake by Laura Numeroff illustrated by Felicia Bond

Watch out if you give this cat a cupcake because you will have a very full day with trips to the beach, the gym, the science museum, the park and more, and in the end you can bet that he's going to want another cupcake. Marvelous illustrations turn this merry-go-round of a book into an all-out celebration of ways to have fun. Easy to read for ages 5-7. Read aloud to ages 3 and up.

Be Glad Your Nose is on Your Face and other poems by Jack Prelutsky

This is a treasury showcasing 112 of Jack Prelutsky's greatest hits selected from the thousands of poems that he has written. It includes 15 new poems and pages of funny activities like playing Frog I Spy, creating Scranimals, and singing the poems to surprising, familiar melodies. This hefty volume also includes a CD with 30 performances by the author! A real treat for ages 4-11.

Fairy Blossoms #1 Daisy and the Magic Lesson by Suzanne Williams

At Cloverleaf Cottage Daisy and seven other flower fairies start their training as junior fairy helpers. Within 48 hours they have accidentally caused mischief and mayhem, despite their good intentions. Working together to solve the problems they have caused helps them form new friendships and learn a few lessons along the way. Four books have been released in this charming series which is sure to delight fairy lovers ages 4-8.

Amelia Bedelia Talks Turkey by Herman Parish illustrated by Lynn Sweat

All of the third grade teachers are out sick and the third-graders' Thanksgiving pageant will have to be cancelled until Amelia Bedelia offers to help out. Misunderstandings and puns abound, but in the end Amelia Bedelia and the students put on a play to remember beginning with the Pilgrims landing at the right address - 1620 Plymouth Rock. A holiday treat for beginning readers ages 4-8.

Are You Ready to Play Outside? by Mo Willems

The newest Elephant and Piggie book for the beginning reader is another funny story about easy-going Gerald and excitable Piggie. Full of ideas for playing outside, Piggie gets grumpy when it starts raining and spoils his plans. Gerald notices some worms having a grand time in the rain and thinks maybe some splishing and splashing would be fun. By the time Piggie gets over his funk and decides that he loves rain, the sun comes out and ruins his fun all over again. Joyful and silly, the books about these two friends are winners for ages 4-7.

The Runaway Dolls by Ann M. Martin and Laura Godwin illustrated by Brian Selznick

Annabelle and Tiffany find a mysterious package that might hold Annabelle's long-lost baby sister. It takes a runaway adventure with the dolls ending up in McGinitie's department store, where they almost get split up and sold, before they sort things out and find their way home. They make new friends, discover hundreds of identical Funcraft dolls, and even have a scary meeting with Mean Mimi. Lush illustrations fill the pages, giving the reader a doll's eye view of the world. A great story for readers ages 8-12 and a perfect read-aloud for ages 5 and up.

The Porcupine Year by Louise Erdrich

In this sequel to The Birchbark House and The Game of Silence, Omakayas and her Ojibwe family have to leave their beloved home on Madeline Island and search for a new place to live far away from the European settlers of 1852. On their journey, Pinch, the mischievous brother, befriends a little porcupine and carries him around on his head, earning himself a new nickname - Quill. Traveling into unknown territory can be exciting, but it is also risky, and one day the family is attacked by heartless men, who injure Deydey and steal the canoes packed with all of the family's belongings. Life takes a desparate turn for Omakayas and her family, who still have a long way to go and have lost everything.

The 39 Clues #1 The Maze of Bones by Rick Riordan

Riordan is the author of the bestselling Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, and he has fun setting up the plotline for this new ten books series about a dangerous treasure hunt for a vast inheritance. First, the wealthy and mysterious matriarch of the Cahill clan leaves a will offering certain relatives a choice between receiving a million dollars or finding the first clue to the source of the family's historical power. Dan and Amy choose to search for the clue and are plunged almost immediately into dangerous situations from explosions to poisons, thanks to their scheming cousins. Great fun for ages 8-12.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

This may be my top pick for teens this fall. I could not put it down, and I have been thinking about it ever since it ended. Like a horrifying Olympics, the Hunger Games are a competition with opening ceremonies, a festival atmosphere, and 24 teen-aged contestants, who must fight to the death, on live TV, while imprisoned in a wilderness filled with death traps. Over several weeks they struggle to survive hunger and thirst, while they are hunted by their fellow competitors. The last one alive will win, and only the dead can leave the game. Sixteen year old Katniss Everdeen has the skills to survive her harsh life in District 12, but in the Hunger Games she needs to also become popular with the TV audience, while trying to outlast her competitors and fight off their attacks. The first in a thought-provoking and suspenseful new YA series.

New Favorite Books

2008-10-25T16:02:00.004-05:00

Schooled by Gordon Korman $5.99 Ages 10-14

Cap Anderson, good-natured, thoughtful, fun-loving, and kind, was raised and home-schooled in a hippie commune by his grandmother. He knows a lot about farm life, wildlife, academics, and survival skills, but he is clueless about life out in the real world. When his grandmother is hospitalized, Cap leaves his farm to stay with a social worker and attend middle school.

