"I Could Chew On This: And Other Poems by Dogs" by Francesco Marciuliano

Following I Could Pee on This: And Other Poems by Cats comes I Could Chew On This: And Other Poems by Dogs. I loved the cat book, but this one is even better (though, as a dog owner, I could be really biased). The book is filled with poems that perfectly capture the panic a dog goes through when it's owner is missing (also known as: in the bathroom) or starts to prepare dinner and then stops to take a phone call, the embarrassment of having a human that insists on dressing their dog in clothing and what's it like to chase after a tennis ball that was never actually thrown. Dog lovers will fall in love with this book.

Francesco Marciuliano has really hit a home run with this book. I am quite the sucker for a cute dog story and I laughed quite a bit while reading this book. It is very cute though I must say it is likely not for everyone. I am certain that the only people who will enjoy this book are dog lovers so if there is a dog lover on your Christmas list and you aren't sure what to get them, there is a good chance that this would be a well received present.

Happy Reading!
-Melly

"Eight Winter Nights: A Family Hanukkah Book" by Laura Krauss Melmed, Illustrated by Elisabeth Schlossberg

Eight Winter Nights summarizes each night of Hanukkah through a short poem. It describes the food, the games, and the traditions in an easy to understand format that also rhymes. While this is a very cute book, I was sort of disappointed while I was reading it because, at first, Laura Krauss Melmed didn't give much detail as to what Hanukkah is, why it is celebrated, or an explanation of the traditions. However, I was pleased when I reached the end to find a short history of Hanukkah and a glossary. I was glad that it presented the material in a fun way but then gave the reader more information. 

I live in an area that doesn't focus very much on Hanukkah, which is sad because it is one of my favorite holidays. I am hopeful that one day I will be invited to a Hanukkah celebration so that I can enjoy latkes and dreidal games and get to see the lighting of the menorah. Until then, I will settle for the amazing books that celebrate this holiday. Totally recommend this book to any one who celebrates Hanukkah or to those that want to teach their children more about this awesome holiday.

Happy Reading!
-Melly