Books by Audrey Penn: The Kissing Hand Series
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The Kissing Hand
Written by Audrey Penn
iIllustrated by Ruth E. Harper & Nancy M. Leak
Picture book (Ages 3-8), 32 pages, includes stickers
Hardcover, $16.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-00-2
ISBN-10: 1-933718-00-5
Guided reading level: I; Grade level: 1-2; Reading Recovery level: 15-16
School is starting in the forest, but Chester Raccoon does not want to go. To help ease Chester's fears, Mrs. Raccoon shares a family secret called The Kissing Hand to give him the reassurance of her love any time his world feels a little scary. Since its first publication in 1993, this heartwarming book has become a children's classic that touches the lives of millions of children and their parents, especially at times of separation, whether starting school, entering daycare, going to camp. It is widely used by kindergarten teachers on the first day of school. Stickers at the back will help children and their parents keep their Kissing Hand alive.
About the Author:
Audrey Penn takes her one-woman educational program, the Writing Penn, into schools, libraries, and children's hospitals where she shapes and refines her story ideas in partnership with kids. She is also highly sought after as a conference keynote speaker by groups of teachers and other professionals who work with children. Visit Audrey Penn's website. Listen to Audrey Penn's Book Expo America Podcast.
About the Illustrators:
Maryland artist Nancy Leak is a specialist in printmaking. She works and exhibits with a group of seven women called Printmakers Plus, as well as with other local and national organizations. Her hand-pulled original etchings, many of them miniatures, have won recognition all over the United States.
Ruth Harper, born in England, is a descendent of Sir Christopher Wren. Essentially a self-taught artist, The Kissing Hand was her first painting venture As a teen newly arrived in the USA, Ruth apprenticed as a graphic artist and became the art director of an advertising agency. She has been an art teacher, where she wrote an accredited art curriculum, presented seminars on art education, been a guest illustrator at elementary schools, and has donated many works to fund-raising events. Ruth now lives in Michigan with her two children, and actively exhibits and sells her award-winning watercolors in local galleries/shops. Visit Ruth's website at www.rutheharper.com.
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Un Beso en Mi Mano
The Kissing Hand
Hardcover, $16.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-9337180-1-9
ISBN-10: 1-933718-01-3
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Big Book edition
15" x 20.5"
Hardcover, $28.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-07-1
ISBN-10: 1-9-33718-07-2
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Chester Raccoon Puppet
$13.95
Click here to see a larger picture.
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Kissing Hand Sticker Sheet
$0.50
40 individual stickers on each sheet
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| Includes a brand new song!
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The Kissing Hand (Audio)
Written by Audrey Penn and illustrated by Ruth E. Harper & Nancy M. Leak
Read by Heather Koren with music by Garth Koren
Picture book (Ages 3-8), 32 pages, PT:13:25
Paperback with CD, $12.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-10-1
ISBN-10: 1-933718-10-2
The Kissing Hand, used by millions of parents and children starting school or facing separation, is now brought to life in audio form. Package includes a paperback book and a reading of the story on CD, with and without page-turn signals. Also included on the CD, on a separate track, is the new, original "Chester's Song" with lyrics by Audrey Penn and set to beautiful music. A perfect addition to the home, classroom or library audio collection! Visit Audrey Penn's website.
Reviews
"This gently reassuring tale by Audrey Penn has been used for many years by parents to prepare young children for new experiences.
Here it is performed by Heather Koren, with light, evocative, original background music and occasional sound effects...
A sweet song has been added, with lyrics by the author, and music by Garth Koren. This gentle story will provide young listeners
with a warm, fuzzy feeling of security."— SLJ Newsletter, Multimedia review
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New for Spring 2012
A Color Game for Chester Raccoon
Written by Audrey Penn
Illustrated by Barbara L. Gibson
Board book, 14 pages, Ages 1-3, $7.95
ISBN: 978-1-933718-58-3
In this new Kissing Hand board book, Audrey Penn brings us more maternal wisdom to solve another of early childhood's little issues. Whether on a trip, in a restaurant or a store, children can become bored and fussy. A Color Game for Chester Raccoon provides an activity that will entertain young children anywhere -- finding things in many colors: white, blue, yellow, red, orange, brown and black.
About the Author:
Audrey Penn is the author of The Kissing Hand and its sequels, along with Mystery at Blackbeard's Cove.