Talk about not fitting in, Cap is immediately the butt of jokes, and in a traditional school prank is elected class president. Not understanding that he is supposed to be humiliated and embarrassed to death, Cap sets about finding out what a class president does. His classmates gladly lead him astray, and give him impossible tasks. To their surprise he works to fulfill the tasks with determination, humor, and a growing posse of supporters.

Like Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli, Korman has created a character that we cheer for, that we wish was our friend, and who changes his school forever. Don’t miss this gem and pass it on to any middle school students, parents or teachers that you know.

Hate That Cat by Sharon Creech $15.99 Ages 8-12

I couldn’t wait to read this book, but when I held it on my lap, I hesitated, not sure I wanted to open it. The thing is, I am crazy about Love That Dog by Sharon Creech, and I was afraid that she couldn’t possibly do it again and I would be uncomfortable and disappointed as I read the sequel. Basically, I was worried that hating a cat might not be as good as loving a dog.

Finally, I made myself open to the first page, where I found that Jack was back and Miss Stretchberry was his teacher again. Before I even finished the first two journal entries, I was hooked right back into the funny and touching interplay between this remarkable teacher and her questioning student.

Honestly, this book is a wonder. Despite Jack and his professor uncle’s doubts, Miss Stretchberry introduces her students to a wide variety of poets and poetic styles. Some Jack loves and others he struggles with, but usually comes to appreciate. Walter Dean Myers makes another cameo appearance, and there are some tender revelations about Jack’s mother that crop up in his poems. His ongoing battle with a neighborhood cat is the subject of quite a few poems and journal entries, where Jack tries to express his frustrations and tribulations.

In the end, there really was no reason for me to worry; it turns out that this cat is a perfect companion to that dog.

BRISINGR IS IN THE BUILDING!

2008-09-17T13:47:00.005-05:00

That's right, boxes filled with Paolini's new blockbuster are being unpacked and processed in our back room as we speak. I have to admit that the covers are striking in black and gold. How many pages? 748 plus several pages of pronunciation and language guides along with some very conversational acknowledgments at the end that you won't want to miss. ON SALE DATE: SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 20 NO EARLY SALES - SO DON'T ASK! Will we be open at midnight? Sorry, not this time. However, I am going to get up at the crack of dawn on Saturday (my day off!) to make good coffee and pick up fresh doughnuts, which you can eat for FREE during our open-house-style Brisingr Breakfast from 8:00 to 10:00 AM. Okay, I lied. My sweet husband, Mark, will be making the coffee, since I don't have a clue how to make good, bad or ugly coffee. So, this will be your lucky day, because I have heard that his coffee is fabulously delicious. Will there be discounts? Yes. Here's the scoop: we'll be selling Brisingr at 15% off, and we will be giving each and everyone of you who purchases a copy a chance to answer a Trivia Question about Eragon or Eldest. If you know the answer, you will win a coupon for a FREE book from our Special Edition Shelf filled with titles you'll recognize like Ranger's Apprentice, Alex Rider, and Artemis Fowl. We will continue the Trivia Contest until the end of September. See you Saturday.

Teacher Appreciation Days

2008-08-14T14:57:00.005-05:00

As teachers begin preparing their classrooms for new students and a new school year, Dragonwings Bookstore will be hosting Teacher Appreciation Days on Wednesday and Thursday August 20-21.

Throughout the event teachers can browse displays featuring various authors along with free curriculum materials, reproducibles, and posters relating to their books. The materials will range from Kindergarten through Middle School for authors including Rosemary Wells, Shel Silverstein, Richard Peck, Jack Prelutsky, Lauren Myracle, James Patterson, Gail Carson Levine, Keiko Kasza, and Erin Hunter, along with activities for favorite characters and series such as Mike Mulligan, Arthur, the Chronicles of Narnia, Septimus Heap, Alex Rider, and Amelia Bedelia.

Dragonwings owner, Ellen Davis, will be available to answer questions and offer book recommendations for different curriculum areas. Davis will also have information about new fall titles and new releases in paperback for all grade levels.

Teachers and librarians from all school districts are welcome and will receive storewide discounts during Teacher Appreciation Days. Door prizes include a Bunnicula Meets Edgar Allan Crow T-shirt, an inflatable Walter the Farting Dog, a Captain Underpants tote bag, and many more equally "fabulous" prizes. Frequent Buyers Cards will be available, which teachers can use to earn both discounts and free books.

Purchase orders will be accepted from area school districts including Waupaca, Wild Rose, Weyauwega-Fremont, Iola-Scandinavia, and Stevens Point. Purchase Orders receive 20% off, and classroom sets of 50 or more books receive 22% off (ten copy minimum).

Dragonwings Bookstore also offers reading award coupons, which teachers and librarians from area schools use as incentives for programs such as Read-Up. In these programs students earn points by reading books, and receive prizes when they reach certain point levels. The award coupons are for a free book from Dragonwings. Teachers and librarians may request these coupons anytime during the year.

Art Activities at Dragonwings

2008-08-14T11:31:00.004-05:00

Dragonwings Bookstore will be offering free art activities for kids all day Saturday August 16 during the Arts on the Square event. Families are invited to stop in and try some quick projects, which are self-directed and not too messy. Work tables will be set up with supplies and directions for Hand Art, Crayon Rubbings, and Thumbprint Art. All of the projects are from activity books by Klutz Press for ages 4 and up. The finished products do not require any drying time, and can be taken home immediately.

