Bull Rider: This first novel makes the sports details of skateboarding and bull-riding part of the powerful contemporary story of family, community, and work.
Bull Rider: The book isn’t overtly anti- or pro-war so much as pro the people who are struggling with this difficult change in their lives. This is therefore a gripping read for fans of family dramas, and it’s certainly high time that this aspect of the war’s consequences received a sensitive and compelling exploration.
Bull Rider, vividly captures life on a modern Nevada ranch. . . .(it) is the story of real people, in real situations, that will ring true even if readers have never seen a salt lick, a chute, or the open range.
Bull Rider: Suzanne Morgan Williams’ spare, straightforward prose lets the O’Maras speak their piece on war and sacrifice, family loyalty and courage, and reveals what it means to live in the heart of the modern West.
Made in China: provides . . . lively illustrations and photographs, and tons of little facts. It focuses on some pretty tough topics, but manages to whittle them down into easily digestible pieces. It addresses the whos, whats, whens and wheres of Chinese history. But more importantly, it also looks at the whys and hows.
Made in China: A concise history of Chinese thought and creativity, covering not only scientific ideas and inventions, but religion and philosophy, government, trade, farming, and more. This book is intriguing, as much fun to browse as it is to sink into for research.
Pinatas & Smiling Skeletons: Colorfully illustrated in a vibrant folkloric style that captures the very essence of ancient hieroglyphs and modern retablos. Holiday recipes and lyrics to popular songs that are key to these celebrations make this fascinating collection particularly informative. An ideal book on the history, legends, artwork, and food intrinsic to the ritualistic festivities of modern Mexico.
Pinatas & Smiling Skeletons: Por fin! (Finally!) Here's a fact-filled book filled with interesting information that helps children better understand the many events, traditions, and customs celebrated by Mexican and Mexican-American children everywhere. . . . Kudos to the authors, who also recognize the presence of Mexican populations in the United States and urge readers to look in their communities for ways to participate in celebrations of cultural heritage in the United States.
The Inuit: Williams compares life in the Arctic long ago to the present and describes the many changes, both positive and negative, to which the people have adapted as a result of European influence. Though the book is meant for young students, Williams, using simple explanations, gives an honest portrayal . . . The Inuit would make a worthwhile purchase for any elementary school library. Recommended.