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Click here to download a hi-resolution jpeg of the book jacket. |
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Recently published
A Bedtime Kiss for Chester Raccoon
Written by Audrey Penn
Illustrated by Barbara L. Gibson
Board book, 14 pages, Ages 1-3, $7.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-52-1
ISBN-10: 1-933718-52-8
The sun is up, it's time for Chester to go to sleep, but he is frightened by the shadows that the sun is making in his tree. Mrs. Raccoon soothes him with a special Kissing Hand. A sweet introduction to the Kissing Hand in this board book for younger readers.
About the Author:
Audrey Penn is the author of The Kissing Hand and its sequels, along with Mystery at Blackbeard's Cove.
Reviews
"It's a tricky thing to make broad daylight seem spooky, but readers
may still see their own bedtime fears in Chester's overactive imagination"—Publishers Weekly
"Designed for younger children, this board book features rounded corners, rhyming couplets, and a simpler text than the earlier books in the series. It should find an audience in most public libraries."—School Library Journal
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Click here to download a hi-resolution jpeg of the book jacket. |
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Chester Raccoon and the Acorn Full of Memories
Written by Audrey Penn
Illustrated by Barbara L. Gibson
Picture book, 32 pages, Ages 3-8
Hardcover with jacket, $16.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-29-3
ISBN-10: 1-933718-29-3
Guided reading level: M; Grade level: 2-3; Reading Recovery level: 20
Chester Raccoon's good friend Skiddel Squirrel has had an accident and will not be returning - ever. Chester is upset that he won't get to play with his friend anymore. Mrs. Raccoon suggests that Chester and his friends create some memories of Skiddel, so that they will have good memories when they miss him. Chester, his brother Ronny, and their friends decide to gather at the pond, where they combine their memories and create a touching celebration of their friend's life.
Many young children must face the loss of loved ones or the need to attend a funeral. This sweet story will help children to understand the positive purpose behind memorial services and how "making memories" can provide cheer and comfort when missing an absent loved one.
About the Author:
Audrey Penn is the author of The Kissing Hand and its sequels, along with Mystery at Blackbeard's Cove.
Reviews
"When Chester returns home from school, he tells his mother that the teacher said Skiddil Squirrel had an accident and would not be coming back. Mrs. Raccoon explains that his classmate’s “heart quit beating and his body didn’t work any more.” She comforts her sad child by suggesting that he “make a memory of Skiddil Squirrel.” The two start out for the squirrel’s favorite place, and other animal friends join them. At the butterfly pond, Chester tells stories about how Skiddil loved butterflies and how he buried acorns for winter, but never found them. When Mrs. Raccoon points to a grove of young oak trees, Chester exclaims, “The forest made a Skiddil Squirrel memory!” Then he picks up an acorn to take home with him. Simple, direct dialogue demonstrates the love between this mother and child. Bright, stylized illustrations on high-gloss pages depict the animals with human emotions, convey warmth, and reinforce the text. Despite the tough subject, this fifth book in the series that began with The Kissing Hand (Child Welfare League of America, 1993) has a reassuring tone and provides an opening for a discussion on death and remembering loved ones."— School Library Journal
"Beautifully illustrated and with lots of saturated color, this book will keep youngsters’ attention and maybe help them through a confusing time."—Baton Rouge Advocate
"This may sound like a dark subject, but it is handled so well and with such beautiful artwork that it provides a cushion of comfort."— Bookviews
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See pgs. 3-4.
See pgs. 5-6.
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Click here to download a hi-resolution jpeg of the book jacket. |
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A Kiss Goodbye
Written by Audrey Penn and illustrated by Barbara Leonard Gibson
Picture book (Ages 3-8), 32 pages, fully illustrated
Hardcover, $16.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-04-0
ISBN-10: 1-933718-04-8
Guided reading level: K; Grade level: 2; Reading Recovery level: 18
Moving is hard on everyone, but especially children. Chester Racoon, whom readers have come to know and love through the New York Times bestseller The Kissing Hand, and its sequel, A Pocket Full of Kisses, is facing another dilemma common to the lives of many children; he and his family are moving. Young readers will love the way Chester says goodbye to his old home and learns that there are some exciting aspects to his new home. Visit Audrey Penn's website.