Entertainment stages and workshop tents will be set up around the library lawn and side streets, along with a large Farmers Market and dozens of artist's booths. The event starts Friday evening with a street dance and will be open from 10-5 on Saturday Aug. 16.

I Spy Games

2008-06-26T13:51:00.011-05:00

You are invited to play this week's I Spy Cats and Dogs game, which will be set up throughout Dragonwings Bookstore beginning on Saturday, June 28. The I Spy games are free, open-house-style events, which can be played anytime during Dragonwings open hours. Summer: 10 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday and 10 AM to 4 PM Saturday.

To begin the game players pick up game cards, which list the dioramas, displays, and other settings in the store where cats and dogs are hidden and waiting to be discovered by clever I Spy contestants. At each location a riddle is posted, which lists each item that the players are trying to spy in the scene. Each riddle also includes one letter for a secret word. Once the riddles are completed and the secret word is discovered, players turn in the game cards and receive a small prize.

For I Spy Cats and Dogs the Dragonwings staff will use life-sized puppets, photos, and toys of all sizes in dioramas and displays. This is the third in a series of I Spy summer games, which are becoming more elaborate and more popular each week. Nearly 50 people played the I Spy Strawberry Hunt game on Saturday during Strawberry Fest.

Brenden Dowling (left) and his cousins Erin and Collin Dowling were visiting their grandmother in Waupaca last weekend for Strawberry Fest. Dragonwings is one of their favorite stops when they come to town, and they were enthusiastic about playing the I Spy game. Here they are searching for a strawberry and other objects in our clear-topped I Spy Table.

Dragonwings Bookstore - Fun for Kids Activities, Books and Toys Waupaca, WI

John Green at the Waupaca Book Festival Oct. 1-2

Eight Spinning Planets

Puppies and Kittens

3-D Thrillers!

100 Most Dangerous/Disgusting Things on the Planet

Mockingjay

A Curse Dark as Gold

Stranded

Keeper

The Lost Children

Where the Sunrise Begins

The 39 Clues: Into The Gauntlet Coming Soon!!!

SUZANNE COLLINS READING MOCKINGJAY!

Mockingjay Coming Tomorrow!

The Adventures of Ook and Gluk

Mockingjay Coming Soon!

Hunger Games Official Facebook Page

Mockingjay Book Trailer

"Chalking about Art" and "Wau-King Art" Events

Branch Weavings

Upcoming Summer Camp Workshop

Fairy Houses

Dragonwings Summer Camp Activities for Kids Fun for Kids at Dragonwings, Waupaca WI

Camp Dragonwings Summertime Activities for Kids Fun for Kids at Dragonwings Waupaca, WI

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Our Dragon Friends Are Missing!

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI The Lonely Hearts Club

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Shoot-Out by Mike Lupica

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Ladybug Girl at the Beach

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Sharon Lovejoy Event...

Hey Everyone!The Sharon Lovejoy book signing event last Saturday was a great success! Check out Sharon Lovejoy's blog to see what she thought of the event...http://sharonlovejoy.blogspot.com/2010/06/dandelion-wishes-to-you.html

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Waggit Forever!

Dragonwings Bookstore Fun for Kids Waupaca, WI Spells

Author Sharon Lovejoy to visit the Jensen Community Center in Amherst

The Sky is Everywhere

Deep Down Popular

How You Got So Smart

Paper Towns

Brown Rabbit in the City

Getting Ready for Summer - Golf

LMNO Peas

Star Wars - A Scanimation Book

Magic Tree House Passport Program

Welcome to May!

Book Reading at Dragonwings with the Humane Society of Waupaca County

Radiant Shadows and the Wicked Lovely series

I Knew You Could - a great gift for graduates

Zoomer

The Last Summer of the Death Warriors

Frankie Works the Night Shift

Fever Crumb

Positively Pooh

Dying to Meet You

Crunch

Another Great Dragonwings Deal!

Big Nate (for Wimpy Kid fans)

Welcome to April!

More great Easter ideas - books!

Egg-cellent Easter Basket Treats

Redwall

2010 Caldecott Medal Winner

Araminta Spookie series

Great 3-D bookmarks!

Dragonbreath by Ursula Vernon

Enjoy Board Books!

Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks

Leprechaun in Late Winter

Bunny's Easter Egg

Caldecott Honor Book: Marshmallow

Jan Brett's new Easter book: The Easter Egg

Get Ready for Groundhog Day on Feb. 2nd!

New Book Reviews!

Impossible Now Out In Paperback!

Audrey, Wait! Now Out In Paperback!

One Shoe Blues Pictures

Book Reviews

One Shoe Blues Event

Our Favorite New Books

Art Class

Hey Everyone!
The Sharon Lovejoy book signing event last Saturday was a great success! Check out Sharon Lovejoy's blog to see what she thought of the event...
http://sharonlovejoy.blogspot.com/2010/06/dandelion-wishes-to-you.html