Press Release - Friday, January 04, 2008
Press Releases
No Data
First Lady Patricia Blagojevich announces her New Years selections for Children's Reading Club: Puss in Boots by Charles Perrault and Johanna Spyri's Heidi
CHICAGO - With the beginning of the New Year, First Lady Patricia Blagojevich today announced her book selections for her Children's Reading Club, Puss in Boots by Charles Perrault and Johanna Spyri's Heidi. Proclaimed by Publisher's Weekly as one of the best children's books of the year, the new adaptation of Puss in Boots mesmerizes book lovers young and old with its new translation of the original text and brilliant paintings by Fred Marcellino. The story of Heidi has engaged children for more than a century and became famous for its vivid portrayal how children see life and their feelings.
"Books like Heidi not only help kids practice their reading skills but also open their minds to experiences very different from their own. The books that I choose this month are ones I read as a child and now get to enjoy with my own girls," said First Lady Patricia Blagojevich. "I encourage all parents to make an extra effort to sit down with their families and enjoy sharing a book."
Long regarded as the preeminent designer of book jackets in America, Fred Marcellino provides an unstinting visual feast in his first full-color picture book. The adventures of that rascal, Puss, and his master, the miller's son are portrayed in a lavish series of illustrations that range from sumptuous grandeur to comedy both boisterous and sly. Charles Perrault's Puss in Boots has been an irresistible magnet for countless illustrators ever since this classic French tale was first published in 1697. Perrault's most famous stories are still in print today and have been made into operas, ballets, plays, musicals, and films, including the highly-successful animated features Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty by The Walt Disney Company.
Heidi by Johanna Spyri, for children at a middle school reading level, has charmed and intrigued readers since its original publication in 1880. It tells a story of an orphan girl who is forced to live with her cold and frightening grandfather. Johanna Spyri's beloved story offers youngsters an endearing and intelligent heroine, a cast of unique and memorable characters, and a fascinating portrait of a small Alpine village.
The First Lady launched the Children's Reading Club literacy initiative in March of 2005, and has selected books such as Charlotte's Web, Harriet the Spy, The Boxcar Children and A Light in the Attic for the recommended list. Each month's book selections are featured on the First Lady's website, http://www.illinois.gov/firstlady. The First Lady hopes the recommended list will enable parents to find books the whole family can enjoy.
Press Releases
No Data