Reviews
"A Kiss Goodbye...featur(es) the further adventures of the lovable young Chester Raccoon and his family...A heartwarming read-aloud storybook, beautifully illustrated by award-winning artist Barbara Leonard Gibson."— Midwest Book Review
"Author Audrey Penn has done it again. In A Kiss Goodbye, she has taken her beloved character, Chester Raccoon, and gently guided him through another childhood dilemma [moving]...Audrey Penn's dedication says it all: "To all my friends, big and little, who find their way to the other end of the path." In A Kiss Goodbye, Chester continues to help make that journey an easier one for children everywhere."— myshelf.com.
"A wonderful and helpful story. Chester is delightful."— www.armchairinterviews.com
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Chester Raccoon and the Big Bad Bully
Written by Audrey Penn
Illustrated by Barbara L. Gibson
Picture book, 32 pages
Hardcover with jacket, $16.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-15-6
ISBN-10: 1-933718-15-3
Guided reading level: K; Grade level: 2; Reading Recovery level: 18
In this latest addition to the Kissing Hand book collection, Chester Raccoon must learn to deal with another common problem of childhood: a bully at school.
When Mrs. Raccoon learns that there is a bully problem at school, she decides to investigate the situation. But after seeing the bully for herself, she shares a story about a forest that was full of smooth yellow stones, and how the animals living there changed a pointy stone they found into a smooth stone so that it wouldn't hurt any tender paws.
Chester, Ronny, and Cassy follow the spirit of Mrs. Raccoon's story when they next encounter the Bully. Approaching him as a group, they invite him to play, proving that the best way to get rid of an enemy is to make him or her a friend.
This book encourages children to understand that many child bullies are themselves unhappy and gives readers a good example of settling differences by peaceful means. Educators will embrace this story about a positive strategy for dealing with a bully.
About the Author:
Audrey Penn is the author of the New York Times bestseller The Kissing Hand, in addition to Sassafras, Feathers and Fur, A.D.D. not B.A.D., and The Whistling Tree. This continuing series in chapter book format demonstrates that Ms. Penn's talent at storytelling is apparent in any form. She currently resides in Olney, Maryland, near Washington, DC. Visit Audrey Penn's website.
For Kids
Four steps for dealing with a bully:
- Always tell an adult about the bully.
- Stick together. Bullies often work by turning one friend against another and keeping children fearful of being excluded from the group.
- Stand up to the bully together.
- Don't bully the bully. Invite the bully to be or remain a friend. Sometimes bullies are scared of being left out or have been treated badly themselves.
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| Includes a brand new song!
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Chester Raccoon and the Big Bad Bully (Audio)
Written by Audrey Penn and illustrated by Barbara L. Gibson
Read by Heather Koren with music by Garth Koren
Picture book (Ages 3-8), 32 pages
Paperback with CD, $12.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-30-9
ISBN-10: 1-933718-30-7
Chester Raccoon and the Big Bad Bully is now available in a paperback with CD package, produced by the same team who created the popular audio for The Kissing Hand. On the CD, the story is read with and without page-turn signals and includes a new, original song.
Now brought to you in audio format, Chester Raccoon and his friends learn to deal with a bully in a positive way. Produced by the sameteam who created the popular audio for The Kissing Hand, the story is read with and without page-turn signals and includes a new, original song.
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A Pocket Full of Kisses
Written by Audrey Penn and illustrated by Barbara Leonard Gibson
Picture book (Ages 3-8), 32 pages
Hardcover with jacket, $16.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-9337180-2-6
ISBN-10: 1-933718-02-1
Guided reading level: J; Grade level: 2; Reading Recovery level: 17
In this tender sequel to the New York Times
bestseller and children's classic The Kissing Hand,
Audrey Penn provides parents with another tale of
love and reassurance to share with their children.
Chester Raccoon has a baby brother—and the baby
brother is taking over his territory. When Chester
sees his mother give his baby brother a Kissing Hand—his
Kissing Hand—he is overcome with sadness, but
Mrs. Raccoon soothes his fears with her own special
brand of wisdom, finding just the right way to let
Chester know he is deeply loved. Brought to life by
Barbara Leonard Gibson's warm illustrations, this
story is perfect for families who are adjusting to
all the changes new members can bring. Visit Audrey Penn's website.
