Linda Ravin Lodding is a children's author who embodies the spirit of her character Ernestine Buckmeister, the epitome of today's overscheduled child. Driven by a lifelong dream ignited by the birth of her own daughter and a renewed passion for children's literature, Lodding brings a unique perspective to her stories. Her narratives, often infused with humor, explore the delicate balance between diligent activity and the vital need for play. Through her work, Lodding celebrates the joy of childhood exploration and reminds readers of the importance of downtime and imaginative fun.
After seeing all the fine family portraits in her house in Paris, Josette decides that her rabbit, Pepette, needs a portrait of her own. But which of the famous artists in Montmarte will be able to depict the soft grey hairs, the twitching heart-shaped nose and the soft rabbit arms?
Juma wants to go fishing with Babu Ali. But when they get to the beach, it's full of plastic waste and flip-flops washed up from the ocean. Juma thinks the flip-flop floating in the water looks like a boat, and that gives Babu Ali an idea.
"Originally published in slightly different form in Great Britain by Gullane Childrens' Books, London, in 2014."--Page opposite title page.
Arnold brings a delightful twist to the classic tale of "Little Red Riding Hood" in this charming picture book. With its vibrant illustrations and witty narrative, the story is perfect for reading aloud, engaging young readers with its playful approach. The enthusiastic character of Arnold adds a fresh perspective, making this version a standout choice for both children and parents alike.
Ernestine is in over her head. Monday through Sunday, Ernestine’s week is packed with after-school lessons—tuba, knitting, sculpting, water ballet, yoga, yodeling, and karate. Overwhelmed and exhausted, Ernestine decides to take matters into her own hands and heads off to the park with her Nanny where she builds a fort, watches the clouds, and plays all kinds of unstructured and imaginative games. But when a teacher calls Ernestine's mom to report that she has not shown up for yodeling, her parents search everywhere until at last they hear their daughter's laughter coming from the park. Ernestine tells her parents what a wonderful afternoon she's had, and explains her plight, asking, "I like my lessons, but can't I stop some of them?" This saga hilariously captures the dilemma of the modern-day over-scheduled child in riotous color and absurd extremes. A delightful heroine, Ernestine will be sure to put “play” back on everyone’s agenda, demonstrating that in today’s overscheduled world, everyone needs the joy of play and the simple wonders of childhood.
How do you make a snoozing, sleepyhead Elephant get up? Edgar tries everything, from leading a marching band through his bedroom to whipping up one of his favourite milkshakes in the blender. Nothing works... until Edgar whispers something very special in his friend's ear.
Preparing to host a tea for the Queen, Ellie and her stuffed elephant, Langley, race around the globe for the best food and drink, and also collect an assortment of guests.