"Don't Let the Republican Drive the Bus" -Erich Origen

What I hoped for was a funny political commentary, what I got was a biased democratic take on the republicans. I'm not defending either party nor am I saying neither is without fault. What I disliked about this book is the lack of proof. On the other hand, a republican could write a book called "Don't Let the Democrat Drive the Bus" so I guess it evens out.

And what was even more shocking was the disclaimer on the back of the book: "This book is a parody and has not been prepared, approved, or authorized by the creators of Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! or their heirs or representatives." Why would you let someone use your idea (especially a great children's book) if you don't support what they're using it for? Oh well.

Read Also:

If you're interested in other, funnier political picture books, Stephen Colbert's I Am a Pole (and You Can Too!) is hilarious!

Now, Mo Willems's "Pigeon" series is really cute!

"Sweet Land of Story" -Pleasant DeSpain

After going to Devil's Tower, I looked around for the tale about how it was formed. I came across this collection of folk tales from across America. Sweet Land of Story: 36 American tales to tell has supernatural, nature, tall tales, and comedy.

Besides Pecos Bill, Johnny Appleseed, and Paul Bunyon, there's also historial figures such as Calamity Jane, Buffalo Bill Cody, and Jesse James. There's a tale of how dogs became domesticated, a commentary on marriage, and morality tales. A quick read.

I especially liked the talle "La Escalara Famosa (The Famous Stair)" from New Mexico. It's a real structure, a spiral staircase, built by a stranger and still survives today. I think I'd like to go see it...

Read Also:

Sadly, through most of this book, I was picturing all the movies and cartoons they've made: Disney's "Pecos Bill" and "Johnny Appleseed" cartoons; MGM's "Calamity Jane" musical; and Barbara Stanwyck's "Annie Oakley" movie.

"The Amaranth Enchantment" -Julie Berry

I can't believe this is my first post of 2014!! So late in the month. Ah well, that's the way it goes etc. etc.

I haven't done much reading these past holidays because of my change in commute. I drive more than sit on a bus which reduces my "spare" time for reading. I know, shame on me. But this one was a fairly quick read regardless.

This Cinderella-esque tale is about Lucinda, a girl whose parents died when she was young, leaving her penniless. She's taken in by her uncle and step-aunt who treats her like a servant. She meets a prince when he comes into the shop but she also meets a thief, Peter. Peter teaches her how to steal and Beryl (essentially an alien & fairy godmother) gives her an opportunity to regain her property. Book includes a ball, surprise clothes & carriage, and even teasing over the midnight hour.

It was not a bad read. I don't even remember why I got it in the first place. A little bit too supernatural for a good fairy tale-to-novel transition though.

Read Also:

Jessica Day George's Princess of the Glass (book 2 of the trilogy).

Cameron Dokey's Before Midnight, part of the "Once Upon a Time" series.

Paula Brandon's "Veiled Isles" trilogy struck me as an adult version of the same book (complete with zombies!)