Reviews
"The Kissing Hand...has developed such a following that many libraries cannot fill the demand each year before the start of school...But those who love the original may want to read the new story about Chester Raccoon...Teeming with details, Gibson's paintings depict an idyllic woodland populated with friendly beasts, birds, and bugs that seem to pause and take an interest in the raccoons' conversations. The focus of the artwork, as well as the story, is clearly on the loving mother-and-child relationship."— Booklist
"Penn understands the powerful pull of old-fashioned sentiment."— Publishers Weekly
"This heartwarming book is a perfect choice for families with a new sibling or to use in a day-care/pre-school setting."— Watermarkbooks.com
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Books by Audrey Penn: The Blackbeard Quartet
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Mystery at Blackbeard's Cove
Book 1 in The Blackbeard Quartet
Written by Audrey Penn and illustrated by Philip Howard & Josh Miller
Juvenile Fiction (Ages 8-12), 341 pages
4 full-page black-and-white illustrations, 12 small line drawings
Paperback, $7.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-09-5
ISBN-10: 0-9749303-1-8
Guided reading level: W; Grade level: 5-6; Reading Recovery level: NA
Set on Ocracoke Island in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, approaching Halloween festivities find Billy, Daniel, Stephanie, and Mark exhausted from their trip to sea to give their eccentric friend Mrs. Nemmish the pirate burial she insisted on. But now they are trapped in a tunnel, locked in by Zeek, local scoundrel and direct descendent of Israel Hands, who is racing against them to find the hidden treasure. Is the treasure's location on the map that Zeek took from them, or could it be in the very tunnel where they are tripping over skeletons and struggling to find another way out? Luckily, they have allies - ghostly allies of Blackbeard and Mrs. Nemmish herself, who has been taken on board the ghost ship Queen's Anne's Revenge. This rollicking tale magically combines this unruly group of youngsters, Blackbeard's ghost, secret tunnels, skeletons, hidden treasure, a very mysterious inheritance, the Bermuda Triangle, the Underground Railroad, and a hurricane hitting the Outer Banks in a page-turning delight, full of mystery, laughs, suspense, and adventure.
This book also captures much of the essence and rich history of this fascinating location. After 30 years of regular visits to Ocracoke Island, the author has come to know the place and the people, and has enriched this fun tale with real characters, locations, lore, and legends passed down through the generations of residents from the days when Blackbeard had his hideout there. This book is a history lesson of the greatest kind - with the past and the present wonderfully and entertainingly intertwined.
About the Author:
Audrey Penn is the author of the New York Times bestseller The Kissing Hand, in addition to Sassafras, Feathers and Fur, A.D.D. not B.A.D., and The Whistling Tree. This first foray into a chapter book format demonstrates that Ms. Penn's talent at storytelling is apparent in any form. She currently resides in Olney, Maryland, near Washington, DC. Visit Audrey Penn's website.
About the Illustrators:
Artist Josh Miller lives in McLean, Virginia, just outside of Washington, DC.
Artist Philip Howard resides on Ocracoke Island, NC, and is a direct descendent of William Howard, quartermaster for the infamous pirate known as Blackbeard.
Reviews
"Committed fans of pirate tales will enjoy this, along with girls who like books featuring female characters who aren't afraid to face adventure head on."— Booklist
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Click here to download a hi-resolution jpeg of the book jacket. |
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Blackbeard and the Sandstone Pillar: When Lightning Strikes
Book 2 in The Blackbeard Quartet
Written by Audrey Penn and illustrated by Philip Howard & Josh Miller
Juvenile Fiction (Ages 8-12), 400 pages
Hardcover, $15.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-08-8
ISBN-10: 1-933718-08-0
Paperback, $8.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-31-6
ISBN-10: 1-933718-31-5
Guided reading level: W; Grade level: 5-6; Reading Recovery level: NA
Four young teens from Ocracoke Island, NC, whom readers will know from Mystery at Blackbeard’s Cove, set out on their quest to locate and return some very old pirate loot to its rightful owners. They encounter a few obstacles, but nothing that a little ingenuity, the willingness to break a rule or two, and a handy forklift can't overcome! But the kids have also uncovered even deeper, ancient mysteries their discovery of a third trunk and a strange sandstone, mysteries that Blackbeard’s ghost fears could bring the world to the brink of disaster.
This second book of the Blackbeard Quartet is a great mix of comic adventure, pirate lore, historical mysteries, and the supernatural.
About the Author:
Audrey Penn is the author of the New York Times bestseller The Kissing Hand, in addition to Sassafras, Feathers and Fur, A.D.D. not B.A.D., and The Whistling Tree. This continuing series in chapter book format demonstrates that Ms. Penn's talent at storytelling is apparent in any form. She currently resides in Olney, Maryland, near Washington, DC. Visit Audrey Penn's website.
