R. W. Alley

Picture-book author and artist R.W. Alley takes the classic Halloween song, There Once Was a Witch, and makes it into a charming board book in this entertaining holiday title. The two verses of the song, which describe a witch flying on Halloween night, are spread out across seven two-page spreads, while the accompanying artwork depicts both the witch's flight, and the trick-or-treaters she encounters. The final spread gives the musical notation for the song...

I greatly enjoyed There Once Was a Witch, both for the adorable illustrations, and for the rhyming text. After reading it through once, I then sought out a recording of the song on youtube (see this version HERE), and read the book again, singing along. Somehow, despite loving both Halloween and witchy tales, I never knew this song, so I am glad to have discovered it! Recommended to anyone looking for fun Halloween board books, or for a pictorial accompaniment to the song.… (meer)

One winter day, Annabelle and her brothers and sisters are inside playing when suddenly she decides she is going to the South Pole. On her way there, she is in the middle of a blizzard and comes across a huge snow giant. She tells him where she is going and he helps carry her to the South Pole. When they run into wizards, Annabelle is focused and won't be told "no" to get to her destination. This book teaches children to overcome their fears and to stay driven and focused when it comes to reaching your goals, but it is a bit confusing to follow.… (meer)