About the Illustrators:
Artist Josh Miller lives in McLean, Virginia, just outside of Washington, DC.
Artist Philip Howard resides on Ocracoke Island, NC, and is a direct descendent of William Howard, quartermaster for the infamous pirate known as Blackbeard.
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Click here to download a hi-resolution jpeg of the book jacket. |
Read an excerpt.
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Blackbeard and the Gift of Silence
Book 3 in the Blackbeard Quartet
Written by Audrey Penn
Middle Reader (Ages 8-12), 350 pages
Hardcover, $15.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-11-8
ISBN-10: 1-933718-11-0
Paperback, $8.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-32-3
ISBN-10: 1-933718-32-3
Guided reading level: W; Grade level: 5-6; Reading Recovery level: NA
"There are some secrets so dangerous that they can't be told,
even after death," Blackbeard worries. Daniel, Billy, Stefanie,
and Mark have found the ancient pirate loot and are delivering
it to its rightful owners in London. But the teens have only begun
to scratch the surface of the deeper mysteries they have unwittingly
uncovered, mysteries of the Stone of Scone, the Knights Templar,
and a burglary at Westminster Abbey. These secrets that have been
kept by Blackbeard and others before him through the centuries
by those in the highest realms of power. This title's rich blend
of story elements includes intriguing historical mysteries; a
slapstick comic adventure; and a cast of both familiar and new,
strikingly original characters.
About the Author:
Audrey Penn is the author of the New York Times bestseller The Kissing Hand, in addition to Sassafras, Feathers and Fur, A.D.D. not B.A.D., and The Whistling Tree. This continuing series in chapter book format demonstrates that Ms. Penn's talent at storytelling is apparent in any form. She currently resides in Olney, Maryland, near Washington, DC. Visit Audrey Penn's website.
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More Books by Audrey Penn
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A.D.D. not B.A.D.
Written by Audrey Penn and illustrated by Monica Dunsky Wyrick
Foreword by Paul George Prunier, M.D.
Picture book (Ages 4-8), 32 pages
Paperback, $7.99
ISBN-13: 978-0-9749303-7-4
ISBN-10: 0-9749303-7-7
Guided reading level: K; Grade level: 2; Reading Recovery level: 18
Jimmy Jumpingbean's classmates just don't understand why Jimmy can't sit still. Jimmy's wise teacher decides to let the class learn to "walk in someone else's shoes" — with the help of a bunch of ladybugs! The lessons work — and the class decide Jimmy's not bad, he's just ADD.
Inspired by the author's son, this humorous tale offers younger children accurate, yet age-appropriate, insight into Attention Deficit Disorder and its associated behaviors. Visit Audrey Penn's website.
Reviews
"Any effort to help other children (and their parents) understand the dynamics of this condition is both important and laudable, and I therefore welcome the addition of A.D.D. not B.A.D. to a growing body of such works."— Paul George Prunier, M.D.
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Feathers and Fur
Written by Audrey Penn and illustrated by Monica Dunsky Wyrick
Picture book (Ages 3-8), 32 pages
Paperback, $7.99
ISBN-13: 978-0-9749303-8-1
ISBN-10: 0-9749303-8-5
Guided reading level: I; Grade level: 1-2; Reading Recovery level: 15-16
"Feathers and fur don't mix!" squawk a pair of ducks when they see Tuesday the Cat licking his chops over a nest of eggs. But when Tuesday sees the eggs in danger from a storm, he takes heroic action, and life-long friendships result in spite of major differences! This heartwarming story was inspired by real events in the author's own neighborhood, and yes, Tuesday the cat and the now-grown ducks are still the best of friends. Visit Audrey Penn's website.
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The Miracle Jar
Written by Audrey Penn
Illustrated by Lea Lyon
Picture book, 32 pages
Hardcover with jacket, $16.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-16-3
ISBN-10: 1-933718-16-1
Paperback, $8.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-26-2
ISBN-10: 1-933718-26-9
Guided reading level: O; Grade level: 3-4; Reading Recovery level: NA
Sophie and her brother are excited by the arrival of Hanukkah, and they happily clean the cottage and shine the Menorah as their gift to the family. But when their mother shares her worry that they do not have enough cooking oil to last the eight days of Hanukkah, Father tells them the story behind the holiday celebration and the miracle of the oil. Inspired by the story, the family creates their own Miracle Jar and watches the oil disappear as they enjoy the special food that each day brings. The family's hope and faith is confirmed when a last wipe with a cloth produces just enough oil to enjoy the eighth day's treat.
In this heartwarming story told by bestselling author Audrey Penn, the flicker of the Menorah candles links past to present, and the miracle of the oil transcends the ages and reminds readers of the spirit of Hanukkah and the continuing possibility of miracles.
"The Miracle Jar is a sweet story that teaches us that miracles are not only big and happening long ago and far away, but can be small and in our own lives."— Rabbi Jeffrey Marker
About the Author:
Audrey Penn is the author of the New York Times bestseller The Kissing Hand, in addition to Sassafras, Feathers and Fur, A.D.D. not B.A.D., and The Whistling Tree. This continuing series in chapter book format demonstrates that Ms. Penn's talent at storytelling is apparent in any form. She currently resides in Olney, Maryland, near Washington, DC. Visit Audrey Penn's website.
Reviews
"Penn's storytelling provides a real sense of the holiday's significance through joyful, yet simple celebration while Lyon's cheerful and energetic watercolors depict an "old country" environment. A nice addition to classic retellings."— Kirkus Reviews
"A satisfying holiday tale with a nostalgic feel."— School Library Journal
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Audrey Penn talks about The Miracle Jar
I grew up in a religious Conservative Jewish home where the preparation and celebration of a holiday was brimming with excitement, new clothes to wear to the Synagogue, and the smells of favorite holiday foods and baked goods filling our noses and heads with lasting memories. But the memories of our family Hanukkahs are probably the most cherished of all. Our grandparents, who came over from Europe, brought with them a solemnity and sense of importance concerning Hanukkah that, when mixed with the excitement of candle-lighting, gifts, and hidden gelt, gave us a well-rounded sense of the holiday we continue to pass on to our children.
How many Jewish children who receive gelt in the form of money or chocolate know why the coin is so important?
How many of us recognize the little miracles every day, such as finding a piece of cheesecloth to wipe out enough oil for the last treat? My mother did and passed the importance of these small miracles onto us as well as her most amazing holiday recipes.
My fondest Hanukkah memory is sitting on top of my brother's shoulders in order to have him help me light a candle. Thirty years later, I held my daughter in my arms at a family Hanukkah festival while lighting a candle for her.
This book is dedicated to those families who believe in the ancient miracle of the lasting oil and the greatest miracle of all: the fact that we are still sharing the same story with our children and their children.
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Sassafras
Written by Audrey Penn and illustrated by Ruth Harper
Picture book (Ages 3-8), 32 pages
Hardcover with jacket, $16.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-933718-03-3
ISBN-10: 1-933718-03-X
Guided reading level: J; Grade level: 2; Reading Recovery level: 17
Sassafras is a charming picture book that tells the story of a little skunk who feels ashamed of his "smelly-old, stinky-old, funky-old" self. But as he plays with his many woodland friends - each special and unique - Sassafras discovers he, too, has a rare and special gift all his own. Visit author Audrey Penn's website and illustrator Ruth Harper's website.
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The Whistling Tree
Written by Audrey Penn and illustrated by Barbara Leonard Gibson
Picture book (Ages 4-9), 32 pages
Hardcover with jacket, $16.95
ISBN-13: 978-0-9749303-9-8
ISBN-10: 0-9749303-9-3
Guided reading level: P; Grade level: 3-4; Reading Recovery level: NA
For months, Penny's dreams have been filled with melodious whistling, accompanied by twinkling lights. Then the mysterious whistling suddenly stops. When Penny goes searching for its source, she unexpectedly discovers her Cherokee roots—and a special gift that has been handed down to her.
Lyrical and skillfully woven, Audrey Penn's latest tale recounts a child's delight in awakening to her heritage. Lavishly illustrated by Barbara Leonard Gibson, The Whistling Tree reminds us all how deeply the past and the present are intertwined. Visit Audrey Penn's website.
Reviews
"This wonderful book chronicles a young girl's search for her Cherokee identity. Led by her dreams, she learns valuable lessons about her ancestral relationship to the natural world that sustains all of us. The imagery is powerful and instructive."— Wilma Mankiller, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, 1985 - 1995
"This Cherokee story takes a Native American child where every Native American's spirit wants to be--into the ancestral homeland of belonging. Audrey Penn has captured the dream of longing in every Cherokee heart..."— Martin Brokenleg, Professor of Native American Studies, Augustana